Polylactic Acid (PLA): The Environmentally Responsible Plastic
PLA is the talk of the sustainable packaging town. And for good reason, it’s a bioplastic made from renewable, plant-based materials like corn, cassava and sugarcane. This article will dive into PLA bioplastic, how it’s made, the environmental benefits and how it fits into the circular economy. What is PLA Bioplastic? Polylactic acid , commonly known as PLA, is a type of polyester derived from renewable biomass, often sourced from fermented plant starch such as corn, cassava, sugarcane, or sugar beet pulp. Although the current feedstock does not pose competition with food production, ongoing research is exploring the utilization of non-agricultural sources. PLA bioplastics offer substantial and measurable environmental and economic benefits compared to traditional plastics. How is PLA Made? Let's delve into the technical details. PLA, a polyester containing the ester group, is formed using two potential monomers or 'building blocks': lactic acid ...