The database, which is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection (BMELV), contains information that is important for plastics manufacturers. The database also includes data about commerically available biopolymers, with the raw materials and practical value of the biopolymers being the most important factors. The beta-version, to be presented at the Interpack tradeshow, contains information provided by the manufacturers. The final version, which is planned for 2009, will also contain comprehensive, independently validated parameters. The FNR and Hanover University of Applied Sciences will be present at the “Bioplastics in Packaging” event, featured at Interpack from 24th to 30th April in hall 7a, booth E 08.

In recent years, numerous biopolymer materials have been developed using sugar, starch, cellulose or plant oils. In order to make it easier for manufacturers interested in entering the field of bioplastics technology and enable the materials to enter the market, the biopolymer database will be equipped with data on application-specific materials and features. The database will, in the same way as conventional plastics databases, collect and provide access to state-of-the-art benchmark data of the new biopolymer materials made from renewable resources.