BASF has added two new variants to its range of compostable and partially bio-based plastic ecovio, which was developed for bags and films extrusion previously.The new ecovio T2308 is available for thermoforming while ecovio IS 1335 is an injection molding grade. As said, they consist predominantly of renewable raw materials and lend themselves well for being dyed.
Thermoformed trays and cups can now be made with ecovio T2308, which has a high content of polylactic acid (PLA). BASF says its mechanical properties are similar to amorphous PET and the content of ecoflex, BASF’s compostable polyester, helped to maintain an optimum level of stiffness-to-strength ration and sufficient low-temperature impact strength.
The processing window for ecovio T is between 80°C and 120°C. Production can be carried out on conventional flat-film installations and at the processing speeds that are typical for thermoforming, according to the material supplier. Like all ecovio grades, ecovio T2308 also complies with the stipulations for products that come into contact with food. The material is translucent and can be adequately sealed with cover films.
The second novelty in the ecovio product line is the injection-molding grade ecovio IS1335, which is suitable for thin-walled, complex packaging. As said, it offers good stiffness and can be processed using single-cavity or multi-cavity molds that are equipped with or without hot runners. In-mold labeling (IML) can also be applied. BASF adds that this material exhibits moderate flowing characteristics and is dimensionally stable under heat up to 55°C.
In cooperation with independent institutes, BASF has conducted experiments on the compostability of injection molded test specimens. Results show that, depending on the application, injection molded products made of ecovio IS1335 having wall thicknesses of as much as 1.1mm degrade in accordance with the EN 13432 standard for compostable packaging.
Source: http://www.adsalecprj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-67004858/Article.aspx
