Compostable Products
Compostable – (also loosely known as “bio-based plastics” or “bioplastics” or “Hydro Bio Degradable Plastics”) and designed as per EN 13432 or ASTM D6400 to biodegrade in the special conditions found in industrial or anaerobic direction.
Production Process
Bio Plastics are made partly or completely from Bio mass (plants). The Bio Mass are derived mainly from stems from plants like corn, sugarcane, potato, cellulose, etc. The Biodegradation of these plastics happen by conversion of this material by micro-organisms to natural elements like water, CO2 and biomass. This happens without addition of any external additive. The process of Biodegradation however depends on surrounding temperature, location, etc.
Basic classification of Bio Plastics is;
Biobased or partially biobased non-biodegradable plastics such as Biobased PE, PP or PET and biobased performance polymers like PTT (Poly Tri methylene Terephthalate) or TPC-ET (Thermoplastic Copolyester Elastomer)
Plastics that are both biobased and biodegradable viz. PLA (Poly Lactic Acid), PHA (Poly Hydroxy Alkanoates) or PBS (Poly Butylene Succinate)
Plastics that are based on fossil resources and are biodegradable viz PBAT (Poly Butyrate
Adipate Terephthalate)
Advantages
Environmental Sustainability: Unlike traditional plastics, compostable packaging breaks down into natural elements like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass within a specified time frame, significantly reducing landfill waste and pollution.
Soil Enrichment: When composted, these materials contribute valuable nutrients to the soil, promoting healthier plant growth and enhancing soil quality, thus supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
Lower Carbon Footprint: The production of compostable packaging typically requires less energy compared to conventional plastic manufacturing, leading to reduced greenhouse gas emissions throughout its lifecycle.
Consumer Appeal: With growing awareness of environmental issues, compostable packaging enhances brand image and attracts eco-conscious consumers who prefer sustainable products.
Disadvantages
Needs Composting environment for degradation. Doesn’t degrade in Open Environment like Oxo Biodegradable Products
Consume useful food resources like Water, Corn leaving huge impact on environment
Difficult to recycle and reuse
Scarce and expensive raw material supplies, hence very expensive (4 times normal plastic bags) and has longer lead time for supplies.
Test Standards