Wacker is launching an improved binder for the next generation of bioplastics. The Vinnex binder system is said to enable polymers based on renewable raw materials to be processed just like conventional thermoplastics. According to the company, the system enhances the physical properties of bioplastics and makes different materials compatible with each other.
The Munich-based company states that this vinyl-acetate-based polymer binder system enables manufacturers to develop high-performance blends of bioplastics. These can be processed with conventional equipment without need for modification, says Wacker. Vinnex is said to make injection moulding, extrusion, vacuum forming, thermoforming and calendering much easier.
The binder is said to be compatible with many biopolymers. Different Vinnex grades can be combined with one or more biopolyesters and fillers in a modular system. Depending on the application, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polybutylene succinate (PBS) and starch, for example, can be used to create various polymer blends. This is said to improve the physical properties of biopolymers, which are difficult to process otherwise.
Vinnex opens up an expanding range of applications for biopolymers. For example, the new blends can be processed into food packaging materials, brochures, parts for electronic appliances or self-degradable gardening and agricultural containers. Under industrial composting conditions, the tested Vinnex polymer blends – with typical binder contents of 10 to 30% – biodegrade in less than 180 days. Experts estimate that bioplastics could replace up to 90% of all conventional plastics in the future.
www.wacker.com
Binder system for easy processing of biopolymer blends, which can be used to manufacture biodegradable bioplastics for food packaging and containers. (photo: Wacker)
