Bioplastic for deep-freeze packaging

In cooperation with a number of converters, FKuR has developed a sustainable deep-freeze packaging made from renewable resources. The basis of the film structure is FKuR’s Bio-Flex range of certified compostable biofilms.

Bioplastics are a class of polymers which have properties comparable to conventional polymers, but are made from renewable resources or enable biodegradability of the products made from this material. To highlight their sustainable and ecological image, an increasing number of converters are looking for packaging made from renewable resources which are biodegradable and certified to the ASTM D 6400 standard.

When considering the performance of deep-freeze packaging, the material’s mechanical properties at low temperatures are particularly crucial. High impact strength and dart drop strength at these temperatures are a must in order to succeed. Low glass-transition temperatures as well as a homogeneous material with excellent distribution of functional additives are the keys to meeting these requirements.

To obtain the film properties required for deep-freeze packaging, FKuR found that a three-layer system made from Bio-Flex F 2110 / Bio-Flex A 4100 CL / Bio-Flex F 2110 can be used. This film has a very appealing gloss surface together with great strength and chemical resistance along with demonstrating good barrier properties for a bioplastic.

Both resins are based on a blend of PLA and other biodegradable materials. Bio-Flex F 2110 as well as Bio-Flex A 4100 CL are compostable according to ASTM D 6400 and are food contact approved.

Bio-Flex F 2110 is a translucent film with very good impact resistance at low temperatures and is especially useful in co-extrusions with other Bio-Flex grades. Its mechanical characteristics are very similar to HDPE.

Bio-Flex A 4100 CL represents a specialty amongst bioplastics. It is a transparent PLA-based blend which can be converted into a blown film. Bio-Flex A 4100 CL is a rather rigid grade and the mechanical characteristics are comparable to those of PP. This material is often used in the packaging of fruit, vegetables and flowers, as well as part of a co-extruded film.

FKuR Plastics Corp products are distributed in New Zealand and Australia by TCL Hunt.