At Airsun Environment Science & Technology Co., Ltd., we are committed to advancing sustainability in the aviation industry. Through a strategic collaboration with CHMS Technology, we focus on the development and production of PLA (Polylactic Acid) raw materials and PLA-based products. PLA, a biodegradable plastic derived from renewable resources like cornstarch and sugarcane, is a core element in our pursuit of eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic.
Our primary applications for PLA include disposable cutlery used in aircraft cabins and PLA-coated packaging bags, providing sustainable solutions for reducing plastic waste in the aviation sector.
To ensure the reliability and environmental safety of our PLA products, we conducted an extensive testing process. Specifically, the PLA knives used in disposable cutlery for aircraft cabins underwent a 75-day degradation test at TÜV SÜD, a globally recognized testing laboratory. The purpose of this test was to evaluate the biodegradability of the PLA knives under real-world conditions, specifically in microbial environments found in soil.
In the lab, the PLA knives were pulverized to accelerate the degradation process, simulating a more rapid breakdown in natural settings. The results were promising and further validated the suitability of PLA for use in aviation products.
The results from TÜV SÜD’s testing, based on established standards such as EN 13432:2000 and ASTM D6400-12, demonstrated a significant degree of biodegradation. After 75 days in a microbial-rich soil environment, the PLA knives showed:
A 99% degradation ratio in the presence of microorganisms.
An 81.5% overall degradation ratio across the entire material.
This highlights PLA’s strong potential for breaking down into natural elements, which is a key advantage over conventional plastic that can persist for hundreds of years in landfills.
Through our partnership with CHMS Technology, we are advancing the use of PLA in critical areas of aviation, particularly in single-use cutlery and packaging bags:
Disposable Cutlery for Airplanes: PLA-based cutlery, including knives, forks, and spoons, offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic utensils. These products not only reduce waste but also promote a more sustainable airline experience for passengers.
PLA-Coated Packaging Bags: We also use PLA in the coating of packaging bags for various airline products. This PLA coating helps ensure that the bags are biodegradable, reducing the environmental impact of packaging waste in the aviation industry
The testing results from TÜV SÜD affirm the potential of PLA as a sustainable material for use in disposable cutlery and packaging, particularly within the aviation industry. Our continued efforts at Airsun Environment Science & Technology Co., Ltd., in partnership with CHMS Technology, are focused on expanding the use of PLA in environmentally responsible ways. We are proud to lead the charge in offering solutions that not only meet the needs of modern airlines but also contribute positively to the global movement toward sustainability.
By incorporating PLA materials into aviation products, we are taking meaningful steps toward a future where eco-friendly innovations play a central role in reducing the environmental impact of the airline industry.
