Plastic Books On The Rise In Brazil

Synthetic paper made out of 100% recycled plastic is being developed in Brazil, through a partnership between UFSCAR (São Carlos’ Federal University) and Vitopel Brasil, a subsidiary of Argentinean film manufacturer Vitopel. This innovation is based on a technology that is analogue to the one used in the production of bioriented polypropylene film (used in labels and snack packages).

Besides being a fine destination for post-consumer plastic bags, packages, PET bottles and others, synthetic paper demands about 20% less ink to achieve the same printing results, while practically eliminating waste in the industrial process, since all plastic residues are reused. The product feels like regular coated paper, has waterproof and tear-resistant qualities, and is still fully recyclable. Due to their improved resistance, plastic books are especially relevant for educational publishers, since textbooks are very intensively manipulated. Plastic books are already being adopted in technical schools in São Paulo, reaching 180 thousand students in 2010.

Today, the synthetic paper costs roughly 30% more than regular coated paper, but that difference tends to decrease with higher scale production. Vitopel intends to grow its production of synthetic paper from the 10 tons produced in 2009 to 200 tons a month in 2011. The company’s goal is not to compete with regular paper manufacturers, but to offer a viable option to close the cycle of plastic. Let’s hope the idea catches on.

Vitopel Brasil