Design

The marriage of nano- and microscale 3D printing has ushered in a new era of design freedom and efficiency, propelling groundbreaking innovations in micro-optics and micromechanics. These advancements not only drive new developments but also set the stage for technological progress, leading to the increased commercialization of 3D printing techniques tailored for micro- and nano-objects. At the forefront of this transformative wave is the crucial process of two-photon polymerization (2PP).

If the plastics industry wants to continue to be a part of that stream of commerce it is important for all engineers to know how to design high quality plastic parts and product that can be efficiently produced.

Researchers from Cornell and the University of Alberta, Edmonton, have pioneered a novel technique for treating Type 1 diabetes. Their innovation involves implanting a revolutionary device, a removable polymer thread, beneath the skin.

In a bid to combat microplastic pollution in aquatic environments, scientists have drawn inspiration from an unlikely source – the Hawaiian apple snail. This innovative venture has resulted in the creation of a robot prototype designed to scoop up microplastics from the surfaces of oceans, seas, and lakes.

SPE has recently announced that the ANTEC® 2024 program will feature a Symposium Honoring the Career Achievements of Mr. Glenn Beall. His indelible legacy has significantly contributed to the growth of plastics and SPE.

No sustainability management program will be successful unless top management is committed to it. Top management will generally respond better to a well-reasoned financial argument but there is no conflict – it is entirely possible to be more sustainable and to improve profits at the same time. 

Working with U.S. startup Inkbit, researchers in Switzerland have, for the first time, say they have found a way to 3D print slow-curing polymers.

Nissin Foods USA soon plans to dump the iconic expanded polystyrene foam cup it has been using for its on-the-go ramen noodles for a half-century and replace it with a new, microwaveable paper cup design that will no longer require boiling water. The company also will spend $228m to open a new U.S. plant in South Carolina.

The fashion industry is disrupting the PET circular economy by taking it into an application that recycles less than 1% of its products.

The V-Carbon technology is based on a patented “chemolysis” recycling process and offers up to 85% of carbon fiber’s original strength.

The plastic industry uses color in almost all applications, as it gives an aesthetic and personal feel to the product. Brand owners can achieve qualities such as “warm”, “soft”, “shiny” and “pleasant” through color, but is it affecting post-consumer recycled?

Charge Amps uses circular grade of SABIC’s Lexan PC to injection mold a new EV charger housing. The resin reduces carbon emissions in housing production.