| PHB is a isotactic, absolutely linear, thermoplastic homopolyester built of 3-hydroxy butyric acid. The formula of the subunit is -[O-CH(CH3)-CH2-CO]-. PHB is free from even traces of catalysts. PHB is waterproof and is highly crystalline (60 to 70%), providing excellent resistance to solvents. PHB is a biopolymer which is present in all living organisms. Many bacteria produce PHB in large quantities as storage material (instead of fat, oil, or starch). It is not toxic and it is totally biodegradable. Biomer produces PHB and processes it to pellets that can be handled on plastics machines the same way as classic plastics produced from oil. PHB is a biological storage material that is used by bacteria and fungi as feed source. The same is true for articles made of Biomer resins: they act as food supply to microorganisms and thus are biodegraded. PHB serves as nutrient only, when phosphates, nitrogen, salts, humidity, and heat allow the microorganisms to grow. Such conditions are present in composts and, in part, in the soil, but not under the conditions of typical use of injection molded or extruded articles. Therefore articles made of PHB stay unharmed for years. |
