The VitasheetGroup division of British Vita (Manchester / UK; www.britishvita.com) has launched an impact modified, biodegradable, white sheet based on PLA from NatureWorks (www.natureworksllc.com). The grade, "ViForm Bio 9100", is available in both reel and sheet form and was demonstrated for the first time at the "Emballage" (www.emballageweb.com) packaging fair in Paris / France from 20 to 24 November 2006.

It is less brittle than pure PLA sheet, which Vitasheet has been making for some 12 months, allowing it to be more easily fabricated by die cutting. Huge interest is reported for applications in horticulture, such as plant labels, and as a cardboard replacement for packaging boxes. The sheet also can be easily thermoformed for food trays. A highly transparent version of the impact modified sheet is close to commercialisation.