Researchers
from the Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology have been
investigating 3D printing of grinding and milling fractions of rice
husk.
With the aim of sustainability approaches and production of
designer 3D food packages, this study examined the effect of
printability of rice husk fractions of different size reduction methods.
Extrusion tests were performed for both the rice husk fractions, and 3D
printing process parameters were optimised for the ‘box’ shaped 3D
model. Rheological behaviour and physical characteristics were analysed
for all the material supplies.
They used their TA.HDplus Texture
Analyser to measure the mechanical strength of the material supply and
the effect of the addition of hydrocolloids. The study successfully
demonstrated the conversion of non-printable rice husk into a printable
form by the addition of guar gum into the milled fraction, which can be
further utilised in food packaging, reducing the dependency on
non-degradable petroleum-based plastics. Find out more
