- 13 November 2007 -
New additive range boosts PLA

Arkema has launched the Biostrength additives range for PLA (polylactic acid) comprising a processing aid - Biostrength ä 700 - and two impact modifiers - Biostrength™130 and Biostrengh™150. Biostrength 700 provides high melt strength performance, clarity and recyclability for PLA. Biostrength TM130 and Biostrength 150 impact modifiers are designed to improve the sturdiness of PLA.

Biostrength 700 is a melt strength improver for polylactic acid (PLA). Arkema says that it substantially increases the melt strength and melt elasticity of PLA, while maintaining high optical clarity. Biostrength 700 improves the processing of PLA for extrusion, calendering, blow moulding, thermoforming and foam applications, and is completely transparent in PLA at typical usage levels.

Additionally, adding Biostrength 700 melt strength improver to PLA enables converters to use higher levels of recycled PLA with improved retention of the physical properties.

Arkema has specifically developed Biostrength 130 and Biostrength 150 core-shell impact modifiers to increase the sturdiness of PLA. Biostrength 130 is designed for use in translucent applications, while Biostrength 150 is a higher efficiency modifier for use in opaque applications. Biostrength 130 and 150 retain their high impact properties at –20°C.

Arkema adds that its Biostrength product line is designed to increase productivity and improve product performance for the expanding biopolymer marketplace.

Arkema; www.arkema.com