Major Biodegradable Polymer Suppliers

Table 4.2 shows the major biodegradable polymer suppliers by product type for 2005. 

Table 4.2 World biodegradable polymers market, 2005 - major suppliers by product type ...

The major world suppliers of starch-based biodegradable polymers are described below. 

World consumption of polylactic acid biodegradable polymers has increased significantly over the last five years as major suppliers such as Nature Works have brought their 140,000 tonnes per annum plant fully on stream. In 2005, world consumption of PLA amounted to 35,800 tonnes against 8,700 tonnes five years earlier. During the period 2005-2010, PLA consumption is forecast to reach 89,500 tonnes, which represents a compound annual growth rate of 20.1%. 

The major suppliers of biodegradable polymers based on PLA are described below. 

If starch is modified by partially fermenting it, or esterifying or etherification, the resulting material can be extruded by adding plasticizers. Starch-based plastics are readily biodegraded. In most cases, the polymers are also water-soluble. Several suppliers now offer thermoplastic starch. Major markets include soluble films for industrial packaging, films for bags and sacks, and loose fill. 

Major suppliers of biodegradable agents include Ampacet Corp. and Fully Compounded Plastics Inc. Major suppliers of photodegradable agents include the above and Colortech Inc., Ecolyte Atlantic Inc., and Polymer Materials Inc. 

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