Italian compounder Sirmax (Cittadella; www.sirmax.com) is further expanding its production capacity for bio-compounds. Two extruders, discussed during the 2019 takeover of compatriot Microtec (Padova; www.mastercolour.eu – see Plasteurope.com of 10.09.2019), have now started production. The “Fast Track” twin-screw extruders “ZSK 70 Mc18” are designed for processing bio-plastics, according to the manufacturer of the machines, Coperion (Stuttgart / Germany; www.coperion.com). The lines will reportedly double Microtec’s output to 16,000 t/y .

Microtec plans to use the lines to produce compounds based on starch biopolymers, co-polyesters (PBAT), polylactic acids (PLA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS). These are sold as blow moulding and injection moulding grades under the name “BioComp”.

Sirmax CEO Massimo Pavin said, “With the two new extruders, we have been able to significantly expand our production capacity for sustainable plastics.” He noted that the additional output is an important step in the successful implementation of the corporate strategy. Plans for operations in Padova include a possible expansion to as many as 10 lines with a capacity of 40,000 t/y by 2022.