Corn / sugarcane bioplastics
Corn / sugarcane plastics are plastics made from PLA material (polylactide, polylactic agents). PLA products in both appearance and texture resemble conventional plastic, but are 100% biodegradable and compostable. Corn cultivation is annual and renewable, which is why corn plastics are much more environmentally friendly than conventional oil-based ones.
What is PLA?
The PLA initials represent the initials of the words poly – lactic – acid. It is a polymer used in a variety of applications. PLA is made from lactic acid; lactic acid is produced by dextrose by fermentation. Dextrose, in turn, is produced from corn starch, which consists of carbon dioxide and water. As you can see on our website, PLA is the raw material for many products, such as soft drinks, food bowls, disposable straws, cutlery, etc.
What is the PLA’s heat resistance?
PLA products withstand temperatures up to 50 degrees Celsius. It is important to keep products away from direct sunlight and in a cool, moisture-free place. PLA cutlery has higher heat resistance, up to 60 degrees Celsius, temperature of very hot food.
How long does it take for PLA products to biodegrade or be composted?
PLA is fully biodegradable and compostable. In commercial composting conditions (with elevated temperature and ideal fermentation conditions), the PLA will be composted in about 30-45 days. If placed in a simple household compost bin, the process will be slower.
If I throw PLA in the trash can I biodegrade it in the landfill?
Most landfills do not favor the biodegradation of any waste! With this in mind, we can safely say that the PLA will react like any other organic waste, such as decay. PLA is fully compostable in composting space. In addition, the origin of PLA is from renewable sources (corn), while conventional plastics are produced from petroleum.
What products are made of PLA?
Some of the most basic products are: glasses, cutlery, food / ice cream containers, bags, toiletries and disposable items in general. Day by day, new products are being developed and very soon every conventional plastic product will have its PLA counterpart.
