CornNext-17: A Breakthrough Biopolymer Made from Corn Offers Sustainable Alternative to Plastic
In a move that could change the landscape of sustainability, Corn Next has introduced its innovative CornNext-17, a biodegradable biopolymer made from cornstarch. This new material, developed through a patented fermentation process, offers a fully biodegradable alternative to traditional plastics, making it an exciting development in the race for eco-friendly materials.
A Revolutionary Biopolymer
CornNext-17 stands out from other bioplastics like polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) due to its unique ability to maintain the natural polysaccharide structure of cornstarch. This gives the biopolymer an edge in terms of biodegradability—it breaks down harmlessly within 30 days, with minimal residue that enriches the soil, ensuring no toxic materials are left behind. In fact, any remaining residue, about 2%, can even be repurposed as animal feed, promoting a circular lifecycle for the material.
CornNext-17’s rapid decomposition and natural origins have earned it certification from the Biodegradable Products Institute, offering a new hope for industries seeking sustainable solutions to replace conventional plastics.
Versatility Meets Performance
The material’s unique properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications. CornNext-17 is not only biodegradable but also boasts strength, flexibility, and heat resistance, making it an ideal choice for various sectors:
- Packaging: With its excellent durability and resistance to heat and moisture, it is perfect for biodegradable packaging, including food and retail products.
- Consumer Goods: It is being used for compostable tableware, food containers, and single-use products.
- Agriculture: The material can be used to produce biodegradable mulch films, seedling trays, and irrigation components, contributing to soil health.
- Healthcare: Its complete biodegradability makes it suitable for medical supplies such as gloves and syringes, reducing environmental hazards.
- Automotive: Lightweight yet durable, CornNext-17 can be used in vehicle components, enhancing sustainability and fuel efficiency.
- Electronics: As an eco-friendly alternative to plastics, CornNext-17 can help reduce electronic waste by replacing certain plastic parts in electronics.
A Strategic Shift Toward Sustainability
The Irvine, CA-based company behind CornNext-17, originally known as Y&J World Inc., began its journey eight years ago in South Korea. The company pivoted from a rice-starch-based biopolymer after ethical concerns arose over the use of rice starch, eventually leading to the creation of CornNext-17. Today, the material is available in granular form and is ready to be scaled for commercial use.
“We are excited to introduce CornNext-17 as a solution to the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics,” says Randy Yongzhong Zhang, founder and CEO of Corn Next. “Our vision is to revolutionize the way materials are used and disposed of, and this breakthrough marks a significant step toward a greener, more sustainable future.”