Flos claims to have created the world's first design object to be made from injection moulded polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). The Minerv-PHA bioplastic has been developed by Bologna-based Bio-on using beet and cane waste supplied by the Italian sugar co-operative Co.Pro.B. Since it is derived from waste, zero impact on the food cycle is claimed. No organic solvents are used in its production.
Bio-on managing director Marco Astorri says: “The technology is available at a global level and, with the range of biopolymers developed by Bio-on, it is now possible to create a vast range of objects in all sectors currently using plastic.”
Bio-on was founded in 2007 to apply biotechnologies to widely used materials, Its aim is to create completely naturally-derived products using PHA derived 100% from renewable sources or agricultural processing waste.
The company licenses its PHA technology to specific commercial sectors.
