Linda Nilsson, project manager, Market Development /Innovation, Perstorp, said the main advantage of Capa is the versatility of the product; enabling the use of biopolymers in broader areas of application thanks to the enhancement of the mechanical properties both for durables as well as disposables.
For disposables, the biodegradation rate as well as providing a stable shelf life for the product, gives it a competitive edge.
Biodegradeable material
“We see this product as a solution for compostable bags that are widely used today among many other interesting applications of course,” she said.
“Thanks to the mechanical properties it can be made into lasting bags that can be used for carrying fruits and vegetables and at the same time a perfect bag for disposing the peels and the remains of the same when throwing them away in the compost bin since the material is readily biodegradable.
“No leakages, no smell and no flies – just tie up the bag when it’s full and throw it in the bio-waste.”
Nilsson added that with a projected growth in bioplastics of 500% between 2011-2016, as stated by European Bioplastics, this is a very exciting growth area.
K Fair
She said considerable investments have been made in caprolactones to ensure Capa products address key issues related to plastic materials, such as sustainability, biodegradability and product safety.
Bioplastics that are biodegradable, such as PLA (PolyLactic Acid) and TPS (ThermoPlastic Starch), are reportedly attractive to both consumers and producers, as they offer new ways of recovery and recycling.
Perstorp’s caprolactones enhance the properties of bioplastics allowing them to be used for new market opportunities and applications.
Perstorp will also be showcasing other products at K Fair for carbon source for intumescent flame-retardants, non-phthalate plasticizers for sensitive applications and high heat resistant transparent thermoplastic co-polyesters for plastic packaging and durable applications.