abstract |
A thermoplastic film composition that includes a polymer blend of multiple inherently incompatible polymer components is described. The composition includes a polymer blend having about 5 wt. % to about 45 wt. % of a plasticized natural polymer, about 5 wt. % to about 40 wt % of a polyolefin, a biodegradable polymer, and a compatibilizer with both a polar and a non-polar moiety on the same polymer molecule. The total plasticized natural and biodegradable polymers constitute a majority or predominant phase (≧51 wt. %), while petroleum-based olefinic polymers form the minority phase. The composition can be made into a film containing at least one renewable, natural polymer component. Also described are the articles of manufacture that may use such films. |