Plastics as we know them today are incredibly problematic. Despite their usefulness, their negative effects on the environment and our health continue to cause concern. Many sectors have tried to shift away from them including retail and food services. However, others are having a hard time looking for alternatives. With Furandicarboxylic Acid and the new wave of bioplastics, this may no longer be a problem. FDCA is an organic chemical compound that is produced from carbohydrates unlike the current crop of petroleum-based plastics. Many are calling it the leading edge of the future green chemical movement. The following properties make it an excellent alternative:
Recyclable Material
The biggest reason why many are bullish about FDCA and the resulting bioplastics called PEF is that this is a recyclable material made from more eco-friendly sources. PEF has similar properties to the current king which is PET but the former has better green credentials. PEF can be used in the food packaging sector without any worries. It is also composed of 100% renewable raw materials. Examples include agricultural and forestry wastes. Unfortunately, PEF is not biodegradable. It can be disposed, however, through incineration without producing more CO2 emissions. This is still a step in the right direction.
Lower Melting Point
PEF is a high-strength material. It is resistant to punctures and heat. It also has a lower melting point compared to PET with the former melting at 211 degrees Celsius and the latter doing so at 247 degrees Celsius. This means that the manufacturers will have to expend a smaller amount of energy when trying to make products out of this material. On the other hand, it has a higher glass transition temperature by about 9 degrees Celsius. Both of these thermal properties make it more attractive on an economic level.
Better Barrier Performance
Tests have also found the PEF has better barrier performance compared to PET. The material can prevent moisture and oxygen transmission to a greater degree than PET. This opens up a wide range of applications for the material in industrial and commercial settings. After all, water resistance is a highly sought-after property even in consumer goods such as certain types of clothing and the like.
The future looks bright for the Furandicarboxylic Acid In due time, it is likely to become the dominant chemical of its type. This should bode well for the environment and various industries that set to gain from this achievement in materials engineering.