TONE monomers, polyols and polymers from Dow are homopolymers of e-caprolactone, a seven-membered ring compound. The product family originally consisted of two high molecular weight polymers and one of low molecular weight.

They address a myriad of application needs and are compatible with a wide variety of thermoplastic processing techniques. In addition, they have strong light stability and, unlike many other commercial polymers, are truly biodegradable when composted.

Syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) is a semicrystalline polymer synthesised from styrene monomer using a single-site catalyst, such as metallocene. Because of its semicrystalline nature, SPS products exhibit performance attributes that are significantly different from those of amorphous styrenic materials. These properties include a high melting point, good chemical and moisture resistance, and a high degree of dimensional stability. SPS can be differentiated from conventional styrenic polymers on the basis of molecular structure.

For its part, polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable, thermoplastic, aliphatic polyester derived from lactic acid. It is currently used in a number of biomedical applications, such as sutures, dialysis media and drug delivery devices, but it is also evaluated as a material for tissue engineering.

Being biodegradable it can also be employed in the preparation of bioplastic, useful for producing loose-fill packaging, compose bags, food packaging and disposable tableware. In form of fibres and non-woven textiles PLA also has many potential uses, for example as upholstery, disposable garments, awnings, feminine hygiene products and nappies.