Article: Electronics get press for dressing in green Canon Inc. and Apple Computer Inc. made headlines last week for materials-related choices in their electronics products. One of the companies chose to work with bio-based plastics, while the other one trumpeted a move away from plastics.

Byline: Don Loepp

Canon announced that it had developed a new bio-based plastic for use in office products that will be launched early next year. Canon worked with Toray Industries Inc. to develop the material, called "Ecodear.'' The resin is based on polylactic acid, according to a report in our sister publication Plastics & Rubber Weekly.

What makes the material special is its high level of flame retardance, which makes it appropriate for use in office equipment exterior parts. On top of that, Canon and Toray expect it to offer a 20 percent reduction in manufacturing-related carbon dioxide emissions, compared with conventional plastics.

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