Policy / Systems / Technology

November 10, 2012

 

Toray Develops Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Microporous Film

Keywords: Environmental Technology Manufacturing industry 

Toray Industries, Inc., a major Japanese manufacturer of fibers, textiles and chemicals, announced on August 8, 2012, the successful development of a biodegradable microporous polylactic acid (PLA) film. This biodegradable, waterproof, moisture-permeable PLA film was created using the world's first dry method.

Conventionally, microporous polyethylene films have been used as breathable, waterproof materials for agricultural mulching films, disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, single-use hand warmers and other household products. Polyethylene films, however, have been expected to be replaced with biodegradable polymers in order to reduce waste disposal burden and environmental impact.

Combining the company's many years of expertise in film production with its unique polymer and particle dispersion technologies, Toray has successfully replaced conventional films with the microporous PLA film, or a biomass-based biodegradable polymer made from vegetable starch, such as cornstarch. The company intends to establish this production technology by 2014.

Related JFS article:
Biodegradable Plastic-Decomposing Enzymes Successfully Mass Produced
Toray Marks Record-High Sales of Eco-Friendly Products in FY2009

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