Frequently asked questions
1. How does Mirel compare to other biobased, biodegradable products?
Mirel bioplastics combine the broad functionality and performance of petroleum based plastics (like heat and water resistance) with the broadest spectrum of biodegradability. Overall, Mirel bioplastics provide the best environmental solution.
2. Which applications are you targeting?
We are targeting packaging, consumer disposables, erosion control, agriculture and other applications that fit the value proposition for sustainability, biobased and/or biodegradability. We are working with brands and suppliers that see the major environmental benefits using Mirel bioplastics as the best biobased, biodegradable, and sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics.
3. When will the plant start operating?
The first commercial-scale Mirel production plant is being constructed adjacent to ADM's wet corn mill in Clinton, Iowa. The plant will have commercial product available for customers in the second quarter of calendar year 2009 and is designed to produce 110 million pounds of Mirel annually.
4. How fast do Mirel bioplastics biodegrade?
Under D6400 composting conditions, an item of 1 mm thickness will biodegrade in around 90 days. Under D7081 marine degradation conditions, a 4 mil thick film (about 4-5 time thicker than a typical kitchen trash bag) will degrade in 70-80 days.
5. How are Mirel bioplastics produced?
Mirel starts from nature, and returns to nature. Through a combination of bioscience and nature, we convert corn sugar into Mirel bioplastics. This is then turned into everyday products like cups, packaging and bags which can biodegrade harmlessly back to nature at the end of its useful life.
6. Who is Telles?
Telles is a joint venture between Metabolix and ADM to develop, manufacture and deliver Mirel bioplastics to the world.
7. Do you have FDA approval?
We are in the process of getting FDA approval.
8. Is Mirel clear?
No, Mirel is opaque and similar in appearance to high-density polyethylene.
9. How does the increase in corn use for ethanol affect the food supply?
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) reports corn yields will continue to increase because of biotechnology and improved cropping practices ensuring an adequate supply of corn for all markets. In addition to fuel, the ethanol process creates livestock feed and food products. The ethanol process removes only starch, not protein from the food and feed market.
10. Does Mirel biodegrade in the ocean?
Yes. We are ASTM D7081 Marine Degradability certified.
11. Is Metabolix a public company?
Yes, we are listed under MBLX on NASDAQ. You can also get investor information from our website.
12. Who is Metabolix?
Metabolix is an innovation-driven bioscience company providing sustainable, clean solutions for plastics, fuels and chemicals. Visit website.
13. Do you comply with ASTM D 6400 or EN13432 for industrial composting (European equivalent)?
Yes. In addition Mirel bioplastics can biodegrade in soil, home composts, septic systems, wetlands and even the ocean.
14. How can we get some material to sample?
At present, material is made available from Telles under material transfer agreements to customer prospects based on their specific applications interests. Please contact Telles through our contact page for further information.
