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RAFAEL A. AURAS School of Packaging

448 Wilson Road Rm. 157 Michigan State University,

East Lansing, MI, 48824-1223 P: (517) 432 – 3254; F: (517) 353 - 8999

E: aurasraf@msu.edu 1. EDUCATION • Ph.D., Packaging. 2004. School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI. • M.Sc., Material Science and Technology. 1999. Institute of Technology Prof. “Jorge E.

Sabato”. National Committee of Atomic Energy. University of General San Martín. Buenos Aires, Argentina.

• B.Sc., Chemical Engineering. 1996. National University of Misiones. Posadas, Misiones, Argentina, (six-year program).

2. ACADEMIC POSITIONS • August 2013 – Present, Associate Professor with tenure, School of Packaging, Michigan

State University, East Lansing, MI. • August 2007 – Present, Tenure Track, Assistant Professor, School of Packaging, Michigan

State University, East Lansing, MI. • October, 2004 – June, 2007, Fixed Term, Assistant Professor, School of Packaging,

Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI.

3. RESEARCH INTERESTS • Biodegradable and compostable polymers. Polylactide and starch polymers. Green

composites & bio-composites. Properties and applications of materials in packaging. • Sustainable packaging systems. Life cycle assessment. Carbon-neutral packaging materials.

Packaging end of life scenarios. Biodegradation and compostability. • Food Packaging. Food product/package compatibility and interaction. Gas, vapor, and

organic barrier properties. High barrier packaging. Mass transfer in polymers. Permeability, diffusion, and solubility. Specific and total migration.

4. DISTINCTIONS, RECOGNITION, AND AWARDS • Excellence in Teaching Award - New Teacher – College of Agriculture and Natural

Resources, Michigan State University, Spring 2010 • Lilly Fellow, August 2008 to April 2009, Michigan State University, MI, USA • Dissertation Completion Fellowship, Spring 2004, Michigan State University. • Fulbright fellow, January 2000 - August 2002, Michigan State University. • CONICET fellow. National Commission of Science and Technology. January 1997 to

January 2000, Buenos Aires, Argentina. • “Prof. Jorge Sabato” fellow, February 1996 - December 1996, Universidad General San

Martin, Buenos Aires, Argentina. • AECI Fellow. Spanish Agency of International Cooperation. Valencia, Spain. January -

February 1999. • Silver medal class 1996 – 1997. B.Sc. Chemical Engineering. UNAM. Misiones, AR.

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5. INVENTION DISCLOSURES & PATENTS • Auras, Rafael; Iniguez-Franco, Fabiola; Rubino, Maria; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Holmes,

Daniel; Selke, Susan; Fang, Xiaoyi. Chemical recycling of a polyester. US Serial # 62/510,563.

• Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Jayaraman, Krishnamurthy; Xia, Xining; Diaz, Carlos; Hotchkiss, Joe. Methods for Labeling Nanoclay for Tracking them within Different Solid and Liquid Material. US 9435737.

• Rubino, Maria; Netramai, Siriyupa; Auras, Rafael; Annous, Bassam. Product Packaging System with Antimicrobial Agent. WO2013012923 A1.

• Auras, Rafael; Selke, Susan; Elangovan, Dhayalan; Yuzay, Isinay. " Polymers and Metallic Organic Framework Composites and Methods of Preparation Thereof," US20110297610 A1.

• Selke, Susan; Auras, Rafael; Yuzay, Isinay. E. Poly(lactic acid) and zeolite composites and method of manufacturing the same. US20100236969 A1.

• Almenar, Eva. M.; Auras, Rafael; Samsudin, Hayati; Harte, Bruce; Rubino, Maria. Microperforated poly(lactic acid) packaging systems and the method of Preparation Thereof. US20100151166 A1.

• Almenar, Eva M.; Auras, Rafael; Harte, Bruce; Rubino, Maria. Beta-cyclodextrins as nucleating agents for poly(lactic acid). US20090060860 A1 / WO2009032199A1.

• Rubino, Maria; Siddiq, Muhammad; Auras, Rafael; Annous, Bassam; Netramai, Siriyupa. Package System with Distribution Gas Insert. WO2009042017 A1.

• Almenar, Eva M.; Auras, Rafael; Harte, Bruce; Rubino, Maria. Micro-Encapsulation of Volatile Compounds into Beta-Cyclodextrins. US20070207981 A1.

EDITED BOOK • Auras, Rafael; Lim, Loong T.; Selke, Susan; Tsuji, Hideto (Eds.) 2010. Poly(lactic acid):

Structures, Production, Synthesis, and Applications. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. ISBN: 978-0-470-29366-9

BOOK CHAPTERS • Samsudin, Hayati, Auras, Rafael, 2014. Food Packaging Interactions, in Food Packaging,

Maria B. Omary (Ed.), New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Forthcoming. • Kang, DongHo, Auras, Rafael, 2014. Sustainable Food Packaging, in Food Packaging,

Maria B. Omary (Ed.), New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Forthcoming. • Almenar, Eva; Auras, Rafael, 2010. Poly(lactic acid) Permeation, Sorption, and Diffusion in

Poly(lactic acid), in Poly(lactic acid): Structures, Production, Synthesis, and Applications. Auras, Rafael; Lim, Loong T.; Selke, Susan; Tsuji, Hideto (Eds.) New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons.

• Dethyotin, Sukeewan; Kathuria, Ajay; Waree, J.; Selke, Susan; Auras, Rafael, 2010. Poly(lactic acid) Blends, in Poly(lactic acid): Structures, Production, Synthesis, and Applications.Auras, Rafael; Lim, Loong T.; Selke, Susan; Tsuji, Hideto (Eds.) New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons.

• Auras, Rafael. 2009. Poly(lactic acid). In Encyclopedia of Packaging Technology NJ, USA. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN-10: 0470087048

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Kale, Gaurav; Auras, Rafael. 2009. Degradation of Biodegradable Packaging Materials in Real and Simulated Conditions. In Polymer Degradation and Performance, eds. Matthew C. Celina, Jeffrey S. Wiggins, & Norman C. Billingham, Ch. 3, 31-40. ACS Publication. Oxford University Press, USA, ISBN-13: 9780841269781

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• Kale, Gaurav; Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael. 2007. New Trends in Assessment of Compostability of Biodegradable Polymeric Packages. In Leading-Edge Environmental Biodegradation Research, ed. L E. Pawley, Ch 10, pp. 297-315, Hauppauge, NY: Nova Science Publishers. ISBN: 1-60021-903-9

• Auras, Rafael. 2007. Solubility of Gases and Vapors in Polylactide Polymers. In Thermodynamics, Solubility and Environmental Issues, ed. T Letcher, Ch. 19. 343-368. ISBN-13:9780444527073. John Wiley & Sons, NJ.

• Auras, Rafael; Schvezov, Carlos. 1999. Solidification Structures and Properties of Cast Samples of Zinc-Aluminum Alloys and Composites. In Light Metals, ed.C E. Eckert, 869-874, 1999. ISBN:0-87339-425-9

PAPERS IN REFERRED JOURNALS • Samsudin, H.; Auras, R.; Burgess, G.; Dolan, K.; Soto-Valdez, H. 2017. Migration of

antioxidants from polylactic acid films, a parameter estimation approach: Part I – A model including convective mass transfer coefficient. Food Research International. 105, 920-929.

• Iñiguez-Franco, F.; Auras, R.; Rubino, M.; Dolan, K.; Soto-Valdez, H.; Selke, S. 2017. Effect of nanoparticles on the hydrolytic degradation of PLA-nanocomposites by water-ethanol solutions. Polymer Degradation and Stability. 146, 287-297.

• Satti, S M; Shah, A. A.; Auras, R.; Marsh, T.L. 2017. Isolation and characterization of bacteria capable of degrading poly(lactic acid) at ambient temperature. Polymer Degradation and Stability. 144, 392-400.

• Yining, X.; Unalan, I.U.; Rubino, M.; Auras, R. 2017. Carbon nanotube release from polymers into a food simulant. Environmental Pollution. 229, 818-826.

• Ahmed, J; Arfat, Y.A.; Auras, R.; Ejaz, M. 2017. Rheological, structural, ultraviolet protection and oxygen barrier properties of linear low-density polyethylene films reinforced with zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. Food Packaging and Shelf Life. 13, 20-26.

• Samsudin, H.; Auras, R.; Mishra, D.; Dolan, K.; Burgess, G.; Rubino, M.; Selke, S.; Soto-Valdez, H. 2017. Migration of antioxidants from polylactic acid films: A parameter estimation approach and an overview of the current mass transfer models. Food Research International. Available online 9 September 2017. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.foodres.2017.09.021

• Suriyatem, R.; Auras, R.; Intipunya, P.; Rachatanapun, P. 2017. Predictive mathematical modeling for EC50 calculation of antioxidant activity and antibacterial ability of Thai bee products. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science. 7 (09), 122-133.

• Leelaphiwat, P.; Auras, R. A.; Burgess, G. J. Harte, J. B.; Chonhenchob, V. R. L. 2017. Preliminary quantification of the permeability, solubility and diffusion coefficients of major aroma compounds present in herbs through various plastic packaging materials. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. Available online: 28 September 2017. DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.8626

• Perotti, Gustavo F; Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Constantino, Vera R. L. 2017. Nanocomposites based on cassava starch and chitosan-modified clay: Physico-mechanical properties and biodegradability in simulated compost soil. Journal of Brazilian Chemical Society. 28 (4) 649-658.

• Leelaphiwat, P.; Harte, J. B.; Auras, R. A.; Ong, P.K.C.; Chonhenchob, V. R. L. 2017. Effect of packaging materials on the aroma stability of Thai ‘tom yam’ seasoning powder as determined by descriptive sensory analysis and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 97 (6) 1854-1860.

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• Castro-Aguirre, E.; Auras, R.; Selke, S.; Rubino, M.; Marsh, T. 2017. Insigths on the aerobic biodegradation of polymers by analysis of evolved carbon dioxide in simulated composting conditions. Polymer Degradation and Stability. 137, 251-271.

• Mulla, Mehrajfatema; Ahmed, Jasim; Al-Attar, Hasan; Castro-Aguirre, Edgar; Arfat, Yasir Ali; Auras, Rafael. 2017. Antimicrobial efficacy of clove essential oil infused into chemically modified LLDPE film for chicken meat packaging. Food Control. 73, 663-671

• Kang, DongHo; Auras, Rafael; Singh, Jay. 2017. “Life cycle assessment of non-alcoholic single-serve polyethylene terephthalate beverage bottles in the state of California.” Resources, Conservation and Recycling. 116, 45-52.

• Ali Arfat, Yasir; Ahmed, Jasim; Hiremath, Nikhil; Auras, Rafael; Joseph, Antony. 2017. Thermo-mechanical, rheological, structural and antimicrobial properties of bionanocomposite films based on fish skin gelatin and silver-copper nanoparticles. Food Hydrocolloids. 62, 191-202.

• Kathuria, A.; Brouwers, N.; Buntinx, M.; Harding, T.; Auras, R. 2017. Effect of MIL-53 (Al) MOF particles on the chain mobility and crystallization of poly(L-lactic acid). Journal of Applied Polymer Science. Available on the web: 29 August 2017. DOI: 10.1002/app.45690

• Rabnawaz, M.; Wyman, I.; Auras, R.; Cheng, S. 2017. A roadmap towards green packaging: the current status and future outlook for polyesters in the packaging industry. Green Chemistry. 19, (20), 4737-4753.

• Burek, J.; Kim, D.; Nutter, D.; Selke, S.; Auras, R.; Cashman, S.; Sauer, B.; Thoma, G. 2017. Environmental sustainability of fluid milk delivery systems in the United States, Journal of Industrial Ecology, first published online: 23 January 2017. DOI: 10.1111/jiec.12531

• Castro-Aguirre, E.; Iñiguez-Franco, F.; Samsudin, H.; Fang, X.; Auras, R. 2016. Poly(lactic acid) – Mass production, processing, industrial applications, and end of life. Advanced Drug Deliver Reviews. 107, 333-366.

• Al-Ghamdi, Saleh; Kathuria, Ajay; Abiad, Mohamad; Auras, Rafael. 2016. Synthesis of nanoporous carbohydrate metal-organic framework and encapsulation of acetaldehyde. Journal of Crystal Growth. 451. 72-78.

• Arango, Juliana; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Gillett, Jerri; Schilder, Annemiek; Grzesiak, Adam L. 2016. Evaluation of chlorine dioxide as an antimicrobial against Botrytis cinerea in California strawberries. Food Packaging and Shelf Life. 9. 45-54.

• Iñiguez-Franco, Fabiola; Auras, Rafael; Burgess, Gary; Holmes, Daniel; Fang, Xiaoyi; Rubino, Maria; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda. 2016. Concurrent solvent induced crystallization and hydrolytic degradation of PLA by water-ethanol solutions. Polymer. 99, 315-323.

• Leelaphiwat, Pattarin; Harte, Janice B.; Auras, Rafael; Ong, Peter KC; Chonhenchob, Vanee. 2016. Effect of packaging materials on the aroma stability of Thai ‘tom yam’ seasoning powder as determined by descriptive sensory analysis and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. Available online 5 September 2016.

• Benyathiar, Patnarin; Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael. 2016. The effect of gamma and electron beam irradiation on the biodegradation of PLA films. Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 24 (3), 230-240.

• Ahmed, Jasim; Ali Arfat, Yasir; Castro-Aguirre, Edgar; Auras, Rafael. 2016. Mechanical, structural and thermal properties of Ag-Cu and ZnO reinforced polylactide nanocomposite films. Internaltional Journal of Biological Macromolecules. 86, 885-892.

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• Ahmed, Jasim; Ali Arfat, Yasir; Castro-Aguirre, Edgar; Auras, Rafael. 2016. Thermal properties of ZnO and bimetallic Ag-Cu alloy reinforced poly(lactic acid) nanocomposite films. Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry. 125, 25-214.

• Cruz-Zúñiga, Johana M.; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Peralta, Elizabeth; Mendoza-Wilson, Ana María; Robles-Burgueño, M Refugio; Auras, Rafael; Gámez-Meza, Nohemí. 2016. Development of an antioxidant biomaterial by promoting the deglycosylation of rutin to isoquercetin and quercetin. Food Chemistry. 204, 420-426.

• Yining, Xia; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2016. Modeling of surfactant release from polymer-clay nanocomposites into ethanol. Polymer Testing. 50, 57-63.

• Speck, Ricky; Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael; Fitzsimmons, James. 2016. LCA software: selection can impact results. Journal of Industrial Ecology. 20 (1) 18-28.

• Yining, Xia; Ghasemlou, M.; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Baghdachi, Jamil. 2015. Novel active surface prepared by embedded functionalized clays in an acrylate coating. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. 7 (44), 24944-24949.

• Kathuria, Ajay; Al-Ghamdi, Saleh; Abiad, Mohammad; Auras, Rafael. 2015. The influence of Cu3(BTC)2 metal organic framework on the permeability and perm-selectivity of PLLA-MOF mixed matrix membranes. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 132 (46) December 10, 2015. DOI: 10.1002/app.42764

• Benyathiar, Patnarin; Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael. 2015. Effect of irradiation on the biodegradation of cellophane films. Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 23 (4), 449-458. DOI: 10.1007/s10924-015-0740-9

• Alin, Jonas; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2015. In situ characterization of organo-modified and unmodified montmorillonite aqueous suspensions by UV-visible spectroscopy. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 456, 155-160. DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2015.06.011.

• Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael Auras; Nguyen, Tuan; Castro, Edgar; Cheruvathur, Rijosh; Liu, Yan. 2014 Evaluation of Biodegradation-Promoting Additives for Plastics. Environmental Science & Technology, 49 (6), 3769–3777. DOI: 10.1021/es504258u

• Detyothin, Sukeewan; Selke, Susan E. M.; Narayan, Ramani; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2014. Effects of molecular weight and grafted maleic anhydride of functionalized polylactic acid (PLA) used on reactive compatibilized binary and ternary blends of PLA and thermoplastic cassava starch. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 132 (28), July 20, 2015. DOI: 10.1002/app.42230

• Alin, Jonas; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2015. Effect of the Solvent on the Size of Clay Nanoparticles in Solution as Determined Using an Ultraviolet–Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy Methodology. Applied Spectroscopy. 69 (6) 671. DOI: 10.1366/14-07704

• Wang, Xueni; Fernandez, R. Thomas; Gregg, Bert M.; Auras, Rafael; Fulcher, Amy; Cochran, Diana; Niu, Genhua; Sun, Youping; Bi, Guihong; Nambuthiri, Susmitha; Geneve, Robert L. 2015. Multistate Evaluation of Plant Growth and Water Use in Plastic and Alternative Nursery Containers. Hortechnology, 25 (1) 42-49.

• Grabowski, Alix; Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael; Patel, Martin K.; Narayan, Ramani. 2015. Life Cycle Inventory Data Quality Issues for Bioplastics Feedstocks. International Journal of LCA. 20: 584.

• Yining, Xia; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2015. Release of Surfactants from organo-modified montmorillonite into solvents: implications for polymer nanocomposites. Applied Clay Sciences. 105-106, 107-112. DOI: 10.1016/j.clay.2014.12.027

• Speck, Ricky; Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael; Fitzsimmons, James. 2015. Choice of Life Cycle Assessment Software Can Impact Packaging System Decisions. Packaging

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Technology and Science, Available Online, DOI: 10.1002/pts.2123. • Yining, Xia; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2014. Release of Nanoclay and Surfactant from

Polymer-Clay Nanocomposites into a Food Simulant. Environmental Science & Technology, 48 (23), pp 13617–13624. doi: 10.1021/es502622c

• Gonçalves Bardi, Marcelo Augusto; Auras, Rafael; Brocardo Machado, Luci Diva. 2014. Interaction of UV/EV-Cured Print Inks Applied to a Compostable Polymer Blend. RadTech Report. (4) 35-42

• Lee, YounSuk; Burgess, Gary; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2014. Reaction and diffusion of chlorine dioxide gas under dark and light conditions at different temperatures. Journal of Food Engineering. 144. 20–28.

• Gonçalves Bardi, Marcelo Augusto; Leite Munhoz, Mara de Mello; Auras, Rafael; Brocardo Machado, Luci Diva. 2014. Assessment of UV exposure and aerobic biodegradation of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)/starch blend films coated with radiation-curable print inks containing degradation- promoting additives. Industrial Crops and Products. 60. 326–334

• Colín-Chávez, Citlali, Vicente-Ramírez, Erick B.; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Peralta, Elizabeth; Auras, Rafael. 2014. The release of carotenoids from a light protected antioxidant active packaging designed to improve the stability of soybean oil. Food and Bioprocess Technology: An International Journal. 7 (12) 3504-3515. DOI: 10.1007/s11947-014-1359-x

• Gonçalves Bardi, Marcelo Augusto; Leite Munhoz, Mara de Mello; Alves de Oliveira, Henrique; Auras, Rafael; Brocardo Machado, Luci Diva. 2014. Behavior of UV-cured print inks on LDPE and PBAT/TPS blend substrates during curing, post-curing and accelerated degradation. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 131 (22) doi: 10.1002/APP.41116

• Samsudin, Hayati; Auras, Rafael; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda. 2014. Poly (lactic acid) film incorporated with marigold flower extract (Tagetes erecta) intended for fatty-food application. Food Control, 46, 55-66.

• Arango, Juliana; Rubino, Maria I.; Auras, Rafael; Rachford, Aaron A.; Bai, Zhifeng; Grzesiak, Adam L.; Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp. 2014. In Situ Quantification of Chlorine Dioxide Gas Consumption by Fresh Produce Using UV-visible Spectroscopy. Journal of Food Engineering, 131, 75-81.

• Yasuhiko, Akanuma; Selke, S.; Auras, Rafael. 2014. A preliminary LCA case study: comparison of different pathways to produce purified terephthalic acid suitable for synthesis of 100 % bio-based PET. Int J Life Cycle Assess, 19:1238. DOI 10.1007/s11367-014-0725-2

• Kahuria, Ajay; Abiad, Mohammad; Auras, Rafael. 2013. Toughening of Poly(L-lactic acid) with Cu3BTC2 Metal Organic Framework Crystals, Polymer, 54 (26) 6979-6986, DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2013.11.005

• Perotti, Gustavo; Auras, Rafael; Constantino, Vera R. L. 2013. Bionanocomposites of Cassava Starch and Synthetic Clay, Journal of Carbohydrate Chemistry, 32-(8-9) 483-501, DOI: 10.1080/07328303.2013.858726

• Detyothin, Sukeewan; Selke, Susan E. M.; Narayan, Ramani; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2013. Reactive functionalization of poly(lactic acid), PLA: Effects of the reactive modifier, initiator and processing conditions on the final grafted maleic anhydride content and molecular weight of PLA, Polymer Degradation and Stability, 98 (12) 2697-2708, DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2013.10.001

• Yining, Xia; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2013. Detection and quantification of montmorillonite nanoclay in water-ethanol solutions by graphite furnace atomic absorption

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spectrometry, Food Additives and Contaminants: Part A. 30 (12) 2177-2183 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2013.845800

• Kang, DongHo; Sgriccia, Nikki; Selke, Susan, Auras, Rafael. 2013. Comparison of Bacon Packaging on a Life Cycle Basis: A Case Study. Journal of Cleaner Production. 54. 142-149. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.clepro.2013.05.008

• Kathuria, Ajay; Abiad, Mohamad; Auras, Rafael. 2013. Deterioration of Metal Organic Framework Crystal Structure During Fabrication of Poly(L-lactic acid) Mixed Matrix Membranes. Polymer International.62: 1144-1151. DOI: 10.1002/pi.4478

• Hwang, Sung Wook; Shim, Jin Kie; Selke, Susan E. M.; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2013. Effect of Maleic Anhydride Grafting Reaction on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Poly(L-lactic acid)/Starch Blends. Macromolecular Materials & Engineering. 298 (6): 624-233 DOI:10.1002/mame.201200111

• Hwang, Sung Wook; Shim, Jin Kie; Selke, Susan E. M.; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Matuana, Laurent; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2013. Migration of a-tocopherol and resveratrol from poly(L-lactic acid)/starch blend films into ethanol. Journal of Food Engineering. 116. 814-828. DOI: 10.1016/j.foodeng.2013.01.032

• Diaz, Carlos; Xia, Yining; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Jayaraman, Krishnamurthy; Hotchkiss, Joseph. 2013. Fluorescent Labeling and Tracking of Nanoclay. NanoScale. 5, 164-168 DOI:10.1039/C2NR32978F

• Iñiguez-Franco, Fabiola; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Peralata, Elizabeth; Ayala-Zavala, Fernando; Auras, Rafael; Gámez-Meza, Nohemí. 2013. Antioxidant Activity and Diffusion of Catechin and Epicatechin from Antioxidant Active Packaging Films Made of Poly(lactic acid). Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 60 (26): 6515-6523. DOI: 10.1021/jf300668u

• Chariyachotilert, Chaiyatas; Joshi, Satish; Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael. 2012. Assessment of the Properties of Poly(L-lactic acid) Sheets Produced with Differing Amounts of Post-consumer Recycled Poly(L-lactic acid). Journal of Plastic Film & Sheeting. published online 27 January 2012, DOI: 10.1177/8756087911434337.

• Ahmed, Jasim; Auras, Rafael; Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Varshney, Sunil K. 2012. Rheological, Thermal and Structural Behavior of Poly(ε-caprolactone) and Nanoclay Blended Films. Journal of Food Engineering. 111 (4): 580-589 DOI:10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2012.03.014.

• Hwang, Sung Wook; Lee, Sang Bong; Lee, Chang Kee, Lee, Jun Young; Shim, Jin Kie; Selke, Susan E. M.; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Matuana, Laurent; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2012. Grafting of Maleic Anhydride on Poly(L-lactic acid). Effects on Physical and Mechanical Properties. Polymer Testing. 31 (2): 333-344, DOI: 10.1016/j.polymertesting.2011.12.005.

• Hwang, Sung Wook; Shim, Jin Kie; Selke, Susan; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Matuana, Laurent; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael. 2012. Poly(L-lactic acid) with Added α-Tocopherol and Resveratrol. Optical, Physical, Thermal and Mechanical Properties. Polymer International. 61 (3): 418-425, DOI: 10.1002/pi.3232.

• Joo, Min Jung; Merkel, Crispin; Auras, Rafael; Almenar, Eva. Development and Characterization of Antimicrobial Poly(L-lactic acid) and Enzymatically Modified Starch Containing Trapped trans-2-hexenal. 2012. International Journal of Food Microbiology. 153 (3): 297-305, DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2011.11.015

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• Elangovan, Dhayalan; Yuzay, Isinay; Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael. 2012. Poly(lactic acid) Metal Organic Framework Composites: Optical, Thermal and Mechanical Properties. Polymer International. 61: 30–37 DOI: 10.1002/pi.3186.

• Elangovan, Dhayalan; Nidoni, Udoni; Yuzay, Isinay; Selke, Susan E. M.; Auras, Rafael. 2011. Poly(L-lactic acid) Metal Organic Framework, Mass Transport Properties. I&ECResearch. 50 (19): 11136–11142, DOI: 10.1021/ie201378u.

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Selke, Susan E. M.; Ngouajio, Mathieu; Fernandez, Rodney T. 2011. Formulation Selection of Aliphatic Aromatic Biodegradable Polyester Film Exposed to UV Solar Radiation. Polymer Degradation and Stability. 96: 1919-1926, DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2011.07.001.

• Joo, Minjung; Auras, Rafael; Almenar, Eva. 2011. Preparation and Characterization of Blends Made of Poly(lactic acid) and beta-Cyclodextrins: Improvement of the Blend Properties by Using a Masterbatch. Carbohydrate Polymers. 86: 1022-1030, DOI:10.1016/j.carbpol.2011.05.058

• Curtzwiler, Greg; Vorst, Keith; Danes, Jeffrey E.; Auras, Rafael; Singh, Jay. 2011. Effect of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) content on properties of extruded poly(ethylene terephthalate) sheets. Journal of Plastic Film & Sheeting. 27 (1-2): 65-86 DOI: 10.1177/8756087911405824

• Boonyawan, D.; Sarapirom, S.; Tunma, S.; Chaiwong, C.; Rachtanapun, P.; Auras, R. 2011. Characterization and Antimicrobial Properties of Fluorine-Rich Carbon Films deposited on Poly(lactic acid). Surface & Coating Technology. 205 (2): S552-S557 DOI:10.1016/j.surfcoat.2011.03.095

• Ortiz-Vazquez, Heberto; Shin, Joong Min; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Auras, Rafael. 2011. Release of Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) from Poly(lactic acid) films. Polymer Testing. 30: 463 - 471, DOI: 10.1016/j.polymertesting.2011.03.006.

• Manzanares-Lopez, Francisca; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Auras, Rafael; Peralta, Elizabeth. 2011. Release of alpha-Tocopherol from Poly(lactic acid) Films, and its Effect on the Oxidative Stability of Soybean Oil. Journal of Food Engineering. 104: 508–517 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2010.12.029.

• Joo, Minjung; Lewandowski, Nathan; Auras, Rafael; Harte, Janice; Muhammad, Siddiq; Almenar, Eva. 2010. Comparative shelf life study of blackberry fruit in bio-based and petroleum-based containers under retail storage conditions. Food Chemistry. 126 (4): 1734-1740 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2010.12.071

• Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Auras, Rafael; Peralta, Elizabeth. 2010. Fabrication of Poly(lactic acid) Films with Resveratrol and the Diffusion of Resveratrol into Ethanol. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 121 (2): 970-978 DOI 10.1002/app.33687.

• Kang, DongHo; Auras, Rafael; Singh, Jay; Vorst, Keith. 2010. An exploratory model for predicting post-consumer recycled PET content in PET sheets. Polymer Testing. 30 (1): 60-68 DOI: 10.1016/j.polymertesting.2010.10.010

• Ahmed, Jasim; Auras, Rafael. 2010. Effect of acid hydrolysis on rheological and thermal characteristics of lentil starch slurry. LWT Food Science and Technology. 44 (4): 973-983 DOI:10.1016/j.lwt.2010.08.007 0.

• Ahmed, Jasim; Varshney, Sunyl; Auras, Rafael; Sung W. Hwang. 2010. Thermal and Rheological Properties of L-Polylactide/Polyethylene Glycol/Silicate Nanocomposites Films. Journal of Food Science. 75 (8): N97-N108 DOI: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2010.01809.x.

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Selke, Susan E. M.; Ngouajio, Mathieu; Fernandez, Rodney T. 2010. Biodegradation and hydrolysis rate of aliphatic

9

aromatic polyester. Polymer Degradation and Stability. 95: 1769-1777 DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2010.07.018.

• Yuzay, Isinay; Auras, Rafael; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Selke, Susan E. M. 2010. Effects of Synthetic and Natural Zeolites on Morphology and Thermal Degradation of Poly(lactic acid) Composites. Polymer Degradation and Stability. 95 (9): 1769-1777, DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2010.05.01

• Danyluk, Casey; Erickson, Ryan; Burrows, Sam; Auras, Rafael. 2010. Industrial Composting of PLA Bottles. Journal of Testing and Evaluation. 38 (6): 1-7. DOI: 10.1520/JTE102685

• Auras, Rafael; Bali, Valentina; Bix, Laura. 2010. Students Opinions of a Student Response System for Introductory Packaging Classes. North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA). 54 (3): 2-8.

• Chaiwong, C.; Rachtanapun, P.; Wongchaiya, P.; Auras, R.; Boonyawan, D. 2010. Effect of Plasma Treatment on Hydrophobicity and Barrier Property of Poly(lactic acid). Journal of Surface and Coating. 204 (18-19): 2933-2939. DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2010.02.048

• Almenar, Eva; Samsudin, Hayati; Auras, Rafael; Harte, Janice. 2010. Consumer acceptance of fresh blueberries in bio-based packages. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 90 (7): 121-1128. DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.3922

• Fang, C. Q.; Auras, Rafael; Selke. Susan E. M. 2010. Bioadhesive from Distiller’s Dried Grains with Solubles. Advanced Materials Research. 87-88: 358-362. DOI: 10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.87-88.358

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Alvarado, Edgard; Camacho Montero, Jose; Rosales, Jorge M. 2009. Atmospheric and Soil Degradation of Aliphatic-Aromatic Polyester Films. Polymer Degradation and Stability. 95 (2): 99-107. DOI:10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2009.11.048.

• Ahmed, Jasim; Varshney, Sunyl; Auras, Rafael. 2009. Rheological and Thermal Properties of Polylactide/Silicate Nanocomposites Films. Journal of Food Science. 75, (2): N17-N24. DOI: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2009.01496.x

• Hwang, Sung Wook; Shim, Jin Kie; Lee, Sang Bong; Auras, Rafael. 2009. Design and Performance Evaluation of Multilayer Packaging Films for Blister Packaging Applications. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 116, 2846–2856. DOI: 10.1002/app.31773

• Yuzay, Isinay; Auras, Rafael; Selke, Susan E. M. 2009. Poly(lactic acid)/Aluminum Oxide Composites Fabricated by Sol-gel and Melt Compounding Processes. Macromolecular Physic and Engineering. 295: 283–292 DOI: 10.1002/mame.200900223

• Khurana, Mahesh; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Matuana, Laurent M. 2009. Mass Transfer of Moisture in Sheets and Resins of Two Partially Renewable Polyesters. Journal of Biobased Materials and Bioenergy. 3 (4): 1-8. DOI:10.1166/jbmb.2009.1051.

• Yuzay, Isinay E.; Auras, Rafael; Selke, Susan. 2009. Poly(lactic acid) and Zeolite Composites Prepared by Melt Processing: Morphological and Physico-Mechanical Properties. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 115: 2262–2270. DOI 10.1002/app.31322.

• Rodriguez-Perez, Luis C.; Harte, Bruce; Auras, Rafael; Burgess, Gary; Beaudry, Randolph. M. 2009. Measurement and Prediction of the Concentration of 1-Methylcyclopropene in Treatment Chambers Containing Different Packaging Materials, Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 89 (15): 2581-2587, DOI 10.1002/jsfa.3758.

• Sangsuwan, Jurmkawm; Rattanpanone, N.; Auras, Rafael; Harte, Bruce; Rachtanapun, P. 2009. Antimicrobial Effect and Migration of Vanillin in Chitosan-Methyl Cellulose films. Journal of Food Science. 74 (7): C549-C555. DOI: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2009.01266.x

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• Netramai, Siriyupa; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Annous, Bassam. 2009. Effect of Chlorine Dioxide Gas on Physical,Thermal, Mechanical, and Barrier Properties of Polymeric Packaging Materials. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 115, 1742–1750. DOI: 10.1002/app.31244

• Netramai, Siriyupa; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Annous, Bassam. 2009. Mass Transfer Study of Chlorine Dioxide Gas through Polymeric Packaging Materials. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 114 (5): 2929-2936, DOI: 10.1002/app.30869

• Auras, Rafael; Arroyo, Benjamin; Selke, Susan. 2009. Production and Properties of Spin-Coated Cassava-Starch-Glycerol-Beeswax Films. Starch/Stärke. 61 (8): 463-471, DOI: 10.1002/star.200700701

• Madival, Santosh; Auras, Rafael; Singh, Sher Paul; Narayan, Ramani. 2009. Assessment of the Environmental Profile of PLA, PET and PS Clamshell Containers using LCA Methodology. Journal of Cleaner Production. 17: 1183. DOI:10.1016/j.jclepro.2009.03.015

• Bix, Laura; Bello, Nora; Auras, Rafael, Ranger, Jonathan; Lapinski, Maria. 2009. Examining the Conspicuousness and Prominence of Two Required Warnings on OTC Pain Relievers. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. 106 (16): 6550-6555. DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0810665106

• Dhoot, Gaurav; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Dolan, Kirk. 2009. Diffusion of Eugenol through Food Contact Polymeric Films Using FTIR-ATR Flow Cell Technique and HPLC. Polymer. 50 (6): 1470-1482. DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2009.01.026

• Ngouajio, Mathieu; Auras, Rafael; Fernandez, Rodney T.; Rubino, Maria, Counts, James W.; Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp. 2008. Field Performance of Aliphatic-aromatic Copolyester Biodegradable Mulch Films in a Fresh Market Tomato Production System. HortTechnology. 18 (4): 605-610.

• Almenar, Eva M.; Samsudin, Hayati; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Harte, Bruce. 2008. Postharvest shelf life extension of blueberries using a biodegradable package. Food Chemistry. 110 (1): 120-127. DOI:10.1016/j.foodchem.2008.01.066

• Lim, Loong-Tak; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria. 2008. Processing Technologies for Poly(lactic acid). Progress in Polymer Science. 33 (8): 820-852. DOI:10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2008.05.004

• Qin, Yin; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Lim, Loong-Tak. 2008. Impact of Polymer Processing on Sorption of Benzaldehyde Vapor in Amorphous and Semicrystalline Polypropylene. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 110 (3): 1509-1514. DOI: 10.1002/app.28314

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Ngouajio, Mathieu; Fernandez, Rodney T. 2008. Assessment of Aliphatic-aromatic Copolyester Biodegradable Mulch Films. Part II: Laboratory Simulated Conditions. Chemosphere 71 (9): 1607-1616. DOI:10.1016/j.chemosphere.2008.01.037

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Ngouajio, Mathieu; Fernandez, Rodney T. 2008. Assessment of Aliphatic-aromatic Copolyester Biodegradable Mulch Films. Part I: Field Study. Chemosphere. 71 (5): 942-953. DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2007.10.074

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael. 2008. Compostability of Polymers. Polymer International. 57 (6): 793-804. DOI: 10.1002/pi.2420

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria. 2008. Measuring Gel Content of Aromatic Polyesters using FTIR Spectrophotometry and DSC. Polymer Testing. 27 (1): 55-60. DOI:10.1016/j.polymertesting.2007.08.007

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• Almenar, Eva M.; Samsudin, Hayati; Auras, Rafael; Harte, Bruce; Rubino, Maria. 2008. Postharvest Shelf Life Extension of Blueberries using a Biodegradable Package. Food Chemistry. 100 (1): 120-127. DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2008.01.066

• Kale, Gaurav; Auras, Rafael; Singh, Sher Paul; Narayan, Ramani. 2007. Biodegradability of Polylactide Bottles in Real and Simulated Conditions. Polymer Testing. 26 (8): 1049-1061. DOI:10.1016/j.polymertesting.2007.07.006

• Qin, Yin; Rubino, Maria; Auras, Rafael; Lim, Loong-Tak. 2007. Use of a Magnetic Suspension Microbalance to Measure Organic Vapor Sorption for Evaluating the Impact of Polymer Converting Process. Polymer Testing. 26 (8): 1082-1089. DOI: 10.1016/j.polymertesting.2007.07.010

• Kale, Gaurav; Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Selke, Susan. 2007. An Overview of Compostability of Bioplastic Packaging Materials. Macromolecular Bioscience. 7 (3): 255-277. DOI:10.1002/mabi.200600168

• Almenar, Eva M.; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Harte, Bruce. 2007. A New Technique to Prevent Main Post Harvest Diseases in Berries During Storage: Inclusion Complexes β-CD-Hexanal. International Journal of Food Microbiology. 118 (2): 164-172. DOI:10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2007.07.002

• Almenar, Eva M.; Auras, Rafael; Wharton, Phillip; Rubino, Maria; Harte, Bruce. 2007. Release of Acetaldehyde from β-CD Inhibits Postharvest Cecay Fungi in Vitro. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 55: 7205-7217. DOI: 10.1021/jf071603y

• Kijchavengkul, Thitisilp; Auras, Rafael; Rubino, Maria; Ngouajio, Mathieu, Fernandez, Rodney T. 2006. Development of an Automatic Laboratory-Scale Respirometric System to Measure Polymer Biodegradability. Polymer Testing. 25 (8): 1006-1016. DOI: 10.1016/j.polymertesting.2006.06.008

• Kale, Gaurav; Auras, Rafael; Singh, Sher Paul. 2006. Comparison of the Degradability of Poly(lactide) Packages in Composting and Ambient Exposure Conditions. Packaging Technology and Science. 40: 49-70. DOI: 10.1002/pts.742

• Kale, Gaurav; Auras, Rafael; Singh, Sher Paul. 2006. Degradation of Commercial Biodegradable Packages under Real Composting and Ambient Exposure Conditions. Journal of Polymers and the Environment. 14 (3): 317-334. DOI: 10.1007/s10924-006-0015-6

• Auras, Rafael; Singh, Sher Paul; Singh, Jay. 2006. Performance Evaluation of PLA against Existing PET and PS Containers. Journal of Testing and Evaluation. 34 (6): 530-536. DOI: 10.1520/JTE100041

• Aithani, Dennis; Lockhart, Hugh; Auras, Rafael; Tanprasert, Krittika. 2006. Predicting the Strongest Peelable Seal for "Easy Open" Packaging Applications. Journal of Plastic Film and Sheeting. 22 (4): 247-263. DOI: 10.1177/8756087906071351

• Auras, Rafael; Bix, Laura. 2006. WAKE UP! The Effectiveness of a Student Response System in Large Packaging Classes. Packaging Technology and Science 20 (3): 183-195. DOI: 10.1002/pts.753

• Aithani, Dennis; Lockhart, Hugh; Auras, Rafael; Tanprasert, Krittika. 2006. Heat Sealing Measurement by an Innovative Technique. Packaging Technology and Science. 19 (5): 245-257. DOI: 10.1002/pts.728

• Auras, Rafael; Harte, Bruce; Selke, Susan. 2006. Sorption of Ethyl Acetate and d-Limonene in Poly(lactide) Polymers. Journal of Science of Food and Agriculture. 86 648-656. DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.2391

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• Auras, Rafael; Singh, Sher Paul; Singh, Jagjit J. 2005. Evaluation of Oriented Poly(lactide) Polymers vs. Existing PET and Oriented PS for Fresh Food Service Containers. Packaging Technology and Science. 18 (4): 207-216. DOI: 10.1002/pts.692

• Auras, Rafael; Harte, Bruce; Selke, Susan. 2004. An Overview of Polylactides as Packaging Materials. Macromolecular Bioscience. 4 (9): 835 - 864. DOI: 10.1002/mabi.200400043

• Auras, Rafael; Schvezov, Carlos. 2004. Wear Behavior, Microstructure, and Dimensional Stability of As-Cast Zinc-Aluminum/SiC (MMC) Alloys. Metallurgical and Materials Transactions A. 35A 1579-1590. DOI: 10.1007/s11661-004-0264-8

• Auras, Rafael; Harte, Bruce; Selke, Susan. 2004. Effect of Water on the Oxygen Barrier Properties of Polyethylene Terephthalate and Poly(lactide) Films. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 92 (3): 1790-1803. DOI: 10.1002/app.20148

• Auras, Rafael; Harte, Bruce; Selke, Susan; Hernandez, Ruben. 2003. Mechanical, Physical, and Barrier Properties of Poly(lactic acid). Journal of Plastic Film and Sheeting. 19 (2): 123-135. DOI: 10.1177/8756087903039702

• Mendoza, Rosana; Auras, Rafael; Schmalko, Miguel; Linares, Andres. 1999. Isotermas de Adsorcion y Velocidad de Rehidratacion en Frutas de Carica Papaya L. Deshidratads con Varios Metodos (Sorption Isotherm and Water Rate Uptake of Carica Papaya L. Dryed by Different Techniques. Informacion Tecnologica. 10 (6): 57-62.

• TEACHING

Graduate classes • Life Cycle Assessment: Background, Principles, Calculations, and Applications, PKG891,

Spring16, Fall 13 & 12, School of Packaging, MSU, East Lansing, MI. • Polymeric Packaging Materials, PKG825, Fall 16 and 17, online teaching, School of

Packaging, MSU, East Lansing, MI. • Packaging Plastics Processing, PKG 828, Spring 14, 12 and 11, online teaching, School of

Packaging, MSU, East Lansing, MI. • Packaging Materials, PKG 801, Fall 10, online teaching, School of Packaging, MSU, East

Lansing, MI. • Polymeric Packaging Materials, PKG 827. Fall 15, 14, 11, 10, 09 and 08, online teaching,

School of Packaging, MSU, East Lansing, MI. Undergraduate classes • Packaging Sustainability, PKG470. Spring 17, School of Packaging, MSU, East Lansing, MI. • Packaging and the Environment, PKG370. Spring 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 09 and 08, School of

Packaging, MSU, East Lansing, MI. • Packaging with Plastics, PKG 323, Summer 15, School of Packaging, MSU, East Lansing,

MI. • Packaging with Paper & Paperboard, PKG322. Spring 2007. School of Packaging, MSU,

East Lansing, MI. • Glass & Metal Packaging, PKG221. Fall 06 and 05, Spring 05. School of Packaging, MSU,

East Lansing, MI. Continuing learning in Teaching • Lilly Fellow, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI. Scholarship of teaching and

learning. • Certification in Teaching College Science and Mathematics (May, 2004.)

http://www.ns.msu.edu/TAcertificate/Default.htm

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• SERVICE Organizations

SPE, Society of Plastics Engineering, Member since 2004. ACS, American Chemical Society, Member since 2004. BPI, Biodegradable Product Institute, Review coordinator for ASTM D6400 and D6868

composting certification. (2006 - 2012) SPC, Sustainable Packaging Coalition, representative member for the SoP 2006 - present.

Executive Committee member October 2007 - March 2009. IFT, Institute of Food Technology, Member 2004 - 2010; Member at large September 2005-

September 2007. Secretary 2008-2009. NAFSS, National Alliance for Food Safety and Security, Member.

School of Packaging

Advisor Committee, School of Packaging, MSU, 2007-2008, 2008-2009, 2016-2019, Member Graduate Committee, School of Packaging, MSU, 2007-2008, 2008-2009, 2014-2015 Chair. Strategic Planning Committee, School of Packaging, MSU 2006-2007, Member. Curriculum Committee, School of Packaging, MSU 2006-2007, 2015-2016, 2015-2017, Member. Search Committee Director of School of Packaging, MSU, 2003-2004, Member.

January, 2018 East Lansing, MI