Since first introducing a line of engineered bioplastic specialty compounds a few years ago, global custom engineered thermoplastic compounder RTP Company has actively worked on expanding and consolidating its position in this area. Among other things, this has included becoming an approved member of the SPI’s Bioplastics Council last year. RTP’s complete "Eco Solutions" product portfolio includes compounds that make use of bio-based or recycled resins, natural fibers, and halogen-free flame retardant or wear resistant additives were developed to meet marketplace requests for alternative "green" materials without compromising perform  ance. RTP Company will be exhibiting at NPE2012, booth 39027, April 1-5, in Orlando, FL.

The company has since also received "USDA Certified Biobased Product" labels for two of its PLA-based bioplastic specialty compounds: a polylactic acid/polycarbonate (PLA/PC) alloy with a biobased carbon content of 26%, and a 30% glass fiber reinforced PLA grade of which the glass fiber component contains no carbon. As a result, the latter product has been certified to have a biobased carbon content of 99%. It should be noted that the information carried on these labels regarding renewable biocontent has been third-party verified and is strictly monitored.

Now, RTP Company has expanded its line of polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastic compounds to include impact-modified grades suitable for select semi-durable and durable applications. These new compounds, available in both injection and extrusion grades, deliver enhanced impact strength and higher heat deflection temperatures than are possible with unmodified PLA resin, providing performance that is equivalent to traditional thermoplastics. With impact modification, PLA compounds can achieve notched Izod impact performance as high as 30 times that of neat PLA, making it comparable to PC/ABS. Varying levels of impact modification are available providing several combinations of stiffness and ductility. The compounds come in both opaque and translucent versions and can also incorporate FDA compliant ingredients. "A unique feature of these compounds is their excellent balance of strength and stiffness," said Will Taber, RTP Company's Business Manager of Emerging Technologies.

PLA compounds are fully colorable and have bio-content as high as 95% depending on additive loading levels. Key applications include injection molded covers, housings, and structural components for appliance, consumer electronics, furniture, lawn/garden, medical devices, office equipment, sporting goods, tools, and toys.