As the world wakes up to the environmental crisis looming over us, the use of biodegradable polybags is gaining momentum as a viable alternative to traditional plastic bags. Unlike their non-biodegradable counterparts, biodegradable polybags are made of materials that are designed to break down fully and safely within a specified timeframe. But what are biodegradable polybags made of exactly? Let's take a deep dive into their composition and manufacturing process.
The composition of biodegradable polybags may vary depending on the specific manufacturer, but most have two main components: degradable polymers and additives. Degradable polymers are essentially long chains of molecules that form a matrix, and in biodegradable polybags, they are typically derived from natural sources such as corn starch, potato starch, or cellulose. These polymers are typically biodegradable, meaning they can break down into simpler components through microbial activity. .
Additives, on the other hand, are included in the mix to speed up or slow down the bag's break down process depending on the intended application. For instance, plastic bags used for packaging food may contain additives to keep them intact for longer, while those meant for disposing of organic waste may include additives to hasten degradation. Commonly used additives include starch, glycerin, and fatty acids, among others.
The manufacturing process of biodegradable polybags starts with combining the degradable polymers and additives into a homogenous mixture, using specialized equipment. The mixture is then melted and extruded through a die to obtain a thin film. The film is then treated by either a blowing or casting process, also known as "film blowing" or "cast film," to obtain the desired thickness, width, and length. The resulting film is then cut into bags and is ready for use.
It is essential to distinguish between two types of biodegradable polybags: compostable and oxo-biodegradable. Compostable polybags are those that can fully decompose in industrial composting facilities. These facilities are designed to provide the required conditions, such as high temperatures and humidity, to break down the bag completely. Oxo-biodegradable polybags, on the other hand, require the presence of oxygen to initiate degradation. They break down into smaller fragments that are then biodegraded by microorganisms. Although oxo-biodegradable polybags are a step up from traditional plastics, they have been criticised for their potential to leach microplastics into the environment.
In conclusion, biodegradable polybags are made from various biodegradable polymers and additives that are engineered to degrade fully and safely. The manufacturing process involves combining polymers and additives, melting them into a homogenous mix, extruding them into a thin film, and treating the film by either blowing or casting. Depending on their intended application, biodegradable polybags can either be compostable or oxo-biodegradable. While they may not be a complete panacea for plastic pollution, they are an essential step towards reducing the impact of plastic waste on our planet's health and wellbeing. .
As consumers, it is vital to look out for biodegradable products that come from reputable companies and meet international standards. However, it should be noted that biodegradable polybags, while more environmentally friendly, still have a lower they limit before they can no longer break down, thus, they still pose a threat to the environment. It is our collective responsibility to reduce our reliance on single-use plastics, and biodegradable polybags can help us make significant steps towards that goal. Let us all do our bit for the environment and make a conscious effort to switch to more eco-friendly alternatives.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Custom Renewable Biodegradable Bags, home compostable bag supplier.