AgriPlast NFPP 4060/40000 HM
What is it?
This is a composite of 60% post-industrial recycled (PIR) polypropylene (PP) and 40% cellulose fibres obtained from meadow grass. The high organic content results in an interesting appearance with a combination of unique mechanical and physical properties. Other grades in this product line include compounds based on thermoplastics such as PE, PS, ABS, TPE and biobased and/or biodegradable materials like PLA, with a grass fibre content of up to 75%. The material can be used in both injection moulding and extrusion.
Material properties
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Tensile strength (MPa): 31,4
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Tensile modulus (MPa): 2960
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Elongation at break (%): 2,4
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Density (kg/dm3): 1,0254
Technical benefits
Despite the high fibre content, AgriPlast offers very good dimensional stability and good fluidity, enabling its use in thin-walled products. The filler improves the performance of the material at both high and low temperatures. As an interesting detail, the fibres also improve the wear resistance of the material, making it an interesting option for machine design and building applications. It is possible to improve flame resistance to a certain extent without the use of antimony or halogen.
Look and feel
The grass grains are visible on the surface of the product. On matte surfaces the grains are evenly spread, while on the polished surfaces the grass filling is obvious in the small bumpy texture – but the surface itself remains shiny. The overall appearance is very natural and warm, underlined by a faint odour of grass. Many colour options are possible, but the grass content will have an effect on the end result and the colours usually appear somewhat more subdued.
Environmental benefits
In comparison with fully fossil-based materials, AgriPlast significantly reduces the ecological footprint of the end product. Production takes place by way of a circular economy in a green biorefinery. The second output of this fibre and cellulose process is used for feedstock for green energy, grass fibre insulation, and organic fertilizers.
The products are 100% recyclable in a closed-loop process.
Applications
Jars, boxes, coathangers, mugs, commodity products.
Why we chose this material
Adding AgriPlast to the Positive Plastics collection was an easy decision. With grass as the filler, the material is unique among compounds of organic matter and conventional polymers. We also found this zero-waste manufacturing process very interesting.
Why you should consider this material
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You want to improve the sustainability of your product.
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You are looking for a PP with improved mechanical properties, such as improved heat, wear, and fire resistance, as well as higher strength and modulus.
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Your production is in or near Germany and you would like to reduce the resources used for transportation. This material is processed in Germany, using German grass as the feedstock for the filler.
About the manufacturer
Biowert is a Swiss-German based company that has developed its own unique process for manufacturing green energy, grass fibre insulation, fertilizers and plastic compounds from meadow grass. Their biorefinery is located in Odenwald.