BIO-BASED AND BIODEGRADABLE
Evaluating the sustainability of polymer systems is complex and involves considering all the cycles that a product goes through, starting with the raw material source, through the process chain of processing, transport and use, to disposal management. When developing new materials, we endeavour to take a holistic view of their life cycles. The focus of material development itself is currently on polymer systems that are based to a large extent on renewable raw materials, are biodegradable or in which substances that are hazardous to health and the environment are replaced by harmless alternatives.
In addition to the use of bio-based starting materials, other formulation components, such as catalysts, are also being developed to replace components that are hazardous to health and the environment with harmless systems. Thermoplastic polymers or aqueous dispersions are favoured for processing. The focus of chemical and process engineering development is on optimising the usage properties as well as recyclability and degradability at the end of the life cycle. To this end, methods are being established to test the biodegradability of films and composite materials under various conditions.
Sustainable product developments are currently focussed on:
Bio-based polyurethane coatings
Bio-based and biodegradable PES films and coatings
Membranes and coatings made from aqueous dispersions
Alternative/biobased plasticiser systems
Processing of recyclates