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Live pieces of coral are tied to metal frames ("reef stars") using cable or zip ties. To prevent pollution, these ties should be made from marine biodegradable materials.
These biodegradable cable ("zip") ties were originally created for coral reef restoration, a process that involves attaching fragments of live coral to metal frames on the seabed, which then (hopefully) recolonise the area.
Traditionally, these projects used standard nylon cable ties, but since they are never recovered, there has understandably been a growing interest in biodegradable alternatives.
The replacement ties work in exactly the same way as the conventional versions, but use pure poly-oxepanone, an unusual polymer that's biodegradable in most natural environments even at low temperatures. (Historically it's better known as poly-caprolactone, or PCL for short.)
However, this polymer is quite hard to work with, and it took over 40 prototypes to develop the first viable ties. The latest 5x265mm version has been further optimised and was introduced in Summer 2024.
We expect to extend the range even further as new applications emerge, from tree-planting, to music festivals, to offshore work.
Plus, we're always looking at other ways to make use of this interesting polymer. So if you have a particular requirement for a biodegradable plastic product, please get in touch and we may be able to assist.
contact details
For more information about our products, or to discuss your specific requirements, please email:
All our products are designed, developed & manufactured in the United Kingdom.
Produced by Kosine, Unit 2 Withambrook Park, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 9ST, United Kingdom. enquiries@kosine.com