UPM Raflatac launches range of biodegradable films

UPM Raflatac has launched its RafBio range of biodegradable cellulose films, PLA films, and paper faces combined with the company’s new biodegradable adhesive RP 55 Bio.

Aimed at the food, beverage and personal care segments, the range is designed to offer versatile options compliant to EN13432, the European standard for compostable packaging.

The RafBio cellulose films in Clear, White and Silver are made from renewable wood-pulp from managed plantations. They are sustainably sourced and home-compostable. Cellulose films are top-coated for good printability.

The RafBio PLA films in Clear and White are derived from corn starch and are suitable for direct food contact. These industrially compostable PLA films have naturally good printing properties, excellent scratch resistance and higher levels of transparency and gloss, says the company. They also offer resistance to moisture, fats and oils.

The newly launched RP 55 Bio adhesive has been formulated for sustainability and biodegradability. It includes a high content of renewable (non-fossil derived) materials. RP 55 Bio is available with the biodegradable films as well as two paper faces: Raflacoat Plus and Thermal ECO 300. Most papers can be classed as chemically unmodified materials of natural origin, and can be accepted as biodegradable without testing.

RafBio films are also supplied with UPM Raflatac's RP 37 adhesive. The adhesive itself isn’t biodegradable, but adhesive and ink amounts below 1 percent of the total packaging are ‘considered negligible’ under EN 13432, according to UPM Raflatac. RP 37 is water resistant.

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