Sustainable packaging research group

The research undertaken by the Sustainable Packaging Research Group is aimed at increasing the overall effectiveness of packaging, reducing the environmental impact of packaging and minimising packaging waste. 

Our mission is to provide a local, national and international focus for scientific research aimed at developing environmentally sound and optimised solutions to support the distribution of products and produce in the context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Research expertise

The Sustainable Packaging Research Group is part of the Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities, and has strong links with the Victoria Institute of Strategic Economic Studies and the College of Sport, Health and Engineering with expertise in:

  • Environmental shock and vibration
  • Distribution and transport dynamics
  • Packaging performance testing and evaluation 
  • Optimised and engineered protective packaging
  • Bio-based and biodegradable polymers
  • Polymer and analytical chemistry
  • Antimicrobial and antioxidant food packaging
  • Economic modelling of packaging waste
  • Economic analysis incorporating circular economy principles

Our research

See details of our current research projects below:

Research facilities

The research group has a range of specialised equipment to facilitate research collaborations and testing for industry.

Postgraduate research opportunities

Opportunities exist for undertaking postgraduate research (masters or PhD) within the Sustainable Packaging Research Group. A diverse range of projects is available, including the following:

  • Development of statistical models for the characterisation of distribution vibrations
  • Development of sophisticated techniques for the analysis and simulation of transport vibrations
  • Development of inexpensive and effective packaging materials
  • Development of techniques for the performance characterisation of environmentally friendly packaging materials
  • Development of novel methods for determining the progression of damage in packaging elements during distribution
  • Use of strain mapping (using high-speed digital image correlation) to optimise cushioning systems for impact absorption
  • Development of testing facilities to measure biodegradability of packaging materials
  • Development of methods of quality assessment of fresh and processed produce
  • Development of antimicrobial and antioxidant packaging systems
  • Study of migration chemicals and nanoparticles from packaging
  • Development of biodegradable bio-composite materials for packaging
  • Development of information technology systems to enable groups of people to contribute to joint decision making in the distribution and handling industries
  • Packaging accessibility, ease-of-use and security
  • Applied economic analysis of packaging impacts through a circular economy framework

Find out about scholarships for research students.

Researchers

Read about our research student projects, and find contact details for our research staff.

Contact us

Professor Vincent Rouillard
Leader, Engineered Packaging & Distribution Research Group
Phone: +61 3 9919 4602
Email: [email protected]

Dr Marlene Cran
Deputy Leader, Engineered Packaging & Distribution Research Group
Phone: +61 3 9919 7642
Email: [email protected]