Polypropiolactone

By polymerizing propiolactone, Novomer can enable the economical production of polypropiolactone (PPL), a polyester-like polymer that is biodegradable and has excellent toughness and oxygen barrier properties. This polymer has long been coveted by industry but could not be produced economically before the Novomer process. PPL is a potential substitute for many petroleum-based plastics like polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), but is much more environmentally friendly. PPL has been studied extensively on the lab scale by the academic community, and its properties show tremendous potential.

Features

  • Similar mechanical properties to PET (extremely tough, untearable)
  • Melting Point 75-85C
  • Excellent oxygen barrier properties
  • Biodegradable
  • Potential for low cost