June 11, 2024Hydrogel Skins: Soft Interfaces for Intelligent SystemsHydrogels, composed of 3D polymer networks with high water content, closely mimic the mechanical properties of human tissues and organs, making them ideal for contact with human skin. Read more
June 1, 2024Enhancing Plastic Sorting Through Deep LearningTOMRA’s sorting machines can now accurately distinguish between food-grade and non-food-grade plastics, overcoming a long-standing challenge in the industry. Read more
May 21, 2024The Impact of Plasticizers on Linear PolymersRecent studies have delved into the profound effects of plasticizers on the crystallization behavior of linear polymers, shedding light on their impact on nucleation, growth, and melting processes. Read more
May 14, 2024Digital Product Passports: Revolutionizing Transparency and SustainabilityIn today’s global market, the importance of transparency and sustainability cannot be overstated. The European Union has declared that by 2030, Digital Product Passports will be mandatory for some products sold within its territory. Read more
April 30, 2024Cutting Costs and Kilowatts in Plastics ManufacturingThe plastics processing industry is going through a significant transformation, driven by rising energy costs and concerns regarding future supply reliability. Read more
April 29, 2024Computational Approaches to Fast-Track Material DevelopmentThe future of material research is increasingly changing toward digitization, which promises advantages but requires significant work and adaptability. While initial trends emerge, development varies between material classes due to variations in synthesis, production, analysis, and modeling techniques. Read more
April 25, 2024Phigital Packaging: Merging Physical and DigitalDigital packaging emerges as a revolutionary player in transforming how consumers interact with products. Traditional packaging, primarily focused on protection and basic marketing, is evolving rapidly. Read more
April 19, 2024Smart Plastics: IoT and AI for Next-Gen ApplicationsPlastics have evolved beyond their ubiquitous presence in everyday products to become intelligent. The fusion of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is launching the era of “smart plastics.” These materials aim to revolutionize the functionality and efficiency of plastics in healthcare, automotive, and consumer products. Read more
April 19, 2024The Future of Plastics: The START-UP – Chapter 3 of 3The future of the plastics industry emerges as a focal point, in a world inundated with crisis reports and the relentless hustle of daily life. Hence, it’s crucial to take a step back and examine the industry through different lenses. Read more
April 9, 2024Advancements in 3D Printed Hybrid Composite StructuresThe need to lower the steep costs of traditional manufacturing, involving expensive tooling and molds, makes advancing composite manufacturing a key research focus. Read more
April 5, 2024Boosting Exoskeleton Performance and ComfortThese wearable robotic devices offer enhanced strength, mobility, and support, empowering users with newfound capabilities. However, the advancement of exoskeletons hinges not only on technological innovation but also on the materials that form their foundation. From lightweight alloys to flexible composites, materials play a central role in shaping the functionality, comfort, and durability of these devices. Read more
March 25, 2024The Future of Plastics: The Vision, Chapter 1 of 3In the turbulence, the future of the plastics industry emerges as a focal point. With forecasts depicting a landscape characterized by both challenges and opportunities. In a world inundated with crisis reports and the relentless hustle of daily life, it’s imperative now more than ever to hit the pause button and reassess our perspectives. Read more