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Scientists at King’s College London have unveiled a groundbreaking method for recycling single-use bioplastics, commonly found in disposable items like coffee cups and food containers. Published in Cell Reports Physical Science, the chemical recycling approach utilizes enzymes akin to those in biological laundry detergents to swiftly break down landfill-bound bioplastics within just 24 hours.

Optimizing manufacturing processes is paramount. This article delves into an innovative solution implemented at a compounding factory, where Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) tags seamlessly became cloud-based assets within Amazon Web Services (AWS).

If you are aspiring to move into a leadership position within your company, whether it involves managing teams or projects, SPE’s Essentials of Management & Leadership in Plastics is ideal for you to refine your leadership skills.

The diagnosis and monitoring of extrusion processes have historically relied on rule-based algorithms. While effective for many years, this conventional approach faces inherent limitations. These limitations include a restricted number of controllable parameters, vulnerability to irrelevant outliers, and heightened complexity in systems with extensive degrees of freedom.

Traditional fiberglass casts, though an improvement over plaster ones, have their drawbacks. They aren’t waterproof, leading to water absorption and unpleasant odors. Moreover, wearers still need to protect the cotton padding beneath from getting wet. Recognizing these issues, the Cast21 team set out to create a patient-friendly solution.

Most toothbrushes are made of 100% plastic, contributing to environmental concerns. However, the real challenge lies in finding sustainable alternatives for the bristles.

The quest for innovative and sustainable materials continues, and a groundbreaking solution emerges—Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (PE) infused with a dynamic inclusion complex of β-cyclodextrin and d-limonene (CD-lim). This novel composite not only showcases promising mechanical properties but also introduces a powerful antimicrobial feature.

In a groundbreaking endeavor, mechanically recyclable thermoplastic materials were harnessed to craft lightweight and highly efficient aerogel filter media for air filtration. Leveraging the fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printing technique, this project focuses on creating an all-polyolefin composite filter media.

Aquapak Polymers Ltd, a trailblazer in polymer-based material technologies, recently conducted a comprehensive study involving board directors and senior executives from prominent fashion brands in the UK, US, and Australia. This research provides valuable insights into the industry’s commitment to circular economy initiatives and sustainability leadership.

Polymeric materials play a pivotal role in diverse engineering applications, from aerospace to environmental and civil engineering. However, the traditional approach to designing these materials has been experimental and often inefficient, relying on trial and error. This Edisonian method, driven by experience and intuition, comes with inherent drawbacks, including high costs, slow progress, and limited exploration of chemical space.