The UK group is manufacturing the polymers based on PVA and starch

The UK group is manufacturing the polymers based on PVA and starch

UK technology group Stanelco is to manufacture a new range of biodegradable polymer films based on PVA and starch, aimed at packaging applications. The company has applied for a patent for the process and will make the material at its subsidiary Adept Polymers, located in Manchester. Within the next 12 months it plans to ramp up production to 2,000tpa.

Stanelco said the polymer is a low-cost material that can be processed like conventional thermoplastics. It claimed the material combines the strength and dissolution advantages of PVA and the biodegradability of starch.

Stanelco chief executive Ian Balchin said: “Trial marketing indicates this material will open up new markets and applications that were previously thought to be impossible or uneconomic.

“Our initial focus will be on replacing conventional PVA materials for applications such as detergent capsules and laundry bags, a growing worldwide market that we estimate to be worth about Ј50m (E75m) annually.”