News

Development of durable bio-PBS compounds

Published on
May 19, 2016

A joint development program on bio-based PBS (polybutylene succinate) compounds for injection molding has been launched by Wageningen Food & Biobased Research in cooperation with Reverdia, Teamplast and RPC Promens. Research focusses on applications like reusable horticultural crates and rigid food packaging with hinges. The new bio-PBS compounds will be durable and based on Reverdia’s bio-based succinic acid.

To date PBS is a fossil based plastic that is predominantly used in applications where biodegradability is desired. Introducing Reverdia’s biobased succinic acid, durable bio-PBS with an improved carbon footprint can be produced without compromising the properties of the material.

Broader application for bio-PBS

Aim of this applied research project is to develop bio-based alternatives for polymers like polypropylene in ‘demanding’ applications. Development will focus on longevity, appearance and processing characteristics. Plastic product manufacturers RPC Promens and Teamplast collaborate to validate the compounds in applications like reusable horticultural crates and rigid food packaging with hinges. The final compounds are expected to have an improved carbon footprint in comparison to polypropylene, which is typically used for these applications.

“Raw material producers and manufacturers of the final products will test these new materials, ensuring that consumers will soon have these new bio-based and durable plastics in their hands,” said Lawrence Theunissen from Reverdia. “The whole value chain is involved in developing these materials.”

“An important objective of the project is to develop plastics from renewable raw materials with a much wider scope for application, and thus a larger market potential,” added Karin Molenveld of
Wageningen Food & Biobased Research.