Researchers from the National Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) have developed a new antistatic and sustainable packaging made from sugarcane bagasse and carbon black – a material derived from the incomplete combustion of vegetable matter, such as coal and coal tar, or petrochemical products.
The material was designed to increase safety and minimize damage caused by electrostatic discharges in sensitive electronic components, including chips, semiconductors, and other high-value parts. These components are commonly found in computers, smartphones, televisions, and even vehicles.
Called conductive criogel, the product ensures safety without harming the environment. It aims to replace conventional highly polluting plastic materials.
“Our goal is to provide a sustainable alternative for the sensitive electronics packaging industry, replacing plastic materials with high-performance and less polluting options,” explains Juliana Bernardes, coordinator of the study.
The CNPEM research that led to the product development, published in Advanced Sustainable Systems, was funded by FAPESP (São Paulo Research Foundation). In addition to Juliana Bernardes, the study authors include researchers Gabriele Polezi, Elisa Ferreira, and Diego Nascimento, all from the CNPEM National Nanotechnology Laboratory.
The product is unique in the market and has already been patented. CNPEM plans to seek partnerships with companies interested in scaling production through its Innovation Department.
The researcher notes that the material features a lightweight and porous structure, with high mechanical strength and flame-retardant properties that slow the spread of fire.
“Its electrical conductivity can be adjusted to specific needs: at low concentrations of carbon black (1% to 5%), it gradually dissipates electrostatic charges, while at higher concentrations (above 10%), it becomes an efficient conductor, suitable for advanced applications that protect highly sensitive electronic equipment,” explains Bernardes.
According to the researchers, the conductive criogel offers several environmental and competitive advantages, including fire resistance, versatility, and the use of abundant raw materials.
Source: Agência Brasil