🧩 PCL+CAPA – Biodegradable Aliphatic Polyester (CAPA® Perstorp)
(Biodegradable, soft thermoplastic material obtained by ε-caprolactone polymerization. CAPA® PCL by Perstorp (Sweden) is a semi-crystalline aliphatic polyester with a low melting point (~60 °C) and remarkable elasticity.)
🔹 What is PCL+CAPA
PCL (Polycaprolactone) is a biodegradable polymer from the aliphatic polyester family. At ReplastMD, we treat it as the ultimate malleable “bio-wax” for technical use. It is widely used in the automotive industry for flexible testing parts, bio-adhesive bonding, and ecological repairs on prototypes. It offers excellent flexibility and remains stable in cold environments down to –40 °C.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Polymer Base: Polycaprolactone (PCL).
- Formula: (C₆H₁₀O₂)ₙ.
- Density: 1.14 – 1.16 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 58 – 65 °C.
- Operating Range: –40 °C to +60 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Good (water, oils, detergents).
- UV Resistance: Moderate.
🚗 Where PCL+CAPA is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Bio Flexible Elements | Gaskets, protectors, small parts | Easily moldable, bio-compatible |
| Bio-melt Adhesives | Temporary bonding, soft repairs | Reactive at very low temperatures |
| Prototype Parts | Flexible eco-elements | Fast restoration via melting |
| Decorative Inserts | Demonstration applications | Glossy, soft, bio-recyclable |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | ✅ 70 – 90 °C | Welds easily, no fumes, uniform melt |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | ✅ 70 – 80 °C | Clean, smooth bonding |
| Manual Extrusion | ⚠️ 80 – 100 °C | Possible, but flow is low |
| Chemical Bonding | ✅ Recommended | Soft polyester or epoxy adhesives |
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: PCL+CAPA can be hot-air welded at reduced temperatures (~80 °C) with excellent results. The material softens uniformly and can be manually shaped without burning—ideal for fast, oxidation-free repairs.