biodegradable polymers

Question 1

cornstarch polymers

Answer 1

natural, made from high starch vegetables

packaging products, staws, disposable cutlery

Question 2

potatopak

Answer 2

made from potato starch

single use food products, packaging peanuts, bin bags

Question 3

biopol

Answer 3

made from bacteria grown in cultures, additive to promote degradation, 1% added to thermoplastics

carrier bags/film, nappies, pill coverings

Question 4

PLA

Answer 4

synthetic source, made from corn kernels or cane sugar, fermented to produce lactic acid, synthesised to produce polylactic acid

single use bottles, carrier bags

Question 5

PHA

Answer 5

natural source, made from bacteria grown in cultures, fully compostible,

medical uses, slow release medical patches, screws, bone plates

Question 6

lactide

Answer 6

synthetic source, water soluble, fully compostable

bone repair fixings, detergent washing sachets, slow release medication

Question 7

glycolide

Answer 7

synthetic source, water soluble, fully compostable, PLA and cellulose based

food film, carrier bags, packaging wrap, bin bags

Question 8

biodegradable polymers definition

Answer 8

natural - made from natural materials

synthetic - renewable resources but chemically enngineered to break down quicker