Bioplastics are being invested and applied in production and consumption in life. The reason why plastic pollution is happening is alarming, so many countries around the world have used bioplastics – bioplastics as a solution to the current plastic waste situation.

So what is bioplastic, why is bioplastic important in the production of replacing traditional plastic. Are all bioplastics fully biodegradable? Let’s find out more deeply with Biopolymer through the following article.

Things about bioplastics you don't know
Things about bioplastics you don’t know

1.What is Bioplastic?

Currently, there is no official concept of bioplastics, but according to the definition of the European Bioplastic Association (European Bioplastics): Bioplastic is a group of different materials, divided into 3 groups main:

  • Group 1: Bio-based plastics
  • Group 2: Biodegradable plastics
  • Group 3: Bio-based and biodegradable plastics
What is bioplastic
What is bioplastic

2. Are bioplastics as biodegradable as we often think?

In fact, bioplastics are divided into 3 main groups, with different origins, structural characteristics, and biodegradability, so there are many differences.

Classification of bioplastics. Source_ European Bioplastics
Classification of bioplastics. Source_ European Bioplastics

2.1. Bio-based plastics

Bio-based plastic is a type of plastic made from materials of biological origin such as tapioca, cornstarch, bagasse, coffee grounds, etc. During the production process, these materials will ferment into bioethanol. Then continue to synthesize directly and indirectly to become Ethylene and have the same properties as traditional plastic PP, PE, PET.

Popular bio-based plastics on the market today include Bio-PE, Bio-PP, Bio-PVS, Bio-PET, Bio-PA, Bio-PTT. Even though it is a plastic of biological origin, in terms of its nature, Bio-based plastic is completely non-biodegradable, but only degradable.

2.2 Biodegradable plastic

This is a biodegradable plastic that is derived from fossil fuels. The most commonly used raw materials are alcohols such as 1,4-butanediol; 1,3-propanediol is synthesized from chemicals of fossil origin. Biodegradable plastics popular on the market today include: PBAT, PCL, PBS and PEF.

2.3. Bio-based and biodegradable plastic

This is a plastic of both biological origin and the ability to biodegrade into CO2, H2O, and humus under the influence of microorganisms. To get this great product, it is because in the process of metabolism, biological materials such as starch, sugar, etc. have been fermented under the action of microorganisms or by physical action to become Lactic Acid. . After that, it will continue to undergo polymerization into molecules with Acid Polylactide chains that can decompose into H20, CO2.

The concept of biodegradation is the mechanism by which plastic is decomposed based on the action of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, algae) into H20, CO2 (or CH4), mineral salts and biomass (Biomass). Depending on biological materials, environmental conditions, decomposition time may vary, for example PHA: 18 – 300 days, PLA: 28 – 98 days. Popular biodegradable plastics on the market today include: PLA, PHA, PBS, TPS.

Biodegradation mechanism of bioplastics. Source Trinsenco
Biodegradation mechanism of bioplastics. Source Trinsenco

3. Current application of bioplastics in production

Bioplastics in manufacturing can also be processed in ways very similar to petrochemical plastics such as injection molding, extrusion and heat forming. To improve their tensile strength, bioplastic polymers can be blended with their copolymers or with other polymers. 

Products are biodegradable and short-lived.

  • Packaging
  • Shopping bags
  • Compostable waste collection bag
  • Tray and tray for vegetables, fruits, meat and eggs
  • Disposable food service utensils
  • Medical apps
  • Implants such as screws, pins or plates
  • Material for tablets and capsules

The product is non-biodegradable and durable

  • Automotive interiors such as seats, headrests or armrests
  • Mobile phone case
  • 3d printing
  • Oriented Biaxial -PLA metallized film for food packaging
  • Children’s products – Toys and Scissors
  • Modified PLA for durable applications – Automotive interiors and parts under the hood

Some products that Biopolymer is producing

In addition to producing bio-plastics from coffee grounds, we also produce products that are highly applicable in life such as:

  • Home Application: mugs, mugs, thermos flasks, etc.
  • Personal Care: masks, toothbrushes, combs, toothpicks, etc.
  • Furniture: tables, chairs, potted plants,…
  • F&B: spoon, fork, knife
  • Others: pens, cosmetic jars, …
Products made from coffee grounds
Products made from coffee grounds

See more: WHAT IS COFFEE BIO-COMPOSITE? PRICE OF BIO-PLASTIC PARTICLES

4. Purchasing Policy

Please visit Biopolymer Website, then click “Contact” and leave the necessary information. Our Biopolymer team will advise on sizes and quotes as soon as possible.

Biopolymer is proud to be the first company specializing in developing products made from coffee grounds in Vietnam as well as in the world. Diverse product lines applied from coffee bioplastics such as furniture, cups, cups, daily life, etc. are being further developed by the company in the future. The aim is to bring green solutions for the next generation, contributing to promoting favorable economic policies from biodegradable plastic.

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