Several tests have been carried out so far, both at laboratory and industrial level, as in the final product of flexible packaging and postal window film, with excellent results:
- to determine the ideal extrusion conditions and technically evaluate the specifications regarding the mechanics of the films manufactured for the REBICOM.
- to improve optical and odor parameters
- to test on biodegradation, composting, recyclability, ecotoxicity, absence of heavy metals, barriers measurement and characterization.
- to parameterize manufacturing conditions of films for different applications, in different thicknesses, of prototype films.
Samples of two prototype products were also sent to end customers for controlled end product testing.
The original idea of IFS REBICOM project was to add an enzymatic load to the polymeric matrix of a bioriented polypropylene film.
For some years now, research has been carried out into the use of enzymes in the composting of plastic materials in landfills, so that these enzymes, under composting conditions, with microbial action, would initiate the depolymerization of the macro molecules of plastics of fossil origin and thus initiate the accelerated biodegradation and composting of these materials.
IFS REBICOM project has been overcoming the initially posed challenges to introduce an enzymatic load during the manufacturing process of the films, so that, once these materials are used in their different applications, in the event of mismanagement and if they reach the environment in contact with microorganisms, the enzymatic load is activated and the spontaneous biodegradation of the material is initiated.
Main achievements are:
• Creating a masterbatch, with a polyolefin base and an enzyme, protein and peptide load, with the potential to be added to a plastic film formulation.
• Eliminating the smell and colour in the film, generated by the enzyme load.
• Eliminating the percentage of moisture in the masterbatch, due to the hygroscopy of the organic part of the product.
• To be able to produce, in high capacity lines and various thicknesses, films with the technical characteristics necessary for their use, without the need to modify the final production processes.
• To Maintain the final density of the product, thus avoiding increasing the volume of plastic used.
• To create a biodegradable film that is environmentally friendly, free of heavy metals and suitable for food contact.
• To achieve a plastic film that is 100% biodegradable and recyclable, unlike current compostable plastic materials, which are not considered recyclable or reusable.
The range of products developed in IFS REBICOM project are currently being promoted with great interest in the sector, and will be offered within an acceptable price range and with the necessary official certifications
