SDK develops new bio-based biodegradable plastic

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JAPAN – Showa Denko K.K. (SDK) has introduced a new biodegradable polyester resin which can be fully decomposed after use into water and carbon dioxide.

The biodegradable resin – Bionolle – is produced using succinic acid made from starches or sugars. With its special volume production technology, SDK says about 50% of the main raw materials for Bionolle are now bio-derived. For a different variant Bionolle Starcia, in which starch is mixed with Bionolle, the ratio can be increased to about 70%.

Both Bionolle and Bionolle Starcia have been certified compostable by OK Compost and DIN CERTCO according to EN 13432.

SDK says it has already tested the use of Bionolle in compost bags in mulch films already, and is now manufacturing film-grade samples and test-marketing it to some customers, including Natur-Tec - a division of Northern Technologies International Corp, a US-based global bioplastics products manufacturer.

Natur-Tec is already using conventional grades of Bionolle for certain high-volume consumer goods packaging applications developed by Harita-NTI Ltd, its joint-venture in India.

Vineet Dalal, Vice President and Director of Global Market Development for NTIC’s Natur-Tec Business Unit, said, "Our customers are increasingly demanding higher biobased carbon content in our materials, in order to reduce the overall carbon footprint of their finished products. We are excited at the possibility of incorporating SDK’s bio-derived Bionolle into our compounds and converted plastic products, to meet this burgeoning market demand.”

Encouraged by positive customer feedback and increased consumer awareness of the need for environmental protection, SDK says it aims to expand Bionelle sales.

“By the end of this year, SDK will be able to secure the supply of 10,000-20,000 tons a year of bio-derived succinic acid. The company will therefore step up its activity to meet new demand,” said the Tokyo-headquartered company.