Bioplastics

The additive aids biodegradability by changing the polymer structure, converting it into a wax-like material after being exposed to light, water, moisture, and microbes.

As plastic waste continues to pose a global environmental threat, researchers are exploring sustainable alternatives to traditional petroleum-based plastic. Bioplastics, which mimic the qualities of conventional plastic but are made from natural materials, emerge as a promising solution. Dr. Srinivas Janaswamy is at the forefront of bioplastic development, leveraging agricultural byproducts like avocado peels and coffee grounds to create biodegradable films.

Covestro AG continues to strengthen its ties with China’s vehicle industry to develop more low-carbon mobility solutions. It agreed recently to form a joint laboratory with premium electric vehicle brand HiPhi and struck a global strategic cooperation partnership with Xinquan Automotive.

National Renewable Energy Laboratory scientists have used artificial intelligence (AI) to develop a tool to help users find the most sustainable polymers for specific applications. The tool, called PolyID, predicts material properties based on molecular structure.

High-performing grades of recycled and virgin resins combine to boost the circularity of products in diverse markets.

Sabic is launching two grades of Noryl modified polyphenylene ether (PPE) resins to aid in the development of lightweight, thin and crash-resistant battery modules and housings for electric vehicles (EVs).   The resin supplier also reports development of a portfolio of…

Bioplastics and biopolymers will post the largest compound annual growth rate by 2025 of nine materials surveyed by Plastics Engineering for this inaugural installment of Data Points. According to research consultant Markets and Markets Inc., of Northbrook, Ill., global demand…

Goal is for all packages to meet environmental standards and to significantly reduce virgin plastics use PepsiCo Inc. continues to strive to move “beyond the bag and beyond the bottle” in the quest to minimize the impact of its packaging…