Plastarch Material
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Plastarch Material (PSM) is a biodegradable, thermoplastic resin. It is composed of modified cornstarch combined with several other biodegradable materials. The cornstarch is modified in order to obtain heat-resistant properties, making PSM one of the only bioplastics capable of withstanding high temperatures.
PSM is stable in the atmosphere, but biodegradable in compost, wet soil, fresh water, seawater, and activated sludge where microorganisms exist. It has a softening temperature of 257F and a melting temperature of 313F.
Because of how similar PSM is to other plastics (such as polypropylene and CPET), PSM can run on many existing thermoforming and injection molding lines. PSM is currently used for a wide variety of applications in the plastic market, such as food packaging and utensils, personal care items, plastic bags, temporary construction tubing, industrial foam packaging, industrial and agricultural film, window insulation, construction stakes, and horticulture planters.
Because PSM is derived from a renewable resource (corn), it has become a very attractive alternative to petrochemical-derived products. Unlike plastic, PSM can also be disposed of through incineration as well. Only non-toxic smoke is emitted and a white residue is left after burning, of which can be used as fertilizer.
[edit] Developments
- In 2005, PSM (plastarch material) makes the move from lab to commercial use as the first truly biodegradable and heat-resistant bioplastic.
[edit] External links
- PSM North America
- Bioplastics.org: Bioplastic Plastic Resin Information
