Silk crepe producers adopting bioplastic

Several silk production facilities in Kyotango, Japan, are working in partnership with Teijin Co., Tokyo, Japan, in developing innovative applications for BIOFRONT™ bioplastic, a plant-based fiber with a silk-like sheen. Most bioplastics melt under high heat and humidity, but BIOFRONT has a melting point of 210 degrees C, which allows it to tolerate high-temperature processes, such as plastic molding and fabric dyeing. The material is impact-resistant, antibacterial and flame retardant, making it appropriate for automotive fabric, electronic components and even eyeglass frames. In September 2009, Teijin launched a BIOFRONT demonstration plant with an annual capacity of 1,000 tons, and hopes to establish 5,000-ton capacity by 2011. For more, see http://www.teijin.co.jp/english/news/2009/ebd090708.html.