About Elite Force Airsoft Bio BBs Made of PLA
What Are Biodegradable Airsoft BBs Made Of?
Biodegradable airsoft BBs—often called bio BBs—are typically made from compostable materials such as polylactic acid (PLA), a plant-based polymer derived from renewable resources such as corn starch, potatoes, and sugarcane, and combined with mineral salt fillers to tune weight and precision. PLA behaves much like traditional plastic in terms of durability and performance, but it has one major advantage: it’s compostable under the right conditions.
PLA is used in compostable food containers and disposable tableware. If you’ve ever used a biodegradable or compostable plastic cup at an event, it was likely made of PLA. Beyond its ability to break down over time, PLA is also non-toxic, meaning it poses far less risk to plants, animals, and the broader environment compared to petroleum-based plastics.
How Degradable Are Airsoft Bio BBs?
Bio BBs are significantly more environmentally conscious than their non-biodegradable counterparts, but they’re not a perfect solution.
PLA does break down over time when exposed to moisture, microbes, and heat. But the rate of decomposition depends heavily on environmental conditions. Complete accelerated biodegradation is achieved under controlled, high-temperature composting conditions. Outdoor environments slow the process. PLA BBs will degrade, but without the controlled heat and moisture levels found in industrial composting facilities, the process can take several years.
The good news? While they may take time to break down, PLA bio BBs aren’t known to introduce harmful toxins into the environment as they do. The decomposition byproducts are non-toxic. This makes them a much better option for outdoor airsoft fields, wildlife, and ecological impact.
Storing Bio Airsoft BBs
Once you crack open a sealed container of bio BBs, the clock starts ticking on their slow decomposition process. Ideally, use opened BBs promptly or keep track of how long they’ve been exposed to air.
PLA is sensitive to humidity and heat, so proper storage is key. To maintain consistency and performance:
- Keep them sealed whenever possible
- Store in a cool, dry, dark place
- Avoid moisture and never leave them in a hot car
By protecting them from heat and humidity, you’ll ensure your Elite Force Bio BBs perform at their best for every game.
Why Using Bio Airsoft BBs Matters
Many outdoor airsoft fields require bio BBs to reduce long-term plastic accumulation and support responsible field stewardship. Standard BBs are made of non-biodegradable plastics that persist in the environment. PLA- and mineral-based formulations are designed to break down, albeit over time, offering a more sustainable option.
Elite Force Bio BB Composition
Elite Force Bio BBs use plant-derived PLA combined with mineral salt. They contain at least 49% mineral salt and 30% plant-derived PLA. Composition varies by the weight of the BB to balance flight characteristics:
- 0.20 g: Higher PLA content, lower mineral salt.
- Heavier weights: Higher mineral salt content, lower PLA.
Elite Force Tracer Bio BBs incorporate ≈14–19% luminous powder, displacing an equivalent amount of mineral salt to deliver reliable tracer performance in compatible units.
Bio BB Quality & Consistency
Tight tolerances, high roundness, and smooth polish support reliable feeding and accuracy in Elite Force airsoft rifles and pistols. Inferior bio BBs or those that have been opened and exposed to the environment or heat may have surface defects or inconsistent sizing that can cause jams.