Which additives are currently used for bio-based plastics? An overview commissioned by the Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR) shows that bio-based additives still play a subordinate role.
However, the truth is that the reference year for the study was four years ago. According to the study, 15 million tonnes of plastic additives were processed worldwide in 2016, of which Germany accounted for just under a tenth. Market figures for submarkets can be derived for the share of bio-based additives.
Around 23,000 tonnes of bio-based plasticisers and stabilisers, which make up a large proportion of the additives market, were used in Germany. The fact that bio-based additives currently only play a subordinate role in the overall market is illustrated by their share of less than 2 per cent.
Study shows status, potential and need for research
Nevertheless, there are bio-based alternatives to conventional additives in many areas of application. The most common include stearic acid, citrates and epoxidised vegetable oils. Substances based on fatty acids (metal soaps, fatty acid amides, glycerol esters) are also used as bio-based additives.
The scientists have also compiled previous experience and current work on the use of bio-based additives in bio-based plastics. The focus is currently on glycerine, sugar derivatives and plant oils as plasticisers, secondary plant substances as biocides and lignin and phytic acid as potential flame retardants. Materials containing cellulose, lignin and wood fibres are being tested as nucleating agents to influence crystal structures and bio-based polymers to improve impact strength.
The study is available here available for download.
https://packaging-journal.de/biobasierte-kunststoffe-verpackungen/
