Polylactic Acid Polyols in Urethane Reactive Hot-Melt and Solventborne Adhesives
In addition to a low carbon footprint, polylactic acid brings value to multiple applications through performance attributes such as a high modulus, excellent solvent and grease resistance, and food contact compliance.
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a well-known bio-based thermoplastic polymer. This versatile and renewable polymer is an example of the commercial success for a bio-based, sustainable polymer with an established and growing technology base.1 The polymer backbone of PLA is based on annually renewable carbon produced via the bacterial or yeast fermentation of sugars currently derived from agricultural feedstocks. The fermentation process produces lactic acid, which is converted to lactide and then polylactic acid via ring-opening polymerization (ROP).
One particular PLA* is used in a variety of applications, including compostable food service ware and packaging, 3D printing filaments, hygiene products, compostable coffee capsules, and nonwovens.2 This PLA brings value to these applications beyond a low carbon footprint through performance attributes such as a high modulus, excellent solvent and grease resistance, and food contact compliance. In addition, it can be industrially composted back to CO2, hummus, and water. The compostable nature of PLA enables this bio-based polymer to be a significant contributor to zero waste and circular economy initiatives focusing on diverting food waste away from landfills.