Expanded PLA a compostable alternative to EPS foams

SHANGAI, China, 15th April 2025 – TotalEnergies Corbion and Useon have announced a strategic partnership to advance the development and global commercialization of EPLA molded products — a new generation of sustainable, high-performance foam materials made from Luminy® PLA bioplastics.

EPLA (Expanded PLA) is a plant-based, industrially compostable alternative to fossil-based expanded polystyrene (EPS). Developed using Useon’s direct bead foaming technology and TotalEnergies Corbion’s Luminy® PLA, EPLA delivers a circular solution for packaging, thermal protection, and other molded applications traditionally dominated by EPS foams.

“This partnership marks a major step forward in replacing fossil-based foams with renewable, functional alternatives,” said Hao Ding, Global Marketing Director of TotalEnergies Corbion, which produces Luminy® PLA. “Useon’s technical leadership in foam extrusion, combined with the performance and sustainability of Luminy® PLA, offers the market a viable path to reduce carbon footprint and plastic waste without compromising functionality and quality.”
EPLA foam products are lightweight, protective, and durable — making them suitable for packaging, food service, and cold-chain applications. Unlike EPS, which can persist in the environment for centuries, EPLA breaks down into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass under industrial composting conditions.

This solution is a viable replacement for expanded polystyrene (EPS), which has long been used in protective and thermal packaging but remains one of the most persistent pollutants in the environment.

“With EPLA, businesses now have access to a foam material that performs well and also aligns with growing regulatory and consumer demand for circular, climate-responsible alternatives” said Mr. Chen Zhiqiang, CEO of Useon. He continued, “We are excited to team up with TotalEnergies Corbion and drive the adoption of molded PLA foam at scale. The combination of direct bead foaming and high-quality bioplastics enables sustainable innovation across the packaging industry and beyond. Together, we are redefining what’s possible in foam applications.”

As part of the agreement, both companies will promote EPLA technology globally, share application developments and market insights, and collaborate on new product innovation. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to accelerating the transition toward renewable materials and circular business models.

The collaboration will be highlighted at Chinaplas 2025, where Useon and TotalEnergies Corbion will showcase EPLA foam. Visitors to Useon’s booth (5D41) will see real-world demonstrations of EPLA molded foam using direct bead foaming.