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The plastics industry stands at a critical juncture, shaped by an increasing array of regulations aimed at mitigating environmental impact, particularly concerning single-use plastics.

Digital packaging emerges as a revolutionary player in transforming how consumers interact with products. Traditional packaging, primarily focused on protection and basic marketing, is evolving rapidly.

Non-planar 3D printing, also known as curved layer 3D printing or non-planar slicing, marks a significant evolution in the field of additive manufacturing.

Four-dimensional (4D) printing, an extension of 3D printing, incorporates the dimension of time into the fabrication process, enabling the creation of structures that can change shape in response to external stimuli.

Plastics have evolved beyond their ubiquitous presence in everyday products to become intelligent. The fusion of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is launching the era of “smart plastics.” These materials aim to revolutionize the functionality and efficiency of plastics in healthcare, automotive, and consumer products.

New resins lacking thermal measurements may face challenges in meeting regulatory standards and entering the market. However, the use of AI can streamline the introduction of these resins by potentially halving the time needed for testing and regulatory approvals.

4D printing is an evolution in the manufacturing process that incorporates the dimension of time into 3D printing.

Dual-curing represents an innovative approach that enhances control over the final properties of parts through a multistage curing process.

Employed by myriad sectors ranging from fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and retail packaging to pharmaceuticals, construction, and even government identification initiatives, these technologies have played a pivotal role. Taggants imbue plastic products with an additional layer of security and authentication, presenting a formidable challenge to counterfeiters who attempt to replicate or alter these items.

Recycling plastic films through Solvent-Targeted Recovery and Precipitation (STRAP) is crucial for environmental sustainability since packaging commonly uses these materials. While experts are testing pioneering methods, scaling these techniques remains a challenge.