Belgian chemicals producer Solvay (Brussels; www.solvay.com) has introduced a cellulose acetate bio-plastic manufactured using wood pulp obtained from Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI; www.sfiprogram.org) certified forests. Together with a bio-plasticiser, the bio-based content of “Ocalio” compounds is presently 50%.

The company said that, unlike many bio-plastics, the non-toxic material uses only wood pulp as a renewable resource. Its technical properties and performance are comparable with oil-based plastics and it can be employed as an alternative to engineering plastics including PMMA, ABS and PC.

The material is easily moulded and has been developed for a wide range of consumer goods and end-uses such as containers for cosmetics and personal care, food packaging, electronic devices, toys and mobile phones. It also offers surface aesthetics including high gloss, smooth and silky tactile qualities and a depth of colour, for both opaque and transparent grades.
The material is scheduled to be commercially available in Q1 2014.