April 26, 2024Polypropylene Recycling from Disposable Face MasksSolvent-targeted recovery and precipitation (STRAP) process stands out as a promising alternative to polypropylene (PP) disposable face mask recycling. 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
March 12, 2024Packaging Sorting 4.0: Digital Watermarks & Fluorescent MarkersThe recycling industry faces significant challenges, particularly in accurately sorting and recycling mixed waste streams. This is especially important for food-grade post-consumer recycled. Innovations such as digital watermarks and fluorescent markers offer promising solutions to these challenges, potentially revolutionizing the recycling process. 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 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
January 23, 2024Honda’s Foldable Electric Scooter Earns CES Innovation AwardHonda has revamped one of its decades-old folding scooter concepts, but completely updated it to be electric, zero-emission, compact, easy to carry, and fun to ride. Introducing the Hondo Motocompacto, which won a “Best of Innovation” honor at CES 2024. Read more
January 17, 2024Packaging Reuse Models, Ready to Reduce Plastic Waste?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. Read more
January 15, 2024B.I.G. Yarns Advances Automotive Interior Sustainability with PET BCF YarnsB.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. Read more
January 9, 2024Formlabs Launches 3D Printing Materials and Resin Pumping System3D printing specialist Formlabs on Jan. 9 launched two materials and a new accessory for some of its printers that it says will enable increased production with less hassle, lower resin costs, and reduced waste. The products include a resin pumping system, a polypropylene powder and a new dental resin. Read more
November 29, 2023Designing Plastic Parts: Are You Considering Creep?The successful design of plastic parts is complicated, primarily as they are made of plastic. Plastics create a significant challenge not only to manufacturing but also to part design and performance. We commonly overlook the degree of complexity as the benefits of using plastic overwhelm their negatives. However, many have accepted the shortfalls rather than trying to advance beyond these limitations. Read more
November 27, 2023AI-powered Sorting Project Boosts Polypropylene RecyclingA coalition of European companies has combined artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision with an efficient decontamination process to boost the recyclability of post-consumer polypropylene food packaging. Read more
May 31, 2023Milliken Readies Startup of Major Polypropylene Additive Clarifier PlantMilliken & Co. will begin production at its new clarifier plant soon in Blacksburg, S.C. The facility will increase capacity for Millad NX 8000 polypropylene clarifier by more than 50 percent and address strong global demand for clarified plastics products. … Read more