 For many years, corn checkoff dollars helped support
the research and development of bio-based plastics. That investment is paying dividends.
With the help of this research, Cargill (now NatureWorks LLC) was able to
develop corn-based polylactic acid (PLA), which is now
being used to produce a variety of products. One example
is a complete line of compostable tableware made entirely
from corn. The line includes disposable forks, knives,
spoons, plates, cups, bowls and storage containers such
as those used in deli’s and supermarkets. The PLA-products
completely degrade in a composting environment. Better
yet, the production of these bioproducts generate less
greenhouse gas than traditional petroleum-based items.
Wal-Mart and other companies have introduced PLA-based packaging for some items — and PLA-based gift cards. PLA
clothing items are also being introduced, and bedding
made from PLA can be purchased in several department
stores across Nebraska and the nation.
Perhaps the best news of all for Nebraska corn producers
is that the PLA used in these bioproducts is made in Nebraska
at the NatureWorks plant in Blair. The Blair plant uses more than
40,000 bushels of corn every day in the production of PLA.
Other manufacturers are also getting into the act. Dupont has teamed up
with British food-ingredient giant Tate & Lyle PLC to make a corn-and-petroleum based fabric called Sorona
that it says is superior to polyester and nylon because
it feels softer and has better stretch recovery, among
other qualities. They began producing corn-based PDO in 2006 in Tennessee. ADM and Metabolix are building a plant in Iowa to make a plant-based
polyester plastic that could be used in products such
as food wrap or as fibers for clothing.
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