What is PBSeT, and how does it differ from PBAT?
A new type of biodegradable plastic called PBSeT has recently been launched on the market! Let's talk about PBSeT first. Its full name is polybutylene terephthalate-sebacic acid, and its core raw materials are three: terephthalic acid (TPA), bio-based sebacic acid (SeA), and bio-based 1,4-butanediol (BDO).
Compared to PBAT, the key difference lies in the "sebacic acid": PBAT typically uses petroleum-based adipic acid (AA), while PBSeT uses bio-based sebacic acid (SeA), combined with bio-based BDO, allowing PBSeT to reach a bio-based content of 67%, making its environmentally friendly properties more prominent.
Now let's look at its performance characteristics. PBSeT is superior to PBAT: Firstly, its flexibility and tear resistance are comparable to PBAT; however, its weather resistance and thermal stability are even better! Because sebacic acid has 10 carbon atoms (4 more than adipic acid), its long carbon chain structure makes it less prone to performance degradation after outdoor exposure to sunlight and moisture; it also has better thermal stability, is less prone to decomposition during processing, and has a longer shelf life. Based on these characteristics, it can be used not only for shopping bags but also to produce biodegradable mulch films, food packaging films, and disposable tableware, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
So, what are the differences between the two for shopping bags? PBAT shopping bags excel in cost-effectiveness, being affordable and flexible, perfectly adequate for everyday carrying, and are currently the mainstream in the market; while PBSeT shopping bags excel in their "high bio-based content," having a higher environmental protection level, a smoother feel, and superior tensile and anti-aging performance, making them suitable for applications requiring a high "bio-based content."
Finally, let's talk about the price, which is what everyone is most concerned about: PBSeT is indeed significantly more expensive than PBAT. The core reason lies in the raw materials: bio-based sebacic acid costs approximately 38,000 yuan per ton, while the petroleum-based adipic acid used in PBAT only costs around 6,800 yuan per ton. This price difference in raw materials directly increases the cost of PBSeT. However, precisely because of its high bio-based content and superior performance, it is particularly competitive in European regions with specific requirements for environmental protection and the proportion of bio-based components.
