Bioplastics Added to Product Families

Global custom engineered thermoplastic compounder RTP Company has introduced a comprehensive line of engineered bioplastic specialty compounds that utilize resins derived from rapidly renewable resources. Initial bioplastic compounds based on polyamide, polyester, and polylactic acid (PLA) are available in grades providing conductive, flame retardant, structural and wear resistant value-added properties. RTP Company's bioplastic compounds contain 20 to 80% bio-content by weight and were developed to meet marketplace requests for alternative "green" materials. All current bioplastic grades are fully colorable to standard and custom matched colors.

"Bioplastic compounds, utilizing components derived from rapidly renewable resources instead of petroleum, are the latest element of an RTP Company initiative to develop greener products to meet diverse industry requirements," said Andy Lamberson, Corporate Development Manager at RTP Company. "The use of bioplastic compounds lessens dependence on non-renewable resources, they also have a lower carbon footprint, their manufacture emits less carbon dioxide and requires less energy, making them more environmentallyfavorable than traditional plastics."

Initial development has resulted in over a dozen bioplastic compounds that meet a wide variety of application requirements. Research into additional formulations continues along with development of custom materials to meet specific end-use requirements. Prospective applications for bioplastic compounds include automotive interior and industrial components, semi-durable consumer goods, and housings and enclosures for electronics or business equipment.

For more information, contact Christin Ruge, RTP Company, 580 East Front Street, Winona, MN 55987, 800-433-4787/507-454-6900, Fax: 507-454-2089, E-mail: cruge@rtpcompany.com, Web: www.rtpcompany.com.