BIOPLASTICS | MATERIALS
synthesizing PLA-based block copolymers where the polyether chain segment was covalently linked to PLA chain segments at both ends. The result is a new type of flexible PLA that does not contain migrating plasticisers and is at least 80% bio-based – with the potential to increase this to almost 100% in future. The production process does not require large-volume synthesis plants, so the material can be made locally by medium-sized companies as a continuous process. “Until now, PLA could only be made profitably in continuous large-scale plants, which excluded smaller companies as manufacturers,” said André Gomoll, a co-researcher in the project. The new material can be processed into films using conventional equipment in a similar way to LDPE — and chemically recycled with considerably less energy input than LDPE, he added. In 2023, SoBiCo – a subsidiary of the Polymer
Group --] commissioned a production plant for the new PLA block copolymers. It produces 2,000 tonnes/year of the material under the name Plactid. In the long term, it plans to produce 10,000 tonnes/year.
Compostable pods NatureWorks has developed a thermoformed – and compostable – coffee pod, following a multi-year partnership with IMA Coffee. For the rigid capsule body, NatureWorks combined non-compounded, crystalline and heat-resistant PLA grades with a single-stage thermoforming process to achieve production rates comparable to existing PP capsules. The rigid thermoformed capsule was then combined with a nonwoven filter and multi-layer top lidding solution – also made of PLA. The use of a primary material for all three components is more cost-effective and offers higher consistency when heat-sealing the compo- nents together. IMA conducted compatibility
Left: Fraunhofer’s new PLA can be made into plastic films using conventional technology
IMAGE: PIOTR BANCZEROWSKI
testing on the rigid capsules, filter and lidding film. Microleakage detection testing helped identify and achieve optimal material sealing parameters. “This solution removes the burden from brands
and roasters who are looking for a compostable pod with a long shelf life that preserves the taste and aroma of the coffee,” said Flavio Di Marcotullio, strategic marketing manager for single serve beverages at NatureWorks. “These pods provide a reliable brewing experience for consumers, can be produced at commercial speeds, and do not sacrifice expected performance for sustainability.”
Avoiding microplastics A meta-study – commissioned by Holland Bioplastics and carried out by Hydra Marine Sciences – says that the presence of water or humidity causes PLA to fully hydrolyse, meaning that it will not form persistent PLA microplastics in the environment. The findings – which have not been published in
a peer-reviewed journal – were drawn from a scan of more than 30,000 reports. Hydra identified 500 of these as relevant – and of sufficient quality – for deeper review. The study concluded that PLA objects or fragments will continually decrease via hydrolysis, at a rate determined by temperature,
Deliver stretch film that provides durability for load retention and frequent handling with an EDI® Multiflow™ 10 die!
How can your operation benefit? LEARN MORE
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48
