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Novomer, a US-based company has developed a technology to produce biodegradable polymers. The technology is
based on a catalyst system developed by Cornell University to manufacture biopolymer using building blocks
that are readily available and highly manageable.
This technology is different from others that several suppliers have been developing to manufacture biodegradable
and compostable packaging in a bid to meet a market driven by consumer pressure and environmental regulations.
The technology uses carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide as feedstock, rather than grains and other plant-based sources
used by many others. The polymers thus produced are an alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Novomer products will
provide environmental benefits and improved materials performance.
Over the past five years most biodegradable packaging developed as alternative to conventional materials plastics and
foams, are made from a variety of plants, mainly corn. Biodegradable polymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), PHV
and PHB are produced by the actions of genetically modified micro-organisms. Materials such as PLA and PHA are made
from a variety of plants. To produce PLA, manufacturers use a chemical polymerisation process to transform renewable
raw materials such as corn into a biodegradable biopolymer
Demand for bioplastics in Europe experienced its first boom last year. Currently bioplastics account for less than 1%
of the European plastics market. The market is predicted to grow by about 20% pa. The North American biodegradable
polymer market has not progressed as rapidly as in Europe, and Asia is beginning to show its potential. Biodegradable
polymers have experienced strong growth over the last three years and are set to make further inroads into markets
traditionally dominated by conventional thermoplastics in future. Demand is being driven by a number of factors.
The cost of biodegradable polymers has come down considerably over the last three years while at the same time
standard thermoplastic prices have increased considerably. Record high prices of oil and feedstocks have taken
their toll on prices of all polymers, adding to the affordability factor of biodegradable polymers. Now, some
classes of biodegradable polymers are price competitive with polymers such as PET.
The biodegradable polymers industry itself has established an agreed framework for testing and certification and
there is growing political pressure in developed countries to reduce packaging waste and develop a composting
infrastructure. Biodegradable polymer producers have also invested in product and process improvements.
Biodegradable polymer prices have recently seen a decreasing trend due to the acceptance of biodegradable
polymer products by environment conscious companies which are replacing conventional polymers in numerous
applications. The unique properties of biodegradability also translate into lesser disposal costs. Consumers
and brand owners are beginning to recognise the benefits of sustainable or 'green' packaging.
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