Danimer Scientific, a developer and manufacturer of biodegradable materials, and Plastic Suppliers, Inc. (PSI), a global manufacturer of biopolymer EarthFirst PLA barrier and non-barrier sealant films, today announced a new partnership to create bio-based, home compostable films.
The films will contain Danimer Scientific’s proprietary biopolymer, Nodax polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). Tested by University of Georgia (UGA) researchers and the UGA New Materials Institute,the companies say that PHA is a proven biodegradable alternative to petrochemical plastics made from materials such as canola oil.
Danimer Scientific will work with PSI to create customized resins that will seek to offer additional End-of-Life (EOL) options to PSI’s already existing line of compostable films. New PHA-containing films will include home, soil, and marine compostable options.
“We have developed a strong working relationship with PSI over the last decade creating bio-based packaging materials, and we are excited to expand our partnership by introducing one of the industry’s most promising sustainable materials to their products,” said Stephen Croskrey, CEO of Danimer Scientific.
“PHA has already proven to be a reliable eco-friendly alternative for consumer-packaged goods, and this expansion into flexible packaging will help further reduce the environmental impacts of plastic waste.”
The new films will be designed for a wide range of applications across food, beverage, grocery retailers, quick service restaurants, stadium food services, and other consumer packaged goods (CPG) and industrial segments.
“The evolution of our films’ compostability in various natural environments underscores our commitment to bio-based packaging films,” added George Thomas, CEO of PSI. “We are dedicated to bioplastic film innovation and passionate about advancing sustainability for a healthier planet. We look forward to continuing our work with Danimer Scientific and incorporating PHA into new environmentally responsible films.”
Danimer Scientific says that its Nodax PHA possesses seven TÜV AUSTRIA certifications and statements of industrial and home compostability, is biodegradable in anaerobic conditions, soil, freshwater, and marine environments, and is 100% bio-based.
All of Danimer Scientific’s biopolymers, including its Nodax PHA, are FDA approved for food contact.
