D&L unit unveils abaca pellets for plastics compounding
A unit of Lao family-led D&L Industries Inc. has launched a 100-percent abaca pellet product for plastics compounding, marking a major step in the company’s sustainability initiatives.
In a statement, the company said the new product of D&L Polymer & Colours, Inc. (DLPC) had built on this subsidiary’s earlier breakthrough in integrating natural fibers, such as abaca, into plastics.
Previously, the process required DLPC to carry out compounding and downstream application work internally.
With the introduction of a standardized pellet format, upstream plastic compounders can now blend abaca directly into their own formulations, allowing for broader and more scalable adoption across the plastics value chain.
The abaca pellet transforms the renewable and abundant natural fiber—considered the strongest natural fiber in the world—into a ready-to-use additive compatible with existing manufacturing processes.
This enables manufacturers to incorporate natural fibers into plastic products without modifying their production systems.
DLPC president and CEO Lester Lao said pelletization represented a turning point for natural fiber use at scale, as it allows abaca to be handled similarly to conventional polymer ingredients.
“Our proprietary technology can also work with other locally sourced fibers, such as pineapple, bakong and vetiver, further expanding the country’s potential to supply high-value bio-based materials,” Lao said.
Natural fiber
The company said natural fiber composites offer strong mechanical performance while remaining lightweight, making them suitable for applications ranging from consumer durables to construction, automotive components and other engineered products.
At the end of their life cycle, products made with these materials can enter conventional recycling or waste diversion systems and, depending on formulation, may also be made compostable.
The company noted that current formulations allow natural fibers to replace up to 40 percent of virgin polymers, reducing reliance on fossil-based plastics while maintaining strength and durability.
DLPC is currently working with manufacturers in the consumer goods, packaging, construction and automotive sectors to develop applications using the new abaca pellet, alongside market education and joint development initiatives.
D&L Industries is a listed company engaged in customized food ingredients, specialty raw materials for plastics and oleochemicals for personal and home care use.
