Materials and energy are created from coal, oil and gas. These non-renewable raw materials, whose stocks are running out, can nonetheless be replaced by others. Obviously, plastic is the first to be singled out. Let’s focus on environmentally-friendly alternatives to so-called traditional ones: bioplastics. Let’s find out which renewable raw materials are used and what the technological solutions of tomorrow are for manufacturing them.
The different renewable raw materials used
Why opt for renewable raw materials?
The “renewable raw materials” strategic axis encompasses all activities linked to the use and transformation of raw materials of inexhaustible origin. The aim is to provide a sustainable response to some of society’s needs for innovative materials and substances. The sun, sea and wind are the best-known sources for producing energy, but there are others… In fact, plants and biomass are ideal for making agromaterials.
Examples of renewable raw materials and their applications
- Natural fibres: cotton, linen, hemp and wool are used for clothing.
- Wood and biomass: for construction, furniture, paper, and as a source of energy (biofuels, bioenergy).
- Agricultural plants and crops: maize, sugar cane, soya and other crops are used for food, bioplastics and biofuels.
- Vegetable oils and fats: for the food and cosmetics industries, and for the production of biofuels such as biodiesel.
- Seaweed: for the production of biofuels, food supplements and cosmetics.
- Water: an essential resource for life, used in agriculture, industry and hydroelectric power generation.
The plastics industry and renewable raw materials combined
Biomaterials: a commitment to new technologies
That said, one of the main outlets for the petrochemical industry is the manufacture of plastics. As an alternative to petroleum-based plastics, some are made from organic materials such as plants. This green chemistry uses a regenerating resource as a raw material. Both the environment and local residents benefit. In other words, biosourced plastics are the future!
PHA, PLA and PHF… What is bioplastic?
As mentioned earlier, certain elements of biomass are used to produce bioplastics. These include bagasse, sugar, starch, vegetable oils and products from agricultural production. Corn, wheat, tapioca and potatoes are not just used to fill our stomachs! PBAT, PHA, PLA and PHF are all synthesised to create biosourced plastics.
The advantages of renewable raw materials
- Sustainability: they regenerate naturally, reducing dependence on finite resources.
- CO2 reduction: they help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly when they replace fossil fuels.
- Support for the circular economy: They encourage production and consumption cycles that are more respectful of the environment.
Biobased materials do not (necessarily) mean biodegradable
Biodegradable bioplastics, really?
Although biomaterials are made from renewable raw materials, they are not necessarily biodegradable and/or compostable. Biodegradable materials can be broken down by microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, etc.) into natural elements. However, specific conditions (temperature, humidity, presence of oxygen) are necessary for their decomposition…
The 3 conditions for the biodegradability of a biosourced plastic
- Chemical structure
Biodegradability depends on the chemical structure of the material, not just its origin. For example, some bioplastics have a structure similar to traditional plastics, but do not degrade easily in the environment.
- Additives and treatments
Biobased materials may contain additives or undergo treatments to improve their properties. These include mechanical properties, water resistance and durability. Unfortunately, this reduces their biodegradability.
- Degradation conditions
Even technically biodegradable materials require specific conditions (temperature, presence of micro-organisms) to break down. Composting does not always take place in the natural environment or in industrial landfill sites.
Why is PHA the king of bioplastics?
PHA is the only polyester that deteriorates naturally in a wide range of environments. In marine, freshwater, soil and artificial environments (such as composts). Unlike other bioplastics with limited degradation capacity, PHA offers complete biodegradability without harming the environment. It is the ideal solution for industries looking to replace conventional plastics with environmentally-friendly alternatives.
Renewable raw materials: PHA Sourcing’s commitment
Our aim is to provide industries with scalable, biodegradable PHA materials to reduce waste and promote sustainability. By focusing on innovation and large-scale production, we support companies in their ecological transition. Without compromising their performance, companies can look to the future with PHA Sourcing by their side.
As in the past, renewable raw materials must be reused. They represent a sustainable and sensible ecological alternative, particularly in the production of plastics. By reducing the ecological footprint of chemical processes, they help to build a circular, resilient economy that is less dependent on fossil resources.
