Swiss masterbatch and additives producer Sukano (Schindellegi; www.sukano.com) and Total Corbion PLA (Gorinchem / The Netherlands; www.total-corbion.com) have launched a range of functional and optical masterbatches based on Total Corbion PLA’s “Luminy” neat resins. The masterbatches will be available exclusively from Sukano.

“As we strategically join forces in the bioplastics value chain to further promote new PLA applications and market penetrations, the addition of “Luminy”-based masterbatches to our existing product portfolio further supports our customers’ needs and goals,” commented Alessandra Funcia, Sukano’s head of marketing.

Franҫois de Bie, marketing director at Total Corbion PLA, added that converters could now choose from a wide range of Sukano masterbatches to fine tune the performance of PLA in the final end-use application.

Sukano’s range of PLA masterbatches include specific functional additives that are aimed at improving properties such as impact, mould release and anti-static or anti-block for nested products. Colour masterbatches based on “Luminy” PLA will also be available.

“Luminy” PLA resins are produced from cane sugar in Thailand and are certified as compostable and bio-based. Total Corbion PLA is a joint venture between Total (Paris / France; www.total.com) and Corbion (Amsterdam / The Netherlands; www.corbion.com). The jv began operations in March (see Plasteurope.com of 10.03.2017).