Rengo Co., Ltd. announces that its cellulose bead “Viscopearl” has acquired the “OK biodegradable MARINE” certification.
The OK biodegradable MARINE certification is an international certification that certifies biodegradability in ocean water, which has fewer microorganisms than in soil. Viscopearl has been certified by TÜV AUSTRIA by meeting the requirements for being biodegradable to at least 90% within six months in the ocean water or for showing a biodegradation degree of 90% or more with respect to the reference substance (cellulose), and also by proving the safety of the degradation products to living organisms.
Viscopearl is a spherical cellulose bead manufactured from wood pulp. It is a product (FSC-C119241) that takes into consideration the environmental conservation of forests using raw materials certified by the Forest Stewardship Council^® (FSC^®) and is a material that is degraded into water and carbon dioxide by microorganisms naturally (in soil and ocean water). It has a wide particle diameter range and can be made porous and lightweight with Rengo's unique technology. It can be used for various purposes such as carriers for functional chemicals, additives for resin and rubber, abrasives, and raw materials for cosmetics. It is a product that is expected to help in the reduction of ocean microplastic waste by replacing plastic beads that may flow out into the ocean.
Rengo will continue to be committed to proactively developing and supplying environmentally friendly products.