MGP Announces New Line of Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Resins

Made from up to 65 percent renewable material, Terratek SC is similar to thermoplastics, and can be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes for the production of both pliable and hard plastic products.

7 Sep 2012 --- MGP, a long-established innovator of grain- and other plant-based ingredient solutions, has announced the development of Terratek BD, a new line of biodegradable composite resins. This newest entry in the company’s portfolio of eco-friendly bioplastic products will be introduced at the Sustainable Packaging Forum slated for Sept. 11-13 in Pittsburg, Penn.

“The launching of Terratek BD represents another major step in MGP’s ongoing commitment to deliver commercially-viable product offerings that help reduce reliance on conventional petroleum-based plastics,” said Mike Parker, bioplastics product development and sales manager. “It provides an ideal alternative for multiple applications wherein the manufacture of fully compostable products is highly desirable.”

Parker emphasized that “among the most unique aspects and advantages” of Terratek BD is the product’s “unique ability to serve as a cost effective solution for creating heat-tolerant, bio-based compostable products” compared to similar type resins. “We view this as a significant breakthrough in that it can open new doors for the development of end-user products that maintain their physical integrity under moderate to high heat conditions.”

Applications for Terratek BD include a variety of injection-molded industrial and consumer products such as disposable packaging materials and containers. “This material can be used in many other injection-molded applications including durable products that can benefit from being compostable at the end of their lifespan,” Parker said.

Terratek BD is produced at MGP’s facility in Onaga, Kan., from a proprietary blend of wheat- and corn-based products, as well as other compostable materials. Natural components derived from renewable grain sources make up the majority of the resins’ content by weight. The smooth, white, pellet-size resins can be easily processed, shaped and colored by finished goods manufacturers to meet their specific product designs and needs.

“All of the materials used in the production of Terratek BD meet industry standards for fully compostable products,” said Mark Kocour, bioplastics general manager at MGP. “In addition to the excellent heat tolerance displayed by these new resins, they possess outstanding mechanical qualities, including strength and a rare combination of rigidity and pliability. This bolsters our confidence in their ability to be effectively applied toward the manufacture of a growing range of biodegradable consumer packaged goods that are both highly practical and environmentally-friendly.”

In addition to MGP’s new Terratek BD line, the company produces and markets Terratek SC, a starch-based bioplastic, and Terratek WC, made from a combination of fine wood particles and recycled plastic materials.

Made from up to 65 percent renewable material, Terratek SC is similar to thermoplastics, and can be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes for the production of both pliable and hard plastic products. This line of resins is also capable of withstanding temperatures beyond boiling point and can be processed into finished products using conventional and existing technologies.

Wood particles used in the production of Terratek WC are obtained from waste materials generated by the woodworking industry. Processed to produce a consistent filler/reinforcing product, the use of these particles promotes the reclamation of wood waste that would otherwise be sent to landfills, and ensures that no new trees are cut down to make the product. Available in an injection molding grade, as well as an extrusion grade, Terratek WC can be used in such applications as decking, furniture parts, structural components, toys and indoor and outdoor decorative items.

“All of the products under our Terratek brand respond to growing interest in renewable sources to address environmental concerns and curtail dependence on non-renewable synthetic materials,” Parker said. “In this way, MGP is helping the industry and consumers make strides toward lowering their carbon footprint.”