🧩 PHA+TPS – Bio-Polymer (PHA + Thermoplastic Starch)
(A fully biodegradable biopolymer made by blending Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) with Thermoplastic Starch (TPS). This composite offers a balance between elasticity, rapid biodegradability, and cost-effectiveness.)
🔹 What is PHA+TPS
PHA+TPS is a sustainable hybrid material. At ReplastMD, we treat it as an eco-friendly alternative for non-structural parts. PHA is a natural polyester with good oil resistance, while TPS (made from corn, potato, or tapioca starch) adds flexibility and increases the composting rate. Together, they form a partially elastic material with medium hardness, ideal for lightweight interior covers, sensor brackets, and bio-prototypes.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Polymer Base: PHA (60–80%) + TPS (20–40%).
- Density: ~ 1.22–1.25 g/cm³.
- Processing Temp: 160 – 180 °C.
- Chemical Group: Natural polyesters/Starch.
- Scent: Sweet smell when heated (burnt starch).
🚗 Where it is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Interior Caps & Shields | Renault, Hyundai | Biodegradable, non-toxic material |
| Temporary Elements | Toyota, VW | Lightweight, compostable after use |
| Sensor Brackets | BMW, Peugeot | Controlled elasticity, easy to process |
| Demo / Prototype Parts | ReplastMD internal | Sustainable material for demonstration apps |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 160 – 180 °C | Easy to weld, requires clean air and low flow |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | ✅ Ideal | Uniform weld without burning the starch |
| Welding Rod | ✅ Recommended | Use identical PHA+TPS or compatible PHA rod |
| Ultrasonic | ⚠️ Limited | Only for thin parts, risk of uneven melting |
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Weld at ~170 °C using a PHA+TPS or compatible PHA rod. This material is ideal for lightweight, biodegradable parts, combining the flexibility of TPS with the natural resilience of PHA.