Polylactic acid -Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd. has announced the global release of its BIOFRONT® PLA (polylactic acid) resin, a biodegradable material designed to break down more efficiently in natural environments like oceans, rivers, and soil compared to traditional PLA 11-11-2024 - Archive

The resin’s enhanced biodegradability results from a unique accelerator incorporated into the polymer, which promotes faster decomposition without compromising the material’s structural integrity, crystallinity, or moldability. Now fully commercialized, BIOFRONT® PLA is available in Japan and worldwide. Polylactic acid

The launch of BIOFRONT® PLA supports Teijin Frontier’s THINK ECOⓇ initiative, a sustainability-focused strategy aimed at reducing environmental impacts through innovative, eco-friendly materials. BIOFRONT® PLA joins Teijin’s expanding portfolio of sustainable products, which the company plans to further diversify with new biodegradable materials to address global plastic pollution.

BIOFRONT® PLA’s biodegradation accelerator is engineered to increase the rate of hydrolysis, allowing bacteria and fungi to consume and decompose the material more effectively than conventional PLA. Unlike standard PLA, which requires high-temperature, high-humidity conditions for decomposition, BIOFRONT® PLA degrades faster in marine, riverine, and soil environments, which are less dense in bacteria and fungi. Polylactic acid

The product’s decomposition rate can also be customized by adjusting the amount and configuration of the accelerator, providing flexibility to control the resin’s lifespan based on specific application needs.

BIOFRONT® PLA is versatile and can be processed similarly to traditional PLA polymers, enabling its use in various applications, including films, injection-molded products, extrusions, and fibers for textiles and non-woven fabrics. This compatibility makes it an attractive alternative for industries looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing manufacturing efficiency or product quality. Polylactic acid

A major benefit of BIOFRONT® PLA is its potential to mitigate plastic pollution, particularly microplastics, due to its accelerated degradation. Additionally, being plant-based, it can contribute to lower CO2 emissions over its lifecycle compared to petroleum-derived plastics, aligning with efforts to reduce greenhouse gases and promote circular economies. With BIOFRONT® PLA, Teijin Frontier takes a significant step in the global movement towards sustainable and biodegradable materials. Polylactic acid

HEXPOL Compounding Americas (HCA), led by President and CEO Gary Moore, has introduced a significant leadership update within its Commercial Team. This restructuring sees Matt Angell appointed as the new Commercial Director for HCA’s Industrial Market Segment, effective October 28, 2024. In his role, Angell will report directly to Bruce Wynd, Chief Commercial Officer at HCA.

Angell joins HCA from Jarrett Logistics Services, based in Orville, Ohio, where he most recently served as Chief Customer Officer. Bringing over 25 years of industry experience, Angell has a strong track record in customer relationship management, strategic growth, innovation, and operational excellence.  Polylactic acid

His career spans various aspects of business development and management, aligning well with HCA’s vision and strategic objectives. Angell is a graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Business Management, providing a solid educational foundation for his leadership role.

“We are pleased to have Matt join HCA,” remarked Gary Moore. “His extensive background in achieving commercial success, coupled with his in-depth market knowledge and experience, makes him an ideal fit to support HEXPOL’s customers and spearhead our growth in the Industrial market sector.”  Polylactic acid

In summary, HCA’s recent appointment reflects a commitment to enhancing its industrial market presence through seasoned leadership, with Angell’s expertise expected to drive forward the company’s goals in customer satisfaction and market expansion.