Biodegradable bioplastics are gaining significant interest, particularly in single-use applications like packaging, due to growing global awareness of plastic pollution. Materials such as PLA (polylactic acid) and PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates) are becoming popular choices because they can break down into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass, thus reducing the environmental impact of plastic waste. This shift has been driven by new legislation targeting single-use plastics, accelerating the demand for sustainable alternatives.
However, the effectiveness of these bioplastics is not always straightforward. For proper biodegradation, these materials require specific environmental conditions, such as industrial composting settings. In landfills, where oxygen is scarce, bioplastics may not degrade effectively. While some bioplastics are home-compostable, the global capacity for industrial composting remains limited, potentially hindering the benefits of biodegradability. Additionally, consumers may not always be aware of the consequences of improper disposal, further complicating the adoption of biodegradable materials.
Bio-Composites: Addressing the Limitations of Bioplastics
To overcome the limitations of conventional bioplastics, the industry is turning to bio-composites. These materials combine bioplastics with natural fibre fillers, such as wood pulp, wood flour, and cotton. This approach enhances the mechanical properties of bioplastics, making them stronger and more durable for a broader range of applications while maintaining biodegradability.
Despite their promise, bio-composites also face challenges, particularly when exposed to high extrusion temperatures that can degrade natural fibres and affect the quality of the material.
While the potential of biodegradable bioplastics and bio-composites remains substantial, a gap still exists between their promise and widespread implementation. Continued development of composting infrastructure and innovative materials, like bio-composites, may help bridge this gap in the future.
ESA Plastics Reduction Initiative
a.) SWG Spacers: Moving Beyond Plastic
Plastic spacers are commonly used to separate spiral wound gaskets during transport to prevent damage to the sensitive graphite sealing surfaces. However, during a recent Environmental Social Governance (ESG) meeting in Düsseldorf, it was noted that alternative materials like silicone and biodegradable substitutes present their own challenges in terms of recyclability and shelf life. These alternatives still require plastic adhesive tape or foil, and bio-compostable options typically have a limited shelf life of 6–8 months.
Proposed solutions:
- Eliminate the use of spacers and self-adhesive tape entirely, though this increases the risk of surface damage.
- Replace plastic spacers with thin, glossy densified paper or carton between gaskets.
- For smaller gasket sizes, utilise cardboard tubes, which are already in widespread use.
- Larger gaskets can be individually packed or stacked using cardboard separators, avoiding plastic spacers altogether.
The ESA is also exploring the feasibility of moulded cardboard spacers, despite challenges posed by narrow dimensions. Collaborations with cardboard and paper manufacturers are underway to find viable alternatives.
b.) Alternatives for PE Plastic Foil
Finding sustainable alternatives to polyethylene (PE) plastic foil remains a challenge, particularly in terms of shelf life and recycling processes. Many countries still struggle to sort and recycle these materials effectively.
Sandy Van den Broeck has initiated further discussions with cardboard and paper manufacturers to explore innovative alternatives, such as flexible paper, as a potential replacement for plastic wrapping. He will also attend the Greener Manufacturing Conference & Expo 2024 in Cologne on 13-14th November.
This search for viable solutions will continue as the industry works to reduce reliance on plastic packaging.
Sandy Van den Broeck,
ESG Director, ESA