Technology significantly enhances biodegradability & bioplastic performance

05-Jul-13

Bioplastics are receiving enthusiastic attention because they save on resources and offer the unique potential of carbon neutrality. With a projected growth in bioplastics of 500% between 2011-2016 this is a very exciting growth area. Perstorp, the world leader in caprolactones, a biodegradable polyester, has made substantial investments in the development of Capa™ for bioplastics. Bioplastics that are biodegradable, such as PLA (PolyLactic Acid) and TPS (ThermoPlastic Starch), are becoming increasingly attractive to both consumers and producers, as they offer new ways of recovery and recycling. Perstorp’s caprolactones enhance the properties of bioplastics allowing them to be used for new market opportunities and applications. Capa™ provides superior biodegradation, easier processing and compatibility. Capa™ is the perfect polyester for bioplastics blends, improving several mechanical properties as well as accelerating biodegradation of the biopolymers. Bioplastics with Capa™ biodegrade quickly in the right conditions - you can use domestic composting, rather than industrial requiring a higher temperature. It also offers excellent tear properties by adding mechanical strength, and making the bioplastic more flexible, so that it elongates and stretches rather than tears. The excellent low temperature performance allows bioplastic products to be used in cold environments. More durable product can be achieved for a longer life with better compostability at end of life. The low melting point reduces energy consumption when processing to a minimum. This all adds up to a very sustainable and practical solution for bioplastic producers. Capa™ can be easily blended with PLA and starch based polymers to attain customized and desirable properties that really broaden their appeal. It is ideal for both renewable and disposable polyesters. In disposables – for plastic bags, compost bags, coated paper and one-time plastic cutlery, and in renewables – for cutlery, trays and items that need to last a year or two. Bioplastics are now broadening out into electronic equipment, such as mobile handsets and casings, and making inroads into automotive parts too.