You have probably heard of bioplastics. They are plastics made from renewable resources, such as plants, rather than petroleum. Examples include polylactic acid made from sugars contained in sugarcane waste and biomass polyamide (nylon) made from castor beans, a non-edible plant.
However, what is currently drawing attention in the automotive field is “isosorbide”, which is starting to be used in interior and exterior parts. This is also a resin made from starch and sugar with excellent transparency and impact resistance and is a material that can be used like polycarbonate. Isosorbide has a glossy finish and is scratch-resistant. It is currently used to produce high-end-looking grille parts without painting them. Made from plant-based materials and free of paint, this material is useful for offsetting carbon emissions.
Next, a frequently discussed environmental issue is microplastics. This refers to phenomena such as packaging containers degrading under ultraviolet light and leaving behind fragments measuring just a few millimeters in size on land or in the sea. The problem is that small wild animals accidentally swallow these fragments, which then remain inside their bodies.
The most important rule is not littering, but sometimes typhoons and other disasters wash away everyday items into the sea. Given that background, the use of biodegradable resins that break down in seawater or through bacterial action is expanding. But for biodegradation to begin, there are specific conditions that must be met. If these conditions are not met, the material could eventually turn into microplastics.
That is where additives like “disassembly aids with timers” come in. This technology breaks down the base resin into smaller molecules after a certain period of use, transforming it into a size that can be decomposed by microorganisms in the natural environment. It can even make petroleum-derived resins biodegradable.
Environmentally conscious plastic technology will continue to evolve. Where and how should we utilize such technology? We will continue to explore together with our fellow creators.