Alexandar Balevsky

AquaGlass-Flex is an R&D-stage platform for ultrathin, flexible and biodegradable internal barrier coatings for PET beverage bottles. The technology is designed to reduce direct contact between the beverage and PET, with a development target of at least 10× lower PET micro- and nanoparticle release and substantially reduced migration of PET-related substances.

The platform includes two versions: W-LITE, a low-cost single-layer coating for still drinking and mineral water, and U-BEV, a higher-performance multilayer barrier for carbonated water, fruit juices and cola-type soft drinks.

Both coatings are designed to remain water-insoluble and mechanically stable throughout the beverage shelf life, while after disposal and environmental exposure they are intended to biodegrade relatively rapidly under moisture, oxygen, UV and microorganisms without leaving persistent toxic residues or coating-derived microplastics.

The concept also includes a scalable 360° internal micro-spray process applied shortly before bottle filling. The technology is currently at concept/R&D stage and requires laboratory, food-contact, migration, biodegradation and industrial validation.