Special extrusion lines for bioplastic compounds

The biodegradable and compostable plastics sector is growing steadily, and this is partly due to the fact that several measures have been taken, especially in the EU, to cut down on single-use plastics.

For instance, it is estimated that the market for polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a water-soluble thermoplastic polymer predominantly used in food packaging, will record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 6% over the 2021-2026 period. To meet market requirements, Bausano introduced its special extrusion lines, of the MD Nextmover product family, for the production of water-soluble bioplastic granules, which are ideal for subsequent blown film extrusion.

What is PVA?

Polyvinyl alcohol (PvOH), also known as PVA, is a material that has a low environmental impact as it is fully biocompatible and non-toxic. It also has low oxygen permeability in the absence of moisture, according to Alessandro Ruotolo, Bausano’s Materials Engineer, who adds: “As a result, PVA films are increasingly used for the packaging of food, pharmaceuticals and personal care products, as well as in disposable packaging, such as detergent tablets. In addition, water-soluble bioplastics made from plant-based raw materials are available as an alternative to polyvinyl alcohol. In both cases, given the complexity of the material, the granulation process requires a different approach to traditional plastics, which is why all of Bausano’s special lines are a powerhouse of technology that can be fully tailored to the customer’s specific requirements.”

Extruder configuration