High Heat Technology
Jointly developed between Northern Technologies International Corporation and NatureWorks, Natur‑Tec® BF3002HT is a platform of high-performance, biobased and compostable polymer resin compounds made with modified Ingeo PLA. This platform of resin compounds is specifically engineered for disposable foodservice applications where high heat performance and dimensional stability are critical. Furthermore, this platform offers a fully compostable alternative to polystyrene (PS) or polypropylene (PP) in applications such as single use cutlery, disposable coffee pods, and other single-use food serviceware.
Features
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Natur-Tec BF3002HT is obtained by letting down highly-filled masterbatch into Ingeo PLA resins to tailor performance properties
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Engineered specifically for high heat resistance applications such as cutlery and food serviceware
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Natur-Tec BF3002HT is 100% compostable and meets requirements of ASTM D6400 and EN13432
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Increased dimensional stability in annealing processes reduces production scrap
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Innovative masterbatching approach maintains molecular weight of the resin compound, thereby improving mechanical strength of finished product.
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Small particle size of natural mineral helps increase strength with a high white index
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Does not contain any polypropylene, polystyrene, or any other conventional plastics that do not biodegrade
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Manufactured from renewable, biobased, low-carbon-footprint Ingeo resin
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Approved for direct food contact and contains no heavy metals
Engineered to Perform
Cutlery made from the Natur-Tec BF3002HT compound is tougher than PS at room temperature and stronger than PP at high temperatures.
Spoon Stiffness
PS is stiff, but brittle. PS cutlery snapped when compress vertically 1.5 cm
PP is strong, but to flexible.
Natur-Tec BF3002HT is stiff and strong. Bother PP and Natur-Tec cuttler did no break even when compressed vertically 3cm.
Toughness Comparison
Hot Water Test 80ºC
Hot Water Test 90ºC
BF3002HT Properties
| Physical Properties* | ||
| Property | Test Method | Value |
| Specific Gravity | ASTM D792 | 1.4 - 1.5 g/cm³ |
| **Melt Flow Rate MFR 190°C, 2.16 kg |
ASTM D1238 | 5 - 8 g/10 min |
| Molding Shrinkage | ASTM D955 | Axial: 0.2 - 0.3% Lateral: <0.1 |
| Mechanical Properties* | ||
| Property | Test Method | Value |
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D638 | 64 MPa |
| Elongation | ASTM D638 | 7% |
| Flexural Strength | ASTM D790 | 108 MPa |
| Notched Izod Impact Strength | ASTM D256 | 223 J/m |
| Mechanical Properties* | ||
| Property | Test Method | Value |
| HDT (before crystallization) | ASTM D648 | 60°C |
| HDT (after crystallization) | ASTM D648 | 125°C |
| Heat resistance for cutlery applications | > 90°C | |
* Data obtained from annealed standard test bars molded with 50/50 blend of Natur-Tec BM3002HT masterbatch and Ingeo 3001D
** MFR determined from a 50/50 blend of Natur-Tec BM3002HT masterbatch and Ingeo 3001D
Note: The property values listed above are calculated under standard temperature and humidity conditions. These property values should be viewed as guidelines only, and may vary based on processing conditions. No warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied are made regarding products described or regarding designs, data or information set forth.
Learn More
Injection molding of PLA cutlery, Bioplastics Magazine, March 2016
Other Applications
Natur-Tec BF3002HT can also be used for injection molded plastic applications such as:
- Garment packaging and accessories
- Foodservice packaging and containers for hot food items
- Injection molded vine clips and other agricultural applications
- Single-use coffee filter pods
Contact Us
For technical and commercial information email our partner at info@natur-tec.com or call +1 763-404-8700.