Together with a bioplasticizer, the bio-based content of OcalioT compounds is currently at 50%.
Unlike some bioplastics, OcalioT, as a cellulose acetate bioplastic, only uses wood pulp, and thus does not compete for food resources, the company notes. It also has a much lower carbon dioxide manufacturing footprint when compared with petroleum-based products. With technical properties and performance more than comparable to oil-based plastics, OcalioT cellulose acetate compounds can not only replace applications made with engineering plastics such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), but also polycarbonates (PC).
"When compared with other bioplastics, OcalioT plasticized cellulose acetate displays an exceptional balance of properties providing better mechanical and heat resistance, enhanced transparency, and outstanding processability," said Louis Cozzari, business development manager, Solvay Acetow. "It can be easily molded and is designed for a wide range of consumer goods end-use such as containers for cosmetics and personal care, food packaging, electronic devices, toys, and mobile phones."
In addition to the beneficial range and balance of mechanical properties and ease of processing, OcalioT plasticized cellulose acetate displays excellent surface aesthetics such as a high gloss, smooth and silky tactile qualities, and an exceptional depth of color, for both opaque and transparent grades, Solvay adds.
OcalioT cellulose acetate compounds will be commercially available in the first quarter of 2014.
TAPPI
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