Regulation

Lithium-ion batteries represent the foundation of modern energy storage systems, powering everything from small electronic devices to electric vehicles (EVs). Their high power density, durability, and efficiency make them indispensable in our increasingly electrified world. Yet, their inherent flammability and potential for explosive reactions under certain conditions pose significant safety risks.

New regulations for food contact materials are getting stricter, especially for food-grade rPET. In the case of functional barriers from recycled material without prior decontamination, they could be affected and probably discontinued.

Advanced machinery that can effectively decontaminate post-consumer plastics is the key to producing rPET with exceptionally high purity. This quality is essential for FDA-approved food-grade packaging.

As scientists, we must look for the truth, but sometimes this truth can be interpreted differently depending on how our investigation scope was developed. I think this is the case of the recent study that found hundreds of thousands of nanoplastics in bottled water.

Research indicates that microplastics induce physiological and behavioral changes in aquatic organisms, impacting reproductive capabilities and overall fitness. Furthermore, microplastics serve as carriers for toxic chemicals, posing additional threats as they traverse through the food web.

Experts recognize reusability models in packaging as a solution to minimize waste. McKinsey & Company’s use-case scenarios indicate that there are still challenges to resolve before realizing and scaling up the benefits.

The additive aids biodegradability by changing the polymer structure, converting it into a wax-like material after being exposed to light, water, moisture, and microbes.

Today’s flame-retardant technologies rely strongly on PFAS, but regulations around the globe are pushing the industry to find alternatives that aim to balance fire safety with environmental and health considerations.

The Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) invites you to join their team of instructors as they develop educational programs and workshops for their audience of plastics professionals seeking to enhance their work skills and abilities. Instructors will lead workshops that break the mold, offering unique perspectives and insights that resonate with their audience.

The plastics industry mainly uses PFAS as polymerization aids and this would be the main cause of PFAS emissions related to the life cycle of fluoropolymers.

Companies that produce Fluoropolymers may try to switch to PFAS-free solutions or ask for an exemption, which could be temporary.

The use of “forever chemicals” in the European Union would be largely banned under a proposal issued by the European Chemicals Agency. At the same time, more US states continue to ban PFAS-containing products without a clear roadmap for the plastic industry.