Second Quarter 2019

Maximizing Crystallinity and Clarity of Plug-Formed PET Cups via Change in Forming Conditions
By Amit Dharia, PhD., Transmit Technology Group, Irving, TX

Poly(ethylene terephthalate), PET, is used in making clear, deep-drawn thermoformed cups and trays where it competes with clear PS and clarified or nucleated PP.

PET is a semi-crystalline polymer with a maximum of 40% crystallinity. Its crystallinity changes both with the type and amount of co-monomer and rate of cooling (1)…

Second Quarter 2019

Heat Resistant and Home-Compostable PLA Resins
By Gregory Coué, Technical Manager, Kompuestos (Spain)

From soft-drink cups at fast food restaurants and festivals to fresh fruit and vegetable containers: the packaging industry is no stranger to biobased polylactic acid (PLA) plastic. And according to recent studies on the biodegradable plastics market, PLA will maintain its dominance in the biodegradable plastics market through 2023. Made from natural, renewable resources such as sugar cane or corn, PLA is readily available worldwide, processed using conventional converting processes and is recyclable or compostable at the end of life…