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Bioplastics and PHA
Biodegradability and Biocompatibility
Waste Management
What is the difference between plastics and bioplastics?

Bioplastics are derived from raw materials that come from renewable sources, while conventional plastics are derived from non-renewable sources such as petroleum.

Can we make bioplastics with all organic waste?

In VEnvirotech, we can use a wide range of organic waste to produce plastic. Depending on the characteristics of the waste, we use it in two different ways: as food for bacteria, or as an additive in the formulation.

What happens when we no longer need the bioplastic?

As we explained earlier, the renewable source of bioplastic means that we need to know its degradation process to determine how to treat it at the end of its useful life. If it is biodegradable, it should be treated like any other organic material. If it is not biodegradable, it should be treated like any other plastic container, in the yellow container.

Are bioplastics and microplastics the same?

No, when a plastic made from non-renewable sources degrades, it breaks into smaller and smaller pieces until it becomes micro-sized, and then we call it microplastic. These are dangerous because they are not visible to the naked eye. Bioplastics, on the other hand, come from renewable sources.

How long does PHA biodegrade?

The biodegradation of PHA varies from a few months to a few years, depending on the shape of the piece and the type of PHA, but compared to up to 1,000 years for traditional plastic, it is significantly faster.

Is bioplastic biodegradable? What does biodegradable mean?

Biodegradable means that a material is capable of breaking down and serving as food for other microorganisms. When we talk about biodegradable bioplastics, we achieve complete circularity: it comes from a natural source and returns to that source in the form of food.

What is the difference between biodegradable and compostable?

Biodegradable materials decompose and serve as food for other microorganisms, while compostable materials not only decompose but also produce a high-quality fertilizer. Thus, all compostable materials are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable materials are compostable.

What container should we throw bioplastics in?

Non-biodegradable bioplastics, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride, are made from renewable sources such as bioethanol or bio-isobutanol. These materials are identical to those made from non-renewable sources, so the waste management of these materials is the same, in the yellow container. Biodegradable bioplastics, such as PHA, should be disposed of in the organic, brown container.

What does biocompatible mean?

A biocompatible material is one that is compatible with the human body.

How many tons of waste do I need to use a VE-BOX?

Currently, VE-Boxes are designed to work with a large flow of waste. To create the appropriate bacterial culture for each waste, we require at least 20,000 tons of homogeneous waste annually. We hope that in the future, the technology can be used in smaller centers.

How do I know if I can use a VE-BOX with my waste?

The easiest way is to contact us. Initially, we will perform simple analytical tests, and if the results are positive, we will conduct laboratory tests to obtain the first yields and determine if there are any process inhibitors.

What can we do with organic waste that cannot be turned into bioplastic?

In VEnvirotech, we can also use organic waste directly in the formulation, promoting a circular economy.