Biodegradability of Clarifoil Cellulose Diacetate Film

Standard magnet gloss laminate – litho printed Clarifoil film is based on cellulose from woodpulp or cotton linters, which has been treated to produce cellulose diacetate. In addition, the film contains a small proportion of plasticiser to improve flexibility.

Previous studies have shown that under suitable conditons cellulose diacetate will biodegrade. The plasticisers used in clarifoil are also capable of biodegradation, indeed, they degrade somewhat faster than the polymer itself. Clarifoil biodegrades much faster than oil-based polymers such as polypropylene and polyester. Previous studies on cellulose acetate fibes have shown relatively fast detioration of such fibres in soil burial tests, where the fibres can severely biodegrade within a few weeks.

Studies under other conditions such as an aquatic environment, especially sewage sludge, have offered accelerated rates of biodegradation. The rate of degradation of cellulose diacetate can also be substantially increased by hydrolysis, either by external treatment or by use of internals additives. Such additives are currently not used in Clairfoil, Direct enzyme treatment may also give higher biodegradation rates.

Whilst Clarifoil films are fundamentally biodegradable, the product’s performance in service is not affected.

Unless appropriate conditions are used, Clarifoil remains quite stable.

It is pvc free.