NatureWorks 6100D Hot Sale PLA Resin

Physical Properties

• Specific Gravity: Measured according to ASTM D792, the specific gravity is 1.24 g/cc.
• Melt Density: As determined by ASTM D1238, the melt density is 1.08 g/cc at 230 °C (0.0390 lb/in³ at 446 °F).
• Viscosity Measurement: The relative viscosity (RV) is 3.1, measured at 1.0 g/dL in chloroform at 30°C using the CD Internal Viscotek Method.
• Melt Flow: As per ASTM D1238, the melt flow rate is 24.0 g/10 min at 210 °C (410 °F).

Polymer Properties:

1. Base Material: Polylactic Acid (PLA)
2. Key Features & Characteristics:
   
   • Excellent Transparency: Produces films and parts with exceptional clarity and gloss, making it an ideal choice for consumer-facing packaging where visual appeal is crucial.
   • Good Toughness and Flexibility: Unlike many rigid PLA grades, this resin is engineered to be less brittle, offering improved flexibility, which is beneficial for film applications.
   • Versatile Processability: Offers stable and consistent performance on various extrusion and thermoforming equipment, making it a go-to for different manufacturing needs.
   • Bio-based and Compostable: As with all Ingeo PLA resins, it is derived from renewable resources and is industrially compostable, providing a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics.

Applications:

The combination of high clarity, good flexibility, and a balanced melt flow rate makes NatureWorks 6100D suitable for a variety of transparent and flexible products, especially those for consumer packaging.

• Film Packaging: The improved elongation and toughness make it a strong candidate for producing clear films for food and retail packaging, where flexibility and puncture resistance are important.
• Thermoformed Packaging: Ideal for creating clear food containers, trays, and lids due to its good rigidity and clarity, with less risk of cracking compared to more brittle grades.
• Cardboard Box Windows: Its transparency and toughness are well-suited for creating windows on cardboard boxes and other laminated packaging.
• Extrusion Coating: The resin can be used as a coating layer on paper or other substrates to provide a heat-sealable, moisture-resistant, and clear surface.

Processing Guidelines

NatureWorks 6100D is a versatile grade that can be processed on a variety of conventional equipment. Proper drying is crucial to prevent hydrolysis and ensure optimal product quality.

• Recommended Processing Temperature: 170°C – 200°C
• Drying: The resin should be dried to a moisture content of <250 ppm before processing. Recommended drying conditions are 4 hours at 40°C.