March 6, 2024Flake Sorting: Elevating Plastic RecyclingAdvanced flake sorting technologies are revolutionizing the recycling industry by enhancing the quality and efficiency of plastic recycling processes. Read more
March 1, 2024Plastics Biodegradability: What Lies Beneath the LabelThe term “biodegradable” evokes images of materials effortlessly breaking down into the earth, leaving no trace. But what does it truly entail? According to the Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics ASTM D883-23, biodegradable plastic refers to degradable plastic in which the degradation results from the action of naturally occurring microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae. Read more
February 29, 2024The Art of the Small: Strategies for Success in Micro MoldingMicro molding, a specialized manufacturing process, produces small and high-precision components with micron tolerances. The constant demand for miniaturization and higher complexity geometries for medical and electronic devices drives the continuous evolution of this technology. Read more
February 28, 2024Additives for PE-Nylon Film Recycling CompatibilityThe Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has established guidelines and certification programs aimed at assisting producers in making their PE film recycling-compatible. Read more
February 26, 2024Anticipating Change: The Move to Siloxane-Free PPAsSiloxanes, a group of silicon-based compounds known for their versatility and resilience, are integral to enhancing the performance of plastics. However, their potential health risks have sparked a debate in the EU on the necessity of imposing restrictions on their use. Read more
February 26, 202432nd IKV Colloquium, The Five Cutting-Edge TopicsIKV has consistently pushed the boundaries of knowledge, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, and driven progress in the dynamic field of plastics. Read more
February 23, 2024The Impact of Pigments on Plastic Dimensional StabilityDimensional stability from injected parts can be affected by several factors like cycle conditions, polymer crystallinity, and the masterbatch’s colorant or additives. Read more
February 23, 2024Robotic Rotational Molding: Precision, Sustainability, and EfficiencyRobotic 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. Read more
February 22, 2024The Urgent Push for Recycling System Improvements in the USIn the face of escalating environmental concerns, the efficacy of recycling systems has never been more critical. The Recycling Partnership reveals a comprehensive document “The State of Recycling: The Present and Future of Residential Recycling in the U.S. 2024” which shows some insights from the US recycling system, underscoring the necessity for a holistic approach. Read more
February 20, 2024Advancements in LDPE Synthesis and RecyclingScientists at Universität Bayreuth, Germany, pioneered a low-pressure and low-temperature synthesis process to mimic LDPE’s chemical structure while enhancing its recyclability. Employing coordinative chain transfer polymerization (CCTP), they synthesized two macromonomers closely resembling commercial LDPE under mild conditions (2 bar and 70°C). Read more
February 17, 2024Can Chemical Recycling Transform Plastic Waste Management?The Consultant Sphera was commissioned by the Consumer Goods Forum (CGF) to conduct a Life-Cycle Analysis on pyrolysis and related chemical recycling technologies. The analysis will be conducted on pyrolysis and related chemical recycling technologies of post-consumer mixed plastic waste to evaluate the potential environmental impacts regarding climate change and fossil resource use of circular food-grade plastics-to-plastics systems compared to fossil-based ones. Read more
February 15, 2024Direct Compounding Injection Molding: Cost-Efficient ExpertiseTailored compounding for serial production and directly pelletized to the injection molding machine. Shortened supply chain (10 to 3 steps) from compounding to injection, achieving up to €1.0/kg in energy and cost savings. It accomplishes high requirements with tailored compound formulation in-house. Read more