March 20, 2024The Polymers Behind Apple’s Vision ProThe Apple Vision Pro represents a groundbreaking advancement in augmented reality (AR) technology, driven by the strategic integration of advanced materials, particularly polymers. Read more
March 20, 2024Top 5 Additives for Packaging ProductionThe inclusion of additives plays a crucial role in augmenting the functionality of packaging materials, ensuring they fulfill the varied requirements of different applications. This comprehensive analysis covers the main types of additives and functionalities to improve your packaging production. Read more
March 18, 2024Mastering Clamping Force CalculationClamping force calculation is essential for injection molding projects to avoid expensive corrections later. Read more
March 15, 2024Pioneering Mono-Material ShoesDecathlon, a leader in sports equipment and apparel, is stepping up to address shoe pollution with its innovative mono-material shoes, designed for more efficient recycling. Shoe pollution poses a major environmental challenge. Millions of discarded shoes, made from a mix of materials, end up in landfills each year. These materials release harmful substances as they slowly decompose. Read more
March 15, 2024Next-Gen Smart Skin: Force, Humidity, and Temperature Sensing PropertiesEU-supported SmartCore project creates nanorods with a core-shell structure comprised of a multi-stimuli-responsive smart polymer and a piezoelectric ZnO shell. An array of these stimuli-responsive nanorods on a surface constitutes smart skin. These combine force, humidity, and temperature sensing (F-H-T) with high spatial resolution. Read more
March 14, 2024The Impact of Removing Problematic Materials in PackagingThe Consumer Goods Forum’s Golden Design Rule to remove problematic elements from packaging targets elements like undetectable carbon black, PVC, EPS, PS, PETG in rigid plastic packaging, and oxo-degradable materials. Its implementation promises profound environmental benefits and aligns with global sustainability goals. Read more
March 13, 2024AI-Driven Carbon FiberThe case study from Citrine on the AI-driven development of additives for the carbon fiber manufacturing process outperformed conventional approaches by 4x in its ability to pinpoint viable candidates. This illustrates the transformative impact AI and machine learning (ML) have on materials science. Read more
March 9, 2024How To Talk About Plastics With ConsumersIn the face of growing environmental concerns, the plastics industry faces a unique challenge: How to communicate effectively about plastic use and recycling? The “How to Talk About Plastics” guide from the University of Sheffield offers valuable insights into using language effectively to reduce plastic pollution and encourage pro-environmental behavior. Read more
March 6, 2024Reducing Headspace in Food PackagingIn the battle against plastic pollution and rising logistics costs, a simple yet effective strategy is emerging: reducing headspace in packaging. This approach, endorsed by The Consumer Goods Forum’s Golden Design Rules, can lead to significant environmental and economic benefits. Read more
March 5, 20243D Printing of Mineral Foams from Recycled Industrial Waste for the Building IndustryWith the growing demand for environmentally friendly activities and considering that 37% of global greenhouse gas emissions are currently generated by the construction sector, the implementation of sustainable construction has become a necessity. Read more
March 4, 2024Sustainable Packaging: Adhesives and CoatingsGlobal recycling only recycles 9% of plastic waste. Furthermore, inappropriate adhesives and coatings in packaging can reduce or delay the recycling process. So, what should be considered in the development of new coatings and adhesives? Read more
March 4, 2024Compostable Labels: France’s Answer to Fruit Plastic StickersTo combat plastic waste, France has introduced a ban on plastic stickers on fruits and vegetables. The move signals a significant shift towards more sustainable packaging solutions. Moreover, this pioneering legislation, aims to reduce the ecological footprint of the food industry and promote eco-friendly alternatives. Read more