Page 80 - Plastics News May 2024

IN THE NEWS

tailored for various applications, in- Performance: Some biodegradable healthcare.
cluding food packaging and medical plastics may have limitations in terms Consumer Goods: Eco-friendly prod-
implants. of mechanical strength, barrier proper- ucts such as cutlery, cups, and hy-
ties, and shelf life compared to tradi-
Starch-Based Plastics: These plastics giene products leverage biodegradable
are derived from agricultural crops tional plastics. plastics to meet consumer demand for
such as potatoes, wheat, or corn. They Recycling Infrastructure: Proper dis- sustainable choices.
are biodegradable and suitable for ap- posal and recycling infrastructure for Automotive: Biodegradable materials
plications like bags, films, and foam biodegradable plastics are essential to in automotive components and inte-
packaging. maximize their environmental benefits.
rior furnishings contribute to greener
Polybutylene Succinate (PBS): PBS is Regulatory Compliance: Standards transportation solutions.
a bio-based polyester with good me- and certifications ensure the qual-
chanical properties. It is used in pack- ity and biodegradability of these plas- Conclusion:
aging, mulch films, and agricultural tics, requiring adherence to regulatory The evolution of biodegradable plas-
applications. frameworks. tics represents a significant step to-

Polyethylene Furanoate (PEF): PEF is a F. Applications and Future Trends wards achieving a greener and more
bio-based polyester with potential as a Biodegradable plastics find diverse ap- sustainable future. With ongoing re-
substitute for PET (polyethylene tere- plications across industries, including: search, technological innovation, and
phthalate) in beverage bottles, offering collaboration across industries, bio-
improved barrier properties and envi- Packaging: Biodegradable packaging degradable plastics are poised to play
ronmental sustainability. materials offer sustainable alternatives a pivotal role in reducing plastic pol-
for food packaging, shopping bags, lution, conserving natural resources,
E. Challenges and Considerations
and single-use plastics. and promoting environmental stew-
While biodegradable plastics offer sig- Agriculture: Biodegradable mulch ardship. Embracing these eco-friendly
nificant environmental benefits, they films, plant pots, and agricultural im- alternatives is not just a choice but a
also face challenges and considera- plements support eco-friendly farming necessity in safeguarding our planet
tions that warrant attention: practices. for future generations.
Cost: Production costs of biodegrad- Medical: Biodegradable polymers are Source – Plastic Technology
able plastics are often higher than used in medical implants, drug de-
conventional plastics, impacting their livery systems, and surgical sutures,
widespread adoption.
minimizing environmental impact in

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