Imagine a world where packaging could achieve complete biodegradation in water. But, of course, most consumers will object that such a product would increase "harmful microplastics."

Concerns over microplastics in products have become a hot topic for consumers, making them a concern for companies trying to achieve the benefits of a lucrative eco-conscious status and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Confusion around the solubility of polyvinyl alcohol film used in liquid laundry detergent has persisted, causing some to consider this very versatile film a contributor to microplastics, which it is not. Instead, the polyvinyl alcohol-based film is a revolutionary material that can potentially change product waste and its life cycle. For now, its best-use case is still in water-immersed products.

The Science Behind Polyvinyl Alcohol Film

Understanding the science behind polyvinyl alcohol film will help you appreciate why this material is not only preferred for its ability to create perfectly preportioned laundry detergents but is also an eco-friendly option, unmatched in this sector.

Microplastic

Polyvinyl alcohol film does not add to microplastic pollution, thanks to its composition. Polyvinyl alcohol is made of a synthetic resin derived from the saponification of polyvinyl acetate.

When some acetate groups are converted to alcohol groups, and others are allowed to remain, the product is "partially hydrolysed" polyvinyl, which is fully biodegradable, given the percentage of acetate that has been hydrolyzed.

Water Solubility

While the fully hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol-based film is only water-soluble at temperatures greater than 60°C, partially-hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) is water-soluble regardless of water temperature. Typically, water solubility is achieved instantly at ambient temperatures of 20°C. However, POLYVA's PVOH is specifically designed to be immediately water soluble in cold water temperatures of below 10°C, making it perfect for use in typical household functions.

Biodegradability

Arguments that PVOH isn't biodegradable and will only exacerbate plastic pollution are rendered null and void when you understand the lifecycle of this groundbreaking product (more on that below).

In fact, PVOH is one of a handful of polymers that is fully water soluble and achieves biodegradation. Biodegradation is optimal when specific bacteria, typically found in wastewater, where domestic product use will occur.

But, like any biodegradable item, polyvinyl takes time to fully degrade.

What Happens to Polyvinyl Alcohol Film When Used in Detergents?

If you're still wondering what will become of the detergent capsule film after it dissolves in water, this guide will help you understand the life cycle of the polyvinyl alcohol film.

Polyvinyl Alcohol Film Biodegrades in 28 Days

When immersed in water, polyvinyl begins to dissipate in water, leaving zero residue as it completely dissolves.

The degradation begins almost instantly, progressing from a sludge to a biodegradable state in 15 days.

By the 5th day, in an aqueous solution, up to 10 percent of the polyvinyl alcohol film has degraded. On the 10th day, that figure is 20 percent, meaning the material is still in its sludge phase. By the 15th day, the degradation has reached 40 percent, and from there, the degradation process is accelerated, reaching 83 percent by the 28th day.

In 40 Days, Polyvinyl is Unrecognizable

By the 40th day of degradation, a polyvinyl alcohol-based film produced by POLYVA can no longer be measured, given that it has biodegraded.

This life cycle is what makes polyvinyl alcohol film a far superior film to any existing exo-friendly option. In addition, unlike other materials, this product reaches 80 percent of its degradation within a month.

POLYVA Polyvinyl Alcohol Film

POLYVA makes a versatile polyvinyl alcohol film that can be used in several applications, including liquid detergent capsules or to create water-soluble bait bags.

POLYVA is committed to creating a superior product that backs up the claims of being biodegradable.

Customizable Polyvinyl Alcohol Film

The POLYVA polyvinyl alcohol film is entirely customizable, allowing you to input your specifications for these polyvinyl bags for your specific use case.

EU Safety Compliant Polyvinyl Alcohol Film

POLYVA's polyvinyl alcohol film includes additives that make it safe for household applications, like liquid detergent capsules. These additives mean the film will not start dissolving in wet or placed in the mouth and won't puncture when pressure is applied.

Cost-Effective

Going green doesn't need to be an expensive endeavor, thanks to POLYVA's polyvinyl alcohol-based film, which is developed to be a cost-effective yet quality solution. You can tout all the above benefits, especially biodegradability, without affecting your bottom line or the product's overhead.

Conclusion

There is no reason why your products can't achieve coveted eco-friendly status. Polyvinyl alcohol-based film, particularly POLYVA's product, is the greener option with hundreds of use cases, making it a go-to in today's consumer market.

This PVOH is also the gateway to upgrading, innovating, and replacing traditional packaging material.