NatureWorks has introduced its second generation Ingeo bioresin solution targeted primarily at injection moulding of semi-durable consumer products.

This new patent-pending solution is the latest in a series of breakthroughs for Ingeo applications, which already include high heat thermoforms, films and gift and transactional cards.
The new compounded resin technology enables the production of injection molded parts with thermal dimensional stability up to 120ºC, notched Izod impact strength greater than two foot-pounds per inch and modulus of around 450,000 psi.
Injection moulding cycle time is said to compare to styrenic resins, for which the new Ingeo technology now offers a low-carbon, cost-competitive, performance replacement.
Designated Ingeo 3801X, the new formulation combines a high percentage polylactide base resin with a tailored additive package designed to achieve the high heat, impact and cycle time performance requirements of semi-durable products such as cosmetics, consumer electronics, toys, office accessories, and promotional products.
Brand owners that replace traditional plastic components with the new Ingeo formulation can reduce their dependence on
 non-renewable petroleum inputs and lower overall greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. In addition, they are now able to source a renewable plastic resin that offers a more stable pricing structure compared to the price volatility expected of most petroleum-derived products.
“The introduction of this high heat technology demonstrates that the Ingeo family is maturing significantly, steadily broadening into a host of applications where these materials are a performance substitute for non-renewably sourced plastics,” said Marc Verbruggen, president and CEO of NatureWorks. “In the six years since we entered the market, the injection moulding community has shown significant interest in our first generation product. The industry has already developed a compelling array of injection molded consumer products, with items that include lipsticks and compacts, mobile phones, and auto interior parts. Today, we’re pleased to announce support for ongoing development efforts with a product that has been custom designed to address enhanced property and performance requests.”