An engineering bioplastic based on polylactic acid which overcomes the low flame resistance of similar materials has been developed in Japan by NEC Corporation without the use of such toxic materials as halogen and phosphorus compounds (flame retarding additives). This bio-plastic has passed top-level flame resistance standards regulated by Under Writer Laboratories (UL), which will enable it to be widely used in electronic products. In addition, it boasts other important properties such as heat resistance, moldability, and strength that are comparable to those of fiber-reinforced polycarbonate used in desktop-type electronic products. This development will realize the use of bio-plastics in electronic products as well as contributing to environmental friendliness.
source: NEC
Engineering Bioplastics for Expanded Uses
By Denise Ryan
Typically thought of as coming from corn, bioplastics can and are being produced from other plant-based feedstocks such as potatoes, sugar beets, sugar cane, cassava, wheat, tapioca, and oils from soybeans. Companies have produced hybrid bioplastic products that incorporate a blend of plant starch with conventional polymers that help manufacturers reduce their dependence on nonrenewable resources and add features such as heat resistance or durability to their products but they cannot claim to be fully biodegradable or compostable.
As the technology continues to evolve, bioplastics will be engineered with the heat-resistance and strength needed for wider use. For example, Metabolix, a Massachusetts company, has developed a biodegradable polymer called Mirel made from bacteria, corn, and air that is able to withstand boiling water.
Innovative companies will be looking at their raw materials, have their finger on the pulse of what is driving consumer demand, and will be assessing the possible health risks of conventional plastics. They will also be keeping an eye out for new technologies or feedstock materials that will help solve some of the early challenges associated with bioplastics as they move from niche industry to the mainstream. Take Cereplast for example. The company now makes 15 grades of resins in its Compostables ™ line, including a heat-resistant product CP-TH-6000 that can withstand heat up to 155p F. It also has a hybrid resin that is heat resistant up to 250p. To meet the demands for bioplastics Cereplast announced that it is building a new manufacturing facility in Indiana. It will have a half-billion pound capacity when fully operational in 2010.
Related posts:
June 14th, 2009 on 2:53 am
what are the properties or components or chemicals are used for obtaining good quality of starch from maize corn?
After seperation of starch from corn which are other material or chemicals are added to create biopolymer?
What are the processes or method for making bioplastic from maize corn?