Overview
FKuR Kunststoff GmbH, based in Willich, Germany, is a leading compounder specializing in bioplastics and biodegradable polymer compounds. Founded in 1998, FKuR has established itself as a reliable partner for customers seeking high-quality bioplastic compounds for a wide range of applications.
The company’s product portfolio includes several well-known bioplastic compound families, each designed for specific processing methods and end-use applications. FKuR’s compounds are used by plastic converters worldwide to produce sustainable products that meet both performance requirements and environmental standards.
Core Product Lines
Bio-Flex® (PLA Compounds)
Bio-Flex® is FKuR’s flagship range of PLA (polylactic acid) compounds, offering a balance of stiffness, transparency, and processability. The Bio-Flex® family includes:
- Bio-Flex® F 1130: High-flow grade for thin-wall injection molding
- Bio-Flex® F 2110: Flexible grade for film extrusion and blow molding
- Bio-Flex® F 2201: Clear grade for transparent film applications
- Bio-Flex® S 5630: Semi-rigid grade for thermoforming
- Bio-Flex® A 4100: Impact-modified grade for durable applications
Bio-Flex® compounds are certified compostable to EN 13432 and are suitable for food-contact applications where regulations permit.
Terralene® (Bio-Based PE Compounds)
Terralene® is FKuR’s range of bio-based polyethylene compounds produced from sugarcane-derived ethanol. These compounds offer:
- Drop-in replacement: Chemically identical to fossil-based PE
- Renewable content: Up to 95% bio-based carbon
- Recyclable: Compatible with existing PE recycling streams
- Versatile: Available in various grades for different processing methods
Terralene® compounds are used in applications where the durability and recyclability of polyethylene are required, but a reduced carbon footprint is desired.
Bio-Nature (Starch-Based Compounds)
FKuR’s Bio-Nature product line comprises thermoplastic starch (TPS) compounds that offer high renewable content and cost-effective biodegradability. These compounds are used primarily in:
- Bags and sacks
- Agricultural films
- Disposable packaging
- Protective packaging
PHA Compounds
FKuR offers compounds based on PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates), a family of biopolyesters produced by microbial fermentation. PHA compounds offer:
- Marine biodegradability: Biodegrades in seawater environments
- Wide property range: From rigid to flexible depending on PHA type
- Bio-based: 100% produced from renewable resources
- Compostable: Certified to industrial and home composting standards
Technology and Manufacturing
Compounding Capabilities
FKuR operates state-of-the-art compounding lines capable of processing a wide range of bioplastic materials. The company’s compounding expertise includes:
- Twin-screw compounding: Precise control of temperature, shear, and mixing
- Multi-component blending: Combining polymers, additives, and fillers
- Reactive extrusion: In-situ modification for improved compatibility
- Quality assurance: Comprehensive testing of all production batches
Application Development
FKuR provides technical support to customers throughout the product development process, from material selection and formulation development to processing optimization and troubleshooting. The company’s technical service team works closely with customers to ensure successful implementation of bioplastic compounds in their products.
Primary Materials
- PLA compounds: Bio-Flex® range for injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming
- PHA compounds: Marine-biodegradable biopolyesters
- PBS compounds: Polybutylene succinate for flexible applications
- Starch-based bioplastics: Bio-Nature range for cost-effective biodegradability
- Bio-based PE: Terralene® range for drop-in PE replacement
- Cellulose acetate: Compounds for rigid applications
- Biodegradable plastics: Custom formulations for specific requirements
Market Segments
- Packaging: Flexible packaging, food packaging, waste bags, and protective packaging
- Agriculture: Mulch films, plant pots, and agricultural supplies
- Automotive: Interior components and trim parts
- Consumer Goods: Household items, tableware, and disposable products
- Medical: Packaging and disposable medical products
- Textiles: Nonwoven fabrics and fiber applications
Certifications and Standards
FKuR’s bioplastic compounds are certified to relevant international standards:
- EN 13432: European standard for compostable packaging
- ASTM D6400: US standard for compostable plastics
- OK Compost INDUSTRIAL: TÜV Austria certification
- OK Compost HOME: Home composting certification for select grades
- Food contact: EU and FDA compliance for applicable grades
Sustainability Impact
FKuR’s bioplastic compounds support the transition to a more sustainable plastics economy:
- Renewable resources: Reducing dependence on fossil feedstocks
- Carbon reduction: Lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional plastics
- End-of-life options: Compostable and biodegradable alternatives to persistent plastics
- Circular economy: Bio-based and recyclable material solutions
Last updated: June 19, 2026 Information sourced from FKuR corporate website and industry databases