BioMatNet Item: FAIR-CT96-3070 - Production of biodegradable films and bottles made of polylactic acid polymers (PLA)

FAIR-CT96-3070
Production of biodegradable films and bottles made of polylactic acid polymers (PLA)

To find similar Items, click on a keyword below:
Biopolymers/Gums : FAIR Area 1.2 - Green Chemicals and Polymers Chain : Packaging : Paints/Coatings/Plastics : Sugar

	Type of Project	Shared Cost
	Contract No	FAIR-CT96-3070
	Total Cost	2,835,103 ECU
	EC Contribution	1,700,000 ECU
	Start Date	01/09/1997
	Duration	36 Months

Production of biodegradable films and bottles made of polylactic acid polymers (PLAs)

Objectives

Technical Approach

Conventional methods for producing polylactic acid polymers (PLAs) use a partly batch process or technologies inadequate for a large-scale production. The goal of the proposed project is to develop a totally continuous large-scale process to produce, at lower cost, PLA with mechanical properties and thermal stability at least similar to currently available PLA products. It will also produce enough polymer to enable processing industries to evaluate whether it is adequate for their applications.

Expected Results

showing that this new type of process works on a semi industrial scale
assembling of units
detailed evaluation of the global profitability of the demonstration unit and bringing to light process steps where costs can be reduced
producing enough PLA for processing industries
evaluating the PLA properties, processability, production costs and its suitability for the applications
involving all parties concerned to allow fast commercial development of this polymer
making acquired knowledge recognised by all concerned parties, including the public, to promote the use of this new environment
environmentally friendly packaging material
giving samples of appropriate state to people wishing to evaluate the product in their production lines

Application

In addition to its biodegradable and biocompatible features, the PLA shows excellent mechanical characteristics that allowed it to be used for many plastic applications. Nevertheless, the packaging sector (processing refuse, large-scale production unit) seems to be the field where these kinds of products are very interesting.

Applications sectors include bottles; films for agricultural, sanitary and food uses; single-use medical products (operative dressings, blouses, etc.); thread, etc.

Results To Date

The pilot unit installation is completed and first tests are expected to start in November 1998.
Tests have been performed that allowed PLA specifications for film and bottle applications to be printed.

Contacts

Coordinator

EC Scientific Officer

Ciarán MANGAN / European Commission - DG Research Quality of Life Programme - Unit B1.2 / BELGIUM

Participant