Education & Training

4D printing is an evolution in the manufacturing process that incorporates the dimension of time into 3D printing.

Dual-curing represents an innovative approach that enhances control over the final properties of parts through a multistage curing process.

Most plastics processing sites use gas simply for space heating but some processes use gas as part of the process, e.g., rotational molding.  Where gas is used for hot water only then this is generally relatively constant over the year. For space heating, the gas use load will be related to the weather conditions (how cold it is) and the weather is then a ‘condition’ driver for gas use. 

More manufacturers are turning to additive manufacturing to ensure consistent outcomes. But many may not fully grasp how or why they should incorporate it into their processes. If you’re continuously hitting roadblocks, production is slow, or you’re stuck with outdated technologies, additive manufacturing offers solutions. Utilizing it can help your processes by producing complex parts, reducing material waste, customizing products, boosting supply chain efficiencies, and enabling low-volume production.

Sustainability has become an indispensable fifth dimension in design, essential from the very start of the process. Moreover, it stands unique in each project like a snowflake, highlighting its custom and distinct approach.

Belgian-American chemist Leo Baekeland invented Bakelite in 1907, launching the modern plastics industry and revolutionizing manufacturing processes and everyday items. This article explores Bakelite’s story, covering its invention, attributes, industrial and societal impact, and enduring legacy.

Supercritical foaming revolutionizes polymer science, creating lightweight, porous materials with superior properties through controlled pressure and supercritical fluids.

In the turbulence, the future of the plastics industry emerges as a focal point. With forecasts depicting a landscape characterized by both challenges and opportunities. In a world inundated with crisis reports and the relentless hustle of daily life, it’s imperative now more than ever to hit the pause button and reassess our perspectives.

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.

NAFION, a remarkable polymer crafted by the Chemours Company, earns widespread acclaim for its exceptional properties and versatile applications across various industries.

The terms “film” and “sheet” often lead to confusion within and outside the industry, as they are sometimes used interchangeably. While both refer to thin, flat materials, they possess distinct characteristics and applications.

The 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.