Cargill Dow PLA plant starts up. (In Brief).

The first-ever world-scale production facility for biodegradable polylactide (PLA) polymers opened last month in Blair, Neb. The 300-million-lb/yr plant produces Nature Works PTA for the Cargill Dow LLC joint venture, based in Minnetonka, Minn. The resin is made from lactic acid, which is produced from cornstarch and other plant carbohydrates by bacterial fermentation. Using material from a semi-works plant, Cargill Dow has already developed applications in fibers, thermoformed containers, cups, and packaging films. Current commercial uses include film for packaging golf balls and mini-CDs, as well as thermoformed trays and film for packaging fresh pasta and salads. PTA is said to show good clarity gloss, deadfold, twist retention, heat-sealability, and flavor and aroma barrier. After use, the material is fully compostable. *101*

Meanwhile, Cargill Dow is now collaborating with Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. of Tokyo on PTA technology and market development. The companies are exchanging intellectual property and technical information. Customers of both parties will thereby not have to be concerned about potential patent restrictions from either firm. Mitsui has the rights to sell PLA resin in Japan, and Cargill Dow will continue to sell PLA to its accounts worldwide, including those in Japan.

Mitsui makes its own Laceabrand PLA resin in a pilot plant. Dow found that Mitsui's technology for materials, processing, and applications can be applied to Nature Works PLA. Dow will supply resin from its new plant to Mitsui, which will sell it under the Lacea name.