The Evolution of Biodegradable Plastics: Exploring Corn-Based, Petrochemical, and Compostable Options
When it comes to the materials used in manufacturing plastics, the conversation often circles around two broad categories: biodegradable plastics and traditional, petrochemical-based plastics. This article will explore the evolution of biodegradable plastics, from corn-based options to compostable products. We will also discuss the challenges and advancements in this field.
Corn-Based Biodegradable Plastics
Corn-based biodegradable plastics have been gaining traction in recent years due to their eco-friendly properties. These plastics are derived from natural plant materials such as corn oil, orange peels, and starch. Unlike traditional plastics, which are made with chemical fillers that can harm the environment, corn-based biodegradable plastics break down under biological processes, reducing their impact on the planet.
Petrochemical-Based Biodegradable Plastics
Traditional biodegradable plastics were initially designed to break into smaller pieces under biological processes. However, as these pieces still exist and may not completely degrade, a focus has shifted to more sustainable materials. Petrochemical-based biodegradable plastics are a key part of this shift. They are derived from petrochemical sources like oil, but aim to be more biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Even though these plastics can be broken down over time, the current standard is to classify them as biodegradable rather than fully compostable.
Compostable Plastics: The Best of Both Worlds
Compostable plastics represent the most advanced stage in the development of biodegradable plastics. These materials can break down completely into natural elements after a certain period. Compostable plastics are made from biobased sources such as corn starch, polylactic acid (PLA), sugar cane, and other plant-derived materials. A notable example is the Dasani “Plant Bottle,” which is made from polyethylene derived from plant sources. However, it is important to note that even though these bottles are plant-based, they can be recycled traditionally and are not considered biodegradable.
Strength and Applications
One of the significant challenges with biodegradable plastics is achieving the same strength and durability as traditional petrochemical plastics. Corn-based and compostable plastics generally have lower strength compared to conventional plastics, particularly when exposed to heat or filled with hot contents. This has limited their applications in rigid packaging. However, some European companies have made significant advancements in developing rigid packaging from biodegradable materials, addressing this limitation.
Challenges and Market Trends
The advancements in biodegradable plastics are driven by increasing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. Companies are now more focused on finding sustainable raw materials that can reduce the environmental footprint of their products. Consumers are also showing a growing preference for eco-friendly products, which is driving innovation in this sector. Therefore, the future of biodegradable plastics looks promising, with continuous improvements in material properties and applications.
Conclusion
The journey of biodegradable plastics from corn-based options to compostable materials is a testament to human ingenuity in finding sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. While there are still limitations, the advancements in this field are encouraging. As more companies join the quest for eco-friendly packaging, we can expect to see a significant transformation in the plastics industry.
Further Reading and Resources
For those interested in exploring the development and applications of biodegradable plastics in more detail, here are some resources to consider:
EPA's Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) PLA Alliance to learn more about poly lactic acid (PLA) European Bioplastics for information on the European market and trendsBy staying informed and supporting companies that prioritize sustainable practices, we can contribute to a more sustainable future.