Injection molded products from PHA and PLA/PHA blends with lightweight additives

Overview

This solution focuses on the development of injection molded products using blends of polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) enhanced with lightweight additives. The goal is to optimize blend ratios and process parameters to create materials that maintain structural integrity while reducing density. These materials are intended for applications requiring compostability and lightweight features, such as packaging or automotive parts.

Technical specifications

• PLA/PHA Blends: Optimized for injection molding with varying ratios to balance processability and mechanical properties.
• Lightweight Additives: Incorporation of hollow glass microspheres and other additives to reduce density, improve insulation, and enhance buoyancy.
• Process Parameters: Detailed optimization of temperature, pressure, and cycle time to ensure quality and performance.
• Testing and Validation: Mechanical testing (tensile, impact, flexural), thermal analysis, and certification for compostability (e.g., ASTM D6400, EN 13432).

Technology readiness level

This technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment with ongoing optimization and testing to advance its readiness.