Durability of PLA-Starch Blends as a Material for Office Supplies and Toys

The goal of this research project is to develop durable PLA-starch blends for office equipment and toys. The project is part of the “BeBio2 – Durability of Bioplastics and Biocomposites” research consortium.

The use of bioplastics such as polylactide (PLA) is currently limited in industry. This is due, on the one hand, to their higher price compared to standard plastics such as polypropylene, and on the other hand, to the unknown long-term behavior of the materials when exposed to various environmental and media influences. The use of starch as a filler for PLA is intended to reduce both the price and the carbon footprint of the bioplastic. The planned investigations aim to optimize the durability of the blends and thereby remove barriers to the use of bioplastics.

In collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research (IAP) in Potsdam and industry partners across the entire value chain, ideal compound formulations are being developed for products in the office furnishings, toys, and outdoor furniture sectors. In addition to optimizing compounding processes, the project also focuses on incorporating and ensuring the compatibility of various additives. Using a specially developed aging cycle, the long-term durability of the sample components is ultimately tested and optimized.