March 19, 2024Integrating Lifecycle Analyses for Aviation SustainabilityBetween 2016-2018, aviation’s 2.8% global CO2 emissions also included significant contrails and soot pollution challenges. Read more
March 18, 2024Mastering Clamping Force CalculationClamping force calculation is essential for injection molding projects to avoid expensive corrections later. Read more
March 14, 2024Energy Management Systems – Assessing PerformanceIn 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. Read more
March 13, 2024AI-Driven Carbon FiberThe case study from Citrine on the AI-driven development of additives for the carbon fiber manufacturing process outperformed conventional approaches by 4x in its ability to pinpoint viable candidates. This illustrates the transformative impact AI and machine learning (ML) have on materials science. Read more
March 9, 2024How To Talk About Plastics With ConsumersIn the face of growing environmental concerns, the plastics industry faces a unique challenge: How to communicate effectively about plastic use and recycling? The “How to Talk About Plastics” guide from the University of Sheffield offers valuable insights into using language effectively to reduce plastic pollution and encourage pro-environmental behavior. 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 29, 2024Key Insights for Investing in Modern Recycling Sorting TechnologiesThe plastics recycling industry is experiencing a dynamic development. Governments worldwide are implementing regulations that create a clear economic incentive to use recycled plastic. This triggers a growing need for high-quality Post-Consumer Recycled materials and sorting technologies will play a crucial role. Read more
February 29, 2024The Art of the Small: Strategies for Success in Micro MoldingMicro molding, a specialized manufacturing process, produces small and high-precision components with micron tolerances. The constant demand for miniaturization and higher complexity geometries for medical and electronic devices drives the continuous evolution of this technology. Read more
February 27, 2024What is Ecomodulation? Boosting Extended Producer ResponsibilityEcomodulation is a policy approach aimed at encouraging ecodesign and reducing the environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle. Modulating fees or taxes based on a product’s environmental footprint incentivizes manufacturers to adopt greener practices. This concept is increasingly relevant as societies strive to tackle climate change and reduce waste. Read more
February 26, 202432nd IKV Colloquium, The Five Cutting-Edge TopicsIKV has consistently pushed the boundaries of knowledge, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, and driven progress in the dynamic field of plastics. Read more
February 26, 2024Recycling 5.0: Bridging Technology and IncentivesThe concept of reward recycling has gained traction as a transformative approach to encouraging sustainable practices among consumers. By incentivizing individuals to recycle through tangible rewards, this trend is making significant strides toward enhancing recycling rates and promoting a circular economy. Read more
February 21, 2024Sustainability Management Strategies – Map Actions on MaterialityThe materiality of an issue is another way of asking ‘how relevant and important is it?’. This is considered from two perspectives, those of the broader stakeholders (internal and external) and those of the company itself. Read more