PURAC introduces new solutions for PLA bio-plastics industry

CSM subsidiary PURAC, will extend its portfolio with Lactides, offering bio-plastics producers the technical and economical solutions

CSM subsidiary PURAC, global market leader in lactic acid will extend its portfolio with Lactides, offering bio-plastics producers the technical and economical solutions that have so far restrained them from entering the Poly-Lactic Acid (PLA) bio-plastics market.

In addition to its patented Lactide solutions, PURAC will expand its product portfolio with D(-) technology. With compounded (D- and L+) PLA polymers it is possible to efficiently produce bioplastics that withstand temperatures of at least 175 °C, for diverse applications such as hot-fill bottles, microwaveable trays, temperature resistant fibres, electronics and automotive parts.

Poly-Lactic Acid (PLA) is a raw material for bio-degradable plastics, an environmentally-friendly alternative to oil-based plastics. PLA is produced from lactic acid coming from agricultural products such as corn, sugar beet, tapioca and sugar cane.

Arno van de Ven, VP Chemicals and Pharma at PURAC says: “Market growth has been hampered by the availability of economically achievable production technology. By using Lactides as a monomer for PLA production, PURAC bridges the technology gap that currently restricts the plastics industry to accelerate the PLA market growth. The Lactide technology will reduce costs and investments for the bio-plastics industry and significantly contribute to the growth of the PLA market. With the new D(-) technology bioplastics producers can now produce compounds for a wide variety of new high-end applications. PURAC has filed several patents to protect its technologies”.

PURAC, together with leading plastics producers, is investigating the necessary investments to be able to meet future demand. Industry experts project a steady market growth as of 2010 when products will be available in sizeable volumes.

Source: Purac