RTP Co. has added more options to its series of polylactic acid bioplastic compounds.

New impact-modified grades with higher heat deflection temperatures are suited to semi-durable and durable applications, according to the Winona, Minn., firm. These properties give performance equal to traditional thermoplastics, RTP claims.

“Using our formulation and compounding expertise, RTP Company now has a full line of PLA-based compounds that allow bioplastics to be considered for broader use, giving product designers the ability to create eco-conscious products and meet end-use sustainability,” stated RTP’s business manager of emerging technologies, Will Taber.

The new PLA materials are available in injection molding and extrusion grades with varying degrees of impact modification and several combinations of stiffness and ductility. RTP’s PLA lineup also includes grades alloyed with conventional thermoplastics, glass fiber-reinforced types, mineral-reinforced grades and nucleated versions.

RTP says its impact modification boosts notched Izod impact performance as high as 30 times that of neat PLA and comparable to polycarbonate/ABS blends. Nucleators give heat deflection performance similar to ABS, high impact polystyrene and acrylic. RTP avers.

Targeted applications for the new materials include injection molded covers and housings, and structural components for appliances and consumer electronics, sporting goods, toys and medical devices.

Tel.: 800-433-4787 or 507-454-6900, fax: 507-454-2041, e-mail: rtp@rtpcompany.com.