How to Choose the Bioderadable PLA Film for Flexible Package?
Choosing biodegradable PLA (Polylactic Acid) film for flexible packaging involves evaluating several key factors that ensure the material meets both performance requirements and sustainability goals.
Choosing biodegradable PLA (Polylactic Acid) film for flexible packaging involves evaluating several key factors that ensure the material meets both performance requirements and sustainability goals. PLA films are derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcane, and are compostable, making them a popular alternative to petroleum-based plastics. However, not all PLA films are created equal, and choosing the right one for your packaging needs requires considering various aspects, from material properties to environmental impact. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to choose the right biodegradable PLA film for flexible packaging:
1. Understand the Requirements of Your Packaging Application
Before selecting a PLA film, it’s important to understand the specific requirements of your packaging application. Ask yourself the following questions:
What type of product will be packaged? Is it food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or other goods?
What is the shelf life of the product? PLA film has different barrier properties, so its ability to protect the contents from oxygen, moisture, and light is critical for preserving product freshness.
What mechanical properties are needed? Consider factors like strength, flexibility, puncture resistance, and tear resistance. PLA films can vary in these properties depending on their formulation and processing.
Does the film need to be transparent or opaque? PLA films can be made clear or with various degrees of opacity, depending on the packaging’s aesthetic and protective requirements.
Understanding these factors will help narrow down your choices and ensure you select PLA film that meets the functional needs of your packaging.
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2. Check the Biodegradability and Compostability Standards
PLA is biodegradable, but the extent and conditions under which it decomposes can vary. When selecting PLA film for flexible packaging, ensure the material complies with recognized biodegradability and compostability standards, such as:
EN 13432: This European standard defines the requirements for compostable plastics. A PLA film that meets this standard will break down in an industrial composting facility within a specified time frame.
ASTM D6400: This standard, used in the U.S., outlines the compostability requirements for plastics. PLA films that meet this standard are biodegradable in commercial composting systems.
ISO 14855: Another standard that defines the criteria for compostability of biodegradable plastics, which is widely recognized in many countries.
Ensure that the PLA film is certified as compostable in industrial settings, as home composting conditions may not always be sufficient to break down PLA materials.
3. Consider the Thickness and Gauge of the Film
The thickness of the PLA film plays a significant role in its performance. Thicker films provide better protection and durability but may reduce flexibility, while thinner films are more flexible but offer less protection.
Thin films (less than 30 microns): Ideal for lightweight products like snacks, apparel, or single-serve items.
Thicker films (over 30 microns): Better suited for heavier products or those that need more barrier protection.
Work with your supplier to determine the optimal thickness based on the packaging requirements and the nature of the product.
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4. Evaluate Barrier Properties
PLA films have inherent limitations when it comes to barrier properties. They are more permeable to moisture, oxygen, and grease than conventional plastic films, which can affect the shelf life and freshness of products. Consider the following barrier requirements:
Oxygen barrier: PLA has moderate oxygen barrier properties, but for sensitive products like food, you may need an additional coating or multilayer construction to improve oxygen resistance.
Moisture barrier: PLA is naturally less effective in providing a moisture barrier compared to materials like polyethylene. If your product is sensitive to moisture, you may need a PLA film with a moisture barrier coating or a combination of PLA with another biodegradable material.
Grease resistance: PLA films can absorb oil and grease, so it may not be suitable for greasy or oily products unless treated or laminated with additional materials.
Some PLA films are combined with other biodegradable polymers (such as PHA or PBS) to enhance barrier properties, so consider these options if your packaging needs better moisture or oxygen resistance.
5. Assess the Printability of the Film
For branding and marketing purposes, the printability of the PLA film is an important consideration. Some PLA films may be more receptive to certain printing techniques, including flexographic, rotogravure, or digital printing. If custom branding is important for your packaging:
Ensure the PLA film is compatible with your preferred printing process.
Look for PLA films that have a coating or treatment that enhances ink adhesion and color vibrancy.
Choose PLA films that provide a matte or glossy finish depending on your aesthetic preference.
6. Consider the Heat Sealing Properties
If your packaging needs to be heat-sealed (such as bag sealing or pouch packaging), ensure that the PLA film has good heat-sealability. Some PLA films are engineered with heat-sealable layers or coatings that make them suitable for heat sealing, which is a critical property for creating secure and tamper-proof packages.
Heat-sealable PLA films: These films are specifically designed to bond with heat in packaging applications. Be sure to test the sealing performance with your equipment.
Multilayer films: For more complex applications, you may need a multilayer PLA film that includes a heat-sealable layer on the inside to ensure a secure seal.
7. Check for Transparency and Optical Properties
If the product you are packaging requires visibility or aesthetic appeal, you may need transparent PLA film. PLA can be manufactured to be clear or with varying levels of opacity.
Clear PLA film: Offers high transparency, making it suitable for packaging products that need to be seen by the consumer (e.g., snacks, candies, cosmetics).
Opaque PLA film: Ideal for products that need light protection or privacy, such as medical products or specific food items.
Make sure the film’s transparency meets your visual and functional packaging needs.
8. Evaluate Sustainability and Environmental Impact
While PLA films are biodegradable and compostable, it’s important to consider the full lifecycle and sustainability of the packaging:
Source of PLA: PLA is derived from renewable resources like corn or sugarcane. Check if the PLA used is sourced from responsibly managed agricultural practices (e.g., non-GMO, certified organic, or sustainably farmed).
Life cycle impact: PLA is compostable in industrial composting systems, but it may not degrade properly in landfill conditions. Consider promoting proper disposal practices (e.g., composting) to your customers.
Look for PLA films that offer transparency regarding the environmental impact of their production, from sourcing to end-of-life disposal.
9. Test Performance Before Full Production
Before committing to a large production run, conduct thorough testing to ensure the PLA film meets your packaging needs. This may include:
Performance testing: Check for tensile strength, tear resistance, and puncture resistance to ensure durability during transportation and handling.
Barrier performance testing: Conduct tests to measure oxygen, moisture, and grease barriers to assess the suitability of the PLA film for your product.
Compatibility with product: Ensure the film works with your product’s physical properties, including food compatibility (if applicable), and does not affect taste, odor, or quality.
Conclusion
Choosing the right biodegradable PLA film for flexible packaging requires careful consideration of several factors, including material properties, barrier capabilities, printability, and environmental impact. By understanding your product's needs and evaluating the PLA film's features, you can make an informed decision that balances both performance and sustainability goals. Be sure to consult with your PLA film supplier to find the best solution for your specific application, and always perform thorough testing to confirm the material meets your expectations.