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Purac and AkzoNobel develop additives for poly lactic acid

29 Jan 2009 - PURAC and AkzoNobel have developed additives through a specific organic peroxide technology for the production of Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) a bioplastic made from biorenewable, carbohydrate-based raw materials. The additives play an important role in controlling the polymerization by which PLA can be processed conveniently in standard, commercial polymer processing equipment.
 
Under the new process, AkzoNobel’s organic peroxides selectively switch off polymerization catalysts, improving the quality and stability of the PLA polymer. The resulting PLA is more stable in melt processing, has consistent flow properties and maintains a positive environmental profile.