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News & Features

Teknor Blend Speeds Biodegradation in Film, Sheet, and Molded Parts

A new blend of thermoplastic starch (TPS) and biodegradable copolyester (PBAT) degrades more rapidly than the copolyester alone, broadening application possibilities for blown and cast film, sheet, and thermoformed and injection molded parts intended for composting, it was announced today by the Bioplastics Division of Teknor Apex Company. 

With TPS content ranging up to 40%, Terraloy™ 20000 Series compounds have passed the ASTM D6400 test for plastics intended for composting in aerobic facilities. Teknor Apex recommends the compounds for replacing polyolefins and polystyrene in applications such as carrier bags, can liners, trays and plates, cutlery, and flower pots.
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RAMPF Group, Inc. Extends Range of Mixing and Dispensing Machines

RAMPF Group, Inc., US subsidiary of the German company RAMPF-Gruppe, has extended its range of mixing and dispensing machines. The new C-DS Basic offers a wide variety of applications for cost efficient processing of multi-component materials such as silicone, epoxy or polyurethane. Furthermore, the uncomplicated control system guarantees easy application especially for first-time-users of low pressure equipment.

 
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Kason Introduces New Vibro-Air Size/Density Separator

A new Vibro-Air™ Size/Density Separator for extruded pellets, regrind and recycled plastics, employs vibratory screening and airflow to simultaneously remove fines, angel hair, strands and film scrap from pellets and ground/chopped plastics, it was announced by Henry Alamzad, president, Kason Corp.

Material fed through a port on the unit's hood cascades over a series of strategically placed internal trays, and ultimately onto a vibrating, fine mesh screen that moves on-size material in controlled flow patterns toward and through a discharge port at the screen's periphery. Heavier fines pass through the screen onto a chute leading to a lower discharge spout.
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Feature article

Globalization and the Plastics Industry

With globalization, everybody wins – sooner or later

By Peter Mapleston

Globalization began well over 2000 years ago when traders moved along a series of routes stretching from the Mediterranean through India to China, which collectively became known as the Silk Road. The trade involved not only silk, but all manner of commodities, including slaves (no plastics however).

So why all the fuss about globalization now? Well, as the Global Policy Forum puts it, human societies across the globe have established progressively closer contacts over many centuries, but recently the pace has dramatically increased. Cheap air and sea travel, global telephone services, instant capital flows and, of course, the internet, have all made the world more interdependent than ever.
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