AGRANA’S NEW BIOPLASTIC
DEVELOPED FROM
THERMOPLASTIC STARCH
Agrana has launched its bioplastic
AgenaComp. A 50:50 blend of thermoplastic
starch and a biologically degradable polyester
has given rise to a bioplastic compound which
is fully compostable at home.
“This is the first product for the bioplastic
market containing such a high proportion of
starch (the market standard is only around
25%) and one which makes the product
compostable at home. The TÜV-certified
compost tests revealed 100% degradation
without microplastic residues,” explains
Agrana ceo Johann Marihart. Diverse
application areas exist for Agrana’s new
bioplastic compound, ranging from thin bags
for fruit and vegetables to thicker carrier bags
and even as packaging film.
Biodegradable plastics are not
always compostable
The terms ‘biodegradable’ and ‘compostable’
are used both in connection with plastics
made from renewable resources (bioplastics)
as well as certain materials based on mineral
oil. But not all biodegradable bioplastics
are compostable. Critics are particularly
sensitive when it comes to the imprecise term
‘biodegradable’ because the international
guidelines relevant for this classification
cooperation. By joining forces, we can
realise our ideas in a more targeted
way and shape the future of packaging
together,” says Petra Einarsson,
president and ceo of BillerudKorsnäs.
Pearl: new paper-based
packaging concept
The first concrete result of this enhanced
collaboration is the development of a
new packaging concept called Pearl.
It aims to show how uniquely formed
and right-sized small packages, called
shaped paper pods, can contribute to
a more sustainable future by utilising
the unique formability of the FibreForm
material (3D-formable paper patented
by BillerudKorsnäs). The material is
processed on machinery from Bosch
Packaging Technology, who not only
contributes long-standing expertise in
forming, filling and sealing of a wide
variety of materials to the cooperation
but also ensures the subsequent
industrialisation of the newly developed
technologies for commercial production.
In industries like beauty and personal
care, bread spreads, savoury and
confectionery, single-use plastic
packaging is widespread. “The goal
is to support these industries with a
sustainable packaging system and
replace plastic in product samples,
inserts, refills, portion packs and
disposable packaging,” says Simon
Johansson, project manager at
Packaging Solutions BillerudKorsnäs.
“We have already passed several
milestones in the project,” Torsten Sauer,
project manager sustainability at Bosch
Packaging Technology adds. “Now we
are inviting selected brand owners to
join our journey towards a sustainable
future.”
12 AUGUST 2019