NEC & UNITIKA Realize Bioplastic Reinforced with Kenaf Fiber for Mobile Phone Use

virtualraceday · #1 (**permalink**) 03-25-2006, 08:52 AM

NEC look like they are adopting the "environment-first" approach, which is a great move as we all should be looking to protect the environment!

I never knew mobile phones could be made of components produce with "corn" though!

Quote:

Tokyo, March 20, 2006 --- NEC Corporation (NEC) and UNITIKA LTD.(UNITIKA) today announced the joint development of bioplastic reinforced with kenaf (note 1*) fiber, which is expected to contribute greatly to environmental measures for mobile phones. NTT DoCoMo, Inc. (NTT DoCoMo) is already using this new material in the entire casing of its new FOMA(TM) "N701iECO" mobile phone, which it launched on the Japanese market on March 10, 2006.

Biomass-based bioplastics, such as polylactic acid (PLA) (note 2*) that is made of corn, have been drawing attention in recent years as new materials to replace conventional petroleum-based plastics, amid increasing interest and concern over environmental problems such as global warming and resource depletion. However, application of regular PLA to electronic devices is difficult as it has insufficient heat resistance and strength.

Full press release:

http://www.nec.co.jp/press/en/0603/2001.html

God Father · #2 (**permalink**) 03-29-2006, 01:15 AM

nice development with a concern towards the environment.

virtualraceday · #3 (**permalink**) 04-03-2006, 12:25 AM

I think in the near future we will be more aware of envinronmental issues. It used to be that nobody cared because by the time there was trouble, we would all be dead lol but I think now we are putting a bit more effort into preserving the planet for future generations.

Clark056 · #4 (**permalink**) 04-09-2006, 04:08 PM

What's next the french fry phone?

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NEC & UNITIKA Realize Bioplastic Reinforced with Kenaf Fiber for Mobile Phone Use