Extrusion

Most plastics processing sites use gas simply for space heating but some processes use gas as part of the process, e.g., rotational molding.  Where gas is used for hot water only then this is generally relatively constant over the year. For space heating, the gas use load will be related to the weather conditions (how cold it is) and the weather is then a ‘condition’ driver for gas use. 

Employed 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.

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.

The pilot-scale fluoropolymer incineration study conducted by the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) represents a significant stride in understanding the environmental impact of fluoropolymer disposal.

Inter Holdings says its patented technology can extend shelf life, save food, and reduce CO2 emissions. A Tokyo-based company has developed and patented what it calls “ultra-high vacuum technology.” It aims to reduce food loss and carbon dioxide emissions while replacing some single-use plastic packaging.

Supercritical foaming revolutionizes polymer science, creating lightweight, porous materials with superior properties through controlled pressure and supercritical fluids.

The 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.

While certain PFASs are notorious for their toxicity, persistence, and environmental mobility, Fluoropolymers emerge because of their durability, safety, water insolubility, and bio-inertia. These high-performance polymers are revolutionizing industries with their attributes.

The plastics market demands sustainable alternatives to conventional fossil-based plastics. Bio-Polyethylene emerges as a promising solution, offering environmental advantages and maintaining performance.

Decathlon, a leader in sports equipment and apparel, is stepping up to address shoe pollution with its innovative mono-material shoes, designed for more efficient recycling. Shoe pollution poses a major environmental challenge. Millions of discarded shoes, made from a mix of materials, end up in landfills each year. These materials release harmful substances as they slowly decompose.

In most plastics processing electricity is the main energy source. Electricity use is not, as is sometimes thought, fixed and uncontrollable, it is variable and controllable. For most sites, the electricity use will be directly related to the production volume in a given time period. 

The 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.