Materials

Implosion of carbon fiber submersible raises questions about composites in undersea vessels.

Gate placement isn’t just a technical detail—it shapes everything from aesthetics to internal stress, shrinkage control, flow quality, and mold wear.

GLA-based additives improve PLA flexibility and enzymatic breakdown, enabling better lifecycle performance in targeted packaging applications.

Microplastics and nanoplastics are widespread; current studies explore their sources, impacts, and engineering solutions for sustainability.

ALPLA’s new ultra-thin rPET yogurt cups combine high performance with recyclability, aligning with future EU packaging standards and circular goals.

Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, pushes conventional limits for manufacturing sensors used for monitoring environmental changes and conditions.

A novel PTL/SA coating shows good performance and low cost for preventing phthalate leaching in medical devices and food packaging.

Plastics emit 3% of global CO₂. Aligning the value chain—via recycling, clean tech, and circularity—can cut emissions up to 90% by 2050.

Foam injection molding (FIM) delivers lighter, stronger, and more cost-effective products compared to traditional injection molding.

Petroleum is the primary feedstock for plastic production, so fluctuations in oil prices significantly impact manufacturing and supply chain costs.

Despite strong bioplastic growth, 2025 data reveal that earlier optimistic forecasts overstated expectations, reflecting a more complex market reality.

VAUDE and BASF launch a net-zero polyamide backpack, showcasing how drop-in sustainable materials can support climate-neutral product design.