Polyethylene

Scientists 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).

UK design firm Gomi believes that technology products shouldn’t become obsolete. Rather, they should be beautiful, durable, repairable and have a circular lifespan. So it is making audio speakers and power banks from recycled plastic bags and repurposed lithium batteries.

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.

Experts recognize reusability models in packaging as a solution to minimize waste. McKinsey & Company’s use-case scenarios indicate that there are still challenges to resolve before realizing and scaling up the benefits.

B.I.G. Yarns has successfully completed initial industrial production runs of virgin polyester BCF yarns, strategically expanding its support for high-end automotive interiors. This addition complements the existing line of polyamide PA6 superior yarns and aims to meet the increasing demand for sustainable materials in the automotive industry.

The robustness of materials under cyclic loading is a critical factor often overshadowed by their tensile strength. Plastics, by nature, exhibit lower fatigue strength than their measured tensile strength, emphasizing the need for meticulous fatigue testing in material selection processes.

In the face of escalating concerns over food loss, waste, and the imperative need for robust antimicrobial technologies exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a groundbreaking study introduces polymer-based antibacterial films. This innovative approach seeks to merge antibacterial efficacy with durability, offering a multifaceted solution to contemporary challenges.

Berry Global Inc. says it has developed a new version of polyethylene cling film that can serve as a high-performance –– and certified recyclable –– alternative to PVC cling film for fresh food applications.

Outdoor apparel company Patagonia Inc. has partnered with two materials firms to produce one of its warmest parkas yet –– the StormShadow –– using high-performance textiles made from recycled coastal and marine plastic. Patagonia leveraged W.L. Gore & Associates’ development of expanded polyethylene (ePE) and married it with efforts by New York-based materials engineering company Bionic, which repurposes ocean-bound waste plastics in Costa Rica.

Rotomolded boat designed for new generation of water enthusiasts.

Tracking innovations from fast restoration of power to better body bags.

Virginia Tech researchers cite benefits of plastics soap process in commercial scale-up.