Mazda Bioplastic

Plant-derived and carbon-neutral polylactic acid. Possesses high strength, heat resistance and high quality finish. Used for injection-molded automobile interior parts. It is the first bioplastic in the automobile industry that maintains a high plant-derived content. This bioplastic has three times the shock impact resistance along with 25 % higher heat resistance when compared to contemporary bioplastics used for items such as electrical appliances. Its manufacture involves fermentation of natural materials such as starches and sugars. As a result, it requires 30 percent less energy to produce than petroleum-base polypropylene plastics. And unlike conventional bioplastics whose properties are suitable for press-forming only, Mazda's bioplastic can be extrusion-molded. Consequently, this bioplastic can be used for various car parts.