bioplastics MAGAZINE 06-2011 by bioplastics MAGAZINE

ISSN 1862-5258

November/December

06 | 2011

Highlights Films Flexibles Bags | 14 Consumer Electronics | 38 Personality

bioplastics

magazine

Vol. 6

John Williams | 48

1 countries

... is read in 9

FKuR plastics – made by nature!® Engineered Sustainability

Mouse casing made from Biograde®

FKuR Kunststoff GmbH Siemensring 79 D - 47877 Willich Phone: +49 2154 92 51-0 Fax: +49 2154 92 51-51 sales@fkur.com

www.fkur.com

For further information, contact your local partner: North America: UK & Ireland: Italy: France: Scandinavia: Israel:

sales.usa@fkur.com UK@fkur.com Italy@fkur.com France@fkur.com Scan@fkur.com Israel@fkur.com

Editorial

dear readers Even if the cover picture shows an example of a consumer electronics product that was launched only this year, this little mouse is the only consumer electronics example we have in this issue. On the other hand the second highlight that we had announced — films|flexibles|bags — is packed with articles, opinions and application news. Be it multilayer laminates, barrier solutions or the hot topic of plastic bags, there is plenty of new information and food for thought for you, our readers. We apologize that the ‘basics’ article about film blowing and blown film extrusion respectively, had to be postponed to a later issue. Instead we are happy to present another informative and basic ‘opinion’ article on the use of agricultural resources for materials production vs energy vs food or animal feed usage. And we are happy to congratulate Danone for winning the 6th Bioplastics Award, this year for the first time awarded exclusively by bioplastics MAGAZINE. The ‘Bioplastics Oskar’ — as it was called by delegates of the conference — was given to the brand owners in recognition of their exceptional commitment to the use of bioplastics in the packaging of their leading brand products. The ceremony was part of the 6th European Bioplastics Conference on November 22nd and 23rd in Berlin, Germany. Congratulations to European Bioplastics as well for a great conference with a new record of 420 delegates. The team of bioplastics MAGAZINE would like to thank all of you for your loyalty, be it as reader, author or advertiser. We wish you some relaxing days at the end of the year. Let’s continue a fruitful cooperation in 2012 and see many of you at our 2nd PLA World Congress on May 15th and 16th, 2012, in Munich, Germany.

Until then, we hope you enjoy reading bioplastics MAGAZINE

Sincerely yours Michael Thielen

Be our friend on Facebook: www.facebook.com/bioplasticsmagazine

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Content Award Bioplastics Award 2011. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Events European Bioplastics Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Films | Flexibles | Bags Design Your Own Compostable Film . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Longer Shelf Life in PLA Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 New Applications for BoPLA films. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 The Future of the Shopping Bag in Italy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Mulch Film Certified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Biopolymer Coatings for Sustainable Packaging . . . . . . 26

Application News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

‘Bagislation‘ in Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Event Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Renewable Lightweight Coffee Pouches. . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Bookstore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Consumer Electronics

Editorial Planner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Bioplastic Mouse added to Green Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Companies in this issue . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Report Bioplastics in Practical Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Agricultural Resources for Bioplastics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Personality

Photo: Philipp Thielen

Cover

A part of this print run is mailed to the readers wrapped in BoPLA envelopes sponsored by Taghleef Industries S.p.A., Maropack GmbH & Co. KGand SFV Verpackungen

Envelopes

Editorial contributions are always welcome. Please contact the editorial office via mt@bioplasticsmagazine.com.

bioplastics MAGAZINE tries to use British spelling. However, in articles based on information from the USA, American spelling may also be used.

The fact that product names may not be identified in our editorial as trade marks is not an indication that such names are not registered trade marks.

Not to be reproduced in any form without permission from the publisher.

bioplastics MAGAZINE is read in 91 countries.

bioplastics MAGAZINE is printed on chlorine-free FSC certified paper.

ISSN 1862-5258 bioplastics magazine is published 6 times a year. This publication is sent to qualified subscribers (149 Euro for 6 issues).

John Williams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

bioplastics magazine

Tölkes Druck + Medien GmbH 47807 Krefeld, Germany Total Print run: 3,500 copies

Elke Hoffmann, Caroline Motyka phone: +49(0)2161-6884467 fax: +49(0)2161 6884468 eh@bioplasticsmagazine.com

Media Adviser

Polymedia Publisher GmbH Dammer Str. 112 41066 Mönchengladbach, Germany phone: +49 (0)2161 6884469 fax: +49 (0)2161 6884468 info@bioplasticsmagazine.com www.bioplasticsmagazine.com

Head Office

Mark Speckenbach, Julia Hunold

Layout/Production

Dr. Michael Thielen Samuel Brangenberg

Publisher / Editorial

Imprint

06|2011 November/December

Basics

Be our fan on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/bioplastics-MAGAZINE/103745406344904

News

Thailand Preferred for Next Ingeo™ Plant NatureWorks LLC, from Minnetonka, Minnessota, USA announced in mid-October that Thailand’s largest chemical producer, PTT Chemical Public Company Limited (PTT Chemical) is investing US$150 million in NatureWorks. NatureWorks supplies its broad family of renewable Ingeo biopolymers to plastics and fibers markets worldwide. PTT Chemical’s investment in NatureWorks, until now wholly owned by Cargill, is subject to regulatory approval. “The Thai Government encourages an investment in green chemicals, and particularly bioplastics, which have high growth potential in the Southeast Asian market,” said Thailand‘s Minister of Energy H.E. Mr. Pichai Naripthaphan. “By attracting what could be the most advanced biopolymer processing plant in the world to Thailand, PTT Chemical has made a significant step in achieving Thailand’s strategic objectives of becoming a regional hub for green technologies and solutions.” “This is a significant investment by a leading chemical company, which will allow NatureWorks to continue its aggressive growth while expanding its capacity to meet global demand for bio-based products. PTT Chemical’s investment demonstrates a significant milestone in moving Ingeo biobased plastics and fibers to the polymer mainstream,” said Marc Verbruggen, president and chief executive officer of NatureWorks. “PTT Chemical’s investment supports NatureWorks intent to globalize its Ingeo manufacturing capability. We anticipate bringing the new plant online in 2015 and expect to announce further details on this expansion later this year.”

operating officer, Downstream Petroleum Business Group of PTT Public Company Limited. “PTT Chemical is keen to play a role in pioneering a world-scale bioplastics industry with the aim to become a global leader by 2020 and push Thailand to become an Asian bio-hub.” “PTT Chemical reinforces NatureWorks’ leadership position and proven track record in bringing cost effective biopolymer innovations to the global marketplace,” said Mr. Veerasak Kositpaisal, president and chief executive officer of PTT Chemical. “NatureWorks is currently the forefront producer of bio-based products with commercially viable production volumes, competitive costing and a global customer base. Our investment in the company and its Ingeo technology platform for plastics and fibers is in line with our long-term strategic green growth and diversification objectives.” Over the past several years, NatureWorks has seen steady 25 to 30% increases in annual product demand. In the last two years, NatureWorks doubled its Ingeo supply availability by bringing online additional production capacity at its Blair, Neb., processing facility. “The proposed new Ingeo facility in Thailand would be NatureWorks’ second production plant,” Marc Verbruggen added. MT www.natureworksllc.com www.pttchemgroup.com

“This investment will strengthen PTT Chemical’s green growth strategy towards sustainable development by integrating more renewable and environmentally friendly materials in its portfolio, while offering more green product choices to the customer to fulfill our responsibility as the ‘Power for a Sustainable Future’ for Thailand and all stakeholders,” said Mr. Nuttachat Charuchinda, the chief

FKuR Exclusive Distributor of Green-PE in Europe Global biopolymer leader Braskem and bioplastics specialist FKuR have signed a distribution agreement for Green PE. Taking effect immediately (Nov. 2011), FKuR will be the official distribution partner for Braskem´s Green PE in Europe. “This new business field is another milestone that helps make our ‘FKuR - plastics made by nature®’ strategy a reality. As a leading player in the European bioplastics market we are happy to be part of Braskem’s innovative campaign for changing resource utilisation,” said Dr. Edmund Dolfen, FKuR’s CEO. “For Braskem, it was important to find a partner who has extensive knowledge in promoting bioplastic specialties in a commodity market,” declared Fabio Carneiro, Renewable Chemicals Commercial Officer at Braskem. With its European sales force, FKuR will be an additional technology and technical contact support, development advisor and logistic partner for Europe. Furthermore, tailor-made compounds made from Braskem’s Green PE will be available under FKuR’s brand name TerraleneTM. www.braskem.com www.fkur.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

News

NatureWorks Received Award

First Bio-based EPDM Rubber in the World

NatureWorks was recently honored with the 2011 Leader of Change Award from The Foundation for Social Change and the United Nations Office for Partnerships (UNOP).

LANXESS from Leverkusen, Germany is strengthening its commitment to produce premium synthetic rubbers from bio-based raw materials. The specialty chemicals company aims to commercially produce ethylenepropylene-diene monomer (EPDM) from bio-based ethylene by the end of the year. It will be the first form of bio-based EPDM rubber in the world.

The Leader of Change award recognizes visionary executives of companies, financial institutions, and advocacy groups that have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to the pursuit of sustainability whereby environmental and social performance are embedded in the competitive strategy of the organization.

EPDM is conventionally produced using the petroleum-based raw materials ethylene and propylene. Alternatively, Lanxess plans to use ethylene derived purely from the renewable resource sugar cane. The company Braskem S.A. will supply the bio-based ethylene via pipeline to Lanxess’ existing EPDM plant in Triunfo, Brazil.

“We named NatureWorks a leader of change, because the company demonstrates several compelling proof points,” explained Louise M. Guido, CEO of the Foundation for Social Change. “NatureWorks is not a longstanding, conventional company that decided to ‘go green,’ this is a company actually founded – just 10 years ago – on the simple principle of selling sustainable performance products, giving contemporary industry a new way to do business and today’s consumer a new choice. And, as the Ingeo™ Earth Month project demonstrated, NatureWorks’ early bet on environmental performance is clearly paying off.” NatureWorks joins a prestigious group of other 2011 Leader in Change award recipients, including Billabong, Domini Social Investment Fund, DSM, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Marks & Spencer, Philips Lighting, Seventh Generation and Unilever. “NatureWorks is founded on the very principles recognized by the 2011 Leader of Change Award,” said Steve Davies, marketing and public affairs director for NatureWorks, “Ingeo allows companies to do business differently – by opening the way for brands to bring innovative and sustainable products to their customers without compromising performance and appeal.” MT www.natureworksllc.com

“Lanxess’ ongoing search for alternatives to fossil fuels underlines its commitment to reducing CO2 emissions through sustainable production,” said Guenther Weymans, head of Lanxess’ Technical Rubber Products business unit. “We are very excited that our Brazilian plant will be the pioneer for bio-based EPDM.” “Lanxess will contribute to broaden our portfolio of renewable chemicals’ clients. This agreement will bring the benefits of green ethylene to other important applications and markets. Lanxess has extensive automotive experience and an excellent reputation in this market, which makes it an ideal partner,” said Marcelo Nunes, Braskem’s Renewable Chemicals Director. Triunfo currently produces 40,000 tonnes per year of regular EPDM rubber and it is expected that the first batches of the product Keltan Eco will amount to several hundred tonnes. The company’s other EPDM production sites are based in Geleen, The Netherlands, Marl, Germany, and Orange, Texas, USA. All EPDM grades will be sold in the future under the brand name Keltan. EPDM is used above all in the automotive industry but also in the plastics modification, cable and wire, construction and oil additives industries. Its properties include very low density, good resistance to heat, oxidation, chemicals and weathering as well as good electrical insulation properties. In addition, Lanxess is already seeking alternative sources to produce the premium synthetic rubber product butyl rubber, which is used predominantly in the tire industry. Together with Colorado-based Gevo, Inc, Lanxess is developing isobutene from renewable resources starting with corn. Isobutene is a key raw material needed in the manufacture of butyl rubber. Last year, Lanxess started up a new onsite power plant at its Brazilian site in Porto Feliz, which produces iron oxide pigments. The innovative, highly efficient cogeneration plant for the production of electricity and steam is powered by bagasse, a fibrous component of sugar cane that is left over after sugar production. Thanks to the use of this renewable, environmentally friendly raw material, energy can be produced on a CO2neutral basis for the site. MT www.lanxess.com www.braskem.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

News

New Additives for High-Performance Bioplastics

New Institute

Compared to conventional high-performance plastics, bioplastics have their limitations – among other things in terms of stability and strength. The Düsseldorf/Germany based chemical company Henkel and the compounder and biopolymer specialist Tecnaro from Ilsfeld-Auenstein, Germany have worked together to overcome these limitations. In cooperation with Tecnaro, Henkel has now succeeded in developing new high-performance polyamide additives based on renewable raw materials that can significantly improve the performance of bioplastics.

The manufacturing and the industrial use of bioplastics and biocomposites is one focus of research by Prof. Dr.-Ing. HansJosef Endres and his team at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Hanover, Germany.

Containing a large proportion of natural raw materials, the additives of Henkel’s Macromelt brand are ideal for the production of industrial plastics. This has become possible through the use of dimer fatty acids based on natural oils (e.g. rapeseed and tall oil). Along with a general increase in the proportion of bio-sourced ingredients, the new additives also have a positive impact on the performance profile of bioplastics. Impact resistance and fiber-matrix adhesion are much improved by these additives.

The production, usage and disposal of biopolymers, cellulose based natural fibres and thermoplastic composites are the main focus for the Institute of Bioplastics and Biocomposites. The scientists there are, as an example, working on applied processes of material development.

Depending on the plastics formulation, the additives are capable of reducing processing temperature, in some cases considerably. This diminishes the stressing of the fibers employed, with a positive effect on stability and appearance.

For example in collaboration with Henkel the scientists have developed a correction pen. In the future bioplastics will be used more and more in other technical applications, such as in the automobile industry. Here there has been cooperation with Volkswagen in Wolfsburg for many years, as well as with KraussMaffei Technologies and KraussMaffei Berstorff in Hanover.

By developing Macromelt polyamide technology further, Henkel is thus helping to improve the quality and usability of bioplastics and paving the way for further high-end applications. Thanks to the many years of successful cooperation between Henkel and Tecnaro, tailored biopolymers and composites containing Macromelt additives are already expanding Tecnaro’s broad range of biomaterials www.henkel.com www.tecnaro.de

Institute of Bioplastics and Biocomposites (IfBB) is now in business

At Faculty II (Mechanical and Bioprocess Engineering) of this University the new ‘Institute of Bioplastics and Biocomposites’ (IfBB) started work on November 1st, 2011. The formation of the new institute can be seen as the result of the success enjoyed by previous research on bioplastics and biocomposites. With the new institute all further ambitions and projects can be expanded with less restriction.

There is a close cooperation between the new institute and industry with regard to all industrial processes along the whole process chain: chemical research, materials development, machine manufacturer and the bioplastics converting industry – all working closely together.

The interest in bioplastics and biocomposites is growing continuously, and commanding the attention of politics, industry and consumers. Many products, for example food packages, beverage bottles and sports equipment, are now manufactured from biobased materials. Such applications will certainly be increasing during the next years, and for which the new Institute of Bioplastics and Biocomposites is in an excellent starting position. www.fh-hannover.de

The fiber-matrix adhesion of bioplastics is much improved by the additives of the Macromelt brand.

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

News

USDA Grant to Develop Plant Containers

First Sugar Cane based PHA

Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA has been awarded a grant by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop biorenewable and biodegradable containers for the specialty crop industry.

Vinçotte recently awarded the ‘OK Biodegradable (in) Water’ certification to the MINERV® PHA SC (Sugar Cane) bioplastics. This is the first and only biopolymer in the world made by the Italian company Bio on from Bologna, starting from sugar cane by-products.

The $1.9 million grant will be used to develop bioplastic containers as an alternative to petroleum-based pots. Bill Graves, professor of horticulture, will lead the research team that includes David Grewell, associate professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering and Center for Crops Utilization Research (CCUR) affiliate; Michael Kessler, associate professor of materials science and engineering and CCUR affiliate; James Schrader, assistant scientist in horticulture; and scientists at the University of Illinois; University of Nevada-Reno; and Ohio State University. Grewell, Schrader, and Kessler are also members of CCUR‘s Biopolymers & Biocomposites Research Team. The plant containers were produced by Grewell‘s research group in CCUR‘s Technology Transfer Pilot Plant using the 150-ton hydraulic press. The containers are made of soy protein-based plastic. “Nearly all specialty crops, including bedding plants, tomatoes and other vegetables, and containerized shrubs and trees that are purchased for residential gardening and landscaping, are grown and marketed in petroleum-based, conventional plastic containers.Few of those are recycled or reused,” said Graves. “Our vision is to provide sustainable alternatives that can meet the needs of horticultural producers, and that will degrade harmlessly when installed with the plant in a garden.” An estimated $706 million could be saved annually by the specialty crop industry by converting from petroleumbased containers to bioplastic containers, Graves said. Other benefits include shifting resource revenue from foreign oil to domestic biorenewables and eliminating adverse environmental effects of petroleum-based plastics. MT www.biocom.iastate.edu/

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

The certification confirms Minerv PHA SC’s complete biodegradability in water at ambient temperature. This new plastic can be used to make a wide range of rigid or flexible objects and to replace daily use products that are highly polluting and made from petroleum based conventional plastics, currently used to manufacture bottles, food packaging, auto parts, furnishings, fibres, packaging film and electronics and much more. Bio on develops new materials in the modern biotechnologies sector and this recognition completes the industrial research project, started in 2007, aimed at producing naturally biodegradable plastic, starting from sugar beets and, as of today, also from sugar cane. Until now both have mainly been used to produce edible sugar or biofuels. The idea is especially innovative since, for the first time in the world, PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) is obtained from molasses or intermediate sugar cane juices or from its by-products and not from oils or cereal starches like the majority of the biopolymers on the market today. Minerv PHA bioplastics are thus made from waste materials and not from products intended for food production. This, combined with their complete biodegradability in water, is the big environmental advantage of the bioplastics developed by Bio on. Minerv PHA SC has excellent thermal properties. Through the range of polymerisation, production requirements from -10°C to +180°C can be met, to be used with injection or extrusion methods. MT www.minerv.it/ www.bio-on.it/

News

Amsterdam ArenA (Photo: Bjørn Giesenbauer, CC-by-sa)

Ajax Fans Sit on Sustainable Sugar Braskem recently established a partnership with Amsterdam ArenA, home of the famous soccer team Ajax Amsterdam in the Netherlands. The leading thermoplastic resin producer in the Americas will supply sugar-cane based polyethylene to be used in the production of seats for the multifunctional Dutch stadium. In addition to the 52,000 existing seats, two thousand new seats manufactured with Braskem‘s plastic made from bio-ethanol will be installed in the coming months. By the end of the next two years, all 54,000 seats will be made of plastic from 100% renewable raw material, using Brazilian technology. The installation of the ‘sugar seats’ - as these seats are being called - is part of the strategy to turn the Amsterdam ArenA into a landmark of the world‘s most sustainable capital. The stadium was inaugurated in 1996, and its remodel will not adversely affect the events happening in the stadium. The entire remodeling project follows sustainability guidelines. In 2015, the stadium wants to be ecologically neutral, producing no carbon footprint. “The use of Green Plastic at the Amsterdam ArenA is fully in line with Braskem‘s strategy of becoming the world‘s leading company in sustainable chemicals“, said Marcelo Nunes, Braskem‘s Renewable Chemicals Director. “Braskem‘s partnership with Station Amsterdam complements other alliances already consolidated in recent months, uniting companies that seek sustainable solutions“, added the executive. MT

Synterra grade IM (left) and traditional PLA (right) after immersion in boiling water.

Non-GMO PLA Wins Blue Tulip Award By mixing 100% pure PLLA with 100% PDLA, a fast cycle and heat-resistant injection mouldable PLA with very good temperature and impact properties is made that far exceeds the properties of the individual polymers. With a Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT B @ 0,45 N/mm²) of 123°C Synterra® IM material performs much better than conventional PLA and the impact strength is comparable to that of ABS. After injection molding the IM material is able to withstand boiling water. With this development Synbra Technology sets a step in developing a new generation of high performance biopolymers. The polymerization of the optical isomers PLLA and PDLA takes place at Synbra Technology in Etten-Leur, the Netherlands, in a plant with a capacity of 5000 tonnes/annum, which was commissioned early 2011. Synbra Technology expects further growth in its PLA business as many brand-owners and retailers in Western Europe prefer to use bio-based and non-GMO PLA that is also heat-resistant. Shortly after introducing its Synterra IM material, Synbra Technology was awarded at the Accenture Blue Tulip Awards at the RAI Elicium, in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. “This Blue Tulip Award in the category ‘Making more out of less’ is the ultimate reward for the entire team that participated in the successful development of our Synterra IM grade, which is made from Cradle to CradleSM certified PLA,“ said Peter Matthijssen, Commercial Manager of Synbra Technology. In recognition of the purity of the raw materials used, the PLA of Synbra was Cradle to CradleSM certified by EPEA in Hamburg and is thus the first PLA in the world with this certification. Application of this PLA also improves various properties such as toughness and temperature resistance of several other bio-based recipes, in which PLA is an important constituent. MT www.biofoam.nl www.synbra.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Award

And the Winner is …

he 6th Bioplastics Award, this year for the first time awarded exclusively by bioplastics MAGAZINE, went to Danone GmbH in recognition of their exceptional commitment to the use of bioplastics in the packaging of their leading brand products. Marianne Schweiger, Senior Packaging Development Engineer of Danone accepted the soughtafter award on November 22nd during the 6th European Bioplastics Conference in Berlin. The annual Bioplastics Award was established in 2006 by the English trade publication European Plastics News. It recognises the special role played by a brand owner or single individual and acknowledges the contribution made by companies, products or services to the further development of bioplastics by way of specific innovation or imaginative marketing concepts. This year the 5-man panel of judges, from academia, the press and trade associations in America, Europe and Asia, selected Danone GmbH in Haar near Munich from a long list of first class ideas and innovations. The judges are of the view that Danone, as an international brand owner, made a significant contribution to moving bioplastics from a niche packaging product to a mass market product with the introduction of Activia and Actimel in bioplastic packaging (PLA and Green HDPE). This means that today more than half of the Danone products in the German market are packaged in bioplastics. It is one of Danone’s objectives to make a serious contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gases. One of the various measures which they have taken is the use of biobased or partially bio-based packaging. And here Danone are not concentrating on specific bioplastics but are choosing the most appropriate bioplastic for the job – be it up to 100%

bio-based polyethylene, partially bio-based PET or 100% biobased PLA. “This action by Danone is pointing the way for marketers of branded products in Europe and worldwide”, commented Dr. Michael Thielen, spokesman for the judges, and publisher of bioplastics MAGAZINE. “We are very pleased about the award. A highly valued acknowledgement like this is wonderful confirmation of our achievement over years of research, and of our commitment in the field of bioplastics. We must get away from our dependence on petroleum and focus on packaging materials that come from renewable resources. We therefore hope that the award will motivate other companies to select bioplastics. It is only in this way that we will be able to establish a full recycling system, for example for PLA, and make full use of the material’s potential”, commented Dr. Andreas Knaut, Director Corporate Communications, Health and Sustainability. The plastic material from which the Actimel bottles are made is so-called ‘Green HDPE’. This polyethylene is chemically almost identical to conventional PE, yet is produced from sugar-cane based bioethanol, i.e it is produced totally from renewable resources and not from petroleum products. PLA, the material used for the new Activia yoghurt pots, is also made completely from renewable raw materials. The PLA (polylactic acid) is obtained from starch by fermentation and is also biodegradable. However with PLA Danone is not promoting the composting aspect but is encouraging other packaging manufacturers to also use PLA so that significantly large quantities come onto the market and make a PLA-toPLA recycling plant an ecologically sound and economical proposition. www.danone.com

(Photo: European Bioplastics) 10

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Award Info: Danone GmbH located in Haar, near Munich, is part of the Danone Group and in 2010 turned over 589 million Euros in Germany with around 840 employees. For Germany Danone produces a wide range of fresh dairy products. The Danone Group is involved in a total of four product sectors in Germany: dairy products, water, baby foods, medical nutrition

Register now: The conference will comprise high class presentations on Latest developments Market overview High temperature behaviour Barrier issues Additives / Colorants Applications Reinforcements End of life options

2nd PLA World

C o n g r e s s

15 + 16 MAY 2012 * Munich * Germany

The programme will be published soon at www.pla-world-congress.com Watch out for the ‘Early Bird Offer’ Papers still welcome ... Deadline is Dec. 23, 2011 send your proposal to mt@bioplasticsmagazine.com

www.pla-world-congress.com

Tel.: +49 (2161) 6884469

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Events

ore than 400 visitors came to Europe‘s leading bioplastics event

The interest in bioplastics strongly increased over the year, noted the association European Bioplastics. This trend was once more confirmed by the attendance record at the 6th European Bioplastics Conference: more than 400 visitors came to Berlin on 22 and 23 November to hear the 29 exciting speeches from renowned industry experts. Furthermore, the adjoining exhibition and networkingformats met with high response.

Bernhard Bauske of WWF

New Record at 6th European Bioplastics Conference

With about 420 visitors from more than 250 companies and institutions from all over the world the European Bioplastics Conference once more established a record. Thereby, it remains the leading bioplastics industry event and the industry‘s information and networking plattform number one. This year, more than 80% of the participants came from Europe, 10% from Asia, and the better part of the remaining 10% from North and South America. In his key-note speech Maurits van Tol, DSM Bio-based Products & Services, commented on the worldwide potential of bioplastics: “Mass production of bioplastics is around the corner, and such large scale plants with their better cost structure will increase the inroads of bioplastics in the relevant markets. The long awaited breakthrough of bioplastics in the worldwide market is near.“ Another positive comment came from Werner Ressing, Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology: “Bioplastics offer numerous opportunities to increase the economic value added of the German and European economy.“ The presentations showcased the potential of bioplastics from several different perspectives. A number of innovations were introduced - new materials, additives and end-of-life approaches. The session on ‘bioplastics and sustainability‘ gave insights into environmental communications as well as into certification concepts. A highlight of the 6th European Bioplastics Conference was the ceremony of bioplastics MAGAZINE‘s Bioplastics Award“. In 2011 the lucky winner was Danone. See page 10 for details. In view of the increased interest in bioplastics during the past year and the most successfull event Andy Sweetman, Chairman of European Bioplastics, offered a positive prediction for 2012: “The development of the bioplastics industry is picking up speed. We need clear framework conditions in Europe and a strong united voice to request them. 2012 the role and work of our industry association European Bioplastics will become more and more important in order to further our young industry. Established and leading formats such as the annual conference are of major importance to guarantee a rich and multi-facetted knowledge exchange about bioplastics.“ www.european-bioplastics.org

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

NPE2012, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest plastics conference, exposition and technology exchange, blasts into Orlando, Florida USA this April to reshape the future of our industry! Showcasing more than 2,000 exhibitors, NPE is the only global event that allows you to: See large-scale, running machines in action Explore more than 2 million square feet of solutions for every segment of the plastics industry supply chain Discover new and emerging technologies among hundreds of on-site demos every day Meet 75,000 plastics professionals from more than 120 countries Access hundreds of timely programs, from business development to the latest technical advances Connect with the entire lifecycle of the plastics industry And much, much more!

Co-located at NPE2012:

Films|Flexibles|Bags

Design Your Own Compostable Film Multi-layer systems increasing the opportunities for new markets By B. von Hansen J. Schmeling D. Winkelmann P. Zimmermann FKuR Kunststoff GmbH, Willich, Germany

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

lastics made from renewable resources offer new opportunities and possibilities for both flexible and durable packaging along with general e.g. injection moulding applications. Each day nature shows us well designed packaging solutions. These solutions can be used as a guideline and implemented in our industrial packaging world. Of course, we have different requirements for industrial packaging compared to nature. Most goods need to be transported, stored and protected against surrounding conditions and some need to withstand a long shelf life. Biopolymers, whether biodegradable, based on renewable resources, or both have a similar natural approach. But sometimes they do not fulfil all of the requirements necessary for industrial packaging, in particular the properties of high barrier and transparency.

Films|Flexibles|Bags The packaging requirements for barrier properties are not even able to be achieved with polymers based on crude oil. For both conventional and bioplastics a co-extrusion or the lamination of different polymers is the key to fulfil these requirements of today’s packaging applications. Of course, it is still questionable if such high barriers are necessary but achieving such levels is state of the art in packaging technology. In order to enter new markets and increase the range of applications for bioplastics these resins must follow this trend and need to be co-extruded or laminated.

Advantages of compostable multilayer systems for food packaging Plastics used for packaging represent around 39 % [Plastics Europe: Plastics – The Facts 2011] of the total plastic consumption and are by far the largest market segment of all plastics applications. The requirements for plastic films, especially for those used predominantly in food packaging, have been constantly rising over recent years and have now reached a level that can only be achieved by means of intelligent material combinations and well-engineered process procedures. In the beginning, biopolymers were mainly designed for applications such as waste bags and shoppers. Transparency was not a requirement. The content of renewable resources of these resins has been around 20 to 40 %. With the upgrading of properties, the range of applications made from biopolymers is constantly growing. In addition, the content of renewable resources in combination with compostability is gaining importance for all kinds of packaging applications. To enter new markets with biopolymers, new resins and compounds have to be created. The major requirements for such modern packaging include a high content of renewable resource materials (>50%) and compostability combined with good barrier properties and preferably transparency. On the one hand, barrier is a necessity for certain packaging, e. g. MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging) and other applications where an oxygen barrier is required. On the other hand, there are applications where high permeation and breathability are required, which is where Bio-Flex® with its intelligent filler

Chart 1: Tensile Modulus of Bio-Flex mono and multilayer films (MD = machine direction, TD = transversal direction)

750 500

In addition to having high quality clarity, the content of renewable resource materials is outstanding for a blown film application. The content of renewable resource materials of a film made from Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / S 1100 / A 4100 CL is 30 to 50%, depending on the structure, whereas with a film made from Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL the content of renewable resources is between 60 to 80% depending on the final film structure. There are no transparent or flexible blown film types similar to the Bio-Flex resins available today. u

Chart 2: Elongation at Break of Bio-Flex mono and multilayer films Bio-Flex F 2201 CL

350

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL (15 / 70 / 15 [%], 20µm)

300

1500

1000

By co-extrusion it is possible to combine the clear and stiff material Bio-Flex A 4100 CL, used in the outer layers with the new transparent Bio-Flex F 2201 CL or translucent Bio-Flex S 1100 in the mid layer. As both resins are flexible and tough they are able to support Bio-Flex A 4100 CL in a multilayer structure. One of the main advantages is that the properties of this film can be adjusted by the variation of each layer. By using respective layer combinations, e.g. greater stiffness or more elasticity of the film, according to the final requirements, can be reached. This is shown in charts 1 and 2. By combining Bio-Flex A 4100 CL with F 2201 CL, the tensile modulus of A 4100 CL can be significantly reduced, while the elongation at break is still at the level of a pure F 2201 CL. The result of this is a 3-layer structure that not only offers superior toughness and flexibility, but at the same time high transparency.

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL

1750

1250

In order to meet these challenges FKuR Kunststoff GmbH, Willich, and its cooperation partner Fraunhofer UMSICHT, Oberhausen, both Germany, have developed new Bio-Flex resins which exhibit outstanding characteristics when combined in a multilayer structure. The latest developments are focused on flexibility, transparency and a high content of renewable resources, whether in a mono or multilayer film structure.

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL (20 / 60 / 20 [%], 20µm) Bio-Flex F 2201 CL Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL A 4100 CL (15 / 70 / 15 [%], 20µm)

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / S 1100 / A 4100 CL (20 / 60 / 20 [%], 20µm)

Bio-Flex S 1100

0 | | | | | | | 500 750 1000 1250 1500 1750 2000 Modulus of elasticity TD [MPa]

Elongation at break MD [%]

Modulus of elasticity MD [MPa]

2000

system allows up to perfection. Such applications include back sheet films for diapers along with fresh food packaging where transparency is often a key requirement. One of the largest advantages of compostable films is, whenever it is needed, packed goods and films can be disposed together or can be used in a fermentation plant without separating organic goods and films.

250 200

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / S 1100 / A 4100 CL (20 / 60 / 20 [%], 20µm)

150

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL (20 / 60 / 20 [%], 20µm)

Bio-Flex S 1100

100 50

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL

0 | | | | | | 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 Elongation at break TD [%]

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Films|Flexibles|Bags

Multilayer made from Bio-Flex F 2110 / A 4100 CL / F 2110

Multilayer made from Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / Bio-Flex F 2110 / Bio-Flex A 4100 CL for deep freeze applications

Opportunities through new Bio-Flex grades

A three layer system made from Bio-Flex F 2110 / BioFlex A 4100 CL / Bio-Flex F 2110 was used by Umbra Olii for wrapping their ‘Ecolive’ laundry soap, which is made from 100% natural olive. The film allows for a very appealing glossy surface along with a great toughness and chemical resistance as well as good barrier properties for a bioplastic.

The combination of organically grown food with packaging made from sustainable bioplastics is a logical step and completes the overall sustainable message while providing consumers with the positive feeling of contributing to an ecofriendly environment. Compared to conventional plastics, bioplastics offer an alternative ‘end-of-life’ option. The ability to use bioplastics after their useful life in composting facilities or energy recovery systems are important factors. In particular, renewable plastics can contribute to the efficient utilization and conservation of our resources in terms of ‘renewble energy‘.

One of the leading producers of napkins uses a three layer film made from Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / Bio-Flex F 2110 / BioFlex A 4100 CL for their compostable product line.

Metallization as a possible solution to increase barrier The lower barrier of many bioplastics against water and oxygen, when compared to conventional plastics, can be improved by coating techniques such as metallization. Chart 3 shows the improved barrier of a metallized Bio-Flex co-ex structure. Most notably, the oxygen barrier is highly improved which makes these films suitable for new applications in food packaging. Usually the layer thickness in metallization processes is below 0.1 µm. Therefore compostability/ biodegradability of the final film structure can still be achieved. u

The following practical examples will prove the expansion of the range of applications for bioplastics by means of efficient utilisation in multilayer systems. For both examples, the high content of natural resources (provided by Bio-Flex A 4100 CL) as well as the excellent strength and flexibility (provided by Bio-Flex F 2110) were the decisive factors for choosing a multilayer system made from Bio-Flex. McCain uses a three layer combination made from BioFlex A 4100 CL / Bio-Flex F 2110 / Bio-Flex A 4100 CL for packaging of their ‘Bio-Ernte’ product line. This multilayer allows for the production of a very flexible and extensible film with a great stiffness also at low temperatures. (deep freeze) Chart 3: Transmission rates of Bio-Flex films in comparison to other plastics (WVTR = Water Vapour Transmission Rate) 350,0

WVTR [g / (m2 · d)]

Testing conditions (25 µm film): H2O: 23°C / 100% hum. O2: 23°C / 0% hum.

PLA

300,0 250,0 200,0 150,0 100,0 50,0

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL Bio-Flex F 2201 CL Bio-Flex A 4100 CL Metallized Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL PP

PET

| | | | | | | 250,0 500,0 750,0 1000,0 1250,0 1500,0 1750,0 Oxygen [cm3 / (m2 · d)]

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Films|Flexibles|Bags Multilayer made from Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL

(In-House) Recycling of compostable multi-layer structures made from Bio-Flex

Degradation of the biopolymers during the different production steps normally implies a higher melt flow and softer end product. Comparing the results of these trials it is shown that the amount of Bio-Flex A 4100 CL in the regrind compensates the negative effects of possible mechanical degradation. The results of the tensile test indicate a shifting of the properties in transversal direction (TD) and machine direction (MD), the tensile test results increase by 5% measuring in TD but decrease by 10 % in MD. The optical appearance of the film is still the same, as a reduction of the transparence and a decrease of the haze is not visible. Although the results of all tests have shown that the usage of regrind will not affect the properties negatively, it is recommended to processors to conduct own tests. Since the shear during production and recycling has a high influence on the material these results can vary and should be tested and reviewed independently. 

Chart 4: Tensile Modulus of Bio-Flex mono layer, multilayer and recycled films

Modulus of elasticity MD [MPa]

1000 Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL (20 / 60 / 20 [%], 20µm)

750

Bio-Flex F 2201 CL + Recyclat Bio-Flex F 2201 CL

500

250 0

| 250

| | | 500 750 1000 Modulus of elasticity TD [MPa]

Chart 5: Elongation at Break of Bio-Flex mono layer, multilayer and recycled films 400 Bio-Flex F 2201 CL

Modulus at break MD [MPa]

To achieve an overall sustainable and cost effective multilayer product it is also necessary to recycle the production scrap (e.g. edge trims) and to use the regrinds in the middle layer of the film. Various BioFlex resins used in the layers could have an effect on the mechanical properties and optical appearance of the middle layer. Analysis have been done using the multilayer structure Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL (with layer ratios 20 % / 60 % / 20 %) as this is the most commonly used structure containing multiple Bio-Flex types. As the production scrap will be added into the middle layer all of the trials carried out are only reflected upon this middle layer. It is assumed that as a maximum 20 % of production scrap will be used in this middle layer.

Bio-Flex F 2201 CL + Recyclat

300

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / F 2201 CL / A 4100 CL (20 / 60 / 20 [%], 20µm)

200

100 0

| | | | | | | 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 Elongation at break TD [MPa]

www.fkur.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Films|Flexibles|Bags

Longer Shelf Life in PLA Packaging Pepper and tomatoes stay longer fresh By Paolo Serafin Sales Manager NATIVIA Taghleef Industries San Giorgio di Nogaro, Italy

onsumer awareness with regard to more sustainable packaging is also pushing the use of bioplastics in the fruit and vegetables market, but there’s more than just an environmental advantage. Taghleef Industries, manufacturer of BOPP and BOPLA films, in cooperation with EOSTA and Bio4Pack, commissioned a study on the shelf life of bell peppers and vine tomatoes packed in PLA vs PP to the Univeristy of Wageningen, which produced some very interesting results. PLA (polylactic acid) is emerging in the packaging industry as the most promising alternative to oil-based plastics, thanks to its performance, availability and versatility. It’s already in use in rigid packaging (injection molding), semirigid (thermoforming and blow molding) and flexibles (film). At Taghleef Industries Italy, PLA is extruded into sheet and sequentially oriented in machine and transversal direction, in a production process very similar to that of BoPET and BoPP. PLA film is heat sealable and used for packaging products on traditional horizontal and vertical form/fill sealing machines, as well as on twist wrap and overwrap machines. Recent developments have also seen the use of PLA films for windows on paper bags, adhesive tapes, paper lamination and labels.

Eosta, Taghleef Industries and Bio4pack have decided to carry out a detailed analysis, and commissioned this task to Wageningen University, one of the most experienced in this field, choosing two of the most common products: bell peppers and vine tomatoes.

The test: Samples of the peppers and tomatoes were taken from the same lot, making sure that the harvest date was the same for the whole batch. Peppers were packed using a horizontal FFS (Form Fill Seal) machine and macro-perforated transparent PLA and PP films. The same packaging films were used for the thermoformed trays containing the vine tomatoes. Packaging and storage were done under the same conditions for all samples, also simulating the conditions available in retail stores. Unpacked products were also included in the analysis for a complete comparison and reference. The monitored parameters were: VINE TOMATOES: Firmness Fruit rot

Eosta, the market leader in the organic fruit and vegetables market in Europe, have used PLA for many years for the thermoformed trays and overwrapping film in which they pack their products. Besides contributing to minimizing the environmental impact of their packaging, PLA gives Eosta the chance to differentiate themselves from the competition and offer a packaging solution which fits perfectly with their mission and target customers.

Dehydration of wood stem

Having noticed an improvement in the preservation of their products using PLA compared to the standard PP packaging,

Fruit rot

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Stem rotten Colour BELL PEPPERS: Firmness Dehydration/wrinkling

Stem rotten, and freshness

Films|Flexibles|Bags Results:

Figure 1: Crown and Stem Index

TOMATOES:

6.0

Crown and stem index, [0-5]

As depicted in Fig. 1, PLA packaging contributed to delaying by approx. two days the crown and stem dehydration index, which emerged as the first aging sign of this product in comparison with the product packed in PP. This ageing factor is rather important, being clearly visible to the consumer. The other parameters did not show relevant differences and they all crossed the ‘acceptable’ threshold several days after the crown and stem index was negative, confirming that stem dehydration is the limiting parameter in the shelf life of tomatoes.

The next target on Taghleef Industries’ agenda is to make a similar test on washed and cut fresh produce, another growing application where PLA could play a role. Given the very short shelf life of such products (normally no longer than 4-7 days), even 1-2 days extension would help considerably.

PP Ref.

2.0

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 Time, [Days]

Figure 2: Firmness Index 5.0 4.5

Firmness index, [02]

4.0 3.5

PLA

3.0

2.5

Ref.

2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0

From these tests it emerges quite clearly that unpacked product has a shorter shelf life.

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 Time, [day]

Figure 3: Stem Index 3.50 3.00 2.50 Stem index, [1-9]

For peppers, the factor limiting the shelf life is dehydration of the fruit, where PLA and PP behave similarly, followed by the degradation of the stem and crown, where PLA shows a positive influence. Shelf life is therefore limited to 8-9 days for both packaging solutions. However, given the same age, peppers wrapped in PLA show a better stem.

PLA

3.0

Conclusions:

In general, it can be said that the most important parameters to be considered in the shelf life of tomatoes are degradation and dehydration of the stem, where PLA packaging has a positive effect, followed only later by the dehydration of the fruit. Tests confirmed that the shelf life of tomatoes packed in PP is 11 days, which becomes 13 days if they are packed with PLA.

4.0

1.0

PEPPERS: With regard to bell peppers, a positive effect of PLA was noticed in the firmness of the fruit when compared with PP (Fig. 2), but an improvement can also be observed on the stem index, which shows a slower degradation, remaining within the acceptable limits for 1-2 days longer than product packed in PP (Fig. 3). The other parameters did not show noticeable differences. In the case of peppers, dehydration (shrivelling) emerges at the same time as the limiting quality parameter for both PP and PLA, well before the others and even earlier if the product is unpacked. Nevertheless, this means that, as the use-by date gets closer, peppers packed in PLA will show a better stem and firmness compared to those packed in PP.

5.0

2.00 PLA PP

1.50

Ref. 1.00

0.50

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 Time, [Days]

www.ti-films.com www.eosta.com www.bio4pack.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Films|Flexibles|Bags

New Applications for BoPLA films

iaxially oriented PLA films are widely used on flexible packaging applications, as alternative to oil-based films like PE, PET, PP. Taghleef industries, in cooperation with various converters, is looking beyond traditional packaging, to explore new opportunities for its NATIVIA™ range of BoPLA (bi-axially oriented) films. Here’s a few examples:

Adhesive tapes go green Logotape — a German manufacturer from Harrislee of specialty adhesive tapes, has developed ‘Bio tape’, a biobased alternative to traditional PP or PET products. The environmental advantages of PLA combined with these innovative and eco friendly tapes will help saving resources and minimize carbon footprint, without compromising on performance and processability vs traditional oil-based materials, thanks to the excellent mechanical properties of BoPLA films. Logotape is developing tapes that offer compostability of the film as well as the glue according to EN 13432. The PLA adhesive tapes are fully compatible with the paper and carton recycling process, can be printed and are available in white as well as transparent or brown.

Bio-based and compostable self-adhesive labels Self adhesive labels are normally made of paper or films (PP, PE or PET), or a combination of these. They are an excellent, flexible, simple and cost-effective solution to provide information and appeal to the products, but in case of compostable packaging, traditional labels can be an issue. Bio4life from Bleiswijk, The Netherlands, has developed a self adhesive label made of Nativia BoPLA films, which allows all those brand owners who already use compostable packaging to label their product without the risk of breaching the norms on compostability. The BoPLA labels are coated with a compostable permanent adhesive, so that the complete labels are certified by DIN Certco according to EN 13432. The potential applications for such labels are numerous, like for example the tiny labels applied on fruits (apples, oranges, bananas…): same appeal and moisture resistance of oilbased plastics, but compostable altogether!

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

group

Let’s twist again Constantia Topepal, a leading packaging manufacturer in Spain, has developed a bio-based twist wrap material using a high gloss PLA film. This film can be used for candy, pralines, chocolate, and combines the excellent twist performance and appeal of a metalized film, with the environmental advantages of PLA. Nativia twist films have already been tested with excellent results on ACMA GD and Carle Montanari twist wrap machines

bioplastics MAGAZINE & BoPLA films: perfect combination This issue of the bioplastics magazine (just like the last two issues) comes to the subscribers wrapped in a transparent bag made by Maropack and printed by SFV Verpackungen. This is the first commercial application of Nativia in the magazine market. In this case it’s a pre-made bag with adhesive strip, but tests performed in cooperation with SITMA, the world leader in printed media distribution systems have confirmed that the same films can be used on high speed automatic reel-fed wrapping machinery. www.ti–films.com www.logotape.de/ www.compostiket.com www.constantia-tobepal.com

High Quality Film Production: Efficiency, Productivity, Flexibility  High uptime, throughput and raw material efficiency  Fast product changes  Easy operation and low maintenance  Reduced manpower and energy consumption  Excellent film quality

www.brueckner.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Opinion

The Future of the Shopping Bag in Italy Are newly developed, biodegradable and compostable polymers the ideal solution? By Stefano Facco New Business Development Director Novamont SpA Novara, Italy

urrently we are facing a quite chaotic debate about the ideal solution for the incredible amount of disposable shopping bags used by consumers today. Recycling, environmental impact, re-use, littering and especially marine litter are some of the main keywords arising when this important topic is discussed. Some facts related to the use of such bags are quite impressive. In Italy, some 300 bags per year per capita are used, which corresponds roughly to 25% of the total European consumption, and corresponding to 100 billion units. About 2/3 of these products are imported from countries such as China, Indonesia or Thailand, where many of them are being produced under conditions which are not allowed in Europe. This creates an unfair competitive advantage. The recycling quota of post-consumer shopping bags is below 1% on a world-wide level, albeit in some countries the collection rate is much higher, but not all collected bags end up in recycling. At this point, I feel that beside the environmental discussion about raw materials and products, we should strongly bear in mind the fact that right now the plastic converting industry, especially the European companies producing bags and sacks, are not facing easy times. The competing converters, mainly located in the Asia/Pacific area, quite often accept commercial conditions which may be described as dumping conditions (on an EU level, only a few years ago, some anti-dumping measures were taken). Especially in the southern European region, where most of the European production was located, more and more medium and small size companies are struggling to survive. Taking these aspects into account, it really may be considered a natural reaction to somehow strengthen again our European industry by converting new families of polymers (also produced in the EU) locally. A fair competition would arise again, and the basis for a healthy economic growth. Furthermore, the use of renewable resources combined with the property of being B&C (biodegradable and compostable) would, in addition to the aspects related to the growth of local companies, help us to better deal with the scarcity of fossil raw materials and to add new end-of-life options such as the organic recycling of polymers.

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Films|Flexibles|Bags

The new Italian decree, which came in force on January 1st, 2011, imposing the use of B&C shopping bags, somehow perfectly supported the three major aspects I have described above: the strengthening of local or European enterprises, the use of renewable resources (as most of the polymers available on the market do contain a significant amount of renewable raw materials (RRMs)) and their compostability, which finally offers an end-of-life option which may help the Italian composting industry to get rid of some of the 100,000 tonnes of plastic film pollutants sieved out during the composting process itself. The incredible speed with which major Italian B&C polymer producers (such as Novamont) and other European groups (such as BASF) were able to increase production capacity has enabled most of the traditional shopping bag converters to switch to these new materials in order to satisfy the growing market request. Due to the high technological level of these materials, the production switch was immediately carried out without loss of time and without additional investment.

Major groups such as Matrica (ENI/Novamont JV), Roquette, Cereplast and other companies started, or have announced, huge investments in the production of monomers, intermediates and polymers based on RRMs or in compounding facilities. Therefore, the coming into force of this new decree not only boosted once more the optimism of local converters, but it also helped to attract huge investments in future-oriented technologies such as fully integrated biorefineries. Briefly summarizing the positive outcome of the new situation that we are experiencing in Italy, we may affirm that the composting industry is easily able to handle the increase and treatment of the new compostable shopping bags. Retailers have reduced consumption of shopping bags in general by 30% to 50%, which may be considered environmentally beneficial, converters are again increasing their production and replacing partially imported products, and new industrial investments have proven that investors believe firmly in the future of these new technologies. www.novamont.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Films|Flexibles|Bags

Mulch Film Certified

ovamont, Novara, Italy recently received the first certificate guaranteeing ecological quality of the Technical Resources for Organic and Sustainable Agriculture from ICEA for its mulching film in biodegradable Mater-Bi®.

ICEA, the Ethical and Environmental Certification Institute from Bologna, Italy, inspects and certifies firms respectful for the environment, workers‘ dignity and collective rights. With more than 300 experts inspecting over 13 thousand firms from 20 branches in various countries, ICEA is one of the most prominent inspection and certification bodies in the field of sustainable development. The institute has launched a specific certification scheme for the environmental performance of technical resources for organic and sustainable agriculture. Their main objective is to evaluate and reward the ability of technical resources in helping create a more sustainable agricultural system to improve the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of the land, as well as to reduce external water requirements. The regulations also aim to reduce the risk of the contamination and pollution of waters and soil caused by agricultural inputs and to obtain agricultural products free from chemical residues. ICEA certification is therefore intended to enhance and guarantee ecological quality requirements that go beyond the minimum requirements of current legislation; it is not intended to replace the authorisations currently required by the law. In order to certify the agricultural mulching film made from Mater-Bi, ICEA examined factors such as the composition and characteristics of the end product, the nature and origin of the raw materials used, the production process for the raw materials (Mater-Bi granulate) employed by Novamont, the manufacture of the end product (Mater-Bi film) and the end-of-life scenario. For Mater-Bi agricultural mulching film the Institute considered the fundamental aspects and characteristics of its application and end-oflife (considering the aspects under Technical Report CEN/TR 15822 for biodegradable plastics in or on soil, and (Italian) UNI standard 11183 which defines the requirements and test methods for biodegradable plastic materials at room temperature); aerobic biodegradation in the soil at the end of the crop cycle; the environmental safety of the product in terms of the release and dissemination of contaminants into the soil and eco-toxic effects in the soil after degradation. bioplastics MAGAZINE will have a closer look into mulch films in general in one of the coming issues — stay tuned… MT www.novamont.com www.icea.info

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Challenging Convention

Biodegradability with exceptional seal integrity Renewable and high barrier Coloured and compostable Even higher performance achieved when combined with other biopolymers Variety of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;end-of-lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; options

www.NatureFlex.com

use our imagination...

Films|Flexibles|Bags

Biopolymer Coatings for Sustainable Packaging By Klaus Noller Head of Material Development Department Fraunhofer-Institut fĂźr Verfahrenstechnik und Verpackung IVV Freising, Germany

Whey powder (picture: ttz Bremerhaven)

he Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVV, Freising, Germany, has developed a packaging film having a barrier layer made of whey protein. This novel packaging film was developed as part of the EU funded â&#x20AC;&#x17E;Wheylayerâ&#x20AC;&#x153; project. Large quantities of whey arise during cheese manufacture and whey also contains antimicrobial substances which prolong the shelf-life of foods. The work of the Fraunhofer IVV involved optimizing the barrier properties to oxygen and water vapor and also the antimicrobial effect of the coating. In order to do this, very pure protein isolates were recovered from the whey. The film-forming properties of proteins from sweet and sour whey were optimized by chemical modification. The result was innovative protein formulations having a high barrier effect and excellent adhesion and resistance to mechanical stress. This means there is no longer a need to use synthetic barrier polymers to coat conventional packaging materials - these can be replaced by the new biopolymer made of whey protein. This reduces CO2 emissions and lowers the usage of material resources for production. The ability to subsequently dissolve the whey layer means that properly sorted recycling of the plastic film is possible. The multilayer film was manufactured using a patented roll-to-roll method. This processing method is a key precondition for fulfilling commercial criteria. The products and processes that have thus far been developed on a laboratory and pilot plant scale will be transferred to an industrial scale this year before the end of the project, meaning that the new whey layer material will soon be able to be used in the packaging sector. The Fraunhofer IVV is also developing coatings from renewable raw materials for paper which can be used, for example, for beverage packaging. The BioPaperCoating project, funded by the Federation of Industrial Research Associations (AiF), is developing biocoatings for paper and processes for their manufacture. The aim is to produce biocoatings on paper, paperboard, and cardboard for use as packaging for solid and liquid foods. These new packaging materials will replace the currently used plastics based on fossil raw materials, and especially polyethylene, in laminated packaging systems. The systems are based on compatible blends of polylactic acids and polyhydroxyalkanoates which combine the benefits of the individual components. At the Fraunhofer IVV the formulations are being tested for coating at near-industrial coating rates and are being optimized in collaboration with Fraunhofer UMSICHT. Other functionalities such as an extra co-extruded layer are also being added to the material system.

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Films|Flexibles|Bags

www.ivv.fraunhofer.de

10000 OTR at 23°C and 50% RH (cm3 / m2d bar)

The FlexPakRenew project, which is being funded under the 7th Framework Programme of the EU, is developing novel flexible papers with multilayer structures (50 to 90 g/m²) made entirely of renewable raw materials for food and non-food applications. The multilayer structures in combination with the latest developments in nanotechnology and surface coating allow barrier properties to be achieved that are equivalent to traditional plastic laminates and composites having medium and high barriers. Low permeability to water vapour and oxygen and to fats and flavours is the goal. The environmentally friendly manufacturing process and optimized recyclability or biodegradability of the material means that the emission of greenhouse gases is reduced. The Fraunhofer IVV is undertaking advanced development of the process of vacuum coating with SiOx and Al2O3 in order to optimize the water vapour and oxygen barriers of the coated papers.

PE-LD

1000

PE-HD BOPP

100

PS PC

PVC-P

COC

PLA PVC-U

PET PEN

PA 6

PAN Wheylayer

PVDC

EVOH, 44%

EVOH, 38%

0,1 (LCP)

Cellulose

EVOH, 32% EVOH, 27%

0,01 | | | | | | 0,01 0,1 1 10 100 1000 WVTR at 23°C; 85% RH (g/m2d)

Oxygan and Water Vapour Transmission rate

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Opinion

‘Bagislation‘ in Europe Italy‘s bag ban challenges the (bio-) plastics industry Analysed by Harald Kaeb narocon InnovationConsulting Berlin, Germany

taly does it, Spain has planned it, the European Commission is considering it: the banning of non-biodegradable single-use carrier bags has become a ‘battlefield‘ of product legislation in Europe. For the first time ever legal regulation could exert a huge impact on the market and the development of technology for bioplastics in Europe. For manufacturers of biodegradable plastic resin Italy became the ‘promised land‘ and a magic blueprint for so-called ‘bagislation’ in Europe and abroad. However, the battlefield is peppered with strong incumbents, diverse interests, sustainability constraints, waste management obligations and, last but not least, a complex political and legal landscape. Italy‘s ban triggered a public debate and further action: EU authorities put it under scrutiny and they now are evaluating how to reduce the consumption of, and littering by, bags. In the past a bag ban was considered non-compliant with EU Directives - from a legal point nothing has changed since then. But as the political perception most likely has changed, will Italy‘s bag ban now be allowed? What are the arguments? Which ones are really convincing and practicable? I have been analysing this market and the relevant policies for years. This article provides a first assessment of the situation with focus on motives and actions. The author also points out the risks that the protagonists need to be aware of.

Dealing with littering issues Most likely there is no other plastic product which is under so much (legal) pressure as the plastic bag today. A vigorous discussion about littering and over-consumption has led to measures aimed at a far-reaching reduction of single-use bags around the globe. From Bangladesh to China, from Tanzania to the Philippines – it seems that every country on this planet has introduced bans or regulations, or is at least discussing the subject. Google reveals 1.2 million results (searching ‘carrier bag ban’) and three million pictures (searching ‘bag littering’) - all within one second. The photograph of a turtle with a remnant of blue plastic film in its mouth has become the accusatory symbol against plastic bags.

Fig. 1: The negative consequences of littering triggered and heated up ‘bagislation‘

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

The damage caused by littering heated up the debate and gave it a spin towards biodegradability as a proposed solution. This used to be a forbidden ‘No-Go-Area’ for many good reasons: If the bioplastics industry were to advertise in this way, it would not take long for studies to prove the opposite: biodegradable and compostable bags floating in the sea, eaten by animals, wrapped around branches on trees, piling up on the ground and NOT biodegrading. It would be a disaster. A great opportunity to fuel ‘anti-bioplastics’ PR campaigns and damaging the whole concept of biodegradable and compostable plastics. Whatever the plastic product and material type, littering is anti-social behaviour which must not be encouraged by “it just disappears!” adverts. Only oxo-additive producers and users go that way and they are failing to build a market in Europe.

Films|Flexibles|Bags

Putting a price on carrier bags brings double benefits Most experts agree that the best way to fight littering is give a value to bags. The easiest way is to charge for them – no bags for free anymore! Many European food supermarkets charge for bags: A typical 50 µm (micron) loop handle PE bag is priced at 0.10 to 0.20 € (Bio-PE bags marketed at 0.15 to 0.25 €). Despite carrying a price of 0.20 to 0.40 € compostable plastic bags are successfully introduced in more and more EU markets where no bans are in place. Their market share reaches up to 25% in German or Austrian grocery stores. The concept of selling bags and keeping a high margin has become a strong trend in Europe. When adding a price the stores often switch from free-of-charge 15 to 25 µm thin-gauge PE bags to 40 to 50 µm bags. With a lot of benefits: the added weight prevents bags from blowing in the wind, the added performance (more kg loading capacity) turns the single-use bag into a reusable bag (used between 4 to 7 times, studies say). The number of bags per capita would drop from hundreds to a few dozen, or from more than two kilogrammes to less than one.

Fig 2: Lightweight bags blowing in the wind – they are much more of a litter problem than heavier ones (Photo: Kaeb)

This effect is a perfect contribution to the waste prevention goal which stands at the top of the EU waste hierarchy. Just by charging significantly for a bag the result is lower consumption and less littering. This concept is favoured by most of the food retailers. If it is objected to, then politicians are eager to enforce it: the Irish bag tax was a consequence of the objection of British retail stores to reducing the number of bags. The levy of 0.15 € per bag led to a 90% reduction. In the UK Prime Minister Cameron recently warned the British retail sector to reduce bags - or taxation will be applied. He was not pleased with the weak results of a voluntary retail commitment. It seems it is only a matter of time until all carrier bags in the European food retail sector will be charged. Retailers love money and avoiding taxes.

National and EU bag policies In 2005 the French government banned single-use carrier bags with the exception of biodegradable and compostable bags. This first attempt at a legal ban was not targeting littering, France had no big issues with it. The idea of the ‘Grenelle de l‘Environnement’ was just to promote new outlets for feedstocks from French agriculture. Biodegradable and biobased bioplastics were regarded as an opportunity for French farmers and companies. Legislation was promoted despite the fact that there is little infrastructure for collecting bio-waste and composting in France. Whilst the European Commission (EC) blocked the enforcement of the French law the Italian one successfully came into force. u

Fig. 3: Compostable bags conquer markets despite higher prices - even if ‘non-regulated’ (Photo: BASF)

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Opinion Fig. 4: Bags for fruits and vegetable are not included in bagislation. It is the perfect bio-waste bag (Photo: Kaeb)

Both laws breach the principles of the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive and the EU trading and competition rules. However between 2005 and 2011 the public perception of bags has changed. Over the last two years television programmes, news and articles, and even movies, criticised overconsumption and its contribution to littering. Therefore, the EC did not directly react with a rejection of the Italian ban but with a public consultation. By August 15,000 answers had arrived to questions that covered “the need for reduction, possible measures such as levies and bans, the need for differentiation between biodegradable and nonbiodegradable bags, EN 13432 standard and labelling issues“ and more. DG Environment Commissioner Potocnik, who is currently responsible, is running an impact assessment on possible measures. As he made clear in his 2011 statements, the EC very likely will develop harmonised Europe-wide measures to reduce carrier bags and their environmental impact. The first reaction of the EU plastics industry to the Italian ban was, like the French case, heavy lobbying against a severe market distortion. But as the EC signalled “we will regulate bags“ the strategy changed and was turned into a self-regulation approach. In October 2011 European plastics industry organisations presented to the EU Commission an alternative to regulatory measures on plastic carrier bags. The draft proposal involves the whole value chain and has the objective of working towards more sustainable use of the plastic carrier bag in Europe by promoting reusable bags, avoiding bags being given for free and the use of more renewable and recycled materials in the production of new plastic carrier bags. While self-regulation is being discussed in the value chain Spain has come up with legislation similar to Italy. In a staged approach all single-use bags will be banned from 2018 onwards unless they are biodegradable and compostable according to EN 13432.

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

The importance of waste management and recycling The very solid and valid argument for compostable shopping bags is that they will help to collect more bio-waste, e.g. food and garden waste. Diverting such waste from landfill or other recycling schemes is a significant contribution to better waste management and more efficient recycling. The precondition is to have established organic waste collection and recycling schemes. However, in many regions, e.g. in Southern and Eastern Europe, in France or the UK this infrastructure is hardly developed. The legal promotion of biodegradable bags occurs in countries where, at least in wider regions, composting is not well established (Southern Italy, Spain). There are huge differences when regarding the situation in EU countries. The consumption pattern is differing significantly from member state to member state. This includes the type of bag, the film gauge and the number of bags used, which is widely varying. For example in central and northern Europe, e.g. Germany, Denmark or Austria, carrier bags are rarely given away for free – resulting in low numbers of consumption. What is more, the available regional waste management and recycling infrastructure is ranging from ‘almost nothing in place’ to ‘far developed for all types of waste’. For PE carrier bags - the dominant product on the market - specific sorting and recycling schemes were developed and are working well in some EU countries. Any policy against PE bags would be a policy against recycling. Rather vigorous and negative debates earlier sensibilised the European bioplastics industry to the fact that the recycling of conventional plastics is an issue: when bioplastics interfere in a negative way with this view then a confrontation with the recyclers can be expected. As recycling is a strong pillar of the European sustainability and resource efficiency policies the end-of-life attributes will play a major role in future EU bagislation.

Films|Flexibles|Bags

Fig. 5: Bio-based PE bags are well recyclable and eco-efficient – but discriminated in Italy (Photo: Zabel / European Bioplastics)

Environmental performance will be scrutinized This holds also true for the environmental performance of carrier bags which is building another corner stone when evaluating the concepts and designing the ‘most wanted’ products. The available LCA results comparing different types of carrier bags concur, i.e. reusable and recyclable bags have a very good environmental profile. The less material is used for a bag of a certain load capacity, the more often it is reused and recycled, and the better will be the profile. Biobased PE bags from sugar cane perform very well according to this measure. However, as these are non-biodegradable bioplastics they suffer from the existing bag bans. Biodegradable plastics today yield rather low LCA credits from organic recycling compared to mechanical recycling. They would benefit from a calculation of the indirect (secondary) effect when diverting food waste from landfill or keeping recycling streams clean. This, however, is difficult to quantify.

Many questions remain open There are many questions to be answered to find the best ‘bag solution’ serving the needs of the environment and the businesses involved. Depending on the region and purpose of application different types of bags will be favoured. Biodegradable bags are no solution to littering but are great products for organic waste recovery. Biobased PE bags perfectly fit to the established plastic recycling schemes. In all regulations the scope and the definition of the bags concerned is a huge challenge: What is single-use, what is reusable, what is a bag for life? In the Italian or Spanish legislation single-use plastic bags are not exactly defined. It is known that very thin plastic t-shirt bags are used only once before ending up as waste bags, while loop-handle or griphole bags are used several times. Is there a maximum film gauge separating single-use from reusable?

Only very good and very solid arguments covering littering, waste management and proof of sustainability will allow us to justify measures that have a strong impact on the market. Bans violate EU law and are most often being regarded as a too strong in terms of market distortion - even by industry organisations like European Bioplastics. Targets for bag reduction or taxes on specific bags might be more acceptable alternatives. A voluntary branch agreement and selfregulation can be an alternative to legislation if it achieves the same results for reaching the objectives in a smarter way. Charging for bags at a reasonable price seems to be a smart and effective measure. In Europe it can be expected that the process of sorting out the options will be systematic and sound. The bioplastics industry has very good arguments to get a good share of the 750,000 tonne market for plastic carrier bags. National, sectorial or even company related interests however most likely will not be good enough to develop or defend regulations that are not in line with the principles of legislation, sustainable development or competition. NGOs and those who see their stakes at risk most likely will take care for unredeemed promises and proclaim their findings in the media. www.narocon.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Films|Flexibles|Bags

A lightweight coffee pouch made from renewable resources using NatureFlex from Innovia Films.

Today metal cans, glass jars and rigid plastic containers dominate instant coffee packaging, all of which are recyclable but none are made from renewable resources or offer compostability. The move to conventional flexible packaging began some time ago for many premium gourmet makers of ground coffee and coffee beans with some every day instant coffee brands mirroring this trend. Many of these lightweight packs are stand-up bags or pouches with some using vacuum packed blocks.

Renewable Lightweight Coffee Pouches The NatureFlex Solution Innovia’s NatureFlex films can be combined with other biopolymers by a converter, to produce a renewable alternative to the above structure.

NatureFlex 20N Printable, transparent barrier NatureFlex 20N921M Metallised high barrier layer

Innovia Films, a leading innovator in filmic solutions for packaging, has developed a range of cellulose-based films that when laminated together with other bio materials, can provide a fully renewable filmic structure suitable for coffee pouches – NatureFlex™.

He continued “NatureFlex films offer a viable alternative to coffee producers who want a complete packaging structure that is lightweight and able to not only protect their product but at the same time is also compostable and made from renewable resources. This is the real point of differentiation for NatureFlex as existing laminate structures for lightweight coffee packaging can be difficult to dispose of except through landfill, whereas NatureFlex can be composted.” Typical comparison of conventional versus NatureFlex film structures:

Existing Structure Flexible packaging for the roast and ground coffee and coffee bean market typically consists of a laminate structure made up of three layers: 1. A reverse printed outer layer: 20μm BOPP (biaxially oriented PP) or 12μm PET 2. A high barrier middle layer: 6-10μm Aluminium foil or 12μm metallised PET 3. An inner sealant layer: 50-90μm Polyethylene

The comparison properties are highlighted in the graph below: 100 90 80

Thickness / µm

“Coffee producers are moving towards packaging which weighs less to save on transportation costs in the supply chain and to lower the product’s carbon footprint,” expressed Innovia Films Neil Banerjee, Market Developer – Cello.

Bio-Polymer sealant layer High seal strength and integrity

70 60

PET, 12 µm Aluminium Foil, 7 µm

Metallised Polyester, 12 µm

Polyethylene, 60µm

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Metallised NatureFlex, 20 µm

50 40 30 20

Biopolymer Sealant, 50 µm

10 0 Standard Packaging 1 Standard Packaging 2

NatureFlex based Bio-Laminate

NatureFlex films comply with standards for compostable packaging, including EN13432, AS4736 and ASTM D6400. Depending on the individual films selected, the finished laminate structure could be certified compostable to the same standards subject to appropriate ink, print design and adhesive choices. If required, the pouches can be vented or a fully compostable zip closure could be added. Neil Banerjee explained “We are happy to work with coffee manufacturers to ensure that they get the right laminate structure to protect their product all they need to do is contact us.” www.innoviafilms.com

Clear NatureFlex NK, 20 µm

PET, 12 µm

Order now!

A new study from The Freedonia Group, Inc.

Book-Review Bookstore

Degradable Plastics The degradable plastic industry has been on the verge of commercial success for decades. However, demand growth was limited because most degradable plastics were too expensive, were unavailable in large enough quantities or had performance drawbacks that limited them to niche markets. This situation began to change in the early 2000s, as interest in environmentally friendly products gained strength, boosted by the efforts of major users like Wal-Mart. At the same time, the availability of biodegradable plastics increased significantly due to expansions by key producers. These and other trends are presented in Degradable Plastics, a new study from The Freedonia Group, Inc., a Cleveland-based industry market research firm. The full report (202 pages, published 08/2010) is available through the bioplastics MAGAZINE bookstore at www.bioplasticsmagazine.com/books.

Order now

for US-$ 4,800 (+ VAT where applicable) order at www.bioplasticsmagazine.de/books, by phone +49 2161 6884463 or by e-mail books@bioplasticsmagazine.com

Reduced Price

Hans-Josef Endres, Andrea Siebert-Raths

n. “Thank you Ja at you went to th s ou It is obvi this work. on s great length d biopolymers You have liste ard of. This he en ev I haven‘t very helpful to be ill w rt po re the biopolymer all involved in ark world.“ A reader‘s rem

Engineering Biopolymers

Markets, Manufacturing, Properties and Applications 660 pages, hard cover. 278 coloured pictures, 70 tables

ble ce !! vadilPari wuace N Reod

Author: Jan Th. J. Ravenstijn, MSc The state of the art on Bioplastics, January 2010 Hans-Josef Endres, Andrea Siebert-Raths

The report ‘The state-of-the-art on Bioplastics 2010‘ describes the revolutionary growth of bio-based monomers, polymers, and plastics and changes in performance and variety for the entire global plastics market in the first decades of this century.

Technische Biopolymere

Rahmenbedingungen, Marktsituation, Herstellung, Aufbau und Eigenschaften 628 Seiten, Hardcover

Trends, issues, technologies, products, markets, manufacturers, investment plans, performances, needs, expectations, and new opportunities are reviewed and discussed. This includes the assimilation of the agricultural industry with the polymer industry to a new value chain. Today, bio-based thermosets are larger than bio-based thermoplastics, while also the volume of bio-based durable materials exceeds the volume of bio-based biodegradable plastics.

Order now

for reduced price of EUR 1,500.00 (+ VAT) order at www.bioplasticsmagazine.de/books, by phone +49 2161 6884463 or by e-mail books@bioplasticsmagazine.com

(Special prices for research and non-profit organisations upon request).

This book is unique in its focus on market-relevant bio/renewable materials. It is based on comprehensive research projects, during which these materials were systematically analyzed and characterized. For the first time the interested reader will find comparable data not only for biogenic polymers and biological macromolecules such as proteins, but also for engineering materials. The reader will also find valuable information regarding microstructure, manufacturing, and processing-, application-, and recycling properties of biopolymers

Rainer Höfer (Editor) Sustainable Solutions for Modern Economies

ISBN: 978-1-84755-905-0 Copyright: 2009 / Format: Hardcover / 497 pages

Ask now for the best price. order at www.bioplasticsmagazine.de/books, by phone +49 2161 6884463 or by e-mail books@bioplasticsmagazine.com

Finally it‘s there !

Bestellen Sie das deutschsprachige Buch für EUR 279.44 + MwSt

Order the new english version now ! € 279.44 order at www.bioplasticsmagazine.de by phone +49 2161 6884463 or by e-mail books@bioplasticsmagazine.com

+VAT

Application News

New Laminate Centroplast Spa from Meldola, Italy has a long and robust story in producing flexible packaging for the food industry. They are conscious of the importance to offer a sustainable packaging, with a significant reduction of the environmental impact, to food end-users. This is the reason why Centroplast, since years, has been searching solutions with a lower environmental impact. Now Centroplast is presenting to the market a new type of compostable packaging, satisfying different packaging requirements to achieve the same shelf life properties for the packed goods. However, compared with standard solutions no special settings on the production lines are required. This packaging has been developed using compostable according to the EN 13432 standard.

films

Regarding this project the R&D Manager Stefania Milandri explained that the development was carried out in collaboration with the main suppliers of raw materials and films. This led to a two layer laminate with high mechanical properties and excellent machinability in complex applications. The outer layer of consists of Ingeo™ PLA. It is laminated using a special adhesive to an inner layer which itself is coextruded from two different materials. This coextruded layer combines again PLA with a ‘new bioplastics’ derived from starch. More details were not disclosed at this time due to a proprietary recipe. This layer, however, gives the laminate a very good sealing strength, so that the packaging can hold even heavy products, such as rice and dried food. The adhesive used to laminate the two layers is completely compostable, providing at the same time a perfect bonding between the layers. In addition to the above mentioned compostable laminate, Centroplast has developed another laminate made out of paper with metalized poly-lactic acid for other food applications. MT www.centroplast.it

Eco-Labels for Biobottles As a result of the extensive research in the field of environmental sustainability, Goglio Cofibox S.p.A., leader in the production of flexible laminates for the packaging of food products from Cadorago, Italy has developed a new eco-friendly label in PLA for its client Fonti di Vinadio SpA. The label is being applied on Sant’Anna PLA bottles, the first eco-friendly bottles that biodegrade within 80 days. The label has been developed to work with the reel fed technology, the most common one in the beverage market thanks to its high speed labeling, and it is suitable for all common standard gluing systems. Labels are available in thickness starting from 30µm. Furthermore, the transparency of the film is highly appreciated in the mineral water market, since it guarantees perfect clarity in the see through graphics in a mono-web structure. The PLA resin used for the label, Ingeo™ by NatureWorks, assures excellent film performances even on those equipment which up to today have used ‘traditional’ materials. In addition to this, Goglio Cofibox has developed exclusive bio inks to be used for printings on eco-friendly materials which, thanks to the Company’s 10-colors print rotogravure technology, allow to manufacture tailor-made, eye-catching printing effects on 100% green labels. The inks are certified compostable by Vinçotte and do of course not contain any toxic substances or heavy metals. This is one more example of Goglio Group’s flexible innovations towards environmentally friendly products. MT

www.gogliocofibox.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Application News

Hoses Made from Biobased Raw Materials

Biodegradable Bags for Home Compost

NORRES Schlauchtechnik from Gelsenkirchen, Germany is a leading manufacturer of industrial hoses, hose systems and other innovative, high-performance plastic products. The company has formulated a corporate sustainability strategy which specifies that all Norres products should be developed according to certain basic principles. One of these principles is that defined hose types should be made from bio-based raw material sources.

Concern about the environment ranks high on Flexico’s R&D agenda. Always keen to contribute to a better world and curb waste, Flexico is adding new biodegradable bags for home compost to its Biopryl range, which already includes biodegradable bags for industrial compost. The Flexico group is a French company created in 1950 with five production sites and six subsidiaries in France Germany, UK, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Romania.

Norres has a number of hose types that are either manufactured from a ‘bioplastic’ raw material as standard or can be supplied as variants made from raw materials based on derivatives. Castor oil is a typical example of the derivatives used for this purpose. The share of the bioplastic in each product is in the region of 20 to 50%, depending on the hardness and the nature of the synthetic material. The mechanical properties and chemical resistances of bioplastic raw materials are not significantly different from those of the standard Norres types, and they represent an altogether competitive option. Moreover, several Norres hoses are made using raw materials with a low environmental impact based on the life cycle assessment (LCA), in other words with a good ecobalance. The focus is on bioplastic monomers derived from renewable raw materials for polyesters, polyamides, polyurethanes and vinyl polymers. Hoses produced using these materials are offered as an alternative to the standard products. The Protapw® PUR 335 MHF FLAT, Airduc® PUR 350 MHF and Airduc® PUR 355 are among the hose types. MT

Benefits for the community are twofold: with this biodegradation system, packaging can be collected together with the green waste by the community and turned into compost. At home, the end user, can place the packaging in their home compost together with other organic waste.

www.norres.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

The biodegradable Biopryl bags for home compost are made of compostable films, using renewable material (such as starch and vegetable oils) and biodegradable co-polyesters, all complying with standard EN 13432 and authenticated ‘OK Home Compost’ by Laboratory Vinçotte. No genetically modified plants (GMO) are being used for the production. Home Compost biodegradable Biopryl bags are produced with or without a drawstring closure. They are particularly useful as packaging for bioproducts such as cotton, but also for textile, fresh produce, and cosmetics. Biopryl bags offer a high water vapour transmission rate but a good barrier against oxygen. This means moisture can escape faster, fresh produce is less susceptible to mold and to oxidation and stay fresh for a longer period of time. MT www.flexico.fr

Joint Approach

Shaping the future of biobased plastics

Innovia Films, Cumbria, UK and Sappi Fine Paper Europe, Brussels, Belgium have joined forces to demonstrate potential laminate structures, using their respective products, suitable for end users in the food, confectionery and pharmaceutical industries. These laminates provide technical functionality in addition to being made from renewable resources and offering compostability – a focus which many packaging end users are keen to pursue. Both companies recognise that the best end-of-life options for flexible paper/film laminates are either industrial, home composting or ultimately anaerobic digestion which turns waste into a useful energy source, compared to current landfill or incineration solutions. Innovia Films with its NatureFlex™ product range, brings its unique expertise in manufacturing renewable and compostable cellulose-based films with tailored moisture and barrier properties. Sappi brings its expertise in manufacturing flexible packaging papers and now offers coated and uncoated compostable paper options; Algro® Nature is a unique compostable one side coated paper; Leine® Nature is an uncoated equivalent, which is also compostable.

www.purac.com/bioplastics

The Sappi and Innovia products have been independently tested and have received the ‘OK Compost Home’ certification by Vinçotte, and also the compostability DIN E13432 certification by DIN CERTCO. Innovia Films and Sappi have now started trials with converters to demonstrate the capabilities of such laminates in terms of sustainability and technical packaging solutions. Trials have been made on both extrusion and adhesive laminate systems, targeting end users who are seeking alternatives to existing noncompostable structures. John Fell, Global Marketing Director for Innovia Films commented “Both companies are committed to evolving this joint partnership and will announce future developments of sustainable packaging solution, based on renewable and recyclable forest products, as and when they become available.” www.innoviafilms.com www.sappi.com

Laminate pack structure (used here for packaging dried soup)

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Consumer Electronics

Bioplastic Mouse added to Green Line

ujitsu is extending their portfolio of ’Green ITTM’ products. The KBPC PX ECO keyboard with bioplastic components has been available for quite some time already. bioplastics MAGAZINE reported about it in its issues on 03/2010 and 05/2010. Earlier this year, Fujitsu Technology Solutions GmbH from Munich, Germany, a subsidiary of the Japanese Fujitsu Limited, added an optical USB mouse to their Green IT line of products. “The environmentally friendly keyboard was and still is quite successful in the market so it was only a logical step to introduce a mouse,” said Christian Sandmeier, Senior Product Manager Accessories of Fujitsu. Like the keyboard, the optical USB mouse M440 with a resolution of 1000 dpi features a housing and 3 keys made of BIOGRADE® C 7500, a cellulose acetate compound from FKuR in Willich, Germany. The 100% biodegradable material is predominantly composed of natural resource materials and completely recyclable. In addition, the mouse features halogen free circuit boards along with a PVC free cable. “One of the many advantages of using Biograde was the fact that existing injection moulding tools could be used,” explained Christoph Lohr, injection moulding expert working in the department of Applications Technology at FKuR. Thus, the existing manufacturer could produce the mouse without any problems. All necessary requirements for electronic devices, which include computer equipment, could be fulfilled (e.g. fire tests). In Germany, a special glow wire test is required whereas in other countries the UL94HB flammability test has

Our cover kitty cat Olivia likes ‘organic food‘ ... Her comment: „Miaouw“

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

to be met. All of these tests were passed without adding any special flame retardant additives. A colour masterbatch with a biobased carrier allows the colourisation of the mouse at a very high quality. The black version of the mouse can be laser-marked, also without the need for any additives. In addition to its ergonomic design for right and left handed users, due to the special properties of Biograde the haptic appearance of the mouse is very pleasant. This is quite important, as many users spend hours and hours with their hands in direct contact to the mouse, a fact that must not be neglected. Also, Biograde offers a ‘self-polishing’ effect, as Christoph Lohr explained. This means that small dents and scratches will disappear after a while, simply by touching and using it. The Swedish computer magazine ‘PC för Alla’ tested the mouse and certified its robustness: “The mouse is as durable, hard-wearing and robust as other mice made from hard plastics”. With a reduction of oil based plastics of about 66 tonnes per year the ‘green’ mouse obviously is the best companion for the ‘green’ keyboard, as stated on Fujitsu’s website. Beside the environmental benefits, quality design and superior performance what’s the best benefit to the consumer? Both the keyboard and mouse are sold at a retail price comparable to ‘conventional‘ products. www.fujitsu.com www.fkur.com

Polylactic Acid Uhde Inventa-Fischer has expanded its product portfolio to include the innovative stateof-the-art PLAneo ® process. The feedstock for our PLA process is lactic acid, which can be produced from local agricultural products containing starch or sugar. The application range of PLA is similar to that of polymers based on fossil resources as its physical properties can be tailored to meet packaging, textile and other requirements. Think. Invest. Earn.

Uhde Inventa-Fischer GmbH Holzhauser Strasse 157–159 13509 Berlin Germany Tel. +49 30 43 567 5 Fax +49 30 43 567 699 Uhde Inventa-Fischer AG Via Innovativa 31 7013 Domat/Ems Switzerland Tel. +41 81 632 63 11 Fax +41 81 632 74 03 marketing@uhde-inventa-ﬁscher.com www.uhde-inventa-ﬁscher.com

Uhde Inventa-Fischer

Report Polylactic acid is a polymer which is made of renewable raw materials and is available in the market on an industrial scale. (Photo: ecopuls)

Bioplastics in Practical Use A project by the Austrian Plastics Cluster providesexperience with PLA

his article is an excerpt from a comprehensive report of the Austrian Plastics Cluster.

Bioplastics: From the Lab to the Product Shelves

Everyone Does What He Does Best

An EU project led by the St. Pölten office of the Austrian plastics cluster has developed practical knowledge in the use of bioplastics which has been further extended thanks to the participation of numerous industry partners.

Based on this general framework, the participants started to develop a project structure. Each of the countries involved, together with the respective scientific partner, took the lead in a different field.

A number of food producing companies process products from organic farms. They could improve the sustainability of their overall product if the films that are used for packaging were also made from renewable raw materials. Within a CORNET project (COllective Research NETwork), from 1998 to 2001, practical knowledge in this subject has been developed, and now many companies benefit from it.

The experts in materials selection came from France, with the ‘Institut National des Sciences Appliquées’. It was important to take into account a series of physical properties which are essential to the processability and the practical use of bioplastics. Different applications require permeability or barrier towards certain gases, others need resistance to temperatures exceeding 60°C.

Initiated by ecoplus, the business agency of Lower Austria and supported by the government of Lower Austria an application was submitted for financial support. Eleven institutes from six European countries, as well as a large number of company partners (20 from Austria alone), finally came together to pursue the common goal. “We want to learn how to deal with bioplastics,” says Alexander Komenda, who managed the entire project for the plastics cluster. The participating companies invest in the project, but each Euro from an Austrian company has been quadrupled by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency FFG. Overall the project volume totals 1.6 million Euros.

The German ‘Institute for Polymers’ (DKI) was in charge of testing the raw materials. At the beginning it had to be decided whether standard test procedures for conventional plastics were applicable to bioplastics. Some methods had to be adapted to the special characteristics of the biopolymer. However, the results of these tests were necessary to characterise the materials to be used for the subsequent project phases. As Komenda says, “All participants were given large amounts of the same material in order to achieve comparable results.”

In addition, the project was limited to material already available in the market and produced on a significant scale.

Another definition set the benchmark for the project even higher, namely that any material used, including additives, must be biodegradable.

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

The Slovenian ‘Tool & Die Development Center’ took the lead in processing the bioplastics on machines which are commonly used in the production of packaging, in close cooperation with the industry partners

The Polish institute ‘Cobro’ coordinated the tests of the new packaging materials in order to identify their behaviour under particular stress situations (e.g. bumping and banging during transport in trucks). Experts from the Austrian Research Institute for Chemistry and Technology (OFI) examined whether the packaging material made of polylactic acid (PLA) meets the special requirements of the food sector. Finally, ‘Celabor’ from Belgium was in charge of testing thermoformed plastic films from the waste-management end of the supply chain, as well as life-cycle analysis. This is a hot issue, as the ecological balance is one of the main arguments for the use of bioplastics. The challenge was to develop a transparent, easily adaptable report, which would withstand technical discussions and allow an emotional discussion to be seen from a more objective point of view. One option was to clearly identify certain measurable parameters such as the portion of carbon from renewable raw materials, which can be determined by radiocarbon dating.

Application Food Packaging Now a stage has been reached where the raw material, PLA, can be characterised regarding its processability as a packaging material. It is known that it will be difficult to improve diffusion barriers without moving on to multilayer systems. It is known on which parameters temperature stability depends. It is known how to design production processes in order to obtain a usable product. In addition, knowledge has been distributed among the participating companies. “Ultimately it is important to create a product which a company can sell. Then the companies will need people to manufacture the product and we from the cluster will have done a good job,” Komenda summarises. It is exactly to this objective that the cooperation with the food cluster is committed. C

CMY

PLA – Properties of the Material and How to Improve Them PLA is available in different qualities in the market. A specific task of the CORNET project dealt with the properties of the materials and developed the basis for their improvement with suitable additives, guided by INSA Lyon. u

Photo: ecoplus

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Report Methods of Material - Characterisation for PLA The properties of PLA depend on its molecular structure. One of the task groups has developed methods which enable an accurate and reliable characterisation of this structure, guided by DKI-Darmstadt. Photo: ecoplus

Processing of PLA Learning to use a new type of plastic primarily means learning to process it. This task group conducted extensive tests on the processing of PLA, using different procedures and various different products. In this process a number of surprising discoveries were made! What was particularly fascinating about this task was the gradual gain in knowledge about the properties of the biopolymer, not least because its producers, the bacteria, do not disclose all of their secrets of chirality. A generally noticeable feature were the substantial differences between the various commercial types, which were seen above all in different molar mass distributions and represented significant differences in the applicability of the products. Extreme examples, in which PLA could be processed at 300°C without showing any noteworthy degradation reactions, are countered by cases in which discolouration became visible even under normal conditions.

Testing Products Made of PLA Packaging products made of PLA have to meet the same requirements as packaging made from conventional plastics. Generally PLA can be processed without problems. However, processing, like additives, can have a significant influence on whether a future packaging development will meet the desired requirements. For example all processors have to find out whether drying of the raw material is necessary or not. Runners or gates for example cannot simply be re-used. The presence of expiry dates on PLA granulates and products will take some getting used to for plastics processors. But that’s how ‘bio’ works!

PLA in Contact with Food One of the CORNET project’s topics was the use of PLA packaging in the food industry. A work group within the project examined whether PLA meets all of the requirements regarding contact with food, guided by OFI Vienna. PLA packaging appears to be particularly suitable for high-price and niche segments, such as organic products with a limited shelf life or fermented dairy products. Future research projects could analyse the influence of special additives and the combination with other biodegradable materials in greater detail.

The Life Cycle of PLA When products made from PLA reach the end of their useful life various questions arise: How is the material disposed of? Can it be composted? Does PLA have an advantage over conventional plastics throughout its entire life cycle? This part of the project was guided by CELABOR of Belgium. (Photo: Naku)

To summarise in frank terms: There is the green advantage, but it’s not as big as it seems. Biopolymers will guide us to a green future, but it will be only one part of a general and massive change. The most important part is the human being himself and his wealth. MT

a.komenda@ecoplus.at

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

The complete report can be downloaded from www.bio-packing.at

Opinion

Agricultural Resources for Bioplastics Feedstock for bio-based plastics today and tomorrow By Michael Carus CEO nova-Institute Achim Raschka biotech expert at the nova-Institute Hürth, Germany

1st and 2nd generation crops: Pros and cons To produce bio-based plastics there is a broad spectrum of feedstock options. Today biobased plastics are mainly based on sugar, starch, plant oil and natural rubber, the so-called first generation feedstock. Because of potential competition with food and animal feed politicians and scientists have introduced, in the last ten years, the idea of using lignocellulose feedstock by transforming it into fermentable sugar (whether this will have less impact on food security will be discussed below). Lignocellulose means wood, short rotation coppice such as poplar, willow or miscanthus, or lignocellulose containing agricultural by-products. Another option is to use by-products which contain sugar and starch. The following table shows the pros and cons for different feedstock options:

Criteria

First Generation (Sugar, Starch, Oil, Natural Rubber)

Yield per hectare in terms of fermentable sugar equivalents Green House Gas Emissions for biomass derived Bio-based Plastics (cradle to factory gate)

Second Generation (Lignocellulose – Wood and Short Rotation Coppice)

By-products from agriculture and forestry

Broad range, but more or less on the same level

If the by-products have no markets yet, this means an extra yield

Broad range, but more or less on the same level

Very low, because of the methodology of LCA

Very high

Still a lot to do

Depending on the content of the by-product

Economically competitive

Not yet (except for specific properties)

Not yet

Not yet, but close

Secure supply with raw materials at a reasonable price

Competing for food, animal feed and bioenergy

Technical maturity

Direct competition with food and feed Indirect competition to food and feed Emergency reserve for food and feed

Feedstock for Bio-based Plastics and Composites (source: nova-Institute)

Competition with bioenergy and traditional industrial material use No Yes – on land use No

Yes Yes

Second Generation

First Generation

Lignocellulose Natural Fibres

Wood Timber

Still a huge potential for inefficiently used by-products, or even those not used at all No No No

Saccharification

Sugar

Starch

Plant Oil

Natural Rubber

feedstock

Elastomers

biomaterials

Byproducts Lignin

Wood Plastics Composites

Natural Fibres Reinforced Plastics

for example bagasse

Biobased Plastics

Compressionmoulded parts

thermoplastics or thermosets biodegradable or permanent

Carbon Fibre

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Opinion

The table shows in a clear way that there is no easy answer. Are second generation feedstocks really a better solution? To answer this question on a solid scientific base nova will conduct a multi-client study in 2012/2013: What is the best sustainable feedstock to generate fermentable sugar? Interested companies and associations can still join the advisory board.

Non-food discussion Forced by the public discussion during the food crisis in 2008 politics and industry gave a very simple answer to the potential food versus industry conflict: Industry should only use non-food crops as feedstock. From our point of view the question of food versus non-food crops for industry is itself oversimplified and misleading. The real questions and conflict are different: Question 1: Are there - in the EU, in the member states or in the region – free agricultural areas left, which are not necessary for food and animal feed, domestic use and export? If yes (and in many regions the answer is yes), continue: Question 2 (the real question): How can we use these free areas for industry with the highest resource efficiency and the highest climate protection? In many cases food crops will best fulfil these criteria just because they have been specially cultivated to produce maximum yields over many, many years and all logistics are established. Food crops for industry can also serve as an emergency reserve for food and feed supply – second generation lignocellulose cannot! This is exactly what is happening this year in Brazil. The Brazilian government has reduced the bioethanol fuel quota to save sugar for the demanding food and feed market.

So ‘No food crops for industry’ can lead to a misallocation of agriculture resources. We need a comprehensive concept for feedstock for food, feed, industrial material use and bioenergy.

The amount of land needed to grow feedstock for bio-based plastics How much is needed, and how much will be needed in the future? Both answers to the above questions show how the agricultural area is used today. Most of the arable land is used for animal feed (69%), followed by food (17%), material use (7%, including bio-based plastics) and finally bioenergy (3.5%). The data on biomass in tonnes look slightly different and the main reasons are different yields per hectare for different crops, dedicated to certain applications. For example cotton, the leading crop for industrial material use, has considerably lower yields than most of the energy crops. Using the recent data from Prof. Endres (FH Hannover) and European Bioplastics, today (2010) about 724,000 tonnes of bio-based plastics are produced, and this will increase to 1.71 million tonnes by 2015. According to a rough average estimation 2.5 tonnes of bio-based plastics can be produced per hectare and per year. This means that crops for bio-based plastics were grown on 290,000 hectares (0.02% of global arable land) in 2010 and will be grown on 684,000 hectares (0.05%) in 2015. To substitute all 250 million tonnes of plastics in the world with bio-based plastics will demand 100 million hectares or 7% of the global arable land. This will only happen when crude oil is really scarce and very expensive. Then solar and wind energy will also be taking over the energy sector, including bioenergy, so these arable areas will be set free for bio-based chemicals and plastics.

Global land use for food production and renewable resources 2008 (source: nova-Institute) Total land area world wide 13.4 bn. ha cities, residental area, 0.2 road and rail waste land (deserts, mountains, ...)

Arable land world wide 5.0 bn. ha

Use of harvested agricultural biomass worldwide (2008) (source: nova-Institute)

Cropland world wide 1,500 mn. ha

260

forest

3.9

agricultural area

5.0

in bn. ha

cropland today

Biomass for energy use 3,7 %

18 % Food

pastures

1.030

1.45

Biomass for industrial material use 4,3 %

Food

4.3 3.55

Total biomass ca. 10 billion tonnes

55 100

Feed

Bioenergy Material use

74 % Feed

in mn. ha Allocation of biomass to production target (main product). Respective amounts include raw materials and by products, even if their use fall into a different category.

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Opinion Is there enough land for food, animal feed, bioenergy and industrial material use, including bio-based plastics? Due to increasing demand for food and animal feed, and also bioenergy and industrial material use, the crucial question is how to increase the biomass production – in a sustainable way. But how to increase the agricultural feedstock worldwide? 1. Increasing the yields The tremendous potential for increasing yields in the developing countries is hindered by lack of technology and infrastructure, unfavourable agricultural policies such as no access to credits, an insufficient transmission of price incentives, poorly enforced land rights. 2. Expansion of arable land Some 0.6 (nova 2008) to 1.6 billion (FAO 2009) hectares could be added to the current 1.4 billion hectares of crop land (excluding forests, urban areas, protected areas). The figure shows that even in the year 2020 more than 200 million hectares of free arable land will be available. The solution to points 1 and 2 are: Political reforms and huge investment in agro-technologies. Compared to these potentials, the impact of GMO on the increase of biomass production will stay low. On the other hand there is also a huge potential for saving biomass: To switch from meat to vegetarian food would set free a huge amount of arable land for other uses. To get proteins from cattle demands 40 to 50 times the biomass input compared with proteins obtained from wheat or soya. To reduce food losses will also set free huge amounts of arable land: The results of a recent study showed that roughly one-third of food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted globally, which amounts to about 1.3 billion tonnes per year. Finally solar energy, which will be fully competitive in 10 to 15 years, is 40 to 50 times more land efficient compared with bioenergy (and biofuels) and also will mainly use non

100

arable land. This will also release huge areas of arable land, today used by bioenergy. So the conclusion is, yes, there is enough feedstock – but … due to the results of different nova studies, there will be only enough feedstock for industrial material use including bio-based plastics, if: we are able to activate strongly the potentially free areas (0.6 – 1.6 billion hectares) for agriculture and to increase the productivity in developing countries - that means huge investment and political reforms, we switch to more vegetarian food and also reduce losses in the food chain, we switch from bioenergy to solar and wind energy and significantly increase the use of solar and wind energy, we establish a new policy for equal support of bioenergy and industrial material use based on their efficiency, GHG reduction/hectare and employment/hectare (‘level playing field’ – for more information please look at www.bio-based.eu/policy/en). Otherwise ‘Food & Feed First’, high subsidies for bioenergy and increasing population and meat consumption could mean: No feedstock left for high-volume industrial material use, bio-based chemistry and bio-based plastics.

Summary In principle there are sufficient and sustainable biomass resources available for food, animal feed, bioenergy and industrial material use, including bio-based plastics but we should change and optimize the biomass allocation and therefore the political framework. And we should invest in agriculture, and, not forgetting political reforms in the rural areas of the world, optimizing our food habits to sustainability and switching from bioenergy to solar energy – to secure a sufficient and sustainable supply of biomass for bio-based products also for the next 100 years and further. www.nova-institute.eu

‘Free’ agricultural area in 2006 and the global demand of area 2020 (source: nova-Institute)

Residential area; road and rail (ca. 3%)

➊ ➋

1.500 Available rainfed arable land (cropland)*

Cropland today

‘Free’ agricultural area in 2006**

➌ ➍ year 2006

➊ Increasing demand of food per capita due to an increase in purchasing power (more meat, ...)

800

Potential forest land

3.300 in mn. ha

570 in mn. ha

330

Protected area (ca. 10%)

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

570 in mn. ha

year 2020

The global demand on land use in 2020: ca. 96 mn. ha

➋ Increasing demand of food due to population growth

ca. 64 mn. ha

➌ Residential area, road and rail

ca. 32 mn. ha

➍ Biofuel in the most important Biofuel countries*** ca. 18 mn. ha ∑ 210 mn. ha * FAO 2000 indicates a potential of 4.2 bn. ha ** De facto parts of the ‘free’ crop lands could be considerably disadvantageous in terms of natural recources or market access *** The calculation is based on OECD-FAO 2007: It is assured that most of the recourses are from the demand region; yield increase of 1/%a, extrapolation of production from 2006 to 2020

BIOADIMIDETM IN BIOPLASTICS. EXPANDING THE PERFORMANCE OF BIO-POLYESTER.

2011

B E S T P R A C T I C E S A W A R D

Global Bioplastics Additives New Product Innovation Award

Whatever is beautiful. Whatever is meaningful. Whatever brings you happiness. May it be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year.

Whatever requirements move your world: We will move them with you. www.rheinchemie.com www.bioadimide.com

Personality Photo: European Bioplastics

bM: What is your educational background? JW: At the university I studied chemistry and then started to work for Henkel. I did my PhD in polymer chemistry later, whilst I was already working in the industry.

bM: What is your professional function today? JW: I’m the Head of materials at the NNFCC, the UK’s National Centre for Biorenewable energy, fuels and materials. And materials here cover all renewable materials including plastics, fibres, composites, wood etc.

bM: How did you ‘come to’ bioplastics? JW: I came to bioplastics when I worked in R&D on adhesives and surface coatings. In the early 1990’s I worked on a Joint Venture with Zeneca on ‘Biopol’, a PHA-resin, which indeed reached the supermarket shelves in form of a Wella shampoo bottle. That’s how I came across bioplastics and ever since I have dabbled with it.

s John William

bM: What do you consider more important: ‘biobased’ or ‘biodegradable’?

bM: When were you born? JW: I was born in September 1961 in Widnes, a small town in what was then Lancashire, in the UK.

bM: Where do you live today and how long have you lived there? JW: Today I live right in the middle of the historic city of York and we moved there about 5 months ago. Before that I lived on a farm in Lincolnshire.

JW: Biobased. Biodegradability is a function of a material that you might require or you might not. Biobased is the basis for the whole bioeconomy process.

bM: What has been your biggest achievement (in terms of bioplastics) so far? JW: I think it’s raising awareness of the materials, their properties, their markets and the sustainability issues and providing the context for their growth.

bM: What are your biggest challenges for the future?

iBIB2012

www.bio-based.eu/iBIB

International Business Directory for Innovative Bio-based Plastics and Composites

JW: The biggest challenge, I think, is the next step. To convince the main players to more rapidly adopt more of these materials.

bM: What is your family status? JW: I have two daughters, 17 and 19 years old from my first marriage. I have a new partner, Sandra and actually we are going to get married next year.

bM: What is your favorite movie? Pictures: nova-Institut, Sainsbury’s, Proganic

w.bio-based.eu/iBIB

Book now: ww

For the 2nd time worldwide: An entire overview of all suppliers of bio-based plastics and composites! In spring 2012 iBIB2012 the second international directory of major suppliers of biobased plastics and composites will be published. Becoming an iBIB2012 participant will enable you to reach about 20,000 potential industrial clients from all over the world.

The

print version will be distributed by the publishers and partners at trade fairs, exhibitions and conferences worldwide The PDF-version will be distributed widely by email and websides Online-database with detailed index to reach your supplier in a target oriented way iBIB : 250 pages – 100 companies, associations, R&D – 20 countries Book your page(s) now at: www.bio-based.eu/iBIB Deadline: 15th January 2012 – Publication Date: 14th March 2012 2012

I like ‘Spy Game’, with Robert Redford and Brad Pitt from 2001.

bM: What is your favorite book? JW: I have a lot of books on military history but my favourite fiction stories are espionage like,‘Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy’. It is a British spy novel by John le Carré from the mid Seventies.

bM: What is your favorite (or your next) vacation location? JW: I love to go to Turkey, but next we go to South Africa.

bM: What do you eat for breakfast on a Sunday? JW: Bacon-sandwich and coffee…the bacon has to be nice and crispy!

bM: What is your ‘slogan’? In cooperation with

Publisher

JW: One of my favourites is: “You only live once, but if you work it right, once is enough”

Basics

Glossary 2.0

updated

In bioplastics MAGAZINE again and again the same expressions appear that some of our readers might (not yet) be familiar with. This glossary shall help with these terms and shall help avoid repeated explanations such as ‘PLA (Polylactide)‘ in various articles. Readers who would like to suggest better or other explanations to be added to the list, please contact the editor. [*: bM ... refers to more comprehensive article previously published in bioplastics MAGAZINE)

Cradle-to-Gate | Describes the system boundaries of an environmental →Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) which covers all activities from the ‘cradle’ (i.e., the extraction of raw materials, agricultural activities and forestry) up to the factory gate Cradle-to-Cradle | (sometimes abbreviated as C2C): Is an expression which communicates the concept of a closed-cycle economy, in which waste is used as raw material (‘waste equals food’). Cradle-to-Cradle is not a term that is typically used in →LCA studies. Cradle-to-Grave | Describes the system boundaries of a full →Life Cycle Assessment from manufacture (‘cradle’) to use phase and disposal phase (‘grave’). Crystalline | Plastic with regularly arranged molecules in a lattice structure

Bioplastics (as defined by European Bioplastics e.V.) is a term used to define two different kinds of plastics: a. Plastics based on renewable resources (the focus is the origin of the raw material used) b. → Biodegradable and compostable plastics according to EN13432 or similar standards (the focus is the compostability of the final product; biodegradable and compostable plastics can be based on renewable (biobased) and/or non-renewable (fossil) resources).

Density | Quotient from mass and volume of a material, also referred to as specific weight DIN | Deutsches Institut für Normung (German organisation for standardization) DIN-CERTCO | independant certifying organisation for the assessment on the conformity of bioplastics Dispersing | fine distribution of non-miscible liquids into a homogeneous, stable mixture

- based on renewable resources and biodegradable;

Carbon neutral | Carbon neutral describes a product or process that has a negligible impact on total atmospheric CO2 levels. For example, carbon neutrality means that any CO2 released when a plant decomposes or is burnt is offset by an equal amount of CO2 absorbed by the plant through photosynthesis when it is growing.

- based on renewable resources but not be biodegradable; and

Catalyst | substance that enables and accelerates a chemical reaction

- based on fossil resources and biodegradable.

Cellophane | Clear film on the basis of → cellulose.

Energy recovery | recovery and exploitation of the energy potential in (plastic) waste for the production of electricity or heat in waste incineration pants (waste-to-energy)

Aerobic - anaerobic | aerobic = in the presence of oxygen (e.g. in composting) | anaerobic = without oxygen being present (e.g. in biogasification, anaerobic digestion)

Enzymes | proteins that catalyze chemical reactions

[bM 06/09]

Cellulose | Polymeric molecule with very high molecular weight (biopolymer, monomer is → Glucose), industrial production from wood or cotton, to manufacture paper, plastics and fibres.

Ethylen | colour- and odourless gas, made e.g. from, Naphtha (petroleum) by cracking, monomer of the polymer polyethylene (PE)

Amorphous | non-crystalline, glassy with unordered lattice

CEN | Comité Européen de Normalisation (European organisation for standardization)

Amylopectin | Polymeric branched starch molecule with very high molecular weight (biopolymer, monomer is → Glucose)

Compost | A soil conditioning material of decomposing organic matter which provides nutrients and enhances soil structure.

[bM 05/09]

[bM 06/08, 02/09]

Amylose | Polymeric non-branched starch molecule with high molecular weight (biopolymer, monomer is → Glucose) [bM 05/09]

Compostable Plastics | Plastics that are biodegradable under ‘composting’ conditions: specified humidity, temperature, → microorganisms and timefame. Several national and international standards exist for clearer definitions, for example EN 14995 Plastics Evaluation of compostability - Test scheme and specifications.

European Bioplastics e.V. | The industry association representing the interests of Europe’s thriving bioplastics’ industry. Founded in Germany in 1993 as IBAW, European Bioplastics today represents the interests of over 70 member companies throughout the European Union. With members from the agricultural feedstock, chemical and plastics industries, as well as industrial users and recycling companies, European Bioplastics serves as both a contact platform and catalyst for advancing the aims of the growing bioplastics industry.

Bioplastics may be

Biodegradable Plastics | Biodegradable Plastics are plastics that are completely assimilated by the → microorganisms present a defined environment as food for their energy. The carbon of the plastic must completely be converted into CO2 during the microbial process. For an official definition, please refer to the standards e.g. ISO or in Europe: EN 14995 Plastics- Evaluation of compostability - Test scheme and specifications. [bM 02/06, bM 01/07]

Blend | Mixture of plastics, polymer alloy of at least two microscopically dispersed and molecularly distributed base polymers. Bisphenol-A (BPA) | Monomer used to produce different polymers. BPA is said to cause health problems, due to the fact that is behaves like a hormone. Therefore it is banned for use in children’s products in many countries. 50

BPI | Biodegradable Products Institute, a notfor-profit association. Through their innovative compostable label program, BPI educates manufacturers, legislators and consumers about the importance of scientifically based standards for compostable materials which biodegrade in large composting facilities.

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

[bM 02/06, bM 01/07]

Composting | A solid waste management technique that uses natural process to convert organic materials to CO2, water and humus through the action of → microorganisms. When talking about composting of bioplastics, usually industrial composting in a managed composting plant is meant [bM 03/07] Compound | plastic mixture from different raw materials (polymer and additives) [bM 04/10)

Copolymer | Plastic composed of different monomers.

Elastomers | rigid, but under force flexible and elastically formable plastics with rubbery properties EN 13432 | European standard for the assessment of the → compostability of plastic packaging products

Extrusion | process used to create plastic profiles (or sheet) of a fixed cross-section consisting of mixing, melting, homogenising and shaping of the plastic. Fermentation | Biochemical reactions controlled by → microorganisms or enyzmes (e.g. the transformation of sugar into lactic acid). FSC | Forest Stewardship Council. FSC is an independent, non-governmental, not-forprofit organization established to promote the responsible and sustainable management of the world’s forests. Gelatine | Translucent brittle solid substance, colorless or slightly yellow, nearly tasteless and odorless, extracted from the collagen inside animals‘ connective tissue.

Basics Glucose | Monosaccharide (or simple sugar). G. is the most important carbohydrate (sugar) in biology. G. is formed by photosynthesis or hydrolyse of many carbohydrates e. g. starch. Granulate, granules | small plastic particles (3-4 millimetres), a form in which plastic is sold and fed into machines, easy to handle and dose. Humus | In agriculture, ‘humus’ is often used simply to mean mature → compost, or natural compost extracted from a forest or other spontaneous source for use to amend soil. Hydrophilic | Property: ‘water-friendly’, soluble in water or other polar solvents (e.g. used in conjunction with a plastic which is not water resistant and weather proof or that absorbs water such as Polyamide (PA). Hydrophobic | Property: ‘water-resistant’, not soluble in water (e.g. a plastic which is water resistant and weather proof, or that does not absorb any water such as Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP). IBAW | → European Bioplastics Integral Foam | foam with a compact skin and porous core and a transition zone in between. ISO | International Organization for Standardization JBPA | Japan Bioplastics Association LCA | Life Cycle Assessment (sometimes also referred to as life cycle analysis, ecobalance, and → cradle-to-grave analysis) is the investigation and valuation of the environmental impacts of a given product or service caused. [bM 01/09]

Microorganism | Living organisms of microscopic size, such as bacteria, funghi or yeast. Molecule | group of at least two atoms held together by covalent chemical bonds. Monomer | molecules that are linked by polymerization to form chains of molecules and then plastics Mulch film | Foil to cover bottom of farmland

(PHA), a polymer belonging to the polyesters class. PHB is produced by micro-organisms apparently in response to conditions of physiological stress. The polymer is primarily a product of carbon assimilation (from glucose or starch) and is employed by micro-organisms as a form of energy storage molecule to be metabolized when other common energy sources are not available. PHB has properties similar to those of PP, however it is stiffer and more brittle.

-12000-glucose units. Depending on the connection, there are two types → amylose and → amylopectin known.

PHBH | Polyhydroxy butyrate hexanoate (better poly 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) is a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), Like other biopolymers from the family of the polyhydroxyalkanoates PHBH is produced by microorganisms in the fermentation process, where it is accumulated in the microorganism’s body for nutrition. The main features of PHBH are its excellent biodegradability, combined with a high degree of hydrolysis and heat stability.

Starch-ester | One characteristic of every starch-chain is a free hydroxyl group. When every hydroxyl group is connect with ethan acid one product is starch-ester with different chemical properties.

[bM 03/09, 01/10, 03/11]

PLA | Polylactide or Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable, thermoplastic, linear aliphatic polyester from lactic acid. Lactic acid is made from dextrose by fermentation. Bacterial fermentation is used to produce lactic acid from corn starch, cane sugar or other sources. However, lactic acid cannot be directly polymerized to a useful product, because each polymerization reaction generates one molecule of water, the presence of which degrades the forming polymer chain to the point that only very low molecular weights are observed. Instead, lactic acid is oligomerized and then catalytically dimerized to make the cyclic lactide monomer. Although dimerization also generates water, it can be separated prior to polymerization. PLA of high molecular weight is produced from the lactide monomer by ring-opening polymerization using a catalyst. This mechanism does not generate additional water, and hence, a wide range of molecular weights are accessible.

PBS | Polybutylene succinate, a 100% biodegradable polymer, made from (e.g. bio-BDO) and succinic acid, which can also be produced biobased.

[bM 01/09]

PC | Polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyester, petroleum based, used for e.g. baby bottles or CDs. Criticized for its BPA (→ Bisphenol-A) content.

Renewable Resources | agricultural raw materials, which are not used as food or feed, but as raw material for industrial products or to generate energy

PCL | Polycaprolactone, a synthetic (fossil based), biodegradable bioplastic, e.g. used as a blend component.

Saccharins or carbohydrates | Saccharins or carbohydrates are name for the sugar-family. Saccharins are monomer or polymer sugar units. For example, there are known mono-, di- and polysaccharose. → glucose is a monosaccarin. They are important for the diet and produced biology in plants.

PE | Polyethylene, thermoplastic polymerised from ethylene. Can be made from renewable resources (sugar cane via bio-ethanol) [bM 05/10]

PET | Polyethylenterephthalate, transparent polyester used for bottles and film PGA | Polyglycolic acid or Polyglycolide is a biodegradable, thermoplastic polymer and the simplest linear, aliphatic polyester. Besides ist use in the biomedical field, PGA has been introduced as a barrier resin [bM 03/09] PHA | Polyhydroxyalkanoates are linear polyesters produced in nature by bacterial fermentation of sugar or lipids. The most common type of PHA is → PHB. PHB | Polyhydroxybutyrate (better poly-3-hydroxybutyrate), is a polyhydroxyalkanoate

Plastics | Materials with large molecular chains of natural or fossil raw materials, produced by chemical or biochemical reactions.

Semi-finished products | plastic in form of sheet, film, rods or the like to be further processed into finshed products Sorbitol | Sugar alcohol, obtained by reduction of glucose changing the aldehyde group to an additional hydroxyl group. S. is used as a plasticiser for bioplastics based on starch. Starch | Natural polymer (carbohydrate) consisting of → amylose and → amylopectin, gained from maize, potatoes, wheat, tapioca etc. When glucose is connected to polymerchains in definite way the result (product) is called starch. Each molecule is based on 300

[bM 05/09]

Starch derivate | Starch derivates are based on the chemical structure of → starch. The chemical structure can be changed by introducing new functional groups without changing the → starch polymer. The product has different chemical qualities. Mostly the hydrophilic character is not the same.

Starch propionate and starch butyrate | Starch propionate and starch butyrate can be synthesised by treating the → starch with propane or butanic acid. The product structure is still based on → starch. Every based → glucose fragment is connected with a propionate or butyrate ester group. The product is more hydrophobic than → starch. Sustainable | An attempt to provide the best outcomes for the human and natural environments both now and into the indefinite future. One of the most often cited definitions of sustainability is the one created by the Brundtland Commission, led by the former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland. The Brundtland Commission defined sustainable development as development that ‘meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.’ Sustainability relates to the continuity of economic, social, institutional and environmental aspects of human society, as well as the non-human environment). Sustainability | (as defined by European Bioplastics e.V.) has three dimensions: economic, social and environmental. This has been known as “the triple bottom line of sustainability”. This means that sustainable development involves the simultaneous pursuit of economic prosperity, environmental protection and social equity. In other words, businesses have to expand their responsibility to include these environmental and social dimensions. Sustainability is about making products useful to markets and, at the same time, having societal benefits and lower environmental impact than the alternatives currently available. It also implies a commitment to continuous improvement that should result in a further reduction of the environmental footprint of today’s products, processes and raw materials used. Thermoplastics | Plastics which soften or melt when heated and solidify when cooled (solid at room temperature). Thermoplastic Starch | (TPS) → starch that was modified (cooked, complexed) to make it a plastic resin Thermoset | Plastics (resins) which do not soften or melt when heated. Examples are epoxy resins or unsaturated polyester resins. WPC | Wood Plastic Composite. Composite materials made of wood fiber/flour and plastics (mostly polypropylene). Yard Waste | Grass clippings, leaves, trimmings, garden residue.

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

You can meet us! Please contact us in advance by e-mail.

Event Calendar

Event Calendar Feb. 06-08, 2012 The 2012 Packaging Conference OARIA Resort at CityCenter, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

March 27-30, 2012 BioPlastek 2012 Westin Arlington Gateway, Arlington, VA, USA

www.thepackagingconference.com/

http://bioplastek.com

Feb. 20-22, 2012 Innovation Takes Root 2012 Omni ChampionsGate Resort in Orlando, Florida, USA.

March 29-30, 2012 Sus Pack 2012 Conference on Sustainable Packaging Cologne, Germany

www.innovationtakesroot.com

Feb.28-29, 2012 Solpack 1.0 Munich, Germany www.solpack.de

March 13-14, 2012 World Biofuels Markets Rotterdam, The Netherlands www.worldbiofuelsmarkets.com

www.suspack.eu

April 1-5, 2012 NPE 2012 Orlando, USA

visit bioplastics MAGAZINE at booth 58047

www.npe.org

April 18-21, 2012 Chinaplas 2012 Shanghai, China www.chinaplasonline.com

March 14-15, 2012 5th International Congress on Bio-based Plastics and Composites Cologne, Germany

19-20 April 2012 2nd Congress on biodegradable polymer packaging Sala Aurea, Camera di Commercio, Parma (Italy)

www.biowerkstoff-kongress.de

www.biopolpack.unipr.it.

March 20-22, 2012 Green Polymer Chemistry Maritim Hotel, Cologne, Germany

23-24 April, 2012 Biopolymer World Congress NH Laguna Palace Hotel, Mestre-Venice (Italy)

www.amiplastics.com

www.biopolymerworld.com

March 26-27, 2012 EcoPack Systems Cologne, Germany

May 8-9, 2012 Bioplastics Compounding & Processing The Hilton Downtown Miami, Miami, Florida, USA

www.ecopack-conference.com/

www.amiplastics-na.com

May 9-10, 2012 5. BioKunststoffe Hannover, Germany www.hanser-tagungen.de/

May 15-16, 2012 2nd PLA World Congress presented by bioplastics MAGAZINE Holiday Inn City Center, Munich Germany www.pla-world-congress.com

May 16-18, 2012 SPE Bioplastic Materials Conference Renaissance Seattle Hotel, Seattle, Washington USA www.4spe.org

June 13-15, 2012 BioPlastics: The Re-Invention of Plastics Hilton - Downtown, San Francisco, USA www.BioPlastix.com

June 19-20, 2012 Biobased materials WPC, Natural Fibre and other innovative Composites Congress Fellbach, near Stuttgart, Germany www.nfc-congress.com

Oct. 2-4, 2012 BioPlastics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Re-Invention of Plastics Caesars Palace Hotel, Las Vegas, USA www.InnoPlastSolutions.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [04/11] Vol. 6

A Collaborative Biopolymers Forum for the Global Ingeo Community

February 20 - 22, 2012 Orlando, FL Omni Orlando Resort www.omniorlandoresort.com www.innovationtakesroot.com

Global companies collaborate and share successful Ingeo™ products and applications at Innovation Takes Root 2012

Stonyfield Farm and other major international corporations will present how they have successfully incorporated Ingeo bio-based products into their brands at the collaborative, biennial biopolymers forum. The conference will include unique presentations and exhibitions for companies actively pursuing Ingeo applications and those desiring to learn more about this growing class of biopolymers. Company representatives will also discuss how they envision sustainable practices to change business in the future.

Sessions include:

Who should attend?

• Advances in Ingeo Packaging Films

• • • • • • • • • • •

• Ingeo in Fibers and Non-Wovens • Expanding Ingeo Applications in Durable Products • Growth of Ingeo Lactides and Lactide Derivatives • Just added! Emerging Markets and Technologies • Driving Economics to Sustainable Commercialization • Opportunities in Food Service and Food Packaging

Academia Brands Editors & Journalists Green Marketers Packaging Professionals Process Engineers Product Designers Product & Process Developers Researchers Retailers Sustainability Managers

• Legislative and Regulatory Issues

Full day seminar:

Pre-conference workshop:

The Future for Bioplastics Feedstocks by Jim Lunt & Associates

Adhesives and Key Essentials for Laminating Biopolymer Films into Flexible Packaging

Ingeo, and the Ingeo logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of NatureWorks LLC in the USA and other countries.

Exhibitor & sponsorship opportunities available Contact: Andy Ziadi Tel. 952-562-3303 / Toll free. 855-562-3300 andrea_ziadi@natureworksllc.com

Innovation Takes Root 2012

Let us know you’re coming on LinkedIn!

Suppliers Guide Simply contact:

1. Raw Materials

Tel.: +49 2161 6884467

suppguide@bioplasticsmagazine.com 20

Stay permanently listed in the Suppliers Guide with your company logo and contact information.

For only 6,– EUR per mm, per issue you can be present among top suppliers in the field of bioplastics.

For Example:

Showa Denko Europe GmbH Konrad-Zuse-Platz 4 81829 Munich, Germany Tel.: +49 89 93996226 www.showa-denko.com support@sde.de

FKuR Kunststoff GmbH Siemensring 79 D - 47 877 Willich Tel. +49 2154 9251-0 Tel.: +49 2154 9251-51 sales@fkur.com www.fkur.com

PSM Bioplastic NA Chicago, USA www.psmna.com +1-630-393-0012

70 20

80 30

39 mm

60 10

Polymedia Publisher GmbH Dammer Str. 112 41066 Mönchengladbach Germany Tel. +49 2161 664864 Fax +49 2161 631045 info@bioplasticsmagazine.com www.bioplasticsmagazine.com

Sample Charge: 100

110

DuPont de Nemours International S.A. 2 chemin du Pavillon 1218 - Le Grand Saconnex Switzerland Tel.: +41 22 171 51 11 Fax: +41 22 580 22 45 plastics@dupont.com www.renewable.dupont.com www.plastics.dupont.com

Kingfa Sci. & Tech. Co., Ltd. Gaotang Industrial Zone, Tianhe, Guangzhou, P.R.China. Tel: +86 (0)20 87215915 Fax: +86 (0)20 87037111 info@ecopond.com.cn www.ecopond.com.cn FLEX-262/162 Biodegradable Blown Film Resin!

39mm x 6,00 € = 234,00 € per entry/per issue

Sample Charge for one year:

Zhejiang Hangzhou Xinfu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd Tel.: +86 13809644115 The entry in our Suppliers Guide is www.xinfupharm.com bookable for one year (6 issues) and extends automatically if it’s not canceled johnleung@xinfupharm.com 6 issues x 234,00 EUR = 1,404.00 €

120

130

three month before expiry.

1.1 bio based monomers 140

150

PURAC division Arkelsedijk 46, P.O. Box 21 4200 AA Gorinchem The Netherlands Tel.: +31 (0)183 695 695 Fax: +31 (0)183 695 604 www.purac.com PLA@purac.com

160

170

180

1.2 compounds

200

API S.p.A. Via Dante Alighieri, 27 36065 Mussolente (VI), Italy Telephone +39 0424 579711 www.apiplastic.com www.apinatbio.com

210

220

Shenzhen Brightchina Ind. Co;Ltd www.brightcn.net www.esun.en.alibaba.com bright@brightcn.net Tel: +86-755-2603 1978 1.4 starch-based bioplastics

230

240

250

www.facebook.com www.issuu.com

260

www.twitter.com 270

www.youtube.com

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

www.cereplast.com US: Tel: +1 310.615.1900 Fax +1 310.615.9800 Sales@cereplast.com Europe: Tel: +49 1763 2131899 weckey@cereplast.com

Grace Biotech Corporation Tel: +886-3-598-6496 No. 91, Guangfu N. Rd., Hsinchu Industrial Park,Hukou Township, Hsinchu County 30351, Taiwan sales@grace-bio.com.tw www.grace-bio.com.tw

Natur-Tec® - Northern Technologies 4201 Woodland Road 1.5 PHA Circle Pines, MN 55014 USA Tel. +1 763.225.6600 Fax +1 763.225.6645 info@natur-tec.com www.natur-tec.com Division of A&O FilmPAC Ltd 7 Osier Way, Warrington Road GB-Olney/Bucks. MK46 5FP Tel.: +44 1234 714 477 Fax: +44 1234 713 221 sales@aandofilmpac.com Transmare Compounding B.V. www.bioresins.eu Ringweg 7, 6045 JL Roermond, The Netherlands Tel. +31 475 345 900 Fax +31 475 345 910 info@transmare.nl www.compounding.nl 1.3 PLA

190

Jean-Pierre Le Flanchec 3 rue Scheffer 75116 Paris cedex, France Tel: +33 (0)1 53 65 23 00 Fax: +33 (0)1 53 65 81 99 biosphere@biosphere.eu www.biosphere.eu

Limagrain Céréales Ingrédients ZAC „Les Portes de Riom“ - BP 173 63204 Riom Cedex - France Tel. +33 (0)4 73 67 17 00 Fax +33 (0)4 73 67 17 10 www.biolice.com

Telles, Metabolix – ADM joint venture 650 Suffolk Street, Suite 100 Lowell, MA 01854 USA Tel. +1-97 85 13 18 00 Fax +1-97 85 13 18 86 www.mirelplastics.com

Tianan Biologic No. 68 Dagang 6th Rd, Beilun, Ningbo, China, 315800 Tel. +86-57 48 68 62 50 2 Fax +86-57 48 68 77 98 0 enquiry@tianan-enmat.com www.tianan-enmat.com

Suppliers Guide 4. Bioplastics products

2. Additives/Secondary raw materials

Arkema Inc. Functional Additives-Biostrength 900 First Avenue King of Prussia, PA/USA 19406 Contact: Connie Lo, Commercial Development Mgr. Tel: 610.878.6931 connie.lo@arkema.com www.impactmodifiers.com

Sukano AG Chaltenbodenstrasse 23 CH-8834 Schindellegi Tel. +41 44 787 57 77 Fax +41 44 787 57 78 www.sukano.com 3. Semi finished products 3.1 films

Taghleef Industries SpA, Italy Via E. Fermi, 46 33058 San Giorgio di Nogaro (UD) Contact Frank Ernst Tel. +49 2402 7096989 Mobile +49 160 4756573 frank.ernst@ti-films.com www.ti-films.com

alesco GmbH & Co. KG Schönthaler Str. 55-59 D-52379 Langerwehe Sales Germany: +49 2423 402 110 Sales Belgium: +32 9 2260 165 Sales Netherlands: +31 20 5037 710 info@alesco.net | www.alesco.net

3.1.1 cellulose based films

The HallStar Company 120 S. Riverside Plaza, Ste. 1620 Chicago, IL 60606, USA +1 312 385 4494 dmarshall@hallstar.com www.hallstar.com/hallgreen

Rhein Chemie Rheinau GmbH Duesseldorfer Strasse 23-27 68219 Mannheim, Germany Phone: +49 (0)621-8907-233 Fax: +49 (0)621-8907-8233 bioadimide.eu@rheinchemie.com www.bioadimide.com

Huhtamaki Forchheim Sonja Haug Zweibrückenstraße 15-25 91301 Forchheim Tel. +49-9191 81203 Fax +49-9191 811203 www.huhtamaki-films.com

INNOVIA FILMS LTD Wigton Cumbria CA7 9BG England Contact: Andy Sweetman Tel. +44 16973 41549 Fax +44 16973 41452 andy.sweetman@innoviafilms.com www.innoviafilms.com

Postbus 26 7480 AA Haaksbergen The Netherlands Tel.: +31 616 121 843 info@bio4pack.com www.bio4pack.com

www.earthfirstpla.com www.sidaplax.com www.plasticsuppliers.com Sidaplax UK : +44 (1) 604 76 66 99 Sidaplax Belgium: +32 9 210 80 10 Plastic Suppliers: +1 866 378 4178

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Suppliers Guide

Cortec® Corporation 4119 White Bear Parkway St. Paul, MN 55110 Tel. +1 800.426.7832 Fax 651-429-1122 info@cortecvci.com www.cortecvci.com

Eco Cortec® 31 300 Beli Manastir Bele Bartoka 29 Croatia, MB: 1891782 Tel. +385 31 705 011 Fax +385 31 705 012 info@ecocortec.hr www.ecocortec.hr

Minima Technology Co., Ltd. Esmy Huang, Marketing Manager No.33. Yichang E. Rd., Taipin City, Taichung County 411, Taiwan (R.O.C.) Tel. +886(4)2277 6888 Fax +883(4)2277 6989 Mobil +886(0)982-829988 esmy@minima-tech.com Skype esmy325 www.minima-tech.com

NOVAMONT S.p.A. Via Fauser , 8 28100 Novara - ITALIA Fax +39.0321.699.601 Tel. +39.0321.699.611 www.novamont.com

WEI MON INDUSTRY CO., LTD. 2F, No.57, Singjhong Rd., Neihu District, Taipei City 114, Taiwan, R.O.C. Tel. + 886 - 2 - 27953131 Fax + 886 - 2 - 27919966 sales@weimon.com.tw www.plandpaper.com

6. Equipment

8. Ancillary equipment

6.1 Machinery & Molds

9. Services

FAS Converting Machinery AB O Zinkgatan 1/ Box 1503 27100 Ystad, Sweden Tel.: +46 411 69260 www.fasconverting.com

10.2 Universities

Molds, Change Parts and Turnkey Solutions for the PET/Bioplastic Container Industry 284 Pinebush Road Cambridge Ontario Canada N1T 1Z6 Tel. +1 519 624 9720 Fax +1 519 624 9721 info@hallink.com www.hallink.com

Roll-o-Matic A/S Petersmindevej 23 5000 Odense C, Denmark Tel. + 45 66 11 16 18 Fax + 45 66 14 32 78 rom@roll-o-matic.com www.roll-o-matic.com

MANN+HUMMEL ProTec GmbH Stubenwald-Allee 9 64625 Bensheim, Deutschland Tel. +49 6251 77061 0 Fax +49 6251 77061 510 info@mh-protec.com www.mh-protec.com 6.2 Laboratory Equipment

MODA : Biodegradability Analyzer Saida FDS Incorporated 3-6-6 Sakae-cho, Yaizu, Shizuoka, Japan Tel : +81-90-6803-4041 info@saidagroup.jp www.saidagroup.jp 7. Plant engineering

President Packaging Ind., Corp. PLA Paper Hot Cup manufacture In Taiwan, www.ppi.com.tw Tel.: +886-6-570-4066 ext.5531 Fax: +886-6-570-4077 sales@ppi.com.tw

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Osterfelder Str. 3 46047 Oberhausen Tel.: +49 (0)2861 8598 1227 Fax: +49 (0)2861 8598 1424 thomas.wodke@umsicht.fhg.de www.umsicht.fraunhofer.de

European Bioplastics e.V. Marienstr. 19/20 10117 Berlin, Germany Tel. +49 30 284 82 350 Fax +49 30 284 84 359 info@european-bioplastics.org www.european-bioplastics.org

Uhde Inventa-Fischer GmbH Holzhauser Str. 157 - 159 13509 Berlin, Germany Tel. +49 (0)30 43567 5 Fax +49 (0)30 43567 699 sales.de@thyssenkrupp.com www.uhde-inventa-fischer.com

Institut für Kunststofftechnik Universität Stuttgart Böblinger Straße 70 70199 Stuttgart Tel +49 711/685-62814 Linda.Goebel@ikt.uni-stuttgart.de www.ikt.uni-stuttgart.de

narocon Dr. Harald Kaeb Tel.: +49 30-28096930 kaeb@narocon.de www.narocon.de

nova-Institut GmbH Chemiepark Knapsack Industriestrasse 300 50354 Huerth, Germany Tel.: +49(0)2233-48-14 40 Fax: +49(0)2233-48-14 5

Bioplastics Consulting Tel. +49 2161 664864 info@polymediaconsult.com 10. Institutions 10.1 Associations

BPI - The Biodegradable Products Institute 331 West 57th Street, Suite 415 New York, NY 10019, USA Tel. +1-888-274-5646 info@bpiworld.org

Michigan State University Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science Professor Ramani Narayan East Lansing MI 48824, USA Tel. +1 517 719 7163 narayan@msu.edu

University of Applied Sciences Faculty II, Department of Bioprocess Engineering Heisterbergallee 12 30453 Hannover, Germany Tel. +49 (0)511-9296-2212 Fax +49 (0)511-9296-2210 hans-josef.endres@fh-hannover.de www.fakultaet2.fh-hannover.de

Subscribe now and get a gift* and the next six issues for € 149,–** please fill in the form and fax to +49-2161-6884468 or subscribe online at www.bioplasticsmagazine.com and mention the promotion code (see box below) Mrs.

Mr.

Name:

First Name:

Title:

Function:

Company: Department:

R&D

Purchasing Sales

Marketing / PR

Project Dept.

other:

Address Street/No.: Town:

ZIP (Postal Code):

Country:

State:

Phone:

Fax:

Email:

http://www.

Kind of business or interest in the field “bioplastics“ University / Research / Science

Trade (Brand owner, Wholesale, Retail)

Institution / Association

Enduser

Raw material supplier

Politics / Administration

PR / Marketing / Advertising agent

Machine- / Equipment supplier

Converter (please specify, e.g. film blowing, injection molding, blow molding) Other (please specify) Creditcard information

Amex

Visa

Mastercard

I prefer to pay by money transfer I will pay by PayPal to mt@bioplasticsmagazine.de

0-5 6-20 21-100

Name on card:

101-500

Card number: Expiry date:

No. of Employees

500-1000 Verification code:

more than 1000

Amount approved: EUR 149.00 Signature:

VAT-number (EU only, except Germany): An invoice will be mailed to you soon.

Promotion code

201199

**offer valid until January 31, 2012

*If you return this form or subscribe online with promotion code before December 31, 2011, you‘ll get a nice daypack-rucksack. Every 10th new suscriber will get a watch.

Subscription

Companies in this issue Company

Editorial

A & O FilmPAC

Advert 55

ACMA GD

Adsale (Chinplas)

Ajax Amsterdam

Company

Editorial

Institute of Bioplastics & Biocomposites

Iowa State University

Kingfa

Advert

Lanxess

Alesco

Limagrain

API

Logotape

Arkema

Lower Austrian Plastics Cluster

BASF

23, 29

Mann+Hummel

Bio On

Maropack

Bio4Life

McCain

Bio4Pack

Michigan State University

Biosphere

Minima

BPI

Naku

narocon

NatureWorks

5, 6, 34

Braskem

5, 6, 9

Brﾃｼckner

57 57

Carle Montanari

Natur-Tec

Celabor

NNFCC

Centroplast

Norres

nova-Institut

Cereplast

Cobro

Novamont

22, 24

57, 60

Constantia Topepal

Plastic Suppliers

Cortec

37, 57

President Pck.

Danone

3, 10, 11

PSM

Deutsches Kunststoff-Institut (DKI)

PTT Chemical

DSM

57 55 5

Purac

Du Pont

PURAC

37, 55

Ecomann

Rhein Chemie

47, 56

Roll-o-matic

ecoplus

Eosta

European Bioplastics

10, 11

European Plastics News

FAS Converting

Saida 57

Sant窶連nna

Sappi Fine papers

SFV Verpackungen

Shenzhen Brightchina

FH Hannover

FH Hannover (IfBB)

FKuR

5, 14, 38

Flexico

SPI (NPE)

Fraunhofer IVV

Sukano

Fraunhofer UMSICHT

Fujitsu Goglio Cofibox

Showa Denko 2, 55

Slovenian Tool and Development Centre

40 12 56

Synbra Technology

Taghleef Industries

18, 20

Tecnaro

Grace biotec

Telles

55, 59

Hallink

Tianan Biologic

HallStar

Transmare

Henkel

7, 48

Huhtamaki ICEA

Uhde Inventa-Fischer Umbra Olii

USDA

Wei Mon

43, 57

25, 56

Wuhan Huali (PSM)

Xinfu

IKT Uni Stuttgart Innovia Films

32, 37

Institut Nationale des Sciences Apliquﾃｩes

38, 57

Issue

Month

pub-date

deadline

Editorial Focus (1)

Editorial Focus (2)

Basics

Event / Fair

01/2012

Jan/Feb

06.02.12

06.01.12 ed. 20.01.12 ad.

Automotive

Foam

PLA

NPE 2012 (Preview)

02/2012

Mar/Apr

02.04.12

02.03.12 ed. 16.03.12 ad.

Rigid Packaging

Additives / Masterbatches

Thermoforming

Chinaplas (Preview)

03/2012

May/Jun

04.06.12

04.05.12 ed. 18.05.12 ad.

Injection Moulding

Natural Fibre composites

Castor Oil for Bioplastics

NPE 2012 (Review) Chinaplas (Review)

04/2012

Jul/Aug

06.08.12

06.07.12 ed. 20.07.12 ad.

Bioplastics from Waste streams

Blow moulding

Bioplastics from Protein

bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/11] Vol. 6

Subject to changes

Editorial Planner 2012

A real sign of sustainable development.

There is such a thing as genuinely sustainable development. Since 1989, Novamont researchers have been working on an ambitious project that combines the chemical industry, agriculture and the environment: “Living Chemistry for Quality of Life”. Its objective has been to create products with a low environmental impact. The result of Novamont’s innovative research is the new bioplastic Mater-Bi®. Mater-Bi® is a family of materials, completely biodegradable and compostable which contain renewable raw materials such as starch and vegetable oil derivates. Mater-Bi® performs like traditional plastics but it saves energy, contributes to reducing the greenhouse effect and at the end of its life cycle, it closes the loop by changing into fertile humus. Everyone’s dream has become a reality.

Mater-Bi®: certified biodegradable and compostable.

Living Chemistry for Quality of Life. www.novamont.com

Inventor of the year 2007