The Packaging and Polymer Research Unit offers postgraduate courses leading to the award of:
- Doctor of Philosoph
- Master of Engineering (Research)
- Master of Engineering Science in Packaging (CourseworkA)
A wide variety of research projects are available. Most programs offer participation in industry projects.
Additionally, the Unit is currently developing a program for a degree qualification in packaging.
The Unit also offers a variety of short training courses on various topics relevant to the packaging science and technology domain. In addition the Unit offers the following undergraduate subjects in Packaging Technology, available within the School of Architectural, Civil and Mechanical Engineering:
- EU4401 Transportation Dynamics
- EMU4402 Design and Testing of Containers
Focus
The Packaging and Polymer Research Unit (PPRU) has strong associations with scientists and engineers from Schools across the Faculty as well as the wider University. Its purpose is to complement the University's educational courses as relevant to packaging technology with research programs in areas concerned with the packaging and distribution of goods. Through the Sustainable Packaging Alliance, a strategic R&D initiative in collaboration with RMIT Centre for Design and Birubi Innovation, the Unit's research focus is very much driven by the need to develop environmentally, economically and socially sustainable packaging systems. In addition to its research program and education activities, the Unit undertakes technical studies and testing for industry clients
Victoria University is unique in Australia in having dedicated considerable resources toward high quality research in packaging, which is an important part of one of the University's areas of research focus.
Mission
The mission of the Unit is to be a leading, internationally-recognized provider of education, research and related services in packaging and polymer science and technology.
The Unit is particularly mindful of its role in the development of partnerships with industry, commerce and government through collaborative research, consultancy, educational and training programs and dissemination of technical information. It has established a variety of research collaborations and networks with various research organizations in Australia and overseas.
Research Activities
The Unit's research program is very much driven by the needs of industry, government and community that are identified through the Sustainable Packaging Alliance. Research programs currently in progress include anti-microbial and active food packaging; the use of recycled materials in food contact applications; environmental impact evaluation and strategy development; measurement, analysis and laboratory simulation of distribution environments; odour characterization and oxidative stability of polymer materials; development of new techniques for sustainable packaging design and evaluation; and others.
