API, an Italian company producing thermoplastic elastomeric compounds and bioplastics, has introduced an expanded portfolio of APINAT Bioplastics for single-serve coffee capsules.
The company launched new grades of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics, including thermoplastic elastomers TPE-E and TPC, following an increase in demand for compostable coffee capsules.
Products in the APINAT Bioplastics portfolio offer excellent mechanical and thermal characteristics during the brewing process and can become substitutes to conventional plastics, API stated in a release.
The new plastic grades, based on 60% to over 90% of renewable resources, are suitable for injection molding and continuous compression molding, and comply with the US Food and Drug Administration and EU food contact regulations.
The APINAT series products also conform to biodegradability standards of the European Bioplastics Association, as well as the scientifically recognized standards, EU 13432/EN 14995 and US ASTM D6400, for the biodegradability and compostability of plastic products.
API business unit manager Aldo Zanetti said: “Consumers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly solutions for their coffee machines. This innovation around APINAT Bioplastics reinforces API’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, offering coffee in compostable coffee capsules.”
Global materials company Trinseo acquired API in July 2017.
In 2016, over 35 billion non-recyclable plastic coffee capsules were produced worldwide, and experts predict an increase of 17 billion plastic capsules by the end of 2020.
Trinseo is a global materials solutions provider and manufacturer of plastics, latex binders, and synthetic rubber. It delivers innovative and sustainable solutions to a wide range of end-markets, including automotive, consumer electronics, appliances, medical devices, lighting, electrical, carpet, paper and board, building and construction, and tires.
