1.2 Classification of biodegradable polymers

Corn startch polymer

Bio-polymer (natural), made from high startch vegetables such as corn,potatoes and maze.Used in packaging products, straws, vending cups , disposable cutlery, bags, take-away food containers.

Potatopak

A biodegradable polymer used for single use food items e.g. cutlery made from potato startch.

Biopol (bio-batch additive) Trade name for Polyhydroxy butyrate (PHB)

bio-polymer (natural). Made form bacteria grown in cultures, additive to promote degradation.Usually 1 per cent added to thermoplastics .Used in packaging products such as film, carrier bags, vending cups, nappies, surgical stitches, pill coverings.

Polylactide acid (PLA)

Bio-polymer (synthetic). Made from corn kernels or cane sugar, fermented to produce lactic acid, then synthesised to produce polylactic acid.Used in packaging, single use bottles, carrier bags, plant pots, disposable nappies, medical sutures, 3D printing.

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA)

Bio-polymer (natural). Made from bacteria grown in cultures. Fully compostable.

Packaging, medical uses such as slow release medication patches, films, screws and bone plates

Lactide

Bio-polymer (synthetic). Fully compostable, water soluble. PLA and cellulose based.

Biomedical applications, slow release medication, bone repair fixings, detergent washing sachets

Glycolide (Lactel and Ecofilm)

Bio-polymer (synthetic). Fully compostable. PLA and cellulose based.

Food film, bags, packaging wrap, bin bags, agricultural ground sheet, flower wrap