Purac introduces new solutions for PLA bio-plastics industry

Bio-plastics producers should find it easier to enter the Poly-Lactic Acid (PLA) market following the decision of CSM subsidiary Purac to extend its portfolio to include lactides. In addition, Purac has developed components which make it possible to efficiently produce bio-plastics that withstand temperatures of at least 175 degreesC for applications such as hot fill bottles, microwaveable trays, temperature resistant fibers, electronics and automotive parts. 

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 bio-plastics producers can now produce compounds for a wide variety of new high-end applications.’ PURAC has filed several patents to protect its technologies.