15th European Bioplastics Conference goes virtual

In response to the on-going Corona pandemic, European Bioplastics (EUBP) decided to make this year’s EUBP Conference a virtual happening. The online format enables us to go new ways in discussing bioplastics. It will focus on the latest innovations as well as on environmental aspects and opportunities for growth in the bio-based plastics sector. The call for paper is open and experts are invited to submit proposals for a presentation on the following topics: bio-based and/or biodegradable polymers – latest material and process innovations; packaging innovations, especially food contact solutions; additives for bioplastics, such as bio-based plasticisers, flame retardants etc.; mechanical and chemical recycling of bio-based plastics; the role of compostable and/or bio-based plastics in national and international waste legislation; sustainability assessment with focus on LCA of bio-based plastics; new (durable) applications introduced in 2020; sneak preview 2020 – product and material pre-launch, and the bioplastics policy and market developments in the EU and beyond.

If you would like to contribute to the programme, please download the abstract template. We also invite proposals for poster presentations giving researchers and new projects the opportunity to visualise their work and preliminary results in the fields of biopolymer research, packaging, and building blocks. If you would like to contribute a poster presentation, please contact us to receive the template. The deadline to submit an abstract for this Call for Papers is 13 September 2020.

PolyBioSkin project develops biodegradable diaper

After a three-year project period, PolyBioSkin came to a successful end. The H2020 project was coordinated by the IRIS Technology Group (Castelldefels, Spain) and European Bioplastics’ first BBI (Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking) project participation. PolyBioSkin brought together 14 partners from 7 European countries, which joined forces to develop materials and technologies that help making the supply chain of sanitary products more sustainable. The project enables the production of fem care products and diapers with a high bio-based content (above 90 %).

In the course of the project, a bio-based top sheet was obtained by using flat die extrusion, whereas additional surface texturing ensures antimicrobial resistance. Another PolyBioSkin core innovation was the production of a fully bio-based superabsorbent polymer (SAP) as slush powder. This was achieved by the modification of a polysaccharide, which subsequently showed with a competitive performance to fossil-based materials currently available on the market ; It absorbs and retains the same amounts of liquids.

Beyond the mere technical improvements, all sanitary components were subjected to the usual compatibility tests and advanced in vitro testing, to ensure (sensitive baby) skin compatibility.

For more information on PolyBioSkin.

European Bioplastics co-authored scientific review on bio-based packaging

Environmental impacts and consumer concerns have necessitated a more comprehensive study of bio-based materials as alternative to packaging applications made from petrochemicals. In the course of the BioOnTop project, European Bioplastics together with other project partners compiled a review that summarises synthetic and non-synthetic materials feasible for packaging and textile applications, routes of upscaling, (industrial) applications, evaluation of sustainability, and end-of-life options.

To read complete text.