Automation

Plastics have evolved beyond their ubiquitous presence in everyday products to become intelligent. The fusion of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is launching the era of “smart plastics.” These materials aim to revolutionize the functionality and efficiency of plastics in healthcare, automotive, and consumer products.

The future of the plastics industry emerges as a focal point, in a world inundated with crisis reports and the relentless hustle of daily life. Hence, it’s crucial to take a step back and examine the industry through different lenses.

The IKV Colloquium demonstrated the plastics industry’s resilience in addressing current challenges. On February 28th-29th, 2024, RWTH Aachen University’s IKV organized an event fostering industry-academia exchanges.

In the extensive world of materials science and industrial processes, selecting the right rheometer for our specific applications often feels like navigating a complex puzzle. Each piece must fit precisely to unlock the full potential of material characterization,  R&D, and process optimization.

IKV has consistently pushed the boundaries of knowledge, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, and driven progress in the dynamic field of plastics.

Altair Engineering is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twin technology to speed product design simulations.

Artificial intelligence can revolutionize Injection Molding by extracting insights and improving process indicators. The Lüdenscheid Plastics Institute in Germany is conducting some studies to teach companies to understand how to use AI effectively.

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).

The plastics industry is poised for transformative changes in 2024, marked by dynamic trends that underscore a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation.

Polymeric materials play a pivotal role in diverse engineering applications, from aerospace to environmental and civil engineering. However, the traditional approach to designing these materials has been experimental and often inefficient, relying on trial and error. This Edisonian method, driven by experience and intuition, comes with inherent drawbacks, including high costs, slow progress, and limited exploration of chemical space.