Watch our video to see how Hydroplast helps our environment!

LET'S TALK

We all know that plastic is bad for the environment.

But what if there was a plastic that wasn't?

 

 

Hydroplast uses a proprietary technology to create packaging solutions that have full functionality, but are safe for the environment with a range of safe ‘end of life’ disposal options. As consumers, we often have the choice of buying plastic free products, but as businesses, there are often limited options. This is where Hydroplast comes in.Polyvinyl alcohol itself is not a new concept - having been used for years in surgical stitches or PVA glue as it is inherently biodegradable, but the commercial production of multifunctional polyvinyl alcohol monolayers is the innovative factor.

The base polymer is polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) which is a refinery product originally derived from ethylene. Ethylene is converted to vinyl acetate (a very useful chemical, used as a base for many other polymers), which is then polymerised to polyvinyl acetate, and converted to polyvinyl alcohol.

The unique process here is to produce thermo-processable fully hydrolysed polyvinyl alcohol. This PVOH is unusual as a petro derived polymer in that it is hydrophilic (water liking) and has enhanced biodegradation properties. It is well documented as being biodegradable in aerobic (soil, compost, freshwater) and anaerobic (sewerage, some landfills) conditions.

It is important to note that while the current base PVOH polymers are derived from petro refining, the switch to bio-based PVOH, such as from cellulose is imminent. There is no significant manufacturing of the bio-based version due to demand. But as demand grows, the whole life cycle of our Hydroplast products will become more and more renewable.

HYDROPLAST 360

Beach in Lantau, Hong Kong, February 2019.

CERTIFICATIONS

 

 

Conforms to and has been tested to the following standards:

 

1. Determination of biobased content: CEN/TS 16137; ASTM D6866
2. Composability: EN 14995; EN13432; ASTM D6400; ISO 17088; AS4736; ISO18606; ASTM D6868
3. Anaerobic Digestion: ISO 15985; ASTM D5511
4. Soil: ISO 17556
5. Freshwater: ISO 13975; EN14987
6. Landfill: ASTM D 5526
7. Aerobic wastewater & sewage sludge: EN14851; EN14852
8. Anaerobic wastewater: EN14853
9. Marine: ASTM D6691; OK Marine; ISO 18830 (floating); ISO 19679 (sediment)
10. Recycling: ISO 15270 Guidelines for the recovery and recycling of plastics waste
11. Plastic waste: EN15347

FAQ

What are Hydroplast products made from?

Hydroplast products are based on a polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). This is a hydrophilic (water liking) and water-soluble polymer which is well documented as being inherently biodegradable. Given the right balance of environmental and microbial presence, it will biodegrade to carbon dioxide, water and mineralised natural biomass.

What products can be made using Hydroplast?

We can make most everyday items that you would normally make from soft, flexible plastic films. It is more suitable for some applications than for others, but we create tailored solutions dependent on individual requirements. Feel free to drop us an email with your requirements and we will evaluate and find the most suitable solution for you!

What is left behind when Hydroplast products break down?

Mineralised natural biomass, carbon dioxide and water. CO2 is a natural byproduct of living organisms, hence it is produced when micro organisms breakdown the material.

How do I dispose of my Hydroplast products?

Due to the range of safe end of life features, you can dispose of Hydroplast products in several different ways. You can place the product in boiling water. Other methods include, compost, anaerobic digester, or simply in the trash.

How long will it take for the Hydroplast products to break down?

This is dependent on the thickness of the product and the environment where it ends up. Sun, water, temperature, micro-organisms and bacteria in the surrounding environment, all have an influence on the time for the product to break down. However, you can always dispose of it instantly by placing it in hot water!

Are Hydroplast products toxic?

No. Hydroplast products are 100% non-toxic and safe for the environment.

Can Hydroplast products be printed on?

Yes. Hydroplast films can be printed on the same way conventional plastics are printed, however we use ink made with organic pigment and a water based system, to ensure it leaves behind no toxic residue when the product breaks down.

What have Hydroplast films been tested against?

The below list are some examples of standards and tests which the material conforms to. For more information, please email us. 1. Determination of biobased content: CEN/TS 16137; ASTM D6866 2. Composability: EN 14995; EN13432; ASTM D6400; ISO 17088; AS4736; ISO18606; ASTM D6868 3. Anaerobic Digestion: ISO 15985; ASTM D5511 4. Soil: ISO 17556 5. Freshwater: ISO 13975; EN14987 6. Landfill: ASTM D 5526 7. Aerobic wastewater & sewage sludge: EN14851; EN14852 8. Anaerobic wastewater: EN14853 9. Marine: ASTM D6691; OK Marine; ISO 18830 (floating); ISO 19679 (sediment) 10. Recycling: ISO 15270 Guidelines for the recovery and recycling of plastics waste

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