A new system developed through the collaboration between Biorepack and the University of Pisa enables the identification of non-biodegradable components present in bioplastics in quantities exceeding the maximum limits set by EN 13432. The study has been published in the Journal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis.
The aim of the research is to provide an effective tool for detecting the presence of polyethylene (PE), a non-degradable material that is often found above regulatory thresholds during the production of biodegradable and compostable plastic packaging. The study was carried out by the Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry at the University of Pisa, led by Erika Ribechini, Full Professor of Chemistry, together with Marco Mattonai, Federica Nardella, and PhD candidate Marta Filomena.
The newly developed method, an innovative chemical-analytical protocol, is highly effective in verifying the presence of polyethylene, whose use in packaging materials is permitted under European regulations only up to a maximum of 1%, in order to ensure proper compostability and biodegradability of bioplastics. From an operational standpoint, the protocol is based on analytical pyrolysis coupled with mass spectrometry, capable of detecting PE concentrations even below 1%, in line with legal requirements. This makes it a valuable tool both for industrial quality control and for environmental monitoring.
Fighting illegality in the packaging sector offers multiple and significant environmental benefits. Stricter control of compostable materials helps reduce the release of microplastics into soil and water, improves the quality of compost used in agriculture, and discourages the improper use of the terms “biodegradable” and “compostable”, thereby protecting companies that operate legally in compliance with Italian and EU regulations.
Our consortium’s statutory mission includes ensuring full compliance with the stringent regulations governing compostable bioplastics, so that their transformation into compost together with organic waste delivers real benefits to soil quality and the agricultural value chain - said Carmine Pagnozzi, General Manager of Biorepack - This is why we are proud to support the development of scientifically robust control tools, strengthening a sustainable supply chain in which Italy is a continental leader.
