AUSPACK PLUS 2013 to feature bioplastics pavilion

AUSPACK PLUS 2013 organisers have announced that the successful Bioplastics Pavilion will feature at next year’s event. The Bioplastics Pavilion, which was introduced in 2009, allows key industry experts to come together under one roof to help visitors understand bioplastics.

The pavilion will consist of Australasian Bioplastics Association (ABA) members. ABA is the peak industry body for manufacturers, converters and distributors of bioplastic products and materials in Australia and New Zealand. The association represents its members in the promotion of and advocacy for members’ products and materials.

The Bioplastics Pavilion at AUSPACK PLUS

Previous Bioplastics Pavilion displays at AUSPACK PLUS generated significant interest in this emerging marketplace and members have come back again to promote their unique and sustainable bioplastics offerings.

Companies that are confirmed to exhibit in the pavilion include BASF Australia, Chem-Supply, Nature Works, Sun Australia Environmental Materials, Innovia Films, Novamont and Cardia Bioplastics. Other ABA members such as Because We Care will have a separate exhibition stand in the same area as the pavilion.

BASF’s ecovio fully biodegradable cup

“Compostable plastic is growing faster than the industry average and will, with time, constitute a significant part of the local market,” said Stephen Morris, business development manager for Chem-Supply. The company will promote its new agency for compostable plastics, FKuR GmbH (Germany) at AUSPACK PLUS 2013.

“FKuR’s expertise is compatibilisation of biodegradable polymers to optimise mechanical and composting properties.  As one would expect, they have a high level of expertise, prompt technical support and a product range suitable for the Australian marketplace. Products include film and injection moulding grades.

“BioFlex film grades have excellent strength and sealing properties. Injection moulding grades are based on cellulose and derivatives and can offer clear or wood-effect finishes. Our objective is to broaden the available range of biodegradable materials, which will assist in the growth of bioplastics.”

Novamont SpA will also join the pavilion. Warwick Hall from Novamont said, “As a founding member of the ABA and a manufacturer of the Mater-Bi range of starch-based bioplastics resins, Novamont SpA is looking forward to exhibiting at AUSPACK PLUS 2013.

“The applications for Mater-Bi bioplastic are many, including shopping and boutique bags, organic waste collections bags, biodegradable agricultural film and packaging. Within the ABA pavilion at AUSPACK PLUS 2013, visitors will be able to see packaging and other products made in Australia, New Zealand and other parts of the world using Mater-Bi bioplastic resin. AUSPACK PLUS 2013 will present an ideal opportunity for participants in, and customers of, the packaging industry to see some of the continuing and newer application for Mater-Bi bioplastic along with those from other ABA member companies.”

AUSPACK PLUS 2013 will be held at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park from 7 to 10 May 2013. The event is owned and presented by APPMA, the Australian Packaging and Processing Machinery Association, Australia’s only national packaging and processing machinery organisation.

To receive a prospectus on exhibiting at AUSPACK PLUS 2013, email event manager Luke Kasprzak at LKasprzak@etf.com.au or phone 02 9556 7972.