What is PHA?

PHAs are natural polyesters synthesized by micro-organisms in response to conditions of nutritional stress. Unlike traditional plastics, they are entirely biodegradable and compostable, considerably reducing plastic pollution. Their production is based on renewable raw materials, such as agricultural waste and industrial byproducts .

PHA film manufacturing process

1. Bacterial fermentation: specific bacterial strains, such as Ralstonia eutropha, synthesise PHA in the presence of a suitable carbon source.
2. Extraction and purification: the PHA granules are extracted from the bacterial cells, then purified to obtain a homogeneous material.
3. Transformation into films: after extraction, the PHA is converted into films using extrusion and moulding processes.

Properties of PHA films

• Biodegradability: they break down naturally into CO₂ and water, without toxic residue
• Compostability: suitable for domestic and industrial composting systems
• Mechanical strength and flexibility: comparable to conventional plastics, while being more environmentally friendly
• Gas barrier: enhanced performance making them ideal for food packaging
• Adaptability: can be formulated to meet specific requirements such as transparency, thermal resistance or flexibility

The ecological challenges of PHA films

Reducing plastic pollution

Conventional plastics take hundreds of years to degrade, leading to a massive accumulation of waste. PHA films, on the other hand, offer a truly biodegradable solution, decomposing naturally in just a few weeks. Without leaving any toxic residue, and in any environment, they even help to enrich the soil… Two birds, one stone.

Carbon impact and renewable resources

The manufacture of PHA is based on the use of renewable resources, such as agricultural by-products. This helps to reduce the carbon footprint of companies, by reducing dependence on fossil raw materials.

Contributing to the circular economy

PHA films fit into a circular economy model, where materials can be composted or reintegrated into the production chain as new raw materials.

Industrial applications of PHA films

Packaging sector

PHA films are widely used in the packaging industry because of their low environmental impact. They are gradually replacing petroleum-based plastic films for :

• Food packaging (sachets, protective film, compostable trays)
• Single-use, fully biodegradable bags
• PHA-based labels and coatings
• Pharmaceutical packaging requiring biocompatible materials

Agricultural sector

In the agricultural sector, PHA films are used for :

• Biodegradable mulch: reduces the use of non-recyclable plastic film in crops.
• Protective netting: used to protect crops from bad weather and pests
• Biodegradable pots and containers: replacing traditional plastic pots, they make transplanting plants easier.
• Organic fertiliser bags: for more environmentally-friendly farming

Medical and biomedical sector

Thanks to their biocompatibility, PHA and health films are becoming allies for :

• Medical devices (absorbable sutures, biodegradable implants).
• Dressings and bioactive membranes.
• Sterile packaging for medical instruments.
• Biodegradable capsules for controlled drug release.

Textiles and electronics

• Textiles: biodegradable coatings for technical clothing
• Electronics: biodegradable printed circuit components and protective films for electronic devices
• Protective packaging for sensitive components

How do I choose a good supplier of PHA film?

Certifications and regulatory compliance

A reliable supplier must be able to provide certifications attesting to the compliance of PHA films with environmental and industrial standards (EN 13432, ASTM D6400, OK Compost, TUV Austria).

Traceability and sustainable sourcing

It is essential to choose a supplier that guarantees responsible production, giving priority to renewable raw materials and manufacturing processes with a low environmental impact.

Capacity for innovation and support

A competent supplier must offer solutions tailored to the needs of the industry, by developing specific formulations and supporting its customers in integrating PHA films into their production.

Regulations and certifications

• Biodegradability and compostability standards: EN 13432, ASTM D6400
• OK Compost” and “TUV Austria” certification
• Standards specific to food/pharmaceutical packaging

Why choose PHA Sourcing as your supplier?

Build a sustainable future with PHA Sourcing at your side. To help you integrate PHA films into your production processes, our teams will work with you to develop tailor-made solutions adapted to the technical and environmental requirements of your sector. Thanks to our certified production network, we can guarantee high-quality products that comply with international regulations and that are above all cost-effective.

PHA films represent a solution of the future for many industries seeking to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining high performance. Their biodegradability, compostability and compatibility with various applications make them essential materials for the transition to a circular economy.

So, are you ready to embrace a future of eco-responsibility and profit? Let’s have a chat!