Biobased and biodegradable low-density injection molding resin
B4Plastics presents HUMICUR® ci-003, a biobased injection molding resin with steerable biodegradability and competitive mechanical properties. Targeting a density below 1 g/cm³, it aims to provide a sustainable alternative to PP with applications in rigid food packaging.
Overview
B4Plastics offers HUMICUR® ci-003, a biobased injection molding resin that provides a sustainable alternative to traditional polypropylene (PP). With over 60% biobased content, this resin features steerable biodegradability, making it suitable for a range of eco-friendly applications. The current density of 1.23 g/cm³ is targeted to be reduced below 1 g/cm³ through advanced chemical foaming and polymer backbone engineering. This product is particularly beneficial for applications that require rigidity and excellent mechanical performance, such as rigid food packaging.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Over 60% biobased content derived from renewable hemicellulosic waste streams
- Proven processability similar to PP with fast cycle times
- Steerable biodegradability ranging from soil to industrial compostability
- Targeted density reduction below 1 g/cm³ via chemical foaming
- Suitable for injection molding applications like tube connectors and electrical sockets
Technical advancements:
- Polymer backbone engineering for tailored biodegradation rates
- Compounding with foaming agents like sodium bicarbonate for density reduction
- Ensures food safety compliance for packaging applications
Technology readiness level
Currently, HUMICUR® ci-003 is at TRL 2, indicating the technology is in the early stages of development. Initial lab-scale trials focusing on polymer backbone engineering and foaming agent compounding will be conducted to achieve the desired density. Successful trials will lead to pilot-scale production and testing in partnership with industry collaborators, aiming for a TRL advancement to 7-9 through further industrial scale-up.
About B4Plastics
B4Plastics is a Belgian biopolymer technology company founded in 2014 that specializes in the research, development, production, and licensing of renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable materials [2, 6, 7]. The company designs materials using proprietary bio-based building blocks to create customized plastic alternatives that offer high mechanical strength while maintaining controlled degradability [1, 2, 6]. Its technology platforms, such as FortePlastics and TriggerPlastics, are engineered to address the global plastic waste crisis by providing sustainable replacements for fossil-based polymers in various industrial applications [5, 6].
By offering services ranging from laboratory-scale material development to industrial-scale production and technology transfers, B4Plastics helps manufacturers transition their portfolios to more ecological standards [1, 2]. The company works with various partners to integrate these bio-materials into end-products, including items like brooms and fiber-based packaging [1, 6]. Its approach emphasizes circularity—either by designing materials to be recycled or by ensuring they break down in specific environments without leaving microplastics behind—thereby helping customers meet sustainability goals and regulatory requirements [1, 6, 8].
delivered to your inbox.