Sustainable Construction: Transparent Material to Save Energy
18.09.2024
How will we build in the future? Sustainability, energy efficiency and comfort are key requirements that modern materials must fulfil. Conventional building materials such as glass are reaching their limits. This is where a new polymer-based material comes in, intelligently combining natural lighting and heat regulation to reduce energy consumption.
UBQ is literally turning trash into treasure
30.08.2024
Using its patented process, UBQ takes everyday garbage, strips out any abrasive metals, glass or minerals, and converts it into thermoplastic resins that be molded or extruded into a vast range of durable products. Such garbage is everywhere, hence the company’s name of UBQ, which stands for ubiquitous. It’s a global problem and requires a global perspective.
Formula Student puts plastics in the fast lane
07.08.2024
Once a year, students from all over the world meet at Germany’s world-famous Hockenheim Ring (Germany) to compete against each other in single-seater race cars made of plastic. In addition to the performance of the cars in various disciplines such as cornering, acceleration and energy consumption, the jury also evaluates the design of the cars, the teams' cost planning and sales presentation.
Jogging shoes and co.: plastics in sportswear
31.07.2024
The right outfit for every sport. Even for a short jog after work, sports enthusiasts can access sophisticated equipment. From breathable sports shirts and cooling running tights to running shoes. The choice is diverse. However, there is one unifying factor that most models have in common - plastics are used in their manufacture.
Bioplastics Made of Olive Pits
05.07.2024
Biolive, a pioneering biotechnology company, has launched a new biopolymer production facility in Istanbul, Türkiye, capable of producing 9,600 tons annually. Using olive pits as raw material, this innovative process aims to replace fossil-based plastics, offering a sustainable solution for the plastics industry.
Artistic duo brings Lucite and epoxy to life
05.06.2024
The Como, Italy-based design studio of Draga & Aurel is using transparent acrylic sheets, epoxy resin, light and color to create visually striking collections of high-end furniture. They just unveiled two such collections, called Flare and Glaze, done exclusively for specific galleries.
Bend it like PU – Plastics in football
31.05.2024
The European Men's Football Championship is casting its shadow ahead. It will take place in Germany from 14 June to 14 July 2024 and promises exciting matches and thrilling moments. But it's not just the players who are in the spotlight. The materials used also play a decisive role in the success of a match: plastics.
Pioneering sustainable solutions in the cosmetic industry
17.05.2024
TotalEnergies Corbion and Sulapac have joined forces to advance sustainable practices in the cosmetics sector, emphasizing the integration of recycled and biodegradable materials into product packaging, fostering a more eco-responsible industry.
SABIC Introduces EXTEM™ RH Resins for Micro-Lens Arrays
06.05.2024
SABIC, a leader in the plastics and rubber industry, is set to launch its latest innovation, EXTEM™ RH resins. These high-performance resins are designed for use in the production and assembly of micro-lens arrays (MLAs), offering advanced scalability and manufacturability in commercial onboard and co-packaged optics.
Biopolymer coating for textiles – protective bacteria
03.05.2024
It defies wind and weather and protects us from a wide range of environmental influences: Functional clothing. Special coatings are responsible for this. Polyacrylates or polyurethanes, which are based on crude oil and therefore a finite resource, are often used for this purpose. The DITF are therefore researching alternatives from renewable sources – including polymers from bacteria.
SABIC: Advancing PFAS-Free Material Solutions
22.03.2024
SABIC unveils an expansion of its LNP™ LUBRILOY™ portfolio with innovative internally lubricated compounds, offering high-performance alternatives to PTFE-lubricated materials. This development addresses regulatory and health concerns over PFAS, positioning SABIC as a leader in sustainable material solutions.
Enzyme-Powered Recycling of Bioplastics
11.03.2024
Scientists at King's College London have unveiled a novel chemical recycling method, leveraging enzymes found in laundry detergents, to break down single-use bioplastics in record time. Published in Cell Reports Physical Sciences, this innovative approach promises a more sustainable cycle for plastics, traditionally seen as a challenge due to their long degradation period.
Implants: high-performance plastics in medical technology
29.02.2024
High-performance plastics play a central role in technological advances – including in medical technology. In view of the high demands placed on materials in the medical context, Evonik's VESTAKEEP® PEEK offers a solution that combines high mechanical properties, temperature resistance and chemical resistance – and can improve patient care through innovations in the field of medical implants.
Fluoroplastics in focus
23.02.2024
The debate about fluoroplastics and their environmental impact is reaching new heights. While environmentalists are calling for a ban on PFAS (perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds), industry associations are warning of the far-reaching consequences for numerous areas of application. A look at the arguments and challenges.
Heat resistant medical polycarbonate from Covestro
22.02.2024
Covestro, a leading developer of polymers and high-performance plastics, presents Apec® 2045, an advanced copolycarbonate. This material combines outstanding features such as biocompatibility, heat resistance, transparency and durability, making it the ideal solution for the manufacture of medical devices.
Borealis to acquire Integra Plastics AD, an advanced mechanical recycling player based in Bulgaria
26.01.2024
Borealis announces the signing of an agreement to acquire a 100 % stake in Integra Plastics AD, an advanced mechanical recycling player based in Bulgaria. The investment will strengthen Borealis’ advanced mechanical recycling portfolio.
New EU packaging regulation: Voices from the industry
25.01.2024
The current Packaging Directive has not been able to reduce the negative environmental impact of packaging. The European Parliament has therefore voted on new rules for packaging in the EU. At the end of November, the Parliament clearly adopted the proposal.
Boosting PET recycling with higher standards for laboratory experiments
12.01.2024
In a study, Gert Weber, Uwe Bornscheuer and Alain Marty have identified standards for laboratory experiments with enzymes for PET recycling. It emphasizes difficulties in upscaling and highlights the promising enzyme LCC-ICCG, which converts 98% of PET in 24 hours, is economically more efficient and proposes new standards for laboratory research on PET recycling.
Saving energy in plastics production: Polytives wins 2nd place in the Lothar Späth Award 2023
05.01.2024
Polytives GmbH, a spin-off of the University of Jena in the field of plastics technology, was awarded second place in the Lothar Späth Award for its cooperation partnership with the university on 16.11.2023. The company, which emerged from Prof. Schacher's working group, develops innovative plastics solutions for energy optimisation in production.
Circular Polymers by Ascend and ReDefyne experts highlight expanded options for post-consumer recycled nylons, PET and PP
15.12.2023
Experts from Ascend, a leader in recycling post-consumer carpet, and ReDefyne highlight new opportunities for recycled nylon, PET and PP. Their proprietary process allows them to convert end-of-life carpet into feedstocks for materials used in various finished goods, including automobiles and household appliances.
Covestro and HiPhi launch joint laboratory on advanced material solutions for future mobility
08.12.2023
The two companies Covestro and HiPhi are launching a laboratory to solve the key challenges of future mobility. The focus will be on promoting the use of low-carbon solutions, drawing up relevant standards and developing intelligent surface technologies and battery solutions.
Borealis expands its mechanically recycled plastic compounding capacity with closing the acquisition of Rialti S.p.A.
08.12.2023
Borealis has finalized the agreement to acquire Rialti S.p.A., an Italian polypropylene (PP) compounder for recyclates. With the acquisition, Borealis expands its portfolio of PP compounds based on mechanical recyclates by 50,000 tons per year and is committed to accelerating the transition to a circular economy in the spirit of EverMinds™.
LANXESS expands its range for PFAS removal from water
01.12.2023
LANXESS is presenting its new anion exchange resin Lewatit MonoPlus TP 109, which can be used for the efficient removal of contaminants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances from water. In addition to Lewatit MonoPlus TP 109, the company is also presenting other selective resins that can also be used in combination for pre- and fine cleaning.
Play-Tec® PCR awarded with "Blue Angel"
20.11.2023
The company Röchling SE & Co. KG offers its Play-Tec® PCR recycled plastic, a construction material for the sustainable design of long-lasting playgrounds. This has now been awarded the Blue Angel eco-label in the category "Environmentally friendly recycled plastics" (DE-ZU 30a).
BASF celebrates 25th birthday of ecoflex®, the world's first PBAT biopolymer
13.11.2023
BASF SE celebrates the 25th anniversary of ecoflex®, the world's first PBAT biopolymer. Innovative biopolymers based on ecoflex® have been helping to solve numerous challenges in the plastics market since it came on the market. ecoflex® has also created new recycling opportunities for plastics and enables organic recycling.
From snack bag to cooling technology: The rebirth of aluminum-plastic laminates
08.11.2023
Thanks to aluminum-plastic laminates, our favorite snacks stay as crisp as we love them. But what if the shiny insides of snack bags hold much greater potential – one that goes far beyond accompanying a movie night? Passive cooling technology could benefit from upcycling these chip bags, says a research team from the University of Bayreuth.
Sabic and Partners Introduce First In-Mold Labeling Solution with Certified Renewable Polymers for Food Packaging Containers
20.10.2023
SABIC has partnered with specialists to demonstrate the use of certified renewable polypropylene in in-mold labeled packaging, offering sustainability and recyclability without compromising quality. This technology provides cost-effective, visually appealing packaging with a low environmental impact, benefiting brand owners and reducing carbon footprint.
Extrupet again chooses PET recycling technology from EREMA
10.10.2023
Extrupet will expand its PET recycling capacity in South Africa with a VACUNITE® from EREMA in June 2024 to meet growing demand for its PhoenixPET® recyclate. This decision comes as part of a long-standing partnership that began back in 2009, and will enable the planned expansion into East Africa and Nigeria with further plants for food-grade rPET.
They see me rollin' - Plastics in bicycles and current best practices
04.10.2023
Anyone who chooses the bicycle as a means of transport instead of the car every day saves the environment 3.2 kilograms of climate-damaging CO2. In addition, plastics can help to reduce CO2 emissions from the production and transport of bicycles. They can be used in all components and therefore make cycling even more environmentally friendly. This is shown by the following examples:
AIMPLAS participates in a European project to develop environmentally sustainable printed electronics
19.09.2023
The REFORM project aims to develop sustainable electronic components using bio-derived materials to reduce the reliance on scarce metals. It addresses the environmental impact of e-waste by creating recyclable and eco-friendly printed electronics, involving various European partners, including AIMPLAS, to develop innovative recycling methods.
Intelligent rubber materials
12.09.2023
Materials scientists at the University of Stuttgart and pharmacists at the University of Tübingen have developed smart polymer materials that can autonomously adapt to environmental conditions, making them ideal for soft robotics and exoskeletons.
Recycled PET for India's first 100 % rPET beverage bottle produced by Srichakra Polyplast on Starlinger equipment
12.09.2023
Coca-Cola India has launched the first 100% recycled PET water bottle in India, manufactured by Srichakra Polyplast on a Starlinger PET bottle-to-bottle recycling line. The launch followed approval from the Food Safety Authority of India, and Coca-Cola plans to further expand this sustainable packaging solution.
HDPE plastics from post-consumer flows
05.09.2023
Recycling service provider Interzero developed a patented process to enhance the reuse of HDPE plastics, allowing the creation of blow-molded products from 100% post-consumer lightweight packaging material. The process uses a chemical modifier to control the recycled material's viscosity, making it suitable for blow-molding and eliminating the need for re-sorting and additional primary plastic.
Bayreuth researcher develops high-performance digital system for tailoring polymers
01.09.2023
Prof. Dr. Christopher Kuenneth at the University of Bayreuth, Germany, together with research partners in Atlanta, has developed a digital system that filters out those materials best suited for targeted applications from among some 100 million theoretically possible polymers. The system, called polyBERT, treats the chemical structure of polymers like a chemical language.
Innovative fiber technology could revolutionize building construction
17.08.2023
Reutlingen University has opened the unique Texoversum, an innovative center for the textile industry with a groundbreaking fiber-wrapped façade. The novel technology could revolutionize construction by creating lightweight, resilient structures and saving resources.
Asahi Kasei and Mitsui establish supply and procurement system for bio-methanol
03.08.2023
Asahi Kasei Corporation and Mitsui & Co, Ltd will establish a supply and procurement system for biomethanol produced in the United States. Asahi Kasei plans to use the bio-methanol from Mitsui to produce engineering plastics in Japan with a lower carbon footprint.
HZB and University of Jena establish Helmholtz Institute for Polymers in Energy Applications
02.08.2023
The Friedrich Schiller University of Jena and the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin are jointly founding the "Helmholtz Institute for Polymers in Energy Applications" (HIPOLE) with the goal of developing sustainable polymer materials for energy technologies. The focus is particularly on polymer-based batteries and perovskite solar cells.
BASF breaks ground on polyethylene plant at Zhanjiang Verbund site in China
20.07.2023
BASF has broken ground on a polyethylene (PE) plant at its Verbund site in Zhanjiang, China to serve fast-growing demand in China. The plant, with a capacity of 500,000 metric tons per year, is scheduled to start up in 2025.
The green side of asparagus: a new approach to bioplastics production
19.07.2023
The asparagus season in Germany has officially been over for about a month now – but at the Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites (IfBB), it is still going strong. The "SpaPlast" research project shows how asparagus peels can be used as a filler for bioplastics. The project is funded by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection.
New guide to the future of plastics
06.07.2023
Researchers from Fraunhofer UMSICHT and the TNO Institute have developed four strategic approaches to enable the transition to a circular plastics economy. In addition, they are launching the European Circular Plastics Platform (CPP), a platform for cross-sector collaboration to remove barriers and share solutions.
Supporting this once-in-a-generation opportunity to tackle plastic pollution
06.07.2023
Borealis has ambitious goals to improve the circular economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and use renewable energy to create a more sustainable future. Borealis is a member of the Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty and supports the development of a UN agreement to combat plastic pollution.
Bioeconomy startup traceless receives millions in funding from the German Federal Ministry for the Environment
22.06.2023
The startup traceless materials GmbH has developed the compostable biomaterial traceless®, which is considered a nature-based, environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. The project is funded with around 5 million euros from the Environmental Innovation Program of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV).
Fraunhofer LBF develops new approach for rapid process stabilization of plastics
22.06.2023
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF see online rheological investigations as a promising method to accelerate the development process by determining the optimal amount of antioxidants more efficiently.
Borealis launches portfolio of circular plastomers and elastomers based on renewable feedstock
01.06.2023
Borealis introduces the Bornewables™ line of Queo™, a range of plastomers and elastomers based on renewable feedstock. The introduction follows the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC PLUS) of Borealis' production site for the Queo™ portfolio, in Geleen, the Netherlands.
Shape memory polymers: more efficient tooth correction thanks to TPU
31.05.2023
The treatment of malocclusions can sometimes be lengthy and cost-intensive. A new corrective splint (aligner) is needed for each individual therapy step. So-called shape memory polymers can help not only to make the therapy more patient-friendly, but also to reduce material waste.
Renewable energies: Bringing wind power forward with PU resins
26.05.2023
At Covestro's Wind Technology Center, research is being conducted into making wind technology more efficient. To do this, a close look is taken at wind turbines – where are opportunities to use special materials that drive renewable energy? The big goal behind it: Climate neutrality and a circular economy.
Enzyme that breaks down PET plastic: Leipzig scientists increase efficiency
18.05.2023
A research team at the University of Leipzig has further improved the functioning of an enzyme that can degrade PET plastic. Through computer simulations and experiments, they were able to rationally improve the enzyme and are now working on developing the third generation of the enzyme.
CO2BioClean: Turning CO₂ into biodegradable plastics
17.05.2023
CO2BioClean is using an innovative process to produce biodegradable plastics and polymers from CO₂ as a circularly sourced feedstock. What is driving them is their vision for a sustainable future and the potential of their technology to contribute towards global efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions and the use of fossil fuels in the production of plastics.
Covestro expands its range of more sustainable polycarbonates
11.05.2023
Covestro AG offers a polycarbonate with a 90 percent recycled content of plastic from post-consumer waste (PCR) that can be used in consumer electronics, among other applications. The company is collaborating with Jabra on the Evolve2 headset and making progress on climate-neutral solutions through mass balancing.
Chemists redesign biological PHAs, 'dream' biodegradable plastics
11.05.2023
Colorado State University polymer chemists have created a synthetic Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) platform. These newly designed PHAs are mechanically tough, even outperforming the two most common commodity plastics. Among other things, this is intended to address the thermal instability of conventional PHAs and is a major step toward sustainability.
High-performance additives for sustainable plastics: Evonik invests in Interface Polymers
04.05.2023
Evonik Industries AG has invested in the British company Interface Polymers Ltd. This investment from the Sustainability Tech Fund strengthens Evonik's position in sustainable products and recycling processes. Interface Polymers' technology enables easier processing and recycling of plastics.
Better recycling of plastic packaging: New process extracts fragrances
04.05.2023
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute have developed an environmentally friendly process to remove fragrances from plastic packaging. The process is based on pressurized water extraction and removes the fragrance limonene from HDPE packaging. By evaluating the data using machine learning methods, it was possible to optimize the extraction parameters.
First comparative study on automated analysis methods of large data sets in microplastics research
27.04.2023
The lack of standardized analytical procedures for microplastic data has led to significant deviations, especially for small particles with high hazard potential. Researchers from the University of Bayreuth and the Alfred Wegener Institute have compared two automated analysis procedures and called for standardization to improve the comparability of data.
Covestro expands production capacity for polycarbonate films in Thailand
20.04.2023
The company Covestro plans to further increase its global production capacity for polycarbonate (PC) specialty films by starting to build new extrusion lines at the Map Ta Phut Industrial Park in Thailand. The completion is planned by 2025 and the investment is in the higher double-digit million euro range.
A wholly sustainable plastics economy is feasible
13.04.2023
In a study under the leadership of the ETH Zurich, the scientists point out that plastic products must be better aligned with the circular economy in future. The study finds that circular plastics are feasible within planetary boundaries. This would require at least 74 percent of the plastic to be recycled.
Solar-powered system converts plastic and greenhouse gases into sustainable fuels
13.04.2023
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a system that can convert plastic waste and greenhouse gases into sustainable fuels and other valuable products – using energy from the sun alone. In the system, two waste streams are simultaneously converted into two chemical products.
"Wonder Matter(s)" – Plastics at Milan Design Week 2023
12.04.2023
Plastic is a wonderful material. It can take on almost any shape, colour and texture. This versatility opens up countless possibilities for designers. This is also proven by the exhibition "Wonder Matter(s)", which will take place during the Milan Design Week 2023 and in which innovative plastics will be presented in partly extraordinary installations.
Additive manufacturing is pioneering for Röchling Industrial
12.04.2023
Röchling Industrial integrated the Röchling Direct Manufacturing Center from Waldachtal into the Röchling Industrial Laupheim at the Burgrieden site. The international plastics processor takes an important step in the industrialization of its 3D printing competencies and continues to focus on additive manufacturing.
Researchers use light to convert abundant lignin into plastic that can be continually recycled
05.04.2023
Boston College chemists have developed an approach that uses light to transform lignin into sustainable plastics. The findings advance a potential strategy for the waste-free system of polymer manufacture and re-use known as the circular plastic economy.
LyondellBasell and KIRKBI invest in APK to develop recycling technology
20.03.2023
The two companies LyondellBasell and KIRKBI signed an agreement to make an investment in the company APK. APK has developed the unique solvent-based Newcycling® process, which separates the different polymers of multi-layer packaging materials and produces recycled materials with a high degree of purity suitable for new packaging materials.
Covestro to build its largest TPU site in China
20.03.2023
The company Covestro will build its largest Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU) site in Zhuhai, China. The TPU site will be built in three phases. The first phase will be completed in late 2025 and the final phase in 2033.
Sustainable plastic packaging: AI supports design and production
15.03.2023
Plastic packaging made from recycled material? Yes, but please as high quality as possible – and recyclable! This poses great challenges for manufacturers, because the use of recycled materials still often leads to downcycling. One key to more sustainable plastic packaging lies in digitalisation. This is also where the KIOptiPack project comes in.
Borealis Borcycle™ C chemical recycling provides circular solutions for crosslinked polyethylene for the Wire & Cable and Infrastructure sectors
13.03.2023
The company Borealis is using its Borcycle™ C chemical recycling process to recycle crosslinked polyethylene (PE) types into recycled polyethylene. The EverMinds™ approach provides innovative and viable solutions to recycling challenges in the Wire & Cable and Infrastructure industries.
Degradation of Plastic Waste using newly Developed Biocatalysts
13.03.2023
A research team from the University of Greifswald, together with scientists from Covestro AG, has identified enzymes capable of degrading polyurethanes and polyvinyl alcohol. The research helps to establish a sustainable and environmentally-friendly process to recycle these polymers.
Stable yet degradable: researchers develop chemical pre-determined breaking points in polymer chains
08.03.2023
We encounter high-density polyethylene (HDPE) every day, for example as detergent packaging or films. HDPE is particularly stable and resistant. In terms of sustainability, however, it still has a long way to go, because its high stability is often accompanied by poor degradability.
Automated simulation software creates a world map of polymer properties
14.02.2023
"Materials informatics (MI), a new branch of materials research that combines materials data with data science, is gaining traction," said co-corresponding author Yoshihiro Hayashi, assistant professor, Institute of Statistical Mathematics in the Research Organization of Information and Science (ROIS).
traceless: material made from plant-based polymers protects climate and environment
19.01.2023
As early as 1908, textile engineer Jacques Brandenberger invented cellophane, a film made of natural polymers. However, the material was displaced by synthetic polymers with the development of numerous plastics. In the wake of the climate crisis, natural polymers are now coming back into focus as an alternative to fossil raw materials. traceless offers such an alternative.
ProQuIV optimizes the production of nonwoven masks
09.01.2023
Producing infection control clothing requires a lot of energy and uses lots of material resources. Fraunhofer researchers have now developed a technology which helps to save materials and energy when producing nonwovens. A digital twin controls key manufacturing process parameters on the basis of mathematical modeling.
SABIC debuts new copolymer resin for PV connectors, delivering highest CTI level to support emerging 1.5KV systems
04.01.2023
SABIC, a global leader in the chemical industry, launched today a breakthrough polycarbonate (PC)-based copolymer resin, well-suited for photovoltaic (PV) connector bodies, that meets stricter performance and regulatory requirements for emerging 1.5Kv solar systems.
The VR glove from the 3D printer
26.12.2022
In a project called "Manufhaptics", researchers at Empa, together with EPFL and ETH Zurich, want to develop a VR glove that will make virtual worlds tangible. The VR glove is to be created using a 3D printing process and will have three different actuators.
Dow launches the world's first recyclable silicone self-sealing tire solution
26.12.2022
The company Dow has announced the launch of the world's first recyclable self-sealing silicone solution for tires. The new silicone sealant technology, called SiLASTIC™ Self-sealing Silicone, is designed to form a self-sealing layer on the inside of a tire.
Orthopaedic insoles made of Elastollan® – more comfortable, sustainable and individual
19.12.2022
Shoe insoles made of Elastollan®, BASF's thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), offer a high degree of individualization freedom. The production of shoe insoles in 3D printing enables smooth transitions between soft and hard structures.
Joining Forces: Fast-as-lightning 3D Microprinting with Two Lasers
19.12.2022
A research team from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), the University of Heidelberg, and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) developed a laser printing process that can print micrometer-sized parts within a very short time.
Circular clothing – recycling of polyester-containing textiles
13.12.2022
The overall eco-balance of polyester is better than that of natural fibres like cotton. Nevertheless, textiles containing polyester do not have a good reputation. Today, one property of the material in particular is criticised: it does not decompose naturally. This makes a collection and recycling of such textiles all the more important. But a circular economy for polyester does not yet exist.
Plastics of the future will live many past lives, thanks to chemical recycling
01.12.2022
A research team at the University of Colorado Boulder has discovered how durable plastics used in the aerospace and microelectronics industries broken down into their most basic building blocks and then formed again into the same material. In the process, they do not lose their physical properties.
K 2022: Heat-resistant C-PET light cup promotes circular economy – a transparent alternative for hot-fill applications
01.12.2022
Together with Sukano AG and Kiefel Packaging B.V., the company SML Maschinengesellschaft mbH has developed a cup made of C-PET light that is heat-resistant and combines transparency and recyclability.
Bend it like PU – Plastics in sport
30.11.2022
Today, no one can imagine leather balls, wooden rackets, bamboo poles or cinder tracks in sporting competition. Natural materials have now been almost completely replaced by other materials: plastics. They are light, robust and highly functional. Thanks to intensive research, they are also becoming more and more efficient – and ultimately lead to new world records.
Borealis and REHAU accelerate circularity for furniture products with Bornewables™ premium circular polyolefins
22.11.2022
REHAU chooses Borealis' Bornewables™ over conventional polypropylene (PP) for production of their RAUKANTEX evo sustainable edgebands. The robust and durable Bornewables™ feature color-stable chemistry and flexibility and are suitable for processing straight and contoured edges.
Building and construction sector: An industry relies on plastics
08.11.2022
Polymers are as diverse as their chemical composition. Plastics come in hard, soft, flexible, brittle, opaque, transparent - just as required. They impress with their durability, cost-effectiveness, impermeability to water, high formability, corrosion resistance and low weight. This makes them the ideal building material - and an environmentally friendly alternative to other materials.
Researchers develop plastic film that can kill viruses using room lights
26.10.2022
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a plastic film that uses room light to kill viruses that land on its surface. The technology used to manufacture the film also ensures that it is degradable. This self-sterilizing film is inexpensive to produce, easy to scale and could be used for disposable aprons, tablecloths and curtains in hospitals.
Lessons from natural photosynthesis: conversion of CO2 to raw materials for plastic
21.10.2022
A research team at Osaka Metropolitan University has succeeded in producing fumarate from pyruvate and CO2 through artificial photosynthesis. Fumarate can be used to produce biodegradable plastic such as polybutylene succinate. In this process, the carbon is stored in a compact, durable and solid form.
Shining light on why plastics turn yellow
21.10.2022
A research team has investigated whether intended nanostructures formed by UV light could be the cause of yellowing of polyethylene. The result was that chiral chemical structures form on the surfaces of polyethylene films during exposure to UV light and are a possible cause of the yellow color of old plastics. These findings could help researchers develop plastic products that last longer.
Collaboration between Borealis, Neste and MAM brings new soother to market made with renewably-sourced feedstock
11.10.2022
The MAM company is accelerating circular economy measures in partnership with Borealis through the launch of MAM Original Pure pacifiers and packaging enabled by Borealis Bornewables™ portfolio of recyclable polyolefins. Upstream value chain partner Neste is the supplier of renewable feedstock Neste RE™ based on waste and residue streams for the manufacture of Bornewables polypropylene.
Researchers find a new method for recycling polystyrene
11.10.2022
A research team led by Guoliang "Greg" Liu implemented the goal of making the current main method for recycling polystyrene profitable. By exposing the material to ultraviolet light and adding a chemical catalyst this method creates diphenylmethane (DPM), which has a high economic value. This new recycling method would create an incentive for polystyrene to be collected and recycled.
Innovative technology makes flexible packaging recyclable
03.10.2022
A new technology from Covestro weakens the bond strength of PU adhesives. Laminated films in multilayer packaging can be separated after use and the individual materials can be recycled later. At the K 2022 trade fair, the team will be presenting the technology to the plastics industry for the first time.
A new self-healing coating material
19.09.2022
A transparent protective coating material that can heal itself within 30 minutes when exposed to sunlight has been developed by a research team from the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT).
Engineering enzymes to help solve the planet's plastic problem
12.09.2022
Researchers at the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB) have developed a new enzyme engineering platform. The focus is on plastic-degrading enzymes that can be improved through directed evolution. To test their platform, they engineered a new enzyme, HotPETase, through the directed evolution of IsPETase.
Borealis introduces a portfolio of circular base chemicals
15.08.2022
The Borvida™ portfolio introduces sustainable base chemicals to Borealis' range of product offering. The range will initially be based on non-food waste biomass, and chemically-recycled waste. In the future it will also draw from atmospheric carbon capture. The traceability of the content will be based on Mass Balance, which is ISCC PLUS certified.
TRINSEO introduces sustainable ALTUGLAS™ R-Life Acrylics
15.08.2022
The Trinseo company has launched a new series entitled: ALTUGLAS™ R-Life Acrylics. This comprises chemically and mechanically recycled, reused and bio-based polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) for cast and extruded sheets, resins and compounds.
Durable material for flexible artificial muscles
08.08.2022
Materials scientists at UCLA and colleagues at the nonprofit research institute SRI International have developed an artificial muscle. These are equipped with PHDE actuators. UCLA research uses a "dry" process in which the films are layered with a blade and then cured with UV light so that the layers become uniform.
Sustainable cellulose start-up Naturbeads is poised to scale up
03.08.2022
Naturbeads, a company that aims to replace plastic microbeads with sustainable alternatives, will expand its work. It has been helped by a recent £1.3 million (€1.5 million) funding round. Naturbeads has developed cellulose-based products that can be used in cosmetics, paints, coatings, additives for the oil and gas industry, packaging and composites.
BASF and THOR GmbH fight fire together
03.08.2022
To improve plastic compounds and meet stringent fire safety requirements, BASF and THOR GmbH are using their joint expertise in flame retardants. The focus is on developing alternatives to halogen-containing additives.
Fly me to the moon: how high-performance plastics contribute to radiation protection in space
26.07.2022
When it comes to the use of high-performance plastics in space, you probably first think of spacesuits or lightweight components. But there is another area of application: radiation protection. Space radiation is a risk to humans that should not be underestimated. In the MARE experiment, this risk is to be determined in order to develop protective measures for future space flights.
A unique catalyst paves the way for plastic upcycling
25.07.2022
After developing the first process inorganic catalyst to break down polyolefin plastics into molecules, a team led by Ames Laboratory scientists has now developed a strategy to accelerate the conversion without losing the desired products.The result is that larger platinum particles reacted more slowly with the long polymer chain, while the smaller ones reacted faster.
Superworms capable of munching through plastic waste
18.07.2022
University of Queensland scientists further research the common "superworm" Zophobas morio, which can eat through Styrofoam thanks to a bacterial enzyme in its gut.
Photosynthesis-inspired process makes commodity chemicals
18.07.2022
A Northwestern University research team used a new method to convert acetylene to ethylene, a widely used, highly valuable chemical that is an important component of plastics. They use a process similar to photosynthesis that is much less expensive and less energy intensive.
Reusing odor-contaminated plastics
01.07.2022
In the Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy (CCPE), the four Fraunhofer institutes are researching odor barrier skins for polymer compounds made from recycled materials. With special additives, odor barrier skins with a skin thickness of 0.25 mm can be effectively realized. The odor-contaminated plastic can be "packaged".
Solvay extends its sustainable polymer offering for smart devices and wearables
21.06.2022
Solvay launched the Kalix® 10000 series, a partially bio-based material made with renewable feedstock from non-food competing sources, is produced with 100% renewable electricity.
SK chemicals realizes good takeout with Dodori Cup made from Ecozen
21.06.2022
SK chemicals is planning a Realization of zero waste with Ecozen reusable cups that are used and returned. 5,000 so called Dodori cups used in this project are made from Ecozen.
Sabic launches new upcycled resin made with ocean bound plastic waste
14.06.2022
The company SABIC introduced LNP™ ELCRIN™ WF0061BiQ resin, a novel material that uses ocean-bound polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles as a feed stream for chemical upcycling into polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resin. The company has added many different and innovative grades to the LNP ELCRIN iQ portfolio, including glass- and mineral-reinforced products and flame-retardant formulations.
Durostone CR permits higher loads and more compact transformer designs
06.06.2022
Röchling Industrial has developed a new glass fiber-reinforced plastic Durostone® CR. "CR" stands for Compact & Resilient. Compared to conventional fiber-reinforced composites, Durostone® CR has a high dielectric strength and a high partial discharge insertion stress.
New cutting-edge thermoplastic materials for the aerospace sector
23.05.2022
In the HITCOMP project (High Temperature Characterization and Modelling of Thermoplastic Composites), thermoplastic materials were investigated in the aerospace sector. The researchers concluded that thermoplastic-based components are more efficient than thermosetting plastic composites in terms of their thermal properties.
New method to convert plastic trash into clean hydrogen fuel
23.05.2022
To convert plastic waste into hydrogen, researchers at the Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have developed a new method. The new method is based on pyrolysis, a high-temperature chemical process. The project is also investigating the potential of other new technologies for decentralized waste management.
Treated plastic waste good at grabbing carbon dioxide
16.05.2022
Researchers at Rice University have developed a technique to turn plastic waste into an effective carbon dioxide (CO2) sorbent for industry.
A stretchy display for shapable electronics
25.04.2022
Zhenan Bao, a chemical engineer at Stanford University, and her research team have provided proof of principle for a stretchable, potentially reshapeable display using a method to fabricate an elastic light-emitting polymer with high luminosity.
New enzyme discovery is another leap towards beating plastic waste
25.04.2022
Scientists have characterized an enzyme that has the ability to degrade terephthalate (TPA), one of the chemical building blocks of the plastic polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is used to make disposable beverage bottles, for example.
A previously unknown bacterial enzyme makes new type of biodegradable polymer
12.04.2022
Researchers have identified a bacterial enzyme that can produce a new type of polysaccharide similar to the biopolymer chitin. The new molecule could be useful for drug delivery, tissue engineering and other biomedical applications. It is also biodegradable.
Edible, biodegradable, anti-microbial plastic boasts higher tensile strength than petroleum-based plastic
12.04.2022
A research team at São Paulo State University (UNESP) made their bioplastic from type B bovine gelatin. Besides nanoclay the material is produced from clay and a nanoemulsion of black pepper essential oil.
New plant-derived composite is tough as bone and hard as aluminum
04.04.2022
MIT researchers has engineered a composite made mostly from cellulose nanocrystals mixed with a bit of synthetic polymer. The material could pave the way for sustainable plastics.
Mobile plastics recycling project wins WDO's World Design Impact Prize
30.03.2022
The Montreal-based World Design Organization has named a mobile, solar-powered, plastic-waste upcycling platform as the winner of its World Design Impact Prize™ for 2021.
WorldStar Award 2022 for school milk packaging made from 100% rPET
24.03.2022
A project for circular economy by Austria's school milk producers and the three Upper Austrian companies PET-MAN, Greiner Packaging, and Starlinger viscotec has received the WorldStar Award from the World Packaging Organization. Schools are supplied with dairy products in rPET cups that are recycled after use.
Massel innovates with liquid stock range in SIG-Carton Packs with SIGNATUR FULL BARRIER packaging material
09.03.2022
SIG's SIGNATURE FULL BARRIER packaging material is made from renewable, forest-based materials and responsible sources. The small amount of polymers used is certified. The Australian company Massel is now launching products in these SIG-Carton Packs.
Fish in packaging made from chemically recycled plastic
07.03.2022
Salmon fillets from Bömlo are supplied in the world's first EPS fish box. Ccycled is made from chemically recycled plastic and BASF, Vartdal Plast and Bremnes Seashore, the partners for this joint project, are contributing to making the circular economy a success.
Chemists develop radical way to make it easier, more profitable to recycle plastic
01.03.2022
By modifying carbon-hydrogen bonds, chemists from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill transform plastic trash into tougher, stronger material. They started with plastic foam packaging used to protect electronics during shipping that otherwise ends up in landfills.
Creating sustainable material from waste
01.03.2022
University of Delaware researchers demonstrated that it is possible to efficiently turn industrially processed lignin into high-performance plastics, such as bio-based 3D-printing resins, and valuable chemicals. The research team replaced methanol, a traditional solvent used in lignin deconstruction, with glycerin so the process could be done at normal atmospheric pressure.
Plastic snowfall in the Alps
21.02.2022
To study how much plastic is trickling down on us from the atmosphere, Empa researcher Dominik Brunner, together with colleagues from Utrecht University and the Austrian Central Institute for Meteorology and Geophysics, have developed a chemical method that determines the contamination of the samples with a mass spectrometer.
Neste and Ravago plan to set up a joint venture to focus on chemical recycling of waste plastic
14.02.2022
Neste and Ravago intend to establish a joint venture to build an industrial chemical recycling facility in the North Sea port of Vlissingen, the Netherlands. From there, global chemical recycling activities will be managed, building on the further development of thermochemical liquefaction technology by U.S.-based Alterra Energy, an innovative chemical recycling technology company.
Researchers seek to re-use waste plastics to make valuable petrochemicals
14.02.2022
With a new method West Virginia University engineers upcycle single-use plastic packaging into petrochemicals. The produced ethylene and BTX aromatics from plastic upcycling can be used as feedstocks to re-make plastics.
Recycled packaging foils with the "Blue Angel" label
07.02.2022
Profine GmbH is the first profile system provider to use polyethylene (PE) packaging foils that consist of 80 percent PCR standard and are interested in making supply chains more environmentally friendly.
Dishwasher components made from recycled plastic
01.02.2022
Self-healing 3D printed plastic can repair itself by using only light
20.01.2022
Research by UNSW academics shows that special treatment of liquid resin used in 3D printing can cause the material to mend itself if it becomes damaged.
Recyclability by Design – Electronics integrated in plastic becomes more sustainable
20.01.2022
The aim of the project ReIn-E project is to develop designs and sustainable materials to enable the recycling of the components.
Turning plastic grocery bags into sustainable fuel
17.01.2022
More than 300 million tons of plastic waste are produced annually, which causes serious environmental issues. Consequently, most plastic waste ends up in either a landfill or the ocean. A significant number of plastics break down into microplastics, which are ingested by fish and other marine life causing havoc to marine ecosystems.
New market data on the bioplastics market 2021
14.01.2022
The Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites presents the new edition of its brochure with the title "Biopolmers - Facts and statistics" to show how the bioplastics market is developing.
Polymer discovery gives 3D-printed sand super strength
10.01.2022
Researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory designed a novel polymer to bind and strengthen silica sand for binder jet additive manufacturing, a 3D-printing method used by industries for prototyping and part production.
Microfliers: Polymers on a mission for the environment
10.12.2021
They are the size of a grain of sand and resemble trundling maple seeds: the flying microchips that researchers at Northwestern University have now developed. In the future, they should make it possible to monitor air pollution or airborne diseases. Polymers play a fundamental role in this. John Rogers tells us more in an interview with K-MAG.
Commercially viable production of climate-neutral plastic is possible
01.12.2021
Since the early 1950s, plastics have found their way into almost every area of modern life. Between 1964 and 2014, plastic consumption increased twentyfold, from 15 to 311 million tonnes per year. Not only has environmental pollution from plastic waste increased during this time, but the amount of petroleum its manufacture consumes is large, as are the associated greenhouse gas emissions.
Elastic polymer that is both stiff and tough, resolves long-standing quandary
22.11.2021
Polymer science has made possible rubber tires, Teflon and Kevlar, plastic water bottles, nylon jackets among many other ubiquitous features of daily life.
Effective deconstruction of polyurethane by catalyst based on earth-abundant metal
08.11.2021
Polyurethane (PU) is one of the most versatile thermoset synthetic polymers which through careful choice of monomer and formulation, can be seen in a myriad of different forms ranging from rigid-, flexible and molded foams to adhesives and elastomers just to name a few.
A new approach for recycling plastics
08.11.2021
Two EPFL engineers have come up with a revolutionary new method for tackling plastic pollution by harnessing the inner workings of proteins. The result? A whole new way of looking at plastic recycling.
NYU chemist receives Department of Energy grant for plastic "upcycling" research
02.11.2021
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded Tianning Diao, associate professor of chemistry at New York University, with funding for research on "upcycling" poly(acrylic acid), a plastic component commonly used in household products. Diao and her lab will work to develop chemical methods to repurpose the polymer as new functional materials.
3D nano-inks push industry boundaries
02.11.2021
Mechanical engineering researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a way to make a 3D-printable nanocomposite polymeric ink that uses carbon nanotubes (CNTs) — known for their high tensile strength and lightness. This revolutionary ink could replace epoxies — and understanding why its properties are so fantastic is a first step toward its mass use.
Water meets cellulose: Environmentally friendly plastic made from hydroplastic polymers
27.10.2021
Researchers at the University of Göttingen have developed a new method to create environmentally friendly bioplastics from renewable raw materials.
Maritime rope could be adding billions of microplastics to the ocean every year
25.10.2021
The hauling of rope on maritime vessels could result in billions of microplastic fragments entering the ocean every year, according to new research. The study, by the University of Plymouth's International Marine Litter Research Unit, is the first to explore the potential for rope to become a source of microplastic pollution in the marine environment.
NSF EPSCoR grant will advance manufacturing of renewable and recyclable plastics
18.10.2021
Plastics are an indispensable part of today's society. These nimble polymers help keep foods fresh, cars safe, arteries clog-free and have countless other uses. But the benefits come at a cost. Each year millions of tons of discarded plastic pollute ecosystems, harm animals and exacerbate climate change.
Research guides future of plastic waste chemical recycling
18.10.2021
New research from Cornell University aims to ease the process of chemical recycling – an emerging industry that could turn waste products back into natural resources by physically breaking plastic down into the smaller molecules it was originally produced from.
$25 million investment in polymer upcycling research to reduce plastics waste
12.10.2021
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $25 million in funding for 10 research projects to build the scientific foundations for new technology solutions that reuse discarded plastics to make valuable products and reduce plastics waste.
Electrosynthesis: preventing cathodic corrosion
12.10.2021
Sustainability is an important issue in business and industry these days. Many companies recognize the need to find the best possible climate-neutral solutions for manufacturing their products and reduce their output of pollutants. This means they are looking for manufacturing options that do not require the use of fossil raw materials.
Degradation of biobased plastics in the soil
06.10.2021
The idea of biodegradable plastics sounds good at first. However, very little is known about how they are degraded in the soil and how this is influenced by climate change. In two recent studies, soil ecologists have shown which microbial community is responsible for degradation, what role the climate plays in this process, and why biodegradable plastics could still be problematic.
Sunlight can break down marine plastic into tens of thousands of chemical compounds
05.10.2021
Sunlight was once thought to only fragment plastics in the marine environment into smaller particles that chemically resemble the original material and persist forever. However, scientists more recently have learned that sunlight also chemically transforms plastic into a suite of polymer-, dissolved-, and gas-phased products.
Michael Davies
28.09.2021
Technical and Marketing Manager, Dover Chemical Corporation
New tool to predict polymer properties
15.09.2021
An interdisciplinary team of researchers has developed a powerful mathematical modelling tool that will allow researchers to predict the properties of polymer networks before they are even created.
Clean room production of breast implants
14.09.2021
The Fraunhofer IPT has teamed up with BelloSeno GmbH to study biocompatible implants that are made using 3D printing. Kai Janning from the Fraunhofer IPT describes the conditions a medical device production facility must meet and reveals the latest successes of the researchers.
Breakthrough discovery: Plastics aren’t what we think
03.09.2021
A breakthrough by researchers at the University of South Florida (USF) and collaborating institutions around the world could pave the way for better products, such as improved batteries, automobile paint and cellphone screens.
New method developed to solve plastics sustainability problem
03.09.2021
Plastics sustainability has come a long way in recent years thanks in large part to scientific advances. But even as plastics become more and more environmentally friendly, the world continues to be polluted as many industries rely on them for their widely used products.
Polymer enables tougher recyclable thermoplastics
23.08.2021
To synthesize plastic, small monomer molecules need to be strung together like beads in a necklace, creating long polymer chains. However, not all plastics – or their polymers – are created equal. The longer and stronger the polymer, the more durable the material. Cornell researchers took a middling monomer and, by using a special catalyst, they created a tougher polymer that can form long chains.
Visualizing stress in plastics
23.08.2021
A research team led by Prof. Dr. Michael Sommer and PD Dr. Michael Walter has succeeded in constructing a new dye molecule from the area of so-called mechanophores.
Eco-friendly plastic from cellulose and water
16.08.2021
Plastics offer many benefits to society and are widely used in our daily life. However, the production, processing and disposal of plastics are simply not sustainable, and pose a major global threat to the environment and human health. Eco-friendly processing of reusable and recyclable plastics derived from plant-based raw materials would be an ideal solution.
Stand-up paddle board made from renewable lightweight materials
16.08.2021
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Wood Research, Wilhelm-Klauditz-Institut, WKI, want to replace plastic boards with sustainable sports equipment: They are developing a stand-up paddle board that is made from one hundred percent renewable raw materials. The ecological lightweight material can be used in many ways, such as in the construction of buildings, cars and ships.
Can biodegradable polymers live up to the hype?
03.08.2021
As consumers and corporations alike become more environmentally conscious, the chemical industry is working to find solutions to the plastic waste crisis. One idea is to use biodegradable polymers known as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) as replacements for traditional plastic packaging and other materials.
Printed polymers with active ingredient
20.07.2021
3D printing can be used to produce versatile, individual shapes. This type of extrusion process is therefore not only popular in the plastics industry – it is also suitable for medical technology applications. Only the right polymers have to be found first.
Sustainable Polyurethanes in your shoebox
18.03.2021
People around the world want embrace sustainability – a new mindset that also affects the fashion industry. But how can you make shoes that have been made with lots of plastic in recent decades more sustainable? Covestro is a world-leading supplier of high-quality polyurethane and teamed up with the Brazilian shoe manufacturer Calçados Beira Rio to put its best foot forward and create a solution.