How can the properties of bioplastics be improved?

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How can the properties of bioplastics be improved?

Monday, 14 November, 2022

The demand for sustainable product solutions is compelling in the plastics sector, particularly when it comes to packing and packaging and applications for agriculture.

Consequently, there is currently a wide range of “bioplastics” on offer, although only a few are bio-based and biodegradable.
 

PLA, a promising bioplastic

One polymer that meets the two requirements to be a bioplastic is polylactic acid (PLA).

It can be used alone and combined with other polymers, some of which are also considered “bioplastics”, such as PBAT and PBS.

As well as exhibiting excellent properties, PLA also entails a number of weaknesses. Fortunately, they can be counteracted by blending it with other plastics, by incorporating additives or by using a combination of these two methods.
 



Figure 1: Property profile of various plastics


The new range for PLA: SCONA TPPL

BYK’s new additives in the SCONA TPPL series are perfect for this goal.

They act as compatibilising agents, coupling agents, viscosity modifiers or dispersing agents, according to the specific product and its application. In all cases they hugely enhance the properties of the compound, for instance by strengthening fibre-matrix bonds or increasing the strength of the melted material.

All the additives from the SCONA TPPL are PLA-based and are supplied in coarse grain powder form, making them easy to incorporate.

Below is a table setting out the features of this product range:
 

 SCONA TPPL
1112 PA		SCONA TPPL
5112 PA		SCONA TPPL
1214 PA		SCONA TPPL
1310 PA
Product typePowderPowderPowderPowder

MVR
(190 ºC/2,16 Kg)

1 – 8 cm3/10 min20 – 30 cm3/10 minNo medible3 – 10 cm3/10 min
GraftingMaleic anhydrideMaleic anhydrideGlycidyl methacrylateAcrylic acid
Grafting level>1,0%>1,0%>2,5%>3,0%
ApplicationCompatibilising agent, coupling agentCompatibilising agent, coupling agent, dispersing agentViscosity modifier, compatibilising agent, coupling agentSynergistic agent for viscosity modification, dispersing agent
Recommended useCompatibilising agent for PLA-based polymer blends, coupling agent for filled PLA systemsCompatibilising agent for PLA-based polymer blends, coupling agent with enhanced flow in filled PLA systemsImproves the viscosity of melted PLASynergistic agent for improving the viscosity of melted PLA in combination with conventional epoxy-functionalised enhancers
Dosage1,0 – 10 %1,0 – 10 %2,0 – 10 %0,5 – 5 %
Food contactEU 10/2011EU 10/2011Not assessedNot assessed


A host of benefits

The SCONA TPPL series offers a broad spectrum of benefits in a range of uses. These are specified below:

  • Bio-based and biodegradable
  • As a viscosity modifier
    • Greater melt strength
    • Shorter mixing time without compromising on performance
    • Same chemical structure as the base polymer product for simple and even incorporation

 



Figure 2: Greater melt strength with SCONA TPPL 1214 PA
 

  • As a compatibilising agent
    • mproved miscibility and excellent compatibility with other (bio)polymers such as PBS or PBAT to increase the mechanical properties of the compound



Figure 3: Improved compatibility in polymer blends due to additives from the SCONA TPPL series
 

  • As a coupling agent
    • Stronger fibre-matrix bonding for higher mechanical resistance
    • Easier processability of the composite material
  • As a dispersing agent
    • Simple and even dispersion of all components of the formulation for better product properties
       

All in all, the SCONA TPPL range of products offers a broad spectrum of benefits when it comes to enhancing the properties of a biopolymer with a broadly sustainable future; namely, PLA.

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