The material. Polylactide (PLA) is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from natural lactic acid from corn, maize, or milk. It resembles clear polystyrene and provides good aesthetics (gloss and clarity), but it is stiff and brittle and needs modification using plasticizers for most practical applications. It can be processed like most thermoplastics into fibers, films, ther – moformed, or injection molded.
Cargill Dow polylactide food packaging.
Ecoproperties: material
|
Embodied energy, primary production |
52 |
– 54 |
MJ/kg |
|
CO2 footprint, primary production |
*2.3 |
– 2.43 |
kg/kg |
|
Water usage |
*100 |
– 300 |
l/kg |
|
Ecoproperties: processing Polymer molding energy |
*8.61 |
– 9.49 |
MJ/kg |
|
Polymer molding CO2 |
*0.68 |
– 0.75 |
kg/kg |
|
Polymer extrusion energy |
*3.35 |
– 3.69 |
MJ/kg |
|
Polymer extrusion CO2 |
*0.26 |
– 0.29 |
kg/kg |
Recycling
|
Embodied energy, recycling |
21.8 |
– 22.7 |
MJ/kg |
|
CO2 footprint, recycling |
*0.96 |
– 1.02 |
kg/kg |
|
Recycle fraction in current supply |
*0.5 |
– 1 |
% |
|
Recycle mark |
|
Other |
Typical uses. Food packaging, plastic bags, plant pots, diapers, bottles, cold drink cups, sheet and film.
