PLA & CPLA Range
Product Information
Hot Cups, Clear Cups, Lids, or Straws, we have a range of PLA and CPLA products available.
PLA
We use low-carbon PLA biopolymers made from renewable resources.
CPLA
The crystallised form of PLA - its heat tolerant cousin. CPLA is commercially compostable but is opaque instead of clear, and a bit more hardy.
Commercially Compostable - AU 4736
CPLA products have achieved this Australian standard which uses tests to determine if bioplastics products will compost satisfactorily in commercial facilities.
What exactly is PLA?
Polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA) is a polyester derived from plant sugars such as corn starch or sugarcane, that are then fermented.
How is PLA made?
The process of making PLA involves several steps, primarily focusing on the fermentation of natural sugars and the polymerization of lactic acid.
Polylactic acid (PLA) is made by extracting starch from renewable sources like corn or sugarcane, which is then hydrolyzed into simple sugars such as glucose. These sugars are fermented to produce lactic acid, and purified to remove impurities. It then goes through a chemical process to turn this lactic acid into a polymer, which can be made into pellets, perfect for moulding into various packaging products.
What's the difference between PLA and CPLA?
CPLA is crystallised PLA. The same materials, but slightly thicker, and therefore a stronger and more sturdy version of PLA. Where higher temperature food or drink are being used, CPLA will give the product better heat resistance - helpful in our decent products to ensure they can hold any food or drink needed.
CPLA products are certified commercially compostable.
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