Green performance

In order to meet the increasing market demand for high performance bio-based engineering plastics, the German film producer, MF Folien introduced a new polyamide film, which is based on DSM's bio-based EcoPaXX polyamide 410. In 2011, the company was the first to create samples of 30 micron cast film from EcoPaXX. Samples of film based on EcoPaXX are now available in various thicknesses: 30, 40 and 50 microns. Potential application areas are in flexible food packaging, building and construction, medical, aviation and shipping.EcoPaXX polyamide 410 films are strong and transparent with a high puncture resistance. They have a reduced moisture transmission rate versus polyamide 6 film, and a comparable oxygen barrier. Recently, three grades of EcoPaXX were also given the "Certified Biobased Product" label, awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). These labels certify a proven bio-based content of around 70%. The bio based content of EcoPaXX polyamide 410 stems from one of its building blocks, derived from castor oil obtained from plants that grow in tropical regions and which are not used for food products. The carbon dioxide, which is generated during the production process of the polymer, is fully compensated by the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed in the growth phase of the castor beans.