Environmentally Sustainable, Alternative Plastics for the Win

A field trip to the CSIR Biodegradability Testing Facility and the Centre for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials.

The CSIR Biodegradability Testing Facility

The use of biobased, compostable bioplastics presents a significant opportunity to foster a more circular economy. Manufacturers are increasingly recognising the importance of sustainable end-of-life solutions for plastic and bioplastic products, particularly those made from renewable resources and incorporating biobased, compostable polymers.

The CSIR Biodegradability Testing Facility tests and verifies the biodegradability of materials, including both imported and locally produced products marketed as biodegradable and compostable.

The facility determines the specific conditions and timeframes required for materials to biodegrade. Testing is conducted under various conditions – including aerobic (compost, soil, freshwater and marine) and anaerobic environments – in line with a range of international standards.

The CSIR Centre for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials

CSIR materials experts at the CSIR Centre for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials rely on nanotechnology to manufacture and manipulate materials that improve performance and sustainability. Using nanocomposites, they create materials with enhanced stiffness, strength and heat resistance, or with reduced moisture absorption, flammability and permeability. Examples of novel materials produced include compostable food packaging, single-use biomedical kits, compostable hospital aprons and biodegradable agricultural mulches.

The process begins with characterising material structures at the atomic and molecular levels using advanced equipment such as microscopes. Scientists study how changes in structure can lead to improved material properties. Researchers then assist both small and established businesses in scaling nano-based innovations to industrial and commercial levels through the CSIR’s industrial development facility, which includes a chemical processing plant and an advanced plastic formulation and processing facility.

Join this tour to discover how advances in composite materials are helping to reduce the environmental impact of waste in packaging, agriculture and other industries.