Danimer Scientific, a biotechnology company, and disposable tableware maker Ningbo Homelink Eco-iTech have announced the commercial launch of home-compostable extrusion-coated biopolymers.  

These biopolymers, made with Danimer's signature polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Nodax, are designed to replace traditional polyethylene coatings in paper cups. 

Ningbo is now launching new cups that are coated with the Nodax PHA-based biopolymer. 

These cups serve as a fully repulpable replacement for conventional paper cups.  

The PHA biopolymer grade also aims to serve as a liquid barrier coating, enhancing the environmental credentials of disposable cups. 

The cups have received full certification from TÜV as home compostable and from the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) as commercially compostable.  

They have also passed the first phase of the Western Michigan University repulpability/recyclability test, marking them as repulpable cups.  

The process for full certification for recyclability in paper systems is underway. 

Ningbo's products are distributed in major grocery retailers, megastores, and quick-service restaurants worldwide.  

The company will produce these cups at its new extrusion facility in Thailand, which recently started operation.  

Danimer Scientific CEO Stephen Croskrey said: "Danimer and Homelink share a common mission, we are committed to using alternative biomaterials to replace traditional plastics. 

"We are excited to partner with a world leader in disposable tableware to bring these home-compostable cups to the market." 

In February this year, Danimer Scientific completed the expansion work on its demonstration plant in Rochester, New York.