Durables

Decathlon, a leader in sports equipment and apparel, is stepping up to address shoe pollution with its innovative mono-material shoes, designed for more efficient recycling. Shoe pollution poses a major environmental challenge. Millions of discarded shoes, made from a mix of materials, end up in landfills each year. These materials release harmful substances as they slowly decompose.

In the fight against global climate change, oceans play a key role as a significant carbon reservoir. However, inadequate waste management systems for plastics have led to a widespread release of these materials into the world’s oceans.

Robotic rotational molding is an advanced technology that enables the development of unique geometries, tight tolerances to achieve part-to-part repeatability, and less waste than conventional plastic molding.

Proprietary taggant systems empower plastics security by serving as authentication tools, integrating seamlessly into any resin.

Hansgrohe and Phoenix Design have partnered to enable recycled ABS and upcycled PET to contribute to a more sustainable hand-held shower. The effort earned them a prestigious German eco-design award.

A novel, low-pressure molding system called Controlled Viscosity Molding is enabling the use of thermally conductive resins in electronics to help manage heat buildup.

On the journey towards sustainability, car manufacturers have faced a significant challenge in reducing the carbon footprint associated with the use of animal leather in vehicle upholstery and interiors.  Some have chosen to rigorously trace the supply chain of animal leather, while others have partnered with innovative emerging companies. A few have embarked on designing their own leather using recycled materials.

Microplastics, particles measuring less than 5 mm in length, have emerged as a pressing environmental concern, necessitating a detailed examination of their impact and ecological repercussions, but do microplastics in bottled water come from plastic bottles themselves?

Injection molding simulation has already achieved a high level of precision. Industry leaders’ recent collaboration promises enhanced precision in material data, elevating manufacturing efficiency and quality standards.

Companies worldwide are gathering efforts to develop flame retardant systems based on renewable sources providing an eco-friendly alternative to halogenated flame retardants. Additives with flame-retardant properties, such as phosphorus-based compounds, can chemically modify carbon sources like cellulose, chitosan, and lignin. This results in the successful design of intumescent flame retardants for use in many applications.

Stratasys partners with the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) to introduce a High-Standard FDM Process Certification. The global 3D printing market in terms of revenue was estimated at USD 15 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 34.5 billion by 2028 with a CAGR of 18.1%. This makes it an appealing market for young professionals, although certifications may be necessary.

Hitachi High-Tech developed an AI tool that enabled them to reduce their research on biodegradable additives from 120 days to two days. Researchers have used AI in the development of new materials and additives for the production of plastics. Some companies are looking for alternatives to suit their customers’ needs.