Using PBAT blends/composites, RIL has developed a novel biocompostable mesh through an extrusion process. Process optimization and development are carried out on conventional downstream machines, characterized by high throughput and minimal loss of material during processing. It provides cost-competitive products for green packaging solutions for the fruit and vegetable industry. The developed mesh bag is simple and convenient to use and has strong load-bearing capacity.

According to RIL, these mesh bags are ideal for leafy vegetables because they stay fresh for a long time. In addition, the R&D team is working on different mesh bag models to achieve different load-bearing capacities to target applications other than the fruit and vegetable sector.

According to a company executive at RIL, its capacity can be increased without any major new investment. “It is expected that the pilot project will be completed soon. After that, commercial sales of PBAT will begin. PBAT production capacity can be expanded at any time according to the actual needs of the user industry.” said the person in charge.

These developments are significant in banning single-use plastic projects. After phasing out ultra-thin single-use plastic products from October 1, 2021, the Indian government has implemented the Plastic Waste Management Rules 2021, which prohibits the manufacture, import, storage, distribution, sale and use of several types of plastics classified as single-use Product listings effective July 1, 2022. The list of banned products also includes earplugs with plastic sticks, balloon plastic sticks, plastic flags, candy bars, ice cream sticks, plates, etc.

To effectively enforce the ban, the government has decided to impose criminal penalties of up to Rs 1 lakh and up to 2 years in jail or both for violators.