FP International, a manufacturer of eco-friendly packing solutions, has introduced its first CELL-O EZ green air cushions meant for the MINI PAK’R air cushion machine on Earth Day 2012.
MINI PAK’R air cushion machine
The CELL-O EZ green air cushions’ film is made of 100% recyclable material and it can be easily recycled and reused. It is available in two sizes: 4” x 8” and 8” x 8”.
After disposal of the film as waste, a biodegradable additive present in the CELL-O-EZ green film helps form a microscopic bio-film on the cushion surface that draws microorganisms Rod Alire, Chief Scientist at FP International, said that the microorganisms secrete enzymes and acids that help in the disintegration of the long polymer chains into tinier pieces and these smaller pieces can then be absorbed by the microorganisms. He also added that when microorganisms are present, the process of biodegradation takes place in a period of 1 to 5 years or more relying on conditions. Since the conditions differ from landfill to landfill and from place to place, the precise time for degradation differs based upon the microbial activity level.
The CELL-O EZ green air cushions are particularly designed for the MINI PAK’R air cushion machine, which forms six separate sized air cushions for preserving shipped products. This air cushion machine makes on-demand inflatable packaging and it replaces pre-made bubble and paper. The MINI PAK’R machine replaces traditional packing of peanuts and is suitable for eBay shippers and pack-and-ship store.
The results of ASTM 5209, ASTM D5338 and ASTM D5511 affirmed that plastic products produced with the additive are biodegradable and they are safe for the environment. The additive, which is being used in several plastic products worldwide, is made of FDA recognized materials. This plastic packaging that biodegrades is compliant with the EN 13427 standard.