Developed by researchers at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, the regenerated or recrystallised cellulose has been designed to replace plastic films, which are typically difficult to recycle and often end up in the wrong places after use.
“We can produce transparent and flexible cellulose film. The consumer cannot distinguish between the crystal-clear material and traditional oil-based plastic. Cellulose film can resist dampness, but in nature it disappears as completely as a sheet of paper does. The product is biobased and biodegradable,” said VTT research professor Ali Harlin.
In addition to their protective properties, transparent plastics allow consumers to see the product itself without exposing it to the air, which can lead to faster degradation.
Image credit: VTT Technical Research Centre of ...