Eco-friendly Biodegradable Plant-based Film Formulation

This advanced formulation creates a biodegradable plant-based polymer film from corn starch, designed for sustainable food packaging. It provides excellent moisture resistance while replacing traditional single-use plastic wrap, delivering eco-friendly protection for perishable items.

Technical Specifications

  • pH Level: 5.5 - 6.5
  • Shelf Life: 12 months when stored under recommended conditions
  • Batch Size: 500 kg
  • Processing Time: 24 hours including all phases
  • Temperature: 75°C for mixing, 60°C for drying
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place at 15-25°C and 50-70% relative humidity
  • Viscosity: Moderate viscosity suitable for even spreading (500-700 cP at 75°C)
  • Certification: Complies with ASTM D6400 for compostable plastics

Ingredients

IngredientPercentageFunction
Corn Starch60.0%Primary film-forming agent
Glycerol20.0%Plasticizer to enhance flexibility
PLA (Polylactic Acid)15.0%Adds strength and durability to the film
Water4.0%Solvent for gel formation
Malic Acid0.5%pH regulator and antimicrobial agent
Calcium Carbonate0.5%Filler and opacity enhancer

Manufacturing Process

Gel Formation

  1. Heat Water to 75°C in a steam-jacketed vessel and add Corn Starch gradually to avoid clumping.
  2. Mix continuously at medium speed using an agitator until a homogeneous gel is formed.

Plasticization

  1. Add Glycerol slowly to the gel, maintaining the temperature at 75°C.
  2. Continue to mix until fully integrated and a smooth texture is achieved.

Film Casting

  1. Introduce PLA into the mixture while maintaining constant stirring at the same temperature.
  2. Perform continuous viscosity checks to ensure consistency before adding Malic Acid and Calcium Carbonate.
  3. Spread the formulation on a flat surface using a film applicator, ensuring uniform thickness.

Curing

  1. Dry the film at 60°C in an oven for 12 hours to ensure complete evaporation and film setting.

Usage Instructions

Apply the film by wrapping around the food item, ensuring it covers all surfaces with a snug fit. Use as you would with traditional plastic wraps. Dispose of properly in composting facilities after use.

View full formulation details on AIFormulator