The toy market is currently a growth area for bioplastic materials.
In many cases, the main focus is on improving the environmental impact of materials and the notion of “ harmlessness” when using products in contact with young children.
This market is therefore turning more towards biobased and biodegradable materials such as PLA or PHAs, as well as biobased PE as a substitute for existing petrosourced polymers.
ADVANTAGES
- Compatible with existing processes
- Safety for children
- Resistance and durability
- Mostly biobased
- Potential improvement in environmental footprint
- Unique design incorporating by-products
Its materials are used to make rigid or flexible toys adapted to children’s needs, while meeting parents’ and manufacturers’ expectations in terms of durability and safety.
The use of filled compounds (certain plant fibers or co-products) is also increasingly in demand, because of the potential visual differentiation of finished products.