FAQ

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1. What are the unique features of AFC’s compostable materials?

We possess diverse products based on self-developed catalyst technology and synthesis processes. Therefore, we can develop and supply customer grade materials that combine diverse grades to meet customer needs.

Bio-based plastics are made from renewable sources instead of petroleum, which can help to reduce the dependency on limited fossil resources. Moreover, some bio-based plastics that are biodegradable/compostable can degrade into CO2, water and biomass, which helps to divert biowaste from landfill and increase waste management efficiency.

The most important differences come from 2 main factors:
– Product compostability: AFC materials are fully compostable in a short time (less than 1 year) under natural burial or industrial composting treatment. Meanwhile, conventional plastics take hundreds or even thousands of years to decompose.
– The content of harmful substances emitted into the environment during the decomposition process: The decomposition of our materials produces humus, CO2, and water. Meanwhile, the decomposition of conventional plastic creates microplastics – very small matters that easily enter water sources as well as human and animal food chains.

Compostable polymers are produced by a esterification and polycondensation reaction between Alcohol Diol and Carboxylic diacid. These polymers are compounded in addition to TPS or Inorganic fillers like talc or CaCO3 in different ratios to make AFC’s compostable resins.

AFC materials can be applied to various products such as bags (shopping bags, food bags, trash bags, etc.), cutlery, containers, trays, gloves, cups, and lids, etc. Please check the product information for details.

There is pretty much nothing that bioplastics cannot do. For almost every conventional plastic material and application, there is a bioplastic alternative available that offers the same or in some cases better properties and functionalities.

Today, compostable bioplastics are mainly being used in the following market segments:
• Packaging (including flexible and rigid packaging)
• Consumer goods & household appliances
• Automotive & transportation
• Building & construction
• Textiles
• Agriculture & horticulture
• Electronics & electrics

The processing of compostable bioplastic products can be completely created using conventional machinery.

1. How do AFC certify compostable products?

The compostability of AFC products have been certified by recognized and independent test institutions:
- Confirmed by third-party test institutes
- Proven in practice
- Suitable for direct contact with food

AFC's compostable products have gone through rigorous tests and received many of the world’s leading prestigious certificates such as OK Compost HOME and OK Compost INDUSTRIAL of TUV Austria, along with BPI Compostable of the US, DIN Certo Compostable and Biobased 50 – 85% of Germany.

Decomposition time depends on the environmental conditions for each type of product. With bags, paper cups and gloves, these products will decompose after 6-12 months under natural burial conditions. Other products will decompose within 6-12 months in industrial waste treatment conditions.

AFC products are 100% compostable. Using these products will reduce plastic waste and produce less CO2 than conventional plastic products. Therefore, they are 100% eco-friendly products.

The expiration date of AFC products depends on the type of product. However, the general expiration date ranges from 1-2 years after the released date.

To meet the rigorous standards of certifications for 100% compostable products, the colorings for AFC products must also be made from environmentally friendly and compostable materials and will not affect the health of consumers.

Yes, we are always able to offer custom-made products to serve specific requirements.

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