1.Where is TDP's origin?
With the patented North American technology, TDP™ plastic is manufactured in Mainland China.
2. Why use degradable products?
Plastics have become an integral part of everyday life. Accumulation of non-degradable plastics not only shortens the life span of landfills, but also causes a number of negative effects including:
- Prevents the contents of plastic bags from degrading
- Accumulation of undesirable methane gases
- Prolongs landfill after-care period
- Increases operation cost of landfill
3. What is oxo-biodegradation?
Oxo-biodegradation is a two-stage process in which a plastic is first converted by reaction with oxygen to molecular fragments that are water- wettable. Secondly, these smaller oxidized molecules are biodegraded and converted into carbon dioxide, water and biomass, by microorganisms. The rate at which this happens for conventional plastics is very slow, taking decades or even centuries. TDP™ contains the additives which are catalysts that accelerate this reaction so that it occurs over a few months to a couple of years.
4. What are the main benefits of TDP™ plastics?
- Proven technology in the marketplace
- Provide environmental benefits
- Provide large economic benefits in some end uses
- Cost effective
- Easy to convert using conventional equipment, processes and conditions
- Same excellent physical properties & quality as conventional plastics
- Can be reused and recycled in existing recycle streams
- Enhance a product brand name
5. What products can be made degradable?
Products made from commodity plastics such as PE and PP can be made degradable by incorporating TDPA® additives. Some commercial products that have successfully incorporating TDPA® include carrier bags, garbage bags and Ziplock bags.
6. Can TDP™ plastics be recycled?
Yes, in-plant materials (trimmings, scrap, etc.) are normally recycled and commonly practiced amongst our manufacturers. Additionally, post-consumer plastics can also be recycled in existing recycle streams provided they have not already started to degrade.
7. Does the presence of TDPA® affect processability, output rate and the quality of the end product?
The presence of TDPA® does not affect processability, output rate or quality of end product and are processed using the same equipment as plastics without the additive.
8. How does TDP™ affect product performance?
Prior to the onset of degradation and disposal, TDP™ products will have virtually identical performance to those without the additive. TDPA™ products are engineered to have a predetermined life and have a designated “use before” date.
9. What will trigger the breakdown of TDP™ product?
The breakdown of TDP™ products is triggered by heat, UV light and/or mechanical stress or a combination thereof.
10. What are the end products of biodegradation and do they have any harmful effect on the environment?
The end products of biodegradation are carbon dioxide, water and biomass. Extensive studies and tests have been conducted by EPI with internationally recognized laboratories and institutions to confirm that they do not leave harmful or toxic residues to the environment.
11. Can TDPA® plastics be used for food contact applications?
Yes. TDPA® additives comply with FDA, EFSA and CFIA requirements in the US, Europe and Canada respectively and are safe for food contact applications.
12. Whom should we contact if we have interest in manufacturing other kinds of TDP products?
If you are interested in manufacturing other TDP™ products, please feel free to contact our vendor, Nicole Environmental Services Co., Ltd.
