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Materials News
Starch-based bioplastic with "new" properties
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tarch producer Roquette has developed the Gaļalene biopolymer, which it says is a completely new material with improved properties over similar materials. The French company also says the material has 50% plant material content, which is not the result of mixing or compounding but a product of genuine semisynthesis, hence the original properties.To be introduced at the K2010, Gaļalene is a product of Roquette's Gaļahub innovation programme which since 2007 has been grafting natural polymers to create thermoplastic plant resins. Advantages include impact resistance, softness and easy colouring and compounding with mineral and plant fibres.
Targeted applications are in applications that currently use polyolefins, ABS or more technical polymers. These include packaging (bottles, film wrap), household appliances and automotive and interior design parts. Gaļalene is said to have a carbon footprint at least 40% lower than that of traditional plastics and its lower processing temperature (about 170°C) reduces energy consumption during conversion. Gaļalene is also said to be recyclable and compliant with REACH legislation.