April 17, 2024Molecular Recycling for Hard-to-Recycle PlasticsGreenMantra Technologies diverts thousands of tons of plastic from landfills, dumps, and the ocean. They leverage molecular recycling to produce sustainable additives from plastic waste. Read more
April 15, 2024The Hidden Power of Taggant Technologies in PlasticsEmployed 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. Read more
April 12, 2024Plastics in Industrial Design: A Catalyst for ChangePlastic technology not only broadens designers’ creative horizons but also brings innovative approaches to manufacturing, sustainability, and user experience. Designers with a grasp of plastic technology can transform industrial design, creating groundbreaking products that meet manufacturing demands and environmental standards. Read more
April 11, 2024TFA: A Sustainable Alternative to PFAS?Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) stands out as a promising alternative to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals,” due to its lower environmental impact while maintaining similar benefits. Read more
April 10, 2024Sustainability in Plastic Part Design: The Indispensable Fifth DimensionSustainability has become an indispensable fifth dimension in design, essential from the very start of the process. Moreover, it stands unique in each project like a snowflake, highlighting its custom and distinct approach. Read more
April 6, 2024Recyclopedia Initiative: Simplifying Plastics SortingIn the quest for sustainability, proper waste management is a main challenge, particularly when it comes to plastics. The Recyclopedia initiative teaches proper sorting and disposal of plastics and other items. Read more
April 5, 2024Boosting Exoskeleton Performance and ComfortThese wearable robotic devices offer enhanced strength, mobility, and support, empowering users with newfound capabilities. However, the advancement of exoskeletons hinges not only on technological innovation but also on the materials that form their foundation. From lightweight alloys to flexible composites, materials play a central role in shaping the functionality, comfort, and durability of these devices. Read more
March 30, 2024Synergists: Boosting Flame Retardant EffectivenessIn the quest for safer and more eco-friendly fire safety solutions, synergists emerge as a solution to enhance non-halogenated FR effectiveness. Read more
March 28, 2024Recap: Highlights from The National Week of Flame Retardants 2024The National Week of Flame Retardants 2024, hosted by the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE), marked the ongoing advancement of fire safety technologies and materials engineering. Gathering industry experts, researchers, and practitioners, the event showcased the latest innovations, research findings, and trends in flame retardants. Read more
March 23, 2024IKV Boosts the Plastics BranchThe IKV Colloquium demonstrated the plastics industry’s resilience in addressing current challenges. On February 28th-29th, 2024, RWTH Aachen University’s IKV organized an event fostering industry-academia exchanges. Read more
March 20, 2024The Polymers Behind Apple’s Vision ProThe Apple Vision Pro represents a groundbreaking advancement in augmented reality (AR) technology, driven by the strategic integration of advanced materials, particularly polymers. Read more
March 13, 2024Sheets vs Film: Key DistinctionsThe terms “film” and “sheet” often lead to confusion within and outside the industry, as they are sometimes used interchangeably. While both refer to thin, flat materials, they possess distinct characteristics and applications. Read more