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Our biodegradable cable ties are made from 100% pure polycaprolactone, a synthetic polymer than can biodegrade in most natural environments. Chemically known as poly-2-oxepanone, It is quite durable in aerial conditions (above ground), but will begin to decompose once covered by damp organic material (e.g., soil or plant matter).
Although quite difficult to work with, PCL is widely regarded as one of the most biodegradable thermoplastics currently available. It is more commonly used in bioplastic blends, but we choose to use it in the pure form to ensure no additives or contaminants are released during biodegradation.
We currently produce three different sizes of PCL cable tie, and recommend the 5x265mm version for most applications. These provide the same strength as our legacy 6x150mm ties, but at a lower cost.
Our bigger 8x300mm ties are still available for more demanding applications, as are the 6x150mm version. Both of these sizes are are produced to order. Although 300mm is currently the largest size we produce, any of our ties can be joined together if longer lengths are needed. (Other sizes will be added in future.)
Please note that because we use a pure (white) polymer for our products, our ties are not currently manufactured in other colours. However, we are experimenting with organic food colourants, and coloured biodegradable cable ties may be available in the future.
PCL-5-265
5mm x 265mm, 8kg
This more flexible biodegradable cable tie is suitable for most general purpose applications. Using just 2.3g of material, this tie is optimised to provide maximum performance at minimum cost.
important application notes:
1. For best results, slide into place.
Be aware that poly-oxepanone is not as strong as nylon (less than 30%), and is also much softer.
Our ties have been designed with this in mind, and can withstand the typical forces exerted when pulling them tight. However, the material does have its limits and excessive forces should be avoided. For this reason, sliding the ties more carefully into place is the recommended way to fit them.
2. Avoid high temperatures.
Poly-oxepanone is a waxy, low melting point material: It will melt at 60°C and can soften at temperatures approaching this limit. We therefore do not recommend using our PCL ties much above 40°C for prolonged periods, especially if they are under load.
(Short-term exposure to temperatures up to 50°C are generally OK, but end-users are advised to test the product first to confirm its suitability for their particular application.)
3. Dispose of responsibly.
Although poly-oxepanone can biodegrade in most natural environments, in some conditions the process can take a few years to complete. To reduce littering, discarded ties should be collected for suitable disposal wherever possible:
- In small quantities, poly-oxepanone (PCL) is generally safe to recycle along with other common plastics.
- Clean offcuts of our PCL ties can be donated for arts & crafts purposes.
- Some composting schemes may accept pure biodegradable polymers such as PCL, but please check first.