The Bioplastic Plastic Complex, built by Dongsung Chemical at its Ulsan plant, supports the development of processing technologies for compostable packaging materials.

Dongsung Chemical has entered into an agreement with Daesang to jointly develop starch-based compostable materials and products.

The two companies aim to develop compostable packaging based on thermoplastic starch (TPS) by 2027. TPS is a naturally derived material that can decompose through microbial action under specific temperature and humidity conditions.

Under the agreement, Daesang will be responsible for developing the thermoplastic starch-based compostable material. Its packaging development division will also verify the material’s applicability in actual product packaging processes. Daesang has focused on enhancing the quality and strength of thermoplastic starch, drawing on its expertise in starch-based product manufacturing.

Dongsung Chemical will source thermoplastic starch-based compostable materials from Daesang to develop logistics-grade bubble wrap and food packaging films. The company has material compounding and processing technologies that enable it to achieve different physical properties for different packaging applications.

The two companies plan to apply the jointly developed packaging materials at Daesang’s logistics centers and in selected seasoning and processed food packages. They are also reviewing potential applications in overseas markets as global regulations on environmentally friendly packaging continue to evolve.

In the European Union, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, which takes effect in August, permits the use of certified compostable materials for certain types of packaging that are difficult to recycle because of contamination.

Cho Sung-won, vice president of business development at Dongsung Chemical, commented starch-based compostable packaging materials could serve as an alternative to petroleum-based non-biodegradable plastics. He added that the collaboration is expected to strengthen the technological competitiveness of both companies and contribute to the development of a sustainable packaging ecosystem.

Dongsung Chemical recently opened the Bioplastic Complex at its Ulsan plant, a technology development center dedicated to bioplastics. The company is applying compostable packaging materials across a range of industrial logistics sectors, including food, cosmetics, medical and pharmaceutical products, as well as cultural arts and fashion