Process

Optimizing manufacturing processes is paramount. This article delves into an innovative solution implemented at a compounding factory, where Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) tags seamlessly became cloud-based assets within Amazon Web Services (AWS).

The emergence of hydrogel and aerogel-based flame-retardant polymeric materials marks new and innovative options in fire safety and protection. Henri Vahabi and his team’s review article for the SPE Journal of Vinyl and Additive Technology thoroughly explores this cutting-edge concept, revealing its makeup, capabilities, and potential future developments of these innovative materials.

Melt Electrowriting (MEW) emerged in the biomedical and tissue engineering outlook over a decade ago as a method for printing structures on the low micrometer or nanometer scale. But how does it work, and what does the future hold for this technology?

Perstorp Group today introduced a more sustainable, phthalate-free grade of PVC plasticizer called Pevalen Pro 100 that features 100 percent renewable carbon content based on mass balance.

Plastic materials selection involves choosing materials that meet some important characteristics like performance, cosmetics, and costs. But there is not a playbook for doing materials selection. On the contrary, this means doing some property research, taking into account product lifetime and even in some cases, regulation.

The plastics industry is poised for transformative changes in 2024, marked by dynamic trends that underscore a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation.

The diagnosis and monitoring of extrusion processes have historically relied on rule-based algorithms. While effective for many years, this conventional approach faces inherent limitations. These limitations include a restricted number of controllable parameters, vulnerability to irrelevant outliers, and heightened complexity in systems with extensive degrees of freedom.

Glass stands as a high-performance material vital across multiple fields, notably in optics, chemistry, and medical technology industries. However, conventional glass processing faces constraints, particularly in designing very small structures. The new process developed by Glas­somer in Freiburg, Germany, makes it possible to process transparent quartz glass in the plastic injection molding machine.

Traditional fiberglass casts, though an improvement over plaster ones, have their drawbacks. They aren’t waterproof, leading to water absorption and unpleasant odors. Moreover, wearers still need to protect the cotton padding beneath from getting wet. Recognizing these issues, the Cast21 team set out to create a patient-friendly solution.

EssilorLuxottica has developed a pair of glasses that seamlessly incorporates open-ear hearing technology designed to aid consumers with mild to moderate hearing loss. The firm partnered on the project with its latest acquisition, Israeli startup Nuance Audio.

PET is widely used in beverage bottles and packaging, and grapples with persistent challenges in achieving high recycling rates in the United States. Despite its inherent recyclability, PET recycling rates remain relatively low, underscoring a complex interplay of factors.

Honda 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.