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A groundbreaking screwless plasticating extruder is paving the way for single pellet extrusion in polymer processing. Drawing inspiration from the innovative gerotor gear pump, this novel design features a rotor with multiple lobes situated within an eccentric cavity.

Scientists at Universität Bayreuth, Germany, pioneered a low-pressure and low-temperature synthesis process to mimic LDPE’s chemical structure while enhancing its recyclability. Employing coordinative chain transfer polymerization (CCTP), they synthesized two macromonomers closely resembling commercial LDPE under mild conditions (2 bar and 70°C).

Celanese Corporation and Under Armour, Inc. have joined forces to introduce NEOLAST™, a groundbreaking fiber for performance stretch fabrics. NEOLAST™ provides elite-level performance attributes—stretch, durability, and comfort—while addressing sustainability challenges linked to traditional elastane (spandex) fibers.

Carbon-fibre reinforced compounds play a pivotal role in demanding applications like automotive, aviation, and renewable energy due to their blend of rigidity, mechanical strength, and lightness. However, recycling these compounds, especially in wind turbines, has been a persistent challenge. As part of the Wind Turbine Materials Recycling Challenge by the US Department of Energy, scientists are spearheading innovative solutions, with a particular focus on chemical recycling.

Scientists at King’s College London have unveiled a groundbreaking method for recycling single-use bioplastics, commonly found in disposable items like coffee cups and food containers. Published in Cell Reports Physical Science, the chemical recycling approach utilizes enzymes akin to those in biological laundry detergents to swiftly break down landfill-bound bioplastics within just 24 hours.

Optimizing manufacturing processes is paramount. This article delves into an innovative solution implemented at a compounding factory, where Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) tags seamlessly became cloud-based assets within Amazon Web Services (AWS).

If you are aspiring to move into a leadership position within your company, whether it involves managing teams or projects, SPE’s Essentials of Management & Leadership in Plastics is ideal for you to refine your leadership skills.

The diagnosis and monitoring of extrusion processes have historically relied on rule-based algorithms. While effective for many years, this conventional approach faces inherent limitations. These limitations include a restricted number of controllable parameters, vulnerability to irrelevant outliers, and heightened complexity in systems with extensive degrees of freedom.

Traditional fiberglass casts, though an improvement over plaster ones, have their drawbacks. They aren’t waterproof, leading to water absorption and unpleasant odors. Moreover, wearers still need to protect the cotton padding beneath from getting wet. Recognizing these issues, the Cast21 team set out to create a patient-friendly solution.

Most toothbrushes are made of 100% plastic, contributing to environmental concerns. However, the real challenge lies in finding sustainable alternatives for the bristles.