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- What are the main characteristics of BIOGRADE®?
BIOGRADE® was designed as a biodegradable alternative to polystyrene and has similar mechanical characteristics.
- What are the preferred applications for BIOGRADE®?
Preferred applications are injection moulded parts such as writing utensils, disposable cutlery, cups and bottles. A special grade (BIOGRADE® C 9555) is suitable for the production of flat sheet film which can be subsequently thermoformed.
- What are the main advantages of BIOGRADE® when compared to other bioplastics?
With a heat distortion temperature (Vicat A) of 115 °C and 111 °C, BIOGRADE® C 9550 and BIOGRADE® C 7500 CL exceed the values of standard polystyrene and most of the other bioplastics. Moreover, BIOGRADE® has a wide temperature processing range.
- Is BIOGRADE® approved for the contact with food?
BIOGRADE® C 9550 and C 7500 are certified for contact with food.
- Is BIOGRADE® certified according to EN 13432?
BIOGRADE® C 9550 and C 9555 are compostable materials according to EN 13432. BIOGRADE® C 7500 CL has been tested successfully for biodegradability, however, the long term tests for compostability are still underway. In addition, BIOGRADE® C 9550 is certified according to ASTM D6400.
- Does BIOGRADE® contain harmful substances?
No! Our BIOGRADE® does not contain harmful additives. Our bioplastics are placed on the market to conform with the relevant laws, e.g. Council Directive 67/548/EEC.
- What is the processing temperature of BIOGRADE®?
BIOGRADE® has a processing temperature in the range 190 °C to 230 °C (melt temperature).
- What equipment is necessary for processing BIOGRADE®?
BIOGRADE® can be processed on conventional injection moulding equipment. However, the use of hot runner systems is not recommended as bioplastics tend to degrade if exposed to long residence times or high temperatures. Depending on the grade, the mould shrinkage of BIOGRADE® is between 0.35 and 0.70 %. In addition, it is possible to process BIOGRADE® C 9555 on conventional extrusion cast lines to produce thermoformable sheet.
- What are the storage conditions for BIOGRADE® when supplied in original packaging?
BIOGRADE® should be stored dry and frost-free and below 30°C. Provided that the octabins (including the sealed PE liners) are undamaged the shelf life under these conditions is 6 months.
- Is it necessary to dry BIOGRADE® before processing?
Predrying is recommended. It is possible to process the material directly if the residual moisture content is below 0.2 %. Depending on the storage conditions, it may be necessary to test the residual moisture and if this is too high then drying may be required at 60 °C for 4 – 6 hours. A higher drying temperature or long drying time might result in degradation of the material.
- Is it possible to reprocess BIOGRADE® scrap?
Yes, in general it is possible to reuse BIOGRADE® scrap. Experiences from our customers show that it is possible to feedback up to 50 %. However, we suggest that customers carry out their own trials.
- What is the recommended waste management for BIOGRADE® residues?
BIOGRADE® compounds are disposed of preferably in an industrial composting environment. Alternatively landfill or incineration is possible, following the local regulations.
- What are cellulose and cellulose acetate?
Cellulose is the main component of vegetable cell walls. Technically speaking, cellulose is mostly provided by wood and serves as raw material for the paper industry. By reacting cellulose with acetates, cellulose ester is produced, which is produced as synthetic fibre and, as it is the case with FKuR, as plastic.
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