CJ Biomaterials, Yuhan-Kimberly launch biodegradable paper towel

CJ Biomaterials, the US division of South Korea-based CJ CheilJedang and a major producer of PHA biopolymers, has partnered with Yuhan-Kimberly to introduce the world’s first biodegradable and reusable nonwoven paper towel made using amorphous PHA.

The new Kleenex biodegradable and reusable dish towel is now available in South Korea. It features CJ Biomaterials’ proprietary PHACT A1000P material and is the result of a partnership between the two companies that began in 2022.

PHACT A1000P is produced from sustainably grown plant-based raw materials such as sugarcane. It is a soft and flexible biobased material designed to replace conventional plastics while naturally decomposing under composting and environmental conditions. The material has received certifications from the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) for both commercial and home compostability, as well as certifications from TÜV Austria for home and industrial composting, marine biodegradability, and soil biodegradability.

Yuhan-Kimberly combined PHACT A1000P with other plant-based materials, including cellulose and polylactic acid (PLA), to create high-performance spunbond nonwovens produced by Eugene Hanil. The final product is a fully biobased paper towel that does not generate long-lasting microplastics.