Sulzer Chemtec

FIG. 22-16 Siilzer MWB-crystallization process, a) Stepwise operation of the process, (h) System flow sheet. (Sulzer Chemtecli)... 

Sulzer A family of processes for purifying organic chemicals by melt-crystallization without using solvents. Two systems are in use static crystallization, and falling-film ciystalliza-tion. The latter is proprietary to Sulzer Chemtec, Switzerland. 

PLA suffers from its cost and also some weaknesses in thermo-mechanical properties (mainly heat resistance) however, it is considered as one of the most promising bioplastics for the substitution of the petroleum-based polymers in materials and packaging applications.The main industrial PLA companies are Nature Works, invested by Cargill and PTT Global Chemicals, with the announced production of 140 000 metric tons of PLA per year as well as the traditional lactic acid producers such as Purac through Synbra and the collaboration with Sulzer Chemtec and Galactic through its joint venture with Total, Futerro (1500 tons per year). 

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