Biodegradable polymers under the microscope

Four main classes of biodegradable polymers are analysed in a new market report on "Biodegradable polymers" by David Platt, published by Smithers Rapra in June 2006.

Biodegradable polymers have experienced strong growth over the last three years and are set to make further inroads into markets traditionally dominated by conventional thermoplastics in future.

The cost of biodegradable polymers has come down considerably over the last three years while at the same time standard thermoplastic prices have increased considerably.

Now, some classes of biodegradable polymers are price competitive with polymers such as PET.

The biodegradable polymers industry itself has established an agreed framework for testing and certification and there is growing political pressure in developed countries to reduce packaging waste and develop a composting infrastructure.

Biodegradable polymer producers have also invested in product and process improvements.

Finally, consumers and brand owners are beginning to recognise the benefits of sustainable or "green" packaging.

Four main classes of biodegradable polymers are analysed in a new market report on "Biodegradable polymers" by David Platt, published by Smithers Rapra in June 2006.

The materials covered include polylactic acid (PLA), starch-based polymers, synthetic biodegradable polymers, such as aromatic aliphatic copolyesters, and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA).

The report analyses their key performance properties, applications development, market drivers and future prospects.

Each product section also contains an estimate of market sise by world region and end use market, plus forecasts to 2010.

There is also an analysis of key suppliers and their products.

David Platt graduated from the University of Nottingham with an economics degree before completing an MBA at the University of Bradford.

He joined a leading international market consultancy where he specialised in plastics sector research.

He conducted a wide range of multi-client and single-client studies covering a wide range of materials, from standard thermoplastics, engineering and high performance polymers to conductive polymers and thermoplastic elastomers.

Now operating as a freelance consultant, he makes regular contributions to the European plastics trade press, and works with leading plastics industry consultants.

This market report retails at GBP 300 plus post and packaging and is available from the Rapra bookstore.

Back to top