There is one major environmental challenge that plagues the world that we live in today. That is the consumption of plastics. We all have seen several images of overflowing landfills and polluted oceans.
That is why scientists and manufacturers all over the world search for an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics. There are two main alternatives to conventional plastic: biocomposite plastics and biodegradable plastics. However, people often tend to confuse the two together. Let us understand what are the differences between biocomposite plastic and biodegradable plastic?
What is Biocomposite Plastic?
Biocomposite plastic is a material that combines natural fibers with plastic. The natural fibers include those sourced from wood, bamboo, rice husk. This blend with renewable natural fibers results in a durable and sustainable material. It has the mechanical properties of plastic with the aesthetic properties of the natural fibers. It is a great alternative and highly sustainable.
Biocomposite plastic can be used for injection moulding, blow moulding and extrusion. It provides high strength and long-lasting performance. Biocomposites help reduce the environmental impact of the traditional plastic leading to a circular economy.
How is it Made?
Biocomposite plastic granules are made at RRAJ Bioplast using high-end technology and state of the art machinery. We have a long history of research and development. The natural fibers are sourced from the waste of the handicraft industry and directly from the farmers. This ensures transparency and guarantees quality.
The Properties of Biocomposite
Biocomposite plastic comes with a lot of benefits. Some of the advantages of biocomposites are:
Durability and strength: Biocomposites are designed to last. They are best suited for all kinds of applications. The natural fibers help reinforce the material. This creates a material that can withstand heavy use and exposure to harsh conditions.
Resistance: Biocomposites are known for their resistance to moisture, UV light, and temperature fluctuations. This is why they are a perfect solution for outdoor plastic purposes.
Common Applications of Biocomposite Plastic
Biocomposite plastic are used in a wide variety of industries. Some of these applications include:
Decking and outdoor furniture: They are used for decking, cladding and outdoor furniture because of their weather-resistant properties.
Household ware: They are a perfect choice for kitchenware items as they are not only durable but also aesthetic.
Automotive parts: Biocomposites are typically used in automobile parts. This is because of their light weight and strength.
Environmental Impact of Biocomposite
Biocomposite plastic help reduce the reliance on conventional plastic. The use of natural fibers reduces the waste generated and ensures circularity. Thus biocomposites help in making the manufacturing process more sustainable.
What is Biodegradable Plastic?
Biodegradable plastic is designed to degrade over time. This can help in reducing the amount of plastic filling up landfill sites. Conventional plastics take hundreds of years to degrade. On the other hand, biodegradable plastic is engineered to break down more quickly. Thus they help in reducing the environmental impact.
Types of Biodegradable Plastics
Some common types of biodegradable plastics include:
Starch based plastics: They are made from corn starch. They can break down faster.
PLA (Polylactic Acid): This is derived from plant sugars. It is used in biodegradable plastic, especially in packaging and disposable items.
Talc based plastic: They are made from talc and have great properties similar to traditional plastic.
How it’s Made?
Biodegradable plastics are made using renewable resources such as plant starches, sugars, talc, other organic materials. The manufacturing process is similar to plastic granule manufacturing. This results in the formation of polymers. These polymers are then moulded into plastics products.
Properties of Biodegradable Plastic
Faster degradation: They can break down faster than traditional plastics. The degradation depends on environmental factors.
Lower carbon footprint: They do not leave a higher carbon footprint as compared to conventional plastic.
Common Applications of Biodegradable Plastic
Biodegradable plastic are used in applications that are expected to be of shorter lifespan.
Single Use packaging: Many companies use biodegradable plastic for packaging to reduce waste.
Plastic bags: They are becoming the common alternative to traditional plastic shopping bags
Disposable Utensils and Cups: They are typically used for events or takeout food, and benefit from being made with biodegradable plastic to reduce landfill waste.
Environmental Impact of Biodegradable Plastic
As opposed to the biocomposite plastic, the biodegradable plastic come with an outstanding degree of degradation. They are a promising solution to reducing plastic waste. However, their breakdown requires certain specific conditions. If the required conditions for biodegradation are not met, they can take the same time to degrade as the traditional plastic.
Key Differences Between Biocomposite and Biodegradable Plastic
Let us differentiate the two plastic based on a few key parameters.
Composition: Biocomposites consist of natural fibers combined with plastic resins. This can create a strong durable material. Biodegradable plastic use renewable resources such as plant sugars or starches.
Durability vs. Degradability: When it comes to durability, biocomposite plastic score over biodegradable plastics. Biodegradable plastic are specifically manufactured with a short lifespan in mind. However, when it comes to degradability, biocomposites do not degrade so easily. They will need to be recycled. Biodegradable plastic, true to their name, degrade faster.
Environmental Impact: As we have already discussed, biodegradable plastic have less impact on the environment when certain conditions are met for their degradation. Biocomposites use a sustainable manufacturing process. But they do not degrade so easily.
Applications: Biocomposites are specifically used in the application areas that need strength and durability. Biodegradables on the other hand are used specifically in areas that need a lesser lifespan.
Which is Better For the Environment?
The answer to that question should be based on the specific application and disposal process. In case you are looking for a material that lasts longer and reduces the reliance on plastic for a long time, biocomposite plastic is the best choice. They can be a worthy option in the case of construction or outdoor products.
When it comes to single-use items, biodegradable plastic offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic. They can break down faster and have a lower carbon footprint. However, proper disposal assumes the key to reduce the impact on the environment.
The best option is to strike the right balance between the two. Or products requiring long-term durability, biocomposites are a more sustainable choice, while biodegradable plastic are better for single-use applications that can be composted.
Conclusion
Both biocomposite plastic and biodegradable plastic play an equal role in fighting against the plastic menace. However, each of them comes with their plus and minus points.
We, at RRAJ Bioplast, believe in providing innovative products such as BPC, WPC and others that prioritize both durability and eco-friendliness. Our biocomposite products range across multiple products. Our focus lies in sustainable manufacturing practices and circularity.
At RRAJ Bioplast, we are committed to handing over our planet to the next generation with the best environment-friendly solutions. We also customise biodegradable plastic granules for various applications. We ensure quality and commitment to providing the best to our customers.
Reach Out to us:
Phone & WhatsApp: +91-1800-309-6933
Email: info@rajbioplast.com
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