Polyestertime

Month: August 2024

Hydrogen – A team of researchers in Korea has made a significant breakthrough in microbial plastic production, presenting a novel way to create biodegradable plastics with enhanced properties 31-08-2024

Hydrogen

At Monza,Scuderia Ferrari HP celebrates carbon fibre

During the Italian Grand Prix weekend at Monza, Scuderia Ferrari HP, along with some of its partners will celebrate a material that is state of the art when it comes to building racing cars, namely carbon fibre. Its main virtues are light weight and strength, which have allowed the sport to make great progress in terms of safety. To mark the occasion, instead of the usual white background with a yellow border, the numbers 16 and 55 on the SF-24s will replicate the look of carbon with its woven texture and natural reflections. In addition, the drivers’ race suits, helmets, shoes and glasses will also reflect the carbon fibre theme. Hydrogen

Early days. Carbon fibre was produced for the first time in 1958 in the USA and then extensively developed in the UK and Japan. It first saw the light of day in Formula 1 thanks to a brainwave from John Barnard, in England. In 1982, Scuderia Ferrari began using carbon fibre panels to strengthen the aluminium chassis on the 126 C2, as well as producing the wings with this new material. Midway through the following season the 126 C3 made its debut, the first car built at Maranello with a carbon fibre monocoque. It made its debut with Patrick Tambay at Silverstone, when the Frenchman finished third, before winning next time out in Germany in the hands of René Arnoux. Hydrogen

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At Monza, Scuderia Ferrari HP celebrates carbon fibre

Chemical plastics recycling is ready to go

Scientists around the world can now go full throttle in their research into chemical plastics recycling. Researchers at ETH Zurich have laid important foundations for this by showing that it’s all about the stirring.

Hundreds of millions of tonnes of plastic waste are generated worldwide every year. Scientists are working tirelessly on new methods to recycle a large proportion of this waste into high-quality products and thus enable a genuine circular economy. However, current recycling practices fall short of this goal. Most plastic waste is recycled mechanically: shredded and then melted down. Although this process does result in new plastic products, their quality deteriorates with each recycling step. Hydrogen

An alternative to this is chemical recycling, which avoids loss of quality. This method involves breaking down long-chain plastic molecules (polymers) into their fundamental building blocks (monomers), which can be reassembled into new, high-quality plastics, creating a truly sustainable cycle.

Fuels from plastic waste

As the approach of chemical recycling develops, the initial focus is on breaking down these long polymer chains into shorter-chain molecules that can be used as liquid fuels, say, or lubricants. This gives plastic waste a second life as petrol, jet fuel or engine oil. Scientists at ETH Zurich have now laid down important foundations for developing this process. These enable the global scientific community to engage in more targeted and effective recycling development work.  Hydrogen

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Hydrogen

A team of researchers in Korea has made a significant breakthrough in microbial plastic production, presenting a novel way to create biodegradable plastics with enhanced properties

By engineering E. coli bacteria to produce polymers with ring-like aromatic structures, the researchers have developed a method to create plastics that are more rigid and thermally stable. This advancement is particularly promising as it offers an alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics, which are a significant environmental concern.

One of the major challenges the researchers faced was that these ring-like structures are typically toxic to microorganisms. Hydrogen

To overcome this, they developed a novel metabolic pathway that allows E. coli not only to produce the polymer but also to tolerate the accumulation of these otherwise harmful compounds. The resulting biodegradable polymer shows potential for biomedical applications, such as drug delivery systems, though further research is required to fully explore its capabilities.

This work highlights the potential of biomanufacturing in addressing global environmental issues like climate change and plastic pollution. Sang Yup Lee, the senior author and a chemical and biomolecular engineer at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, emphasized the importance of international collaboration to promote bio-based manufacturing for a more sustainable future. Hydrogen

The findings were published on August 21 in Trends in Biotechnology, marking a significant step forward in the field of microbial plastic production.

Hydrogen

Technip Energies has secured the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) contract from bp for the H2Teesside project, one of the UK’s largest low-carbon hydrogen production facilities

Integrated with carbon capture technology, H2Teesside aims to produce 1.2 GW of low-carbon hydrogen, contributing over 10% of the UK’s 2030 hydrogen target. The project could capture and store over two million tonnes of CO₂ annually, equivalent to the emissions from heating one million UK homes. This initiative will boost economic growth, job creation, and regional regeneration in Teesside. Hydrogen

Technip Energies’ role includes delivering a comprehensive design by leveraging its expertise in hydrogen and carbon capture technologies. If the final investment decision is made in 2025, the company may provide the full Engineering Procurement, Construction, and Commissioning (EPCC) services. H2Teesside, part of the East Coast Cluster, will integrate with other regional decarbonization projects, exporting captured CO₂ to the Northern Endurance Partnership (NEP) CO2 gathering system.

Mario Tommaselli, SVP Gas and Low Carbon Energies at Technip Energies, emphasized the company’s capability in delivering large-scale, innovative solutions aligned with the UK’s decarbonization goals. Andy Lane, bp’s VP for Hydrogen and CCUS, highlighted H2Teesside’s pivotal role in transforming Teesside into a hydrogen hub and advancing the UK’s low-carbon hydrogen economy. Hydrogen

Technip Energies has secured the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) contract from bp for the H2Teesside project, one of the UK’s largest low-carbon hydrogen production facilities

63rd Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress & 4th Innovation Days September 11 – 13, 2024, Dornbirn Austria

The 63rd Dornbirn GFC 2024 is characterized by the energy transition and presents innovative solutions for the textile industry. The presentations on the main topic “Energy Solutions” during the three-day congress will start with a plenary lecture on the opening day.  Hydrogen

Countdown to Kickoff

The excitement is building, and there’s not much time left to be part of the action! Only 15 Days and 21 hours left to register for the upcoming Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress. Don’t miss your chance to be part of Dornbirn GFC’s incredible journey this year!

  • Programme Highlights:

Rudolf Zauner, a VERBUND AG’s expert in renewable energies, will kick off the opening day with a compelling plenary lecture on this crucial topic. As the industry moves towards further decarbonization. Zauner will dive into innovative energy solutions and explore how the collaboration between industry, energy suppliers, and start-ups can maintain competitiveness while driving sustainability. Hydrogen

In collaboration with the Institute for Textile Technology of RWTH Aachen University (ITA) and their industrial partners, this session will offer an in-depth exploration of cutting-edge energy solutions. Prof. Thomas Gries highlights the importance of these innovations for a sustainable future, stating: “By combining natural principles with advanced technologies, we can tackle some of the most critical energy challenges of our time.

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63rd Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress & 4th Innovation Days September 11 – 13, 2024, Dornbirn Austria

Researchers from the UGM Department of Chemical Engineering have developed a biodegradable packaging plastic called “Kemurai” to address the growing environmental issue of plastic waste

Unlike conventional plastics, Kemurai is designed to degrade much faster while retaining the same strength and durability. This innovation stems from research initiated in 2018, led by Dr. Yuni Kusumastuti and her team, including Dr. Moh. Fahrurrozi and Dr. Teguh Ariyanto. Hydrogen

Kemurai’s faster degradation is achieved by incorporating pro-oxidant and bio-additives into the polypropylene base material. These additives trigger structural changes under specific environmental conditions, breaking down long-chain molecules into simpler, more degradable compounds. However, the product is still in the developmental stage and requires further testing, particularly in determining its degradation time.

The research team is also working on optimizing Kemurai’s formulation by combining it with natural materials and reducing production costs to ensure affordability. Dr. Kusumastuti hopes that future collaborations with industry partners will accelerate Kemurai’s commercialization, making it widely available and beneficial for the environment. Hydrogen

The project has received support from the 2023 Matching Fund Kedai Reka Program by the Ministry of Education, which helps to fund innovative solutions addressing national challenges.

Researchers from the UGM Department of Chemical Engineering have developed a biodegradable packaging plastic called "Kemurai" to address the growing environmental issue of plastic waste

Carbon fibre – Turning bacteria into bioplastic factories

Hydrogen

Carbon fibre – Turning bacteria into bioplastic factories 30-08-2024

Carbon fibre

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Avient Corporation has introduced OnColor™ REC Polymer Colorants, a sustainable solution made from recycled content, such as end-of-life tires

These colorants serve as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional carbon black formulations, enabling manufacturers to reduce their product carbon footprint (PCF).

OnColor REC Polymer Colorants match the performance of traditional carbon black in plastics, offering versatility across various resins and available in both standard and custom color formulations. They comply with stringent regulatory standards, including REACH, RoHS, and TÜV Rheinland certifications, with Proposition 65 letters available upon request. Carbon fibre

Felipe Reichert, Avient’s Global Marketing Director for Color, Additives & Inks, highlighted the launch as a response to the growing demand for sustainable colorant options, reinforcing the company’s dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility.

Available across the United States and Canada, OnColor REC Polymer Colorants cater to diverse industries, such as automotive, construction, electronics, textiles, and more. A PCF calculation can be provided to users upon request. Carbon fibre

For additional details and to request a PCF calculation, visit www.avient.com or call 1-844-4AVIENT.

Avient Corporation has introduced OnColor™ REC Polymer Colorants, a sustainable solution made from recycled content, such as end-of-life tires

Turning bacteria into bioplastic factories

Biologists find new ways to encourage the plastic-producing power of purple microbes

In a world overrun by petroleum-based plastics, scientists are searching for alternatives that are more sustainable, more biodegradable and far less toxic to the environment.

In a world overrun by petroleum-based plastics, scientists are searching for alternatives that are more sustainable, more biodegradable and far less toxic to the environment. Two new studies by biologists at WashU highlight one potential source of game-changing materials: purple bacteria that, with a little encouragement, can act like microscopic factories for bioplastics. Carbon fibre

Two new studies by biologists at Washington University in St. Louis highlight one potential source of game-changing materials: purple bacteria that, with a little encouragement, can act like microscopic factories for bioplastics.

A study led by graduate student Eric Conners found that two relatively obscure species of purple bacteria have the ability to produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), natural polymers that can be purified to make plastic. Carbon fibre

Another study led by research lab supervisor Tahina Ranaivoarisoa showed that genetic engineering could coax a well-studied but notoriously stubborn species of purple bacteria to dramatically ramp up its production of PHAs.

More…

Carbon fibre

Sigmatex, a UK-based carbon fibre textiles manufacturer, has completed a significant expansion at its North American facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina, increasing its weaving capacity by 50 per cent

This enhancement, achieved by adding a new production cell, is in response to growing demand from the space, aerospace, and defense industries.

Paul McMullan, CEO of Sigmatex, emphasized the importance of this investment for the company’s growth in the US over the next five years, stating that their commitment to quality, service, and technical excellence has been well-received in the market.

The 75,000-square-foot Orangeburg facility, opened in 2015, is Sigmatex’s most advanced site, equipped with proprietary Flat Tow technology and accredited with AS9100D and DNV certifications.  Carbon fibre

It serves as the primary supply hub for North America, offering scalable and cost-effective manufacturing solutions.

McMullan also highlighted Sigmatex’s ongoing commitment to innovation, stating that further investments in technology, digitalisation, and data-driven enhancements are planned. These efforts aim to meet future demand while maintaining a strong focus on quality, positioning the company for a promising future in the US market. Carbon fibre

Carbon fibre

Carbios, a leader in biological technology, has partnered with UK-based recycling and waste management firm FCC Environment UK to explore the establishment of a PET biorecycling plant in the UK

The companies have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to jointly study the feasibility of this facility, which would utilize Carbios’ innovative enzymatic depolymerization technology to recycle PET plastic and textile waste into “virgin-like” products without the use of solvents.

This partnership comes at a time when recycling progress in the UK has stalled, despite government support for a circular economy. Carbios sees biorecycling as a crucial step toward real environmental change. Carbon fibre

The proposed plant would process PET waste that is currently non-recyclable with traditional methods, such as colored, multilayered, or textile-based PET.

Carbios aims to become a leading technology provider in PET recycling by 2035, with this UK facility building on their existing plant under construction in Longlaville, France. The collaboration with FCC Environment would grant Carbios access to a steady supply of feedstock through FCC’s established waste collection systems, improving the efficiency and impact of their sustainable recycling solution. Carbon fibre

CEO Emmanuel Ladent emphasized that this partnership could enhance Carbios’ ability to address the plastic waste crisis by bringing advanced recycling technology to the UK market.

Carbios, a leader in biological technology, has partnered with UK-based recycling and waste management firm FCC Environment UK to explore the establishment of a PET biorecycling plant in the UK

A team of South Korean scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of electric vehicle batteries, developing a battery that can recharge in just 5 seconds

Led by Professor Jeung Ku Kang from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, the team focused on sodium-ion (Na+) batteries, which have long been considered a potential alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to their lower cost. However, achieving the desired performance has been challenging—until now.

The South Korean researchers have successfully created a hybrid sodium-ion battery that surpasses the energy density of traditional lithium-ion batteries and matches the power density of supercapacitors. Carbon fibre

This was achieved by developing a new anode material with improved kinetics, incorporating fine active materials within porous carbon derived from metal-organic structures.

The result is a battery with an energy density of 247 Wh/kg and a power density of 34,748 W/kg, enabling it to recharge in an astonishing 5 seconds. This advancement represents a major leap forward in electric vehicle technology, offering a solution to the long-standing challenge of slow charging times. Carbon fibre

This revolutionary battery not only promises faster charging but also provides higher storage capacity, making it a viable and more affordable alternative to current lithium-ion batteries in electric cars. The development is poised to significantly impact the future of electric mobility, making rapid charging a reality.

A team of South Korean scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of electric vehicle batteries, developing a battery that can recharge in just 5 seconds

Röchling Industrial invests close to €10M in recycling centre

Röchling aims to process more than 10,000 tonnes of plastic waste per year in the new sustainability centre

Röchling Industrial announced it is investing almost €10 million to create a sustainability centre at its industrial recycling plant in Geeste-Dalum, Germany. Carbon fibre

The Germany-based plastics processor first opened the plant in March 2021, where it cleans, sorts, and grounds post-industrial PE and PP from its own production and from its customers. Röchling then reprocesses the recyclates into semi-finished technical plastic products at its plant in Haren.

By 2027, the Geeste-Dalum recycling centre will be expanded to cover an area of more than 30,000 square metres, up from the original 6,300 square metres. Röchling aims to process more than 10,000 tonnes of plastic waste per year in the new sustainability centre. Carbon fibre

Several new shredders as well as grinding and production plants will be added to the sorting plant, Röchling said in a statement. The company will also add a modern office building and a new production hall over 4,000 square metres in size. Both will be equipped with a large-scale photovoltaic system to use electricity from renewable energies. In total, the expansion and the associated increase in capacity will create around 20 new jobs.

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Röchling Industrial invests close to €10M in recycling centre

Recycled polyester – Unifi Inc., a leader in sustainable synthetic textiles, has introduced two innovative products at the Intertextile Apparel Fabrics Shanghai tradeshow: a white-dyeable filament yarn and ThermaLoop insulation material, both part of the Repreve fiber group made from recycled polyester 29-08-2024

Carbon fibre

Recycled polyester – Unifi Inc., a leader in sustainable synthetic textiles, has introduced two innovative products at the Intertextile Apparel Fabrics Shanghai tradeshow: a white-dyeable filament yarn and ThermaLoop insulation material, both part of the Repreve fiber group made from recycled polyester 29-08-2024

Recycled polyester

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Cirba Solutions welcomes DOE to flagship lithium-ion battery recycling facility

Cirba Solutions, a leader in lithium-ion battery recycling and materials management, is making significant strides in establishing a domestic supply chain for electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

Recently, the company welcomed David Crane, Under Secretary for Infrastructure at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and Giulia Siccardo, Director of the DOE Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC), to tour its expanding lithium-ion battery recycling facility in Lancaster, Ohio. Recycled polyester

A Strategic Milestone for Cirba Solutions

The Lancaster facility is a focal point in the DOE’s strategy to build a robust domestic battery manufacturing value chain, increase American competitiveness, and create high-quality jobs.

Cirba Solutions is investing over $400m in this lithium-ion battery recycling project, with production expected to be operational by 2026.

Once completed, the facility will produce enough battery-grade metal salts to power more than 250,000 EV batteries annually and will create over 100 new jobs in the region.

“Across the nation, more and more communities are experiencing the benefits of an American manufacturing renaissance thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. Recycled polyester

“With Cirba Solutions’ first project from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law coming online, Lancaster, Ohio, becomes a strategic focal point in DOE’s efforts to build domestic battery manufacturing value chain, increase American competitiveness, strengthen US supply chains, and create good-paying, high-quality jobs for the Buckeye state.

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Cirba Solutions welcomes DOE to flagship lithium-ion battery recycling facility

 

Unifi Inc., a leader in sustainable synthetic textiles, has introduced two innovative products at the Intertextile Apparel Fabrics Shanghai tradeshow: a white-dyeable filament yarn and ThermaLoop insulation material, both part of the Repreve fiber group made from recycled polyester

These products, created from 100% recycled polyester with at least 50% textile waste, meet virgin-quality standards and are pivotal in Unifi’s goal to recycle the equivalent of 1.5 billion t-shirts by 2030.  Recycled polyester

Eddie Ingle, CEO of Unifi, emphasized the importance of shifting the textile industry towards sustainability, highlighting that these new fibers allow brands to consider the entire product lifecycle, helping them meet their 2030 environmental targets. Unifi’s circular Repreve filament yarn offers high-performance, dyeable polyester suitable for critical applications, while the ThermaLoop insulation material provides efficient, down-like thermal performance.

Unifi is also committed to partnering with global brands through its Textile Takeback process, which recycles post-industrial and post-consumer textile waste into next-generation materials. Recycled polyester

The new Repreve yarn includes the Fiber Print tracer technology, ensuring products can obtain U-Trust certification and other sustainability credentials. With versatility across industries and enhanced with performance technologies like anti-odor and moisture-wicking, these products represent a significant step forward in reducing reliance on virgin materials and lowering carbon emissions.

Recycled polyester

Samsara Eco, an Australian company, is collaborating with Israel-based polyamide manufacturer Nilit to explore building a nylon 6.6 recycling plant in Southeast Asia

The facility will utilize Samsara Eco’s innovative EosEco technology, an enzymatic process capable of breaking down plastics into their core molecules, allowing for the recycling of complex textiles, including those made from nylon 6.6 blended with spandex.

Samsara Eco, founded in 2020 in partnership with the Australian National University, has raised over A$160 million from investors such as Woolworths Group and Temasek. With four million tons of nylon 6.6 produced annually—widely used in performance apparel and notoriously difficult to recycle—this partnership aims to tackle the environmental challenges posed by textile waste. Recycled polyester

The new plant, expected to be operational by late 2026, will produce high-quality recycled nylon 6.6 polymers. These polymers can be seamlessly integrated into existing supply chains, offering a sustainable alternative for textile manufacturers.

Paul Riley, CEO of Samsara Eco, emphasizes the company’s commitment to “infinite recycling” and creating a circular economy for nylon 6.6, thereby reducing the environmental impact of discarded textiles. Ilan Melamed, Nilit’s general manager, highlights that this collaboration is crucial for offering more sustainable products and reducing the 92 million tons of textile waste ending up in landfills annually. Nilit will incorporate EosEco yarn into its Sensil portfolio. Recycled polyester

Recycled polyester

Cosmo Films Unveils Seven New Products for U.S. Market at Label Expo Americas 2024

Cosmo Films, a global leader in specialty films, is set to launch seven innovative products for the U.S. market at Label Expo Americas 2024. As a pioneering company, Cosmo Films aims to introduce these films to the industry, expanding its market presence.

Following successful launches in various regions and responding to growing demand in the U.S., Cosmo Films will debut the following products:

  • PVC-free graphic films (for signage) Recycled polyester
  • High-shrink label films – PETG and Crystalline PET (for labeling)
  • CPP extrusion lamination films (for packaging)
  • Teplo R-Heat resistant films (for printing layers in laminates)
  • 92-micron white and clear films (for labeling)
  • Flexi Premiere films (non-tear elongation films for labeling)
  • Primer coating for printability in label films

Sandeep Dutta, President of Overseas Operations, remarked, “Label Expo Americas is the perfect platform to showcase our new products and increase visibility. Our offerings have already gained acceptance in the American market, and these new launches will help us serve existing clients better while attracting new customers.”  Recycled polyester

With strong R&D and innovation, Cosmo Films has established itself as a trusted partner in packaging, offering industry-specific solutions for over four decades. The company is now focusing on sustainability by developing recyclable mono-material films, aiding customers in reducing their carbon footprint.

Cosmo Films Unveils Seven New Products for U.S. Market at Label Expo Americas 2024

DataM Intelligence has released a new report titled “Sugarcane-Based PET Bottle Market Size 2024,” providing in-depth analysis of market trends, growth drivers, and key players

The report examines regional growth, market segmentation, CAGR, and revenue status, offering a clear view of the market’s current size, opportunities, and development prospects. Recycled polyester

Key areas of focus include historical growth rates, technological advancements, and investment trends. The report also highlights the latest market insights, emerging growth opportunities, and strategies employed by leading companies. Additionally, it includes an analysis of market dynamics, future trends, and a Porter’s Five Forces Analysis.

Sugarcane-based PET bottles, made from bagasse—a byproduct of sugarcane juice extraction—represent an eco-friendly packaging solution. These biopolymer bottles are praised for their low environmental impact, with 1kg of green plastic removing approximately 3.09kg of CO2 from the atmosphere. Recycled polyester

The global market for sugarcane-based PET bottles is expected to grow significantly between 2024 and 2030, driven by increasing adoption and strategic initiatives by key players. As of 2023, the market is experiencing steady growth, with expectations for continued expansion in the coming years.

Notable companies in this market include Kaufman Container, Maynard & Harris Plastics, Raepak LTD, The Coca-Cola Company, Veganbottle, and Pretium Packaging.

DataM Intelligence has released a new report titled "Sugarcane-Based PET Bottle Market Size 2024," providing in-depth analysis of market trends, growth drivers, and key players

INVISTA Nylon Chemicals (China) Co. is set to double its nylon 6,6 polymer production capacity at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park (SCIP), expanding to 400,000 tons per year

This significant expansion, backed by a 1.5 billion RMB (230 million USD) investment, builds on a previous 40,000-ton/year increase in 2020. The move is a response to the rapidly growing demand for nylon 6,6 in China, particularly in the automotive, electrical, electronics, and other engineering plastics sectors. Recycled polyester

With China poised to become the world’s largest consumer of nylon, accounting for more than half of the production and consumption in the Asia-Pacific region, INVISTA’s expansion aims to strengthen its integrated nylon 6,6 value chain in the region. The new production line at SCIP will feature six batch autoclaves and three continuous polymerization lines, enhancing the supply of high-performance nylon products that offer superior mechanical properties and heat resistance.

INVISTA’s executive vice president, Pete Brown, emphasized the importance of meeting the increasing demand in China and the Asia-Pacific region. The expansion is part of a broader strategy that includes the upcoming Asia Innovation Center, which will bolster research and development to support downstream partners. Recycled polyester

The construction of the new product lines will begin in the second quarter of 2022, with operations expected to start in early 2024, marking a significant step in advancing China’s nylon industry.

INVISTA Nylon Chemicals (China) Co. is set to double its nylon 6,6 polymer production capacity at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park (SCIP), expanding to 400,000 tons per year

Recycled polyester

Biodegradable – Revolutionary biodegradable plastic uses bacteria to eat itself 28-08-2024

Biodegradable – Revolutionary biodegradable plastic uses bacteria to eat itself 28-08-2024

Biodegradable

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Revolutionary biodegradable plastic uses bacteria to eat itself

If you buy through a BGR link, we may earn an affiliate commission, helping support our expert product labs.

The world has a big plastic problem that it’s yet to fix. We’re trying to reduce our reliance on plastic, but that’s seemingly impossible in modern society. The material is too important for our daily lives despite its impact on the environment. Biodegradable

Plastics also hurt living organisms directly, as microplastics are routinely found inside them. That includes the human body, with new research showing that microplastics can end up in all sorts of organs.

One way to reduce the impact of plastic waste on the environment is to develop better ways to break it down. One such biodegradable plastic idea comes from a team of researchers at the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Biodegradable

The scientists were able to create a type of living plastic that contains bacteria spores. The spores are inactive while the containers are being used. However, when the material needs to be disposed of, the bacteria can be activated, so they wake up and start consuming the plastic.

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Revolutionary biodegradable plastic uses bacteria to eat itself

DS Smith offers guidance on recyclability

Packaging producer’s head of sustainability says the firm’s Recyclability Evaluation Service focuses on determining recyclability.

In an essay posted this August to the website of United Kingdom-based packaging and paperboard producer DS Smith, that firm’s Head of Recyclability, Sustainability and Government Affairs Jonathan Edmunds has attempted to help readers distinguish between recyclability and the process of recycling. Biodegradable

As part of his commentary, Edmunds says the DS Smith Recyclability Evaluation Service (RES) directly addresses the recyclability issue by evaluating submitted packaging samples “to determine how recyclable it could be in standard paper mills across Europe.”

Writes Edmunds of the RES process, “You will receive a detailed report from our recycling and packaging experts summarizing the findings, along with a recyclability score that highlights areas for improvement.”

The executive for DS Smith, which is in the process being acquired by United States-based International Paper, says the service “leverages our extensive knowledge and experience in packaging design and recycling.” Biodegradable

Edmunds says an RES final report is designed to provide “practical guidance on improving recyclability, addressing factors such as material composition and product design.”

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Biodegradable

Current pressure on major nylon filament manufacturers not significant

Since June, demand for nylon textile filaments has been gradually weakening. Coupled with the continuous decline in raw material prices, weaving and knitting mills have adopted a cautious procurement approach, leading to a further decrease in the sales/production ratio for filament manufacturers in July. We are currently in the weakest demand phase of the year, and filament manufacturers are experiencing increased pressure due to inventory build-up and rising production costs amid high temperatures.

In June, due to the seasonal decline in demand and the ongoing decrease in raw material prices, new orders for nylon filament weakened.  Biodegradable

However, the reduction in production by downstream weaving and knitting mills was not substantial, allowing mainstream filament manufacturers to maintain a sales/production ratio around 85-90%, with slight inventory accumulation.

In July, market further dropped, and the characteristics of the off-season became more pronounced, leading to increased production cuts by downstream weaving and knitting mills. For example, the operating rate of circular knitting mills in Shantou decreased from 60-80% in the previous high period to around 40-60%, resulting in reduced demand for nylon. Biodegradable

Consequently, the production and sales ratio for filament manufacturers fell further to 70-80%, with some as low as around 60%, and inventory growth accelerated.

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Current pressure on major nylon filament manufacturers not significant

Petronet LNG Selects Lummus’ Novolen Technology for New, Large-Scale Plant in India

New plant will leverage Novolen’s energy efficiency, flexibility, lower CAPEX and OPEX to advance India’s domestic production Biodegradable
Lummus Technology, a global provider of process technologies and value-driven energy solutions, announced an award from Petronet LNG Ltd. Petronet will license Lummus’ Novolen® polypropylene (PP) technology for a new 500 KTA plant in Dahej, Gujarat, India.
“This award strengthens Novolen’s position in India and around the world, reinforcing it as the industry’s leader for producing high-quality polypropylene,” said Romain Lemoine, Chief Business Officer of Polymers and Petrochemicals, Lummus Technology.

“Our proven technology will provide Petronet LNG with several competitive advantages including reduced energy consumption, product flexibility, lower CAPEX and OPEX, and maximized financial returns throughout the plant’s lifecycle.” Biodegradable
Lummus’ scope includes the technology license and basic engineering, training and catalyst supply for the new plant.
This plant will address India’s growing demand for polypropylene and strengthen its domestic packaging and consumer goods markets. These all align with the Government of India’s initiatives to boost industrial growth, create job opportunities and promote sustainable development.

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Petronet LNG Selects Lummus’ Novolen Technology for New, Large-Scale Plant in India

Duravant acquires T-TEK for packaging automation expansion

The acquisition will bolster Duravant’s presence in packaged food, beverage and consumer industries.

Duravant, a provider of engineered equipment and automation solutions, has acquired US-headquartered high-speed packaging machinery manufacturer T-TEK Material Handling.

This strategic move bolsters Duravant’s presence in the packaging sector, particularly within the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Biodegradable

T-TEK specialises in designing and developing end-of-line equipment, including palletisers, depalletisers, conveyors, and custom automated lines.

Manufacturing of all kinds requires ready cash supplies to guarantee agility and mitigate risks. From automobiles to airplanes and computers to clothing, an approach with supply chain innovation at the heart is critical.

The company serves blue chip producers of packaged beverage, food and consumer products. It also offers customised solutions that address small, non-standard packages that are fragile and difficult to palletise. Biodegradable

Duravant chairman and CEO Mike Kachmer said: “We’re excited to welcome T-TEK to Duravant. T-TEK has an impressive history of fostering strong customer relationships through a differentiated service delivery model. Their technical sales and consultation process is key to their longstanding partnerships with brand owners, facility operators, engineering firms, and integrators.”

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Duravant acquires T-TEK for packaging automation expansion

OC Oerlikon : Oerlikon offers energy-efficient technologies for further conversion and expansion of a sustainable Chinese manmade fiber production

Remscheid, Germany / Shanghai, China, August 26, 2024 – This year’s ITMA Asia + CITME 2024 trade fair appearance of the Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division will once again focus on current challenges for the global textile machinery industry: the consistent replacement of old systems with energy-efficient and sustainable technology solutions, the use of digital software and hardware solutions to increase productivity and ensure material quality, and the traceability of all products to enable the recycling of the raw materials used in a future-oriented circular economy. Biodegradable

Caption 1 and 2: Oerlikon at ITMA Asia + CITME 2024: With WINGS POY (left), Oerlikon Barmag continues to set the benchmark for innovative manmade fiber production. With its BCF technologies (right), Oerlikon Neumag is even more the leading supplier of carpet yarn production systems today.

Caption 2: André Wissenberg, Head of Marketing, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs.

Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions at the ITMA Asia + CITME 2024

Oerlikon invites all visitors to ITMA Asia + CITME 2024 to address their questions to their experts on site and enter into dialogue with them. Biodegradable

In Hall 7, B09, of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in Shanghai, they will be waiting to discuss their answers to current questions of the present and future on a ca. 100m² booth between 14 and 18 October 2024.

Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions offers complete solutions ranging from extrusion and polycondensation systems to texturized yarn, accompanied by automation and digital solutions. Biodegradable

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OC Oerlikon : Oerlikon offers energy-efficient technologies for further conversion and expansion of a sustainable Chinese manmade fiber production

Enzymatic Recycling – German company Folienprint is at the forefront of sustainable packaging technology, particularly in the production of shrink sleeves for PET containers 27-08-2024

Biodegradable

Enzymatic Recycling – German company Folienprint is at the forefront of sustainable packaging technology, particularly in the production of shrink sleeves for PET containers 27-08-2024

Enzymatic Recycling

OPEC+ could be among the producers increasing supply

Wall Street is beginning to sour on the outlook for crude next year, with Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Morgan Stanley lowering price forecasts as global supplies increase, including potentially from OPEC+.

The two banks now foresee global benchmark Brent averaging less than $80 a barrel in 2025, with Goldman’s revised forecast cut to $77, while Morgan Stanley sees futures ranging from $75 to $78. Both expect that the crude market will be in surplus, with prices trending lower over the 12 months. Enzymatic Recycling

A decision by OPEC+ to reverse voluntary supply cuts may mean that the cartel is aiming at “strategically disciplining non-OPEC supply,” Goldman analysts including Daan Struyven said in a note, while warning that crude prices could undershoot its revised forecasts in a number of scenarios. Enzymatic Recycling

Oil has fallen in recent months — temporarily losing all year-to-date gains — as investors fretted about slowing demand growth in China, rising supplies from outside OPEC+, as well as the group’s plans to relax output curbs. While the cartel has been willing to sacrifice market share by withholding barrels to support prices, the tentative plan to restore output may alter that stance.

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OPEC+ could be among the producers increasing supply

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Enzymatic Recycling Powers the Circular Plastic Economy

Rather than melting PET to recycle it, enzymatic recycling uses proteins that act as biological catalysts to accelerate chemical reactions. ©Carbios

Breaking down PET plastic into its original building blocks, while allowing PLA bioplastic to compost at lower temperatures, Carbios’ enzymatic recycling technologies are a major advancement in the circular plastic economy.

Plastic is one of the world’s most pervasive and toxic pollutants, with the United Nations warning of a “toxic tidal wave” as the world generates 400 million tonnes of plastic waste each year. Enzymatic Recycling

A Toxic Tidal Wave

Around 99% of this plastic is made from fossil fuels, such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate). The rest is bioplastic such as PLA (polylactic acid), made from organic sources like corn starch and sugar cane.

To combat plastic pollution, the European Union has issued a Single-Use Plastic (SUP) Directive. It is also pushing for plastic to have a more circular and sustainable lifecycle. For example, all packaging in the EU must be reusable or recyclable in an economically viable way by 2030.

Currently, PET waste such as plastic bottles is typically processed using thermomechanical recycling – which shreds, washes, and melts the plastic into pellets for making new products. Enzymatic Recycling

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Enzymatic Recycling

Epsotech, a German thermoplastics manufacturer, has initiated controlled administration proceedings for its three German subsidiaries—Epsotech Holding, Epsotech Germany, and Epsotech Color

This move, approved by the Cologne court, aims to restructure the companies amid challenging market conditions that have severely impacted sales. The reorganization does not affect the group’s foreign subsidiaries, including Epsotech Italy, which will continue operations as usual.

Production at the company’s Jülich headquarters will remain uninterrupted, with the 140 German employees’ salaries secured until the end of October through insolvency benefits. The company plans to reorganize by November, enabling salaries to be funded by business activities once more. CEO Predrag Skenderc is leading the recovery efforts, supported by industrial restructuring experts. Enzymatic Recycling

The financial strain on the German subsidiaries stems from a difficult market environment, characterized by declining sales, rising interest rates, and increased material costs. Skenderc noted that many customers, also affected by economic downturns, have reduced their orders, directly impacting Epsotech’s revenue.

As part of the restructuring, Epsotech is adapting its production processes and aims to become a center of excellence in polyolefins and specialties. The German self-administration process allows the company to continue operations under court supervision, with management retaining full control. Epsotech Group, with over 60 years of experience, continues to deliver customized plastic solutions across various markets from its six European production sites.  Enzymatic Recycling

Enzymatic Recycling

Resin Price Report: Tight Inventories Push Prices Higher

Rising feedstock costs could limit fresh production and raise prices even more.

Polyethylene (PE) and  polypropylene (PP) resin prices continued to climb the week of Aug. 12, reports the PlasticsExchange in its Market Update. Inventories for these commodity resin groups are tight and the squeeze could tighten even more as feedstock costs spiral higher, which could limit fresh production.

Many processors are still working through substantial purchases made during the past couple of months, but the PlasticsExchange said it also received a steady flow of orders from customers procuring their normal supplies. There were urgent  truckload needs from resellers, as their customers required quick resin because of late railcar shipments, and export demand also picked up a little, albeit challenged by competitive Asian and Saudi offers, said the resin clearinghouse. Enzymatic Recycling

Strikes could sever supply chains

A rail strike in Canada and a possible longshoremen strike at US Gulf and East Coast ports could be very problematic for supply chains. At the time of writing, however, it appears the Canadian railway strike could be short lived as a result of binding arbitration ordered by the government.

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Resin Price Report: Tight Inventories Push Prices Higher

Machine Learning Predicts Mechanical Properties of Polymers

A MACHINE LEARNING algorithm can use X-ray diffraction data from polymers to predict the behaviour of new materials.

Polymers such as polypropylene are fundamental materials in the modern world, found in a huge range of roofing materials. They are used for roofing membranes, moulded accessories and insulation. Enzymatic Recycling

Because of their ubiquity, it’s vital that materials scientists know exactly how each newly developed polymer will perform under different preparation conditions.

Thanks to a new study, which was published in Science and Technology of Advanced Materials, scientists can now use machine learning to determine what to expect from a new polymer.

Predicting the mechanical properties of new polymers, such as their tensile strength or flexibility, usually involves putting them through destructive and costly physical tests.

However, a team of researchers from Japan, led by Dr. Ryo Tamura, Dr. Kenji Nagata, and Dr. Takashi Nakanishi from the National Institute for Materials Science in Tsukuba, developed the method on a group of polymers called homo-polypropylenes. Enzymatic Recycling

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Machine Learning Predicts Mechanical Properties of Polymers

KMG, Sinopec enter FEED for proposed Atyrau PTA-PET plant

KazMunayGas and Sinopec are progressing plans for development of a plant aimed at production of polyethylene terephthalic acid and polyethylene terephthalate in Kazakhstan’s western Atyrau region.

Kazakhstan’s state-owned JSC NC KazMunayGas (KMG) and China Petroleum & Chemical Corp. (Sinopec) are progressing plans to develop a grassroots plant to produce polyethylene terephthalic acid (PTA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to be built in Kazakhstan’s western Atyrau region. Enzymatic Recycling

As of Aug. 22, a preliminary feasibility study for the PTA-PET project was completed, with KMG and Sinopec now working to move into front-end engineering and design (FEED) for the proposed plant, KMG said in a statement.

While KMG did not immediately reveal a timeframe for anticipated completion of the FEED study, an updated project description on the operator’s website indicated, if approved, construction of the PTA-PET project would begin in 2025-26 and continue until 2029.

If approved, overall required investment to complete the PTA-PET plant is estimated at more than $8 billion, KMG said. Enzymatic Recycling

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KMG, Sinopec enter FEED for proposed Atyrau PTA-PET plant

German company Folienprint is at the forefront of sustainable packaging technology, particularly in the production of shrink sleeves for PET containers

Utilizing advanced printing technologies like the HP Indigo 20000 and Esko’s HD Flexo, the company emphasizes sustainability in its strategy. Folienprint collaborates closely with material suppliers and adopts innovative pre-press techniques, including the use of water-based printing plates. Enzymatic Recycling

A key partnership with Klöckner Pentaplast, a leader in rigid and flexible films, has been instrumental in Folienprint’s efforts. Klöckner’s Pentalabel® eklipse™ shrink-label film, known for its low light transmission rate of under 1.00%, helps extend product shelf-life by protecting contents from light-induced degradation. This is crucial for light-sensitive products like dairy, juice, and coconut milk, where exposure to ambient light can lead to oxidation, reducing shelf life and impacting flavor.

To support recycling efforts, Folienprint also uses Klöckner’s Pentalabel® ClearFloat™ shrink labels. These labels are designed with a density under 0.95%, allowing them to float during the recycling process. This feature aids in the separation of PET flakes, preventing contamination and improving recycling yields. The ClearFloat™ films meet the stringent guidelines of the European PET Bottle Platform and the Association of Plastic Recyclers. Enzymatic Recycling

Together, these innovations enhance the recyclability of PET containers while maintaining high-quality graphics, aligning with consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions.

German company Folienprint is at the forefront of sustainable packaging technology, particularly in the production of shrink sleeves for PET containers

Sustainability – Lotte Fine Chemical Co., a subsidiary of South Korea’s Lotte Chemical Corp., has entered into a Clean Ammonia Value Chain Agreement (JCA) with Japan’s largest power generation company, JERA Co.  26-08-2024

Enzymatic Recycling

r-PET – Post-consumer recycled (PCR) carbon fiber is rapidly emerging as a game-changer in the automotive industry, driven by growing environmental concerns and the push for more sustainable materials 26-08-2024

 r-PET

 r-PET

Polyestertime
ITEM 19/07/2024 26/08/2024 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 6,850 yuan/ton 6,920 yuan/ton +70
Bottle grade PET chips export market     882 $/ton 870  $/ton -12
LDPE Est China 1,140 $/ton 1,135 $/ton -5
PET Semidull Fiber chips

PET Bright

 6,730 yuan/ton

6,800 yuan/ton

 6,650 yuan/ton

6,680 yuan/ton

 -80

-120
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market

 r-PET

 5,470 yuan/ton 5,385 yuan/ton
 -85
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA FOB China 700 $/ton 690 $/ton -10
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,600 yuan/ton 4,660 yuan/ton
 +60
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 542 $/ton 546 $/ton +4
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market 959 $/ton 944 $/ton
 -15
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 937 $/ton 922 $/ton -15
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,080 $/7on 1,060 $/ton -20
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,450  yuan/ton 7,345 yuan/ton
 -105
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,420 yuan/ton 7,150 yuan/ton -270
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 9,050 yuan/ton 8,915 yuan/ton -135
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F 8,920 yuan/ton 8,550 yuan/ton -370
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market

 r-PET

 8,150 yuan/ton 7,750 yuan/ton -400
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,435 yuan/ton 7,445 yuan/ton +10
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 12,800 yuan/ton 12,825 yuan/ton
 +25
Caprolactam CPL Northeast Asia

 r-PET
 1,540 $/ton 1,540 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,920 $/ton 1,920 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 13,600 yuan/ton 13,750 yuan/ton +150
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market 14,420 yuan/ton 14,380 yuan/ton -40
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market

 r-PET

 18,500 yuan/ton 18,500 yuan/ton –
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,250 yuan/ton 16,300 yuan/ton +50
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,600 yuan/ton 18,700 yuan/ton +100
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,500 yuan/ton 17,500 yuan/ton –
Spandex 20D  domestic  marke 29,000 yuan/ton 29,000 yuan/ton –
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 28,500 yuan/ton 28,500 yuan/ton –
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  25,500 yuan/ton 25,500 yuan/ton –
Adipic Acid domestic market

 r-PET

 8,950 yuan/ton 8,950 yuan/ton –
Benzene domestic market 8,490 yuan/ton  8,565 yuan/ton +75
Benzene China CFR 1,049 $/ton 1,035 $/ton -14
Ethylene South East market 930 $/ton 980 $/ton +50
Ethylene NWE market CIF 846 $/ton  964 $/ton +118
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market 8,000 yuan/ton 8,650 yuan/ton +650
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF CFR China

 r-PET

 14,600 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton –
VSF viscose staple fiber 13,500 yuan/ton 13,500 yuan/ton –
PP Powder domestic market 7,400 yuan/ton 7,440 yuan/ton +40
Naphtha overseas market  656 $/ton 659 $/ton +3
Phenol domestic market 8,462 yuan/ton 8,620 yuan/ton +158

r-PET Flakes  =                    6,820 yuan/ton  —          6,650  yuan/ton          -170 

 r-PET

Türkiye Extends Anti-Dumping Measures on Polyester Fiber Imports

Türkiye has extended its anti-dumping measures on polyester fiber imports from China, Indonesia, and South Korea. This decision, published in the Official Gazette, aims to maintain protective measures against unfair dumping practices that could harm the domestic industry. The extension follows a final review investigation conducted by the General Directorate of Imports under the Ministry of Trade.   r-PET

Continuation of Anti-Dumping Duties

The investigation confirmed that removing the existing anti-dumping measures would likely result in the continuation or recurrence of dumping and its associated harms. As a result, Türkiye has decided to maintain the current anti-dumping duties. Specifically, the anti-dumping duty on Chinese polyester fiber imports will remain at 21 cents per kilogram. For imports from Indonesia and South Korea, the duties will continue to range between 6.2% and 12% of the cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value.   r-PET

These measures are intended to protect Türkiye’s domestic polyester fiber industry from the negative effects of dumping, where foreign producers sell goods at unfairly low prices, undercutting local manufacturers. By extending these duties, Türkiye aims to level the playing field for its domestic producers and prevent any potential harm that could arise from lifting the measures.

New Surveillance Regulations on Plastic Product Imports

In addition to extending anti-dumping duties on polyester fiber, the Ministry of Trade has introduced new surveillance regulations for certain plastic products.  r-PET

This regulation, also published in the Official Gazette, outlines the procedures and principles for future monitoring of imports of polyethylene components with resistors and terminal pins.

Under the new regulation, the unit customs value for the specified plastic products will be set at $10 per kilogram. Importers of these products will now be required to obtain a surveillance certificate from the General Directorate of Imports before bringing their goods into the country. This new measure is set to take effect in 30 days from the date of publication.   r-PET

Protecting Domestic Industries and Ensuring Fair Competition

These actions by Türkiye are part of a broader strategy to protect its domestic industries from unfair competition and ensure a stable and fair trading environment. By extending anti-dumping duties on polyester fiber imports and introducing new surveillance measures for plastic products, Türkiye is taking proactive steps to safeguard its market against practices that could potentially destabilize local industries.  r-PET

Dumping, the practice of exporting goods at prices lower than their normal value in the exporting country, can have severe impacts on the importing country’s industries. It can lead to significant losses for domestic producers, job cuts, and even the collapse of certain sectors if left unchecked. Anti-dumping measures, like those extended by Türkiye, are crucial tools in the fight against such unfair trade practices.

Long-Term Implications for Trade and Industry

The decision to extend anti-dumping duties and implement new surveillance regulations reflects Türkiye’s commitment to maintaining a balanced trade environment that supports domestic industries. These measures are likely to have long-term implications for both local producers and foreign exporters. For local producers, the continued protection offers stability and a chance to compete fairly in the market. For foreign exporters, particularly from China, Indonesia, and South Korea, the extended duties may prompt a reevaluation of their pricing strategies and market approaches.  r-PET

As Türkiye continues to monitor and regulate its imports, these measures will play a critical role in shaping the future of its industrial landscape, ensuring that domestic industries remain competitive and resilient against unfair trade practices.

 r-PET

Post-consumer recycled (PCR) carbon fiber is rapidly emerging as a game-changer in the automotive industry, driven by growing environmental concerns and the push for more sustainable materials

As automakers and suppliers continue to innovate, PCR carbon fiber is becoming increasingly viable for large-scale production, offering significant benefits in weight reduction, fuel efficiency, and overall sustainability.  r-PET

The Rise of PCR Carbon Fiber in Automotive Applications

Traditionally, carbon fiber has been valued in the automotive sector for its lightweight and high-strength properties, which are particularly beneficial in high-performance and luxury vehicles. However, the production of virgin carbon fiber is energy-intensive and costly, leading to increased interest in PCR carbon fiber as a more sustainable alternative.

PCR carbon fiber is made from recycled materials, often sourced from industries such as aerospace or wind energy, where carbon fiber is widely used. This recycling process not only helps reduce waste but also significantly lowers the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing new carbon fiber components.  r-PET

Recent Developments and Applications

Several automotive manufacturers and suppliers are now incorporating PCR carbon fiber into their production lines. For example, in 2024, Borealis introduced a glass-fiber-reinforced polypropylene compound containing 65% PCR content, which is being used in the production of interior components for the Peugeot 3008. This move marks a significant milestone in the use of recycled materials in mass-produced vehicles.

Additionally, Carbon Revolution, a leader in carbon fiber wheels, has expanded its production capabilities in Mexico to cater to the growing demand for carbon fiber wheels in various automotive markets. Their products are now featured on the latest Range Rover models, underscoring the increasing acceptance of carbon fiber in mainstream automotive design.  r-PET

Environmental and Performance Benefits

The use of PCR carbon fiber in automotive applications offers multiple benefits. From an environmental perspective, it helps reduce reliance on virgin materials and lowers greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production process. This aligns with the broader industry trend toward sustainability, where automakers are increasingly pressured to meet stringent environmental regulations.  r-PET

From a performance standpoint, PCR carbon fiber retains many of the desirable characteristics of virgin carbon fiber, such as high strength-to-weight ratio, which is critical for improving vehicle efficiency. Lighter vehicles consume less fuel and have lower emissions, making them more environmentally friendly. This is particularly important as the automotive industry shifts toward electric vehicles, where weight savings can directly translate to extended battery range.  r-PET

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its advantages, the adoption of PCR carbon fiber in the automotive industry is not without challenges. The recycling process can degrade the material’s properties, making it less suitable for certain high-stress applications. Additionally, the cost of recycling and processing PCR carbon fiber remains a barrier to its widespread use.

However, ongoing research and technological advancements are expected to overcome these hurdles. Companies like Toray Industries and Teijin Limited are investing in innovative recycling techniques to improve the quality and performance of PCR carbon fiber. Moreover, as the automotive industry continues to prioritize sustainability, the demand for recycled materials is likely to grow, driving further adoption of PCR carbon fiber.  r-PET

In conclusion, PCR carbon fiber is poised to play a crucial role in the future of automotive manufacturing. As more companies embrace this sustainable material, we can expect to see its application expand beyond niche markets into broader, more mainstream automotive uses. This trend reflects the automotive industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining high performance standards.  r-PET

Post-consumer recycled (PCR) carbon fiber is rapidly emerging as a game-changer in the automotive industry, driven by growing environmental concerns and the push for more sustainable materials

Sustainability – Lotte Fine Chemical Co., a subsidiary of South Korea’s Lotte Chemical Corp., has entered into a Clean Ammonia Value Chain Agreement (JCA) with Japan’s largest power generation company, JERA Co.  26-08-2024

Sustainability

r-PET – Post-consumer recycled (PCR) carbon fiber is rapidly emerging as a game-changer in the automotive industry, driven by growing environmental concerns and the push for more sustainable materials 

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Sustainability

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Sweden’s Trelleborg Acquires PA-based Magee Plastics

The acquisition will strengthen its position in the soaring aerospace sector through the addition of thermoforming and vacuum-forming expertise.

Trelleborg Group reports that it has signed an agreement to acquire Magee Plastics, a supplier of thermoplastic and composite products for the transportation and aerospace sectors based in Warrendale, PA. Sweden-based Trelleborg made the transaction through its Sealing Solutions business area. Sustainability

Fifity-six-year-old Magee Plastics applies industry-leading design skills, quality, and performance to develop interior solutions to meet complex specifications, said Trelleborg in the announcement. Sustainability

The company reported sales of approximately $22.5 million in 2023.

Portfolio of design, production tools

Magee has extensive product development tools and software along with vacuum and pressure forming, compression molding, and injection molding equipment. Materials processed include ABS, PVC, PC, PPS, PEI, PA, and composites. In-house toolmaking and part prototyping and fabrication is supported by 3-, 4-, and 5-axis milling machines.

“The acquisition strengthens Trelleborg’s position in the aerospace industry by adding cutting-edge expertise in thermoforming and vacuum forming,” said Jürgen Bosch, business area president of Trelleborg Sealing Solutions. “The acquisition also broadens Trelleborg’s interior fittings offering for the aerospace industry, which is expected to generate favorable sales synergies.

The business also includes an FAA145-certified service workshop that will increase Trelleborg´s share of aftermarket services and further strengthen customer relationships,” said Bosch.

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Sustainability

Brazil’s PET recycling industry struggles with low margins, insufficient supply

Low scrap availability concerns market participants

Brazilian recyclers’ margins among lowest in Americas

Brazil rPET volume growth outpaces virgin resin: Abipet

As Brazil’s recycled polyethylene terephthalate market grapples with insufficient feedstock supply, prices for post-consumer PET bales are rising against a backdrop of competitively priced Southeast Asian virgin resin imports, constraining the spread between flakes and bales and posing a major challenge for the financial viability of recyclers.

Platts last assessed post-consumer PET clear bottle bales at Real 5.20/kg DDP São Paulo on Aug. 22, up Real 0.70/kg since Aug. 12, when the assessment was launched. Recycled PET clear flakes were assessed at Real 7.50/kg DDP São Paulo, up Real 0.50/kg since Aug. 12, reflecting the high pressure on recyclers’ margins.

Low scrap availability hurts recyclers’ margins

As increasing consumer awareness and evolving regulations push brand owners and fast-moving consumer goods companies to increase the post-consumer content in their packaging, scrap collection is still not matching recyclers’ demand. Additionally, other applications for post-consumer resin is also supporting steady demand and higher scrap prices. Sustainability

Increased competition for buying post-consumer PET bottles bales has been raising prices since the beginning of 2024. Low supply has been so notable that even green-colored material, which used to sell at about a 20% discount, is now trading at parity with clear material.

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Brazil's PET recycling industry struggles with low margins, insufficient supply

Lotte Fine Chemical Co., a subsidiary of South Korea’s Lotte Chemical Corp., has entered into a Clean Ammonia Value Chain Agreement (JCA) with Japan’s largest power generation company, JERA Co.

This partnership aims to optimize the overseas supply chain for clean ammonia and establish low-carbon fuel standards for both South Korea and Japan.

The collaboration is part of a broader initiative launched in June, when the Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, along with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, created a working group to develop a clean hydrogen and ammonia supply chain. The goal is to enhance private sector cooperation in advancing clean hydrogen technologies. Sustainability

Lotte Fine Chemical, known for its leading ammonia distribution infrastructure in Asia, will use its extensive global network to support this collaboration. By working together, the two companies aim to expand the clean ammonia value chain, contributing to the development of sustainable and low-carbon energy solutions in both countries. This partnership reflects a growing commitment to environmental sustainability and the transition to cleaner energy sources in the region.

Lotte Fine Chemical Co., a subsidiary of South Korea's Lotte Chemical Corp., has entered into a Clean Ammonia Value Chain Agreement (JCA) with Japan's largest power generation company, JERA Co.

ReZorce awarded for sustainability

The monomaterial polyethylene alternative to multilayer cartons has received the German Packaging Award.
Zotefoam’s ReZorce packaging solution, a monomaterial HDPE alternative to multilayer beverage cartons, has won the German Packaging Award in the sustainability category.
The motivation reads: “The packaging is made of monomaterial HDPE. A patented technology creates a barrier layer during extrusion, and between 30% and 70% mechanically recycled material can be used.

ReZorce has been shown to reduce environmental impacts such as water and energy consumption by around 50% compared to conventional composite beverage cartons. This makes this new packaging worthy of an award in the area of ​​sustainability.”

ReZorce has also been selected in the Product Innovation Award category to compete in the Reuters Sustainability Awards 2024, the winners of which will be announced in London next October.

Developed in collaboration with Biffa Polymers, ReZorce Circular Packaging is made from a single polymer, polyethylene (expanded), and can therefore be disposed of in the separate plastic collection.

ReZorce awarded for sustainability

Morssinkhof Rymoplast, a leading Dutch recycler, is constructing a state-of-the-art plastics recycling plant in Lommel, Belgium, located in the Limburg province

The facility will focus on recycling post-consumer packaging made from polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (PE-HD). Morssinkhof-Plastics has partnered with NEUE HERBOLD Maschinen-u. Anlagenbau GmbH, a trusted provider of recycling technology from Sinsheim, Germany, to equip the plant with advanced washing and processing systems. Sustainability

NEUE HERBOLD will supply four identical wet grinding systems, complete with flotation tanks and cleaning stages, designed to process up to 1,500 kg of material per hour. These systems feature NEUE HERBOLD’s SM-type granulators, which include a specialized ZB-type feed hopper with screw guide. This design ensures a consistent feed of materials into the granulator’s grinding chamber while preventing flyback, which enhances efficiency.

The granulators offer significant benefits, including up to 18% energy savings due to lower amp-peaks of the drive motor and a reduced noise level. They also come with full wear protection, using either bolted, replaceable wear plates or wear-resistant welded protection.

In addition to processing PP and PE-HD, these granulators are also suitable for grinding PET bottles and film waste. The new plant in Lommel represents a significant step forward in sustainable plastics recycling, leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency and environmental impact.

Morssinkhof Rymoplast, a leading Dutch recycler, is constructing a state-of-the-art plastics recycling plant in Lommel, Belgium, located in the Limburg province

Nylon – Unifi has introduced a new white filament yarn under its Repreve brand, designed for home textiles like comforters and pillows 24-08-2024

Sustainability

Nylon – Unifi has introduced a new white filament yarn under its Repreve brand, designed for home textiles like comforters and pillows 24-08-2024

Nylon

Unifi has introduced a new white filament yarn under its Repreve brand, designed for home textiles like comforters and pillows

This yarn is made from 100% recycled polyester, with at least 50% derived from textile waste. Despite its recycled origins, the yarn maintains virgin-quality standards and can be dyed using conventional methods. It can also be enhanced with Unifi’s performance technologies, offering anti-odor, moisture-wicking, and stretch features.

This innovation is made possible by Unifi’s proprietary Textile Takeback technology.

The Repreve yarn is unique in being traceable through FiberPrint technology and is certified by U-Trust, Oeko-Tex, GRS, and SCS for its recycled content, ensuring its sustainability. Nylon

Unifi’s CEO, Eddie Ingle, emphasized the significance of this development, stating that polyester is the world’s most widely used fiber, and this innovation marks a step toward transformative change in the industry. The new product allows textile brands to focus on the entire product life cycle, helping them meet their 2030 environmental goals. Unifi aims to lead the industry with sustainable products that reduce reliance on virgin materials and lower carbon emissions. Nylon

This new yarn offers a solution that aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly materials, pushing the industry toward a more sustainable future.

Nylon

LyondellBasell to Acquire APK AG Recycling Technology

APK’s solvent-based recycling technology fits with LYB’s existing mechanical and advanced recycling technologies.

LYB aims to increase the recycling of hard-to-recycle flexible plastic waste materials, which make up the majority of mixed plastic waste from consumers. Nylon

LyondellBasell (LYB) has entered into an agreement to acquire full ownership of APK AG in Merseburg, Germany. The acquisition positions LYB to grow and upgrade its Circular and Low Carbon Solutions business.

LYB believes APK’s solvent-based recycling technology is a perfect fit with its already existing mechanical and advanced recycling technologies. It has already invested in the company in the past and made collaborative efforts to bring the technology to scale. By acquiring APK, LYB secures the future of the company after it entered into insolvency at the end of May 2024. Nylon

“We see APK’s solvent based recycling technology as a vital addition and complementary to our existing and future mechanical and advanced recycling operations. This is an important further step toward reaching our goal to produce and market at least 2 million metric tons of recycled and renewable based polymers annually by 2030,” said Yvonne van der Laan, executive vice president, Circular and Low Carbon Solutions at LyondellBasell.

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Nylon

Polyamide 6 and 6,6 Production in Europe: Could It Follow the Path of Polyethylene Terephthalate?

Polyamide 6 and 6,6 are vital to Europe’s industrial sector, primarily in automotive, textiles, and packaging. However, there is growing concern that Europe might lose its production capacity for these materials, much like it did with polyethylene terephthalate (PET), where China now dominates global supply. Nylon

Recent data indicates that while European production of polyamide 6 and 6,6 remains strong, the industry faces significant pressures. High energy costs, stringent environmental regulations, and increasing labor expenses in Europe are making domestic production less competitive. On the other hand, China benefits from lower production costs, substantial state investments, and a rapidly growing chemical industry infrastructure. Nylon

The risk is compounded by China’s aggressive expansion in polyamide production, aiming to meet both domestic demand and international markets. Should this trend continue, Europe could see a decline in its polyamide production, similar to what occurred with PET.

The shift towards China-centric production could lead to increased dependency on imports, posing risks to European industries relying on a steady polyamide supply. Policymakers and industry leaders must consider strategies to retain production capacity in Europe, including investment in sustainable production technologies, fostering innovation, and reconsidering trade policies. Nylon

In conclusion, while Europe still maintains significant polyamide production, the threat of China dominating the market is real, and proactive measures are crucial to prevent a repeat of the PET scenario.

Polyamide 6 and 6,6 Production in Europe: Could It Follow the Path of Polyethylene Terephthalate?

Anhui Haoyuan Chemical Group has begun test runs of the first phase of its 400,000-ton-per-year nylon 66 polymer plant, successfully producing its first output

This phase is part of a larger nylon 66 project located in the Coal-Based New Materials Industrial Park within the Fuyang Yingdong Economic Development Zone. The project, which started construction in 2022, includes several key units: a 270,000-ton-per-year nitric acid unit, a 240,000-ton-per-year cyclohexanol unit, a 320,000-ton-per-year adipic acid unit, and the 400,000-ton-per-year nylon 66 polymer unit, along with supporting infrastructure. Nylon

The company is utilizing advanced technology from the American firm Invista, which reduces energy consumption by 10% compared to conventional methods, while maintaining high product quality. Zhang Chao, Assistant General Manager of Anhui Haoyuan Chemical Group, highlighted that this development marks a significant shift for the company from traditional coal-based chemical processes to innovative new materials chemistry.

Upon the project’s completion, Anhui Haoyuan expects to generate 16 billion yuan in sales revenue and 1.6 billion yuan in profit, reflecting the project’s substantial economic impact. The successful startup of phase I demonstrates the company’s commitment to advancing in the new materials sector and enhancing its market position.

Anhui Haoyuan Chemical Group has begun test runs of the first phase of its 400,000-ton-per-year nylon 66 polymer plant, successfully producing its first output

Comprehensive poster on biodegradable polymers in various environments in a new version

The world’s leading poster on biodegradability has been updated by the nova team of experts: current standards and certifications as well as the latest scientific findings Nylon

The biodegradation of a material is a process that depends on the complex biological conditions at each site. In addition, only a handful of polymers have the inherent ability to biodegrade in different environments. Therefore, specific standards and certificates have been developed in recent years to provide a framework for declaring whether or not a product can biodegrade in an environment. Scientific verification and certification of the communication of environmental claims is becoming increasingly important under the Green Claims Directive. Biodegradability is one environmental claim that will need to be verified by third party certification. Nylon

In order to improve the understanding of biodegradation and biodegradability and their certification, a group of experts came together a few years ago to develop a poster showing which polymers biodegrade in which environments according to established standards and certification schemes.  This group includes experts from the nova Institute (Germany) together with a number of leading experts from Normec OWS (Belgium), Hydra Marine Science (Italy/Germany), IKT Stuttgart (Germany), Wageningen University & Research (The Netherlands) and in cooperation with DIN CERTCO (Germany) and TÜV AUSTRIA (Austria/Belgium). Nylon

The expert group met again this year to discuss the latest scientific evidence in the field of biodegradable polymers in order to make meaningful changes to the poster. The generic classification on the poster is only supported by tests performed in the context of certification.

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Comprehensive poster on biodegradable polymers in various environments in a new version

Trex-led PE Recycling Alliance Reports Phenomenal Growth

In just two years, the initiative that collects PE waste for use in wood-alternative composite decks and railings has seen a 227% increase in participation.

An alliance to turn polyethylene (PE) waste into wood-alternative composites has seen a 227% increase in participation since its launch two years ago by Trex Co.

The NexTrex Grassroots Movement is a collaboration among businesses, municipalities, educational institutions, and other organizations nationwide to source material for Trex composite decking and railing. Nylon

Trex products are made primarily from recycled and reclaimed content, including wood scrap and PE film.

Millions of pounds of PE waste recovered

Providing more than 70 drop-off locations throughout the United States, Grassroots partners have recovered more than three million pounds of PE waste. Nylon

Organizations that don’t meet the volume requirements of Trex’s commercial recycling program serve as community drop-off locations for a broad range of PE film materials, from grocery bags and newspaper sleeves to bubble wrap, shrink wrap, and more.

Trex pays partners for collected film waste

Participants are supplied with equipment to collect and bale that film waste.

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Trex-led PE Recycling Alliance Reports Phenomenal Growth

R-PET – VTT launches new initiative to demonstrate energy-efficient manufacturing technologies for fiber-based products 23-08-2024

Nylon

R-PET – VTT launches new initiative to demonstrate energy-efficient manufacturing technologies for fiber-based products 23-08-2024

R-PET

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Honeywell And Hinergy Announce Advanced Plastic Recycling Program

  • Honeywell’s UpCycle Process Technology selected to recycle up to 30,000 tons of mixed waste plastics per year

Honeywell has announced that Beijing Hinergy Qingyuan Technology Co., Ltd. (“Hinergy”) will deploy Honeywell UpCycle Process Technology to help accelerate plastic recycling in China. R-PET

Hinergy plans to build a plastic facility in Shandong Province that will deploy Honeywell’s UpCycle Process Technology to convert waste plastic into recycled polymer feedstock (RPF). The facility is expected to transform 30,000 tons of mixed waste plastics into RPF per year using Honeywell’s technology. The collaboration underscores Honeywell’s focus on the energy transition, one of three compelling megatrends Honeywell’s portfolio is aligned to alongside automation and the future of aviation.

UpCycle reduces the need for fossil fuel-derived virgin plastics. When used in conjunction with other chemical and mechanical recycling processes – along with improvements to collection and sorting – Honeywell’s UpCycle Process Technology has the potential to help recycle nearly 90% of waste plastics. R-PET

This would represent a considerable increase in the amount of waste plastics that can be turned into polymer feedstock.

“Hinergy is fully committed to technological development and project construction in China’s environmental protection industry.

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R-PET

VTT launches new initiative to demonstrate energy-efficient manufacturing technologies for fiber-based products

The initiative will pioneer low-carbon, water-efficient technology with the potential to reduce water consumption by up to 90% and overall energy consumption by more than half.  R-PET

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland announces a new initiative to address the challenges of energy and resource consumption in the forestry and textile industry. The goal of the Energy First initiative is to act as a starting point for an entirely new technology, which creates the conditions for the manufacture of low-carbon, energy-efficient, and recyclable fiber-based products.

With the continued growth of, for example, global e-commerce, the demand for various fiber-based packaging solutions is projected to grow 5-10% annually, according to data from Statista Market Insights and eMarketer.  R-PET

As such, there is a need to develop scalable, high-quality packaging that is easy to recycle while simultaneously significantly reducing carbon footprint. Within non-wovens, used in napkins and wipes for example, VTT expects a strong shift from traditional products that contain plastic to cellulose-based products.

With a budget of around 20 million euros over the next four years, the initiative consists of several projects and will establish a new innovative open-access pilot line in Jyväskylä, Finland. The collaborative research aims at developing and testing commercially viable, sustainable alternatives for cardboard packaging, hygiene products, and non-woven fabrics. R-PET

“This new initiative is a pivotal step towards more sustainable and competitive fiber-based products, and has the potential for great impact, thanks to more than 50 industrial partners. We are excited about the prospect of 1:1 commercial projects with companies, driving innovation in energy-efficient paper board production. VTT’s purpose is to bring together people, business, science and technology, paving the way to a sustainable future. The Energy First theme aims to do just that,” says Atte Virtanen, Vice President, Biomaterial Processing and Products at VTT. R-PET

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R-PET

Ford has revised its electric vehicle strategy, shifting focus to more affordable models rather than large SUVs for private customers

The automaker scrapped plans for a large electric SUV, opting to offer it only in hybrid versions. This decision incurs a $400 million accounting charge and additional expenses of around $1.5 billion, impacting this quarter’s financial results.

Ford plans to launch an electric commercial vehicle in 2026, followed by two electric SUVs in 2027. The company aims to prioritize vehicles with lower prices and better range, aligning with customer preferences. CEO Jim Farley emphasized that Ford, as America’s second-largest electric vehicle maker, has gained insights into customer demands and profitability. R-PET

To reduce costs, Ford is reevaluating its battery supply chain. This includes relocating a joint production facility with South Korea’s LG from Poland to Michigan, which produces batteries for the Mustang Mach-E. Additionally, Ford’s BlueOval joint venture with South Korea’s SK will supply batteries for current and future electric vehicles, with production based in the U.S.

The market reacted positively to these announcements, with Ford’s stock rising 1.83% to $3.62 on Wall Street. R-PET

Ford has revised its electric vehicle strategy, shifting focus to more affordable models rather than large SUVs for private customers

PET Recycling Coalition releases inaugural yearly report

The PET Recycling Coalition has released its first annual report, detailing progress in increasing collection and recycling of one of the most common plastics in packaging.

The coalition, launched in 2022, is part of The Recycling Partnership. Over the past two years, the initiative has distributed more than $5 million in grants, resulting in the addition of 29 million pounds per year of recycled PET that previously had not been captured, according to the report. R-PET

The coalition awards grants to MRFs, secondary sorters and reclaimers to improve acceptance, increase capture and deliver higher-quality recycled PET to responsible end markets, the report said. The grants support facility upgrades, improved sortation capabilities and community engagement to boost recycling rates.

The organization aims to achieve a milestone of 250 million pounds per year of PET captured by the end of 2027 and a level of at least 60% acceptance for non-bottle PET by the end of 2025. Also by the end of 2025, the coalition hopes to achieve “scaled recycling for pigmented and opaque PET.” R-PET

Grant recipients across the country

The report included several case studies of grant recipients, showcasing how the entities’ efforts were producing quantifiable results.

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PET Recycling Coalition releases inaugural yearly report

A New Life for Styrofoam?

A promising study sheds light on how Styrofoam, known to packaging professionals as expanded polystyrene (EPS foam), can be transformed into a valuable and desired resource. R-PET

Styrofoam, or expanded polystyrene (EPS), has long been used as a packaging material, cushioning products as diverse as laptops, beauty tools, and furniture — and keeping them protected through the rigors of distribution. It has also long been vilified by environmentalists because of the challenges associated with its recyclability.

A new study conducted jointly by researchers from the University of Delaware and Argonne National Laboratory and published in JACS Au, spotlights a fascinating chemical reaction that can convert EPS into PEDOT:PSS, a high-value conducting polymer for electronics. R-PET

The study demonstrates how upgraded plastic waste can be successfully incorporated into functional electronic devices like silicon-based hybrid solar cells and organic electrochemical transistors.

How the EPS is converted into a valuable resource.

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A New Life for Styrofoam?

Fonterra makes significant strides in sustainable packaging

Fonterra has been recognised for its commitment to sustainable packaging, achieving ‘Leading’ status under the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) standards based off their 2024 Annual Report. R-PET

APCO aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging in Australia, working with government and industry to improve packaging sustainability.

It holds organisations to account across a range of metrics including governance & strategy, recoverability, problematic materials and design & procurement.

Fonterra’s fresh milk bottles were the focus of a collaboration with PACT Group and Circular Plastics Australia. Pictured: Fonterra’s Sustainability Packaging Manager, Global Markets, Jenny Phillips.

Fonterra Sustainability Packaging Manager for Global Markets, Jenny Phillips, said that APCO plays a crucial role in driving the transition towards more sustainable packaging practices in Australia. R-PET

“Since last year, we have improved our APCO performance rating from 74 per cent to 79 per cent, with notable advancements in two key areas – Disposal Labelling and Recycled Content.

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Fonterra makes significant strides in sustainable packaging

Carbon dioxide – AC Plastics secures contracts to supply components for luxury car brands 22-08-2024

R-PET

Carbon dioxide – AC Plastics secures contracts to supply components for luxury car brands 22-08-2024

Carbon dioxide

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Borealis ties into carbon dioxide-to-plastics technology

European plastics and packaging producer says it will use collected and converted carbon dioxide made by California-based Infinium as polymers ingredient.

Austria-based Borealis AG and Sacramento, California-based Infinium have entered into an agreement to invest in the production of low-carbon-footprint plastics generated from CO2 emissions to create polyolefin plastics, which are commonly used in manufacturing consumer goods including packaging, appliances, apparel and medical devices.

“Many people aren’t aware that countless plastics products we use every day come from fossil-based components,” Infinium CEO Robert Schuetzle says. Carbon dioxide

“With Infinium eNaphtha, Borealis will create plastics with an ultra-low carbon footprint for customers and end consumers seeking more sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives.”

Infinium is a supplier of commercial volumes of eNaphtha, which it says is a sustainable drop-in alternative to traditional fossil-based naphtha. The company says it is helping to decarbonize plastics production and reduce CO2 emissions globally. Infinium’s eNaphtha is manufactured at its Project Pathfinder facility in Corpus Christi, Texas. Carbon dioxide

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Carbon dioxide

AC Plastics secures contracts to supply components for luxury car brands

  • AC Plastics announced the acquisition of two substantial contracts to injection mould components for upcoming models of two UK-manufactured luxury car brands.
  • These contracts are set to run over the next seven years and signal a significant step forward in the company’s growth and development. Carbon dioxide
  • This achievement follows AC Plastics’ transition to employee ownership earlier this year which not only secured the future of the company but also empowered its employees to take a more active role in its success.

AC Plastics announced the successful acquisition of two substantial contracts to injection mould components for upcoming models of two UK-manufactured luxury car brands. These contracts, set to run over the next seven years, reflect the company’s continued commitment to excellence in the automotive sector and signal a significant step forward in its growth and development. Carbon dioxide

The work will involve producing components for models scheduled for release in 2026 and 2027. The components supplied by AC Plastics will be integral to the next generation of luxury vehicles from two prestigious brands.

Building on a legacy of employee ownership 

This achievement follows a significant milestone in AC Plastics’ history—the transition to employee ownership earlier this year.

This move not only secured the future of the company but also empowered its employees to take a more active role in its success. The new contracts further underscore the benefits of this model, as the commitment and expertise of the team have been pivotal in winning these important projects. Carbon dioxide

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Carbon dioxide

Neste expands chemical-recycling logistics at Finnish refinery, pioneering sustainable solutions

Neste is expanding its logistics infrastructure for liquefied, recycled raw materials at its refinery in Porvoo, Finland, including materials such as liquefied waste plastic and liquefied rubber tires. This lays the foundation to handling larger amounts of liquefied raw materials to support Neste’s strategic aims, to advance chemical recycling and transform the Porvoo refinery into a renewable and circular solutions hub. Carbon dioxide

The new logistics installations comprise dedicated unloading facilities: At the refinery’s harbour, Neste is building an unloading arm with a heating system as well as pipelines to connect the harbour with dedicated storage tanks. Unlike regular crude oil, liquefied waste plastic or discarded rubber tires require heating to stay liquid. At the same time, the systems need to come with higher resistance to corrosion. In addition to the unloading arm and pipelines, Neste is also building a vapour recovery unit, contributing to emission control of the operations.

“The transformation of our Porvoo refinery into a renewable and circular solutions hub will require many individual steps and adjustments,” explains Jori Sahlsten, Senior Vice President of Refinery and Terminal Operations at the Porvoo refinery in Neste’s Oil Products business unit. Carbon dioxide

“The new logistics infrastructure is one of these steps. It puts us in a good position to process larger and continuous volumes of liquefied recycled raw materials.

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Neste expands chemical-recycling logistics at Finnish refinery, pioneering sustainable solutions

Heberlein Technology AG To Exhibit Technical Achievements At ITMA Asia + CITME 2024

Heberlein, a supplier of air interlacing and air texturing jets, aims to impress visitors at ITMA Asia + CITME 2024 with an amazing technical achievement in Drawn Texturized Yarn (DTY) and the latest components, including the brand new HemaJet-LB06. The jet housing shows great compatibility and makes the Swiss company a one-stop supplier for air-texturing processing. Carbon dioxide

In China, the ATY industry is an interesting niche of synthetic yarn production. The sector is exposed to strongly fluctuating cycles and recently at a peak level. Various industries, including fashion, home textiles, and industrial applications demand air-textured yarns for the local market and export. Heberlein reports satisfying ATY business in China. Heberlein optimistically look forward to upcoming ITMA Asia + CITME 2024 in Shanghai (China) where they expect an interested audience for ATY and their jet housing novelty.

Heberlein is also proud to present the latest DTY jet insert X44.29 with the smallest dimensions ever produced. This jet is designed for applications up to 30dtex – that’s super tiny. Carbon dioxide

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Heberlein Technology AG To Exhibit Technical Achievements At ITMA Asia + CITME 2024

American Fiber Services acquires Tennessee recycling business

The company has purchased Planet Recycling Co. of Nashville, expanding its reach into the Tennessee market.

American Fiber Services (AFS), a Smyrna, Georgia-based recovered materials supplier and services provider, has expanded into the Tennessee market with the purchase of Nashville-based Planet Recycling Co., a business AFS says is known for its “innovative solutions and commitment to sustainability.” Carbon dioxide

The acquisition will be effective Sept. 1.

“We are thrilled to welcome Planet Recycling, their employees and clients into the AFS family,” AFS President March Zachocki says. “This acquisition represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide top-tier recycling solutions and drive positive environmental impact.

“Together, we will be able to offer our clients an even broader range of services and continue to lead the way in sustainable practices,” he adds. Carbon dioxide

Planet Recycling was established in 1995 as a full-service recycler and recovered materials supplier, conducting waste audits, sales and financing, resource matching, logistics and more. AFS says the acquisition will enhance its ability to provide comprehensive recycling services and that the combined resources of both companies will improve efficiency and allow for greater innovation and an “even stronger commitment to environmental stewardship.” Carbon dioxide

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American Fiber Services acquires Tennessee recycling business

Freudenberg at Fachpack 2024

Guaranteeing the safe transportation of valuable components.

reudenberg Performance Materials will present a range of packaging solutions at Fachpack 2024, taking place in Nuremberg, Germany, from September 24-26, including Evolon microfilament textiles for the reusable technical packaging of sensitive industrial parts, including moulded plastics and painted components. Carbon dioxide

The durable microfilament fabrics, with high recycled fibre content, serve as viable alternatives to single-use packaging, particularly in the transportation of sensitive industrial goods such as automotive parts, reducing damage during transportation and lowering the rejection rates.

Evolon ESD materials meanwhile address the need for the specialised packaging of sensitive electronic components by providing customisable and permanent electro-static discharge protection, in addition to surface protection. Carbon dioxide

The Evolon Food Bag has been designed as packaging for food preservation in the home, extending the shelf life of vegetables, fruits and bread by providing excellent moisture and climate management.

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Freudenberg at Fachpack 2024

Plastics recycling – Indonesia has canceled its plan to impose an excise tax on plastic products, a proposal initially aimed at curbing the nation’s severe plastic waste issue 21-08-2024

Carbon dioxide

Plastics recycling – Indonesia has canceled its plan to impose an excise tax on plastic products, a proposal initially aimed at curbing the nation’s severe plastic waste issue 21-08-2024

Plastics recycling

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Weaving and knitting machine sales buoyant in 2023

Shipments of new textile machinery increased in most segments in 2023, according to the ITMF’s 46th International Textile Machinery Shipment Statistics just released by the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF).

The report covers six segments of textile machinery for spinning, draw-texturing, weaving, large circular knitting, flat knitting and finishing. It has been compiled in cooperation with more than 200 textile machinery manufacturers representing a comprehensive measure of world production. Plastics recycling

Spinning

The total number of shipped short-staple spindles increased by 155,000 in 2023 to a level of 9.78 million.

The six largest investors were, in order, China, India, Turkey, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan and Egypt. The 475,000 spindles shipped to Africa represented an increase of +120% and the 81,000 which went to South America a jump of +140% on 2022.

One million open-end rotors were shipped worldwide in 2023, 200,000 less than in 2022, and China, India and Turkey remain the biggest investors. Plastics recycling

Global shipments of long-staple (wool) spindles increased to 98,000 and while 25,000 went to Europe, China remained the biggest investor.

Texturing

Global shipments of single heater draw-texturing spindles, mainly used for polyamide filaments, fell by 33% from nearly 65,000 thousand units in 2022 to 43,000 in 2023. China received 90% of all deliveries.

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Plastics recycling

Coperion, Herbold to jointly present products, solutions at Fakuma

The companies say they will use virtual animation to give show attendees a glimpse of entire plastic processing and recycling systems. Plastics recycling

Recycling equipment and technology vendors Coperion and Herbold Meckesheim, both based in Germany, say they will jointly present numerous product and process solutions for the compounding and recycling of plastics at Fakuma 2024, scheduled for Oct. 15-19 in Friedrichshafen, Germany.

The equipment companies say they will demonstrate their expertise in realizing entire systems using virtual animation. Attendees at the international trade fair for plastics processing will be able to view both a complete compounding plant as well as an entire system for plastics recycling. The companies say the processes involved can be experienced digitally with the aid of simulations, and visitors will be able to look at individual components and their functions. Plastics recycling

Additionally, rotors from Herbold granulators will be on display in various sizes and for a number of applications.

Along with individual components, Coperion and Herbold say they deliver entire systems for plastics recycling. From mechanical processing—shredding, washing, separating, drying and agglomerating of plastics—to bulk material handling, as well as feeding and extrusion and to compounding and pelletizing, the companies say their plants cover the entire plastics reclamation process chain. Plastics recycling

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Plastics recycling

Hyosung Presents New Eco-Friendly Yarns And SS 26 Textile Trends At  China International Textile Fabrics And Accessories Expo

With the aim of introducing new sustainable textile solutions and fresh new looks to its entire value chain, Hyosung will exhibit at the China International Textile Fabrics and Accessories (Autumn/Winter) Expo – the world’s largest professional fabric and accessories exhibition – taking place in Shanghai this August 27-29. The Expo comprehensively showcases new products, technologies, trends, and concepts in the textile field, promoting healthy and sustainable industry development through collaboration. Plastics recycling

“This year, we look forward to leading 27 domestic and international partners in participating in the exhibition, forming the Hyosung exhibition group, occupying a large 828 sqm booth to provide the best experience for every visitor,” said Scott Park, Hyosung Marketing Director, China. “Hyosung combines environmental sustainability with technology and market demand, highlighting new yarn technologies to provide a new visual feast.” Plastics recycling

At the Expo, Hyosung will focus on presenting its multi-functional and eco-friendly yarns, including its regen Spandex and regen BIO spandex. Hyosung’s RCS-certified, 100% recycled regen Spandex is made from the reclaimed waste that occurs from Hyosung’s manufacturing process. regen BIO Spandex is made with renewable resources instead of petroleum-based materials, reducing carbon footprint and dependence on non-renewable resources. Hyosung three of bio-based Spandex yarns made with varying amounts of content made from renewable resources: regen BIO, regen BIO+, and regen BIO Max.

Additionally, Hyosung will highlight its popular CREORA® Fresh Spandex, which will now be produced domestically in China. CREORA Fresh Spandex features odor-neutralizing functionality with high elasticity. Plastics recycling

Using a chemical neutralization method, CREORA® Fresh can efficiently and permanently neutralize odor components like ammonia, acetic acid, and isovaleric acid, maintaining freshness and comfort.

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Hyosung Presents New Eco-Friendly Yarns And SS 26 Textile Trends At  China International Textile Fabrics And Accessories Expo

Indonesia has canceled its plan to impose an excise tax on plastic products, a proposal initially aimed at curbing the nation’s severe plastic waste issue

First introduced in 2019, the tax was intended to apply to single-use plastic items such as bottles, bags, and packaging. The goal was to reduce plastic consumption and environmental damage by levying a tax of IDR 200 (USD 0.02) per plastic bottle, particularly in the food and beverage industry. Plastics recycling

However, the plan faced significant opposition from industry groups like the Aromatic, Olefin, and Plastic Industry Association (Inaplas). These groups argued that the tax would harm Indonesia’s manufacturing sector, especially companies reliant on plastic packaging. Fajar Budiono, Secretary-General of Inaplas, emphasized that the excise would lower domestic demand for plastic products and could increase imports of untaxed foreign goods. He also noted that plastic is still essential due to its durability and cost-effectiveness, with no affordable alternatives available.

Critics further warned that the tax would disproportionately affect consumers, particularly in regions where tap water is unsafe, leading to higher prices for essential bottled water. Ultimately, concerns about the economic impact on both industries and consumers led to the scrapping of the tax proposal. Plastics recycling

Indonesia has canceled its plan to impose an excise tax on plastic products, a proposal initially aimed at curbing the nation's severe plastic waste issue

China’s Steel Overproduction: A Global Economic Concern

China, the world’s largest steel producer, is facing a significant crisis due to overproduction. With annual output exceeding a billion tonnes, China accounts for over half of global steel production. However, a sharp decline in domestic demand—driven by a housing market downturn and slowed infrastructure investment—has led to a steel surplus, raising global concerns. Plastics recycling

Impact of China’s Steel Surplus China’s housing market, once a major driver of steel demand, has drastically slowed, leaving the country with excess steel. To mitigate this, Chinese producers are flooding international markets, pushing prices down. This influx poses a severe threat to steel producers worldwide, particularly in the United States, Germany, and Latin America. In these regions, local industries are struggling to compete with cheap Chinese steel, risking plant closures and job losses.

Global Economic Repercussions The effects of China’s steel crisis extend beyond the steel industry, with potential global economic implications. In Europe, where steel demand is already weak, Chinese competition could worsen the economic outlook, particularly in countries like Germany. Plastics recycling

China is attempting to address the crisis by reducing steel production capacity. However, this restructuring is complex and fraught with challenges, as it must balance overcapacity reduction with maintaining domestic economic stability.

The global steel industry now faces significant uncertainty, and the ability of major players like China, the U.S., and Europe to manage this crisis will be crucial for the future of millions of workers and global economic stability. Plastics recycling

China's Steel Overproduction: A Global Economic Concern

Is recycled plastic safe for food contact? If the company making it says so, according to the FDA

Recycled plastic can be more toxic than virgin plastic, yet the federal approval process to use it in food packaging is lax and leaving consumers at risk, researchers say.

Recycld content in food packaging is increasing as sustainability advocates press manufacturers to cut their use of virgin plastic.

Since 1990, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the agency responsible for ensuring food contact materials are safe, approved at least 347 voluntary manufacturer applications for food contact materials made with recycled plastic, according to a database on its website. Approvals have tripled in recent years, from an average of 7 to 8 per year through 2019, to 23 per year since then, and they continue to climb. The FDA has already approved 27 proposals through June this year. Plastics recycling

Other than Coca-Cola, most manufacturers seeking approval are petrochemical giants such as Eastman Chemicals, Dupont and Indorama; and lesser-known plastic packaging manufacturers, including many from China, India and other countries.

The end buyers of the recycled materials aren’t included in the FDA database, but many popular brands are using recycled content. Cadbury chocolate bars come in a wrapper marketed as 30% percent recycled “soft plastic packaging.” The Coca-Cola Co. in North America reports it sells soft drinks in 100% percent recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles, while General Mills says its Annie’s cereal boxes use a liner made from 35% percent recycled plastic film.

Increasing recycled content in packaging may be good news for the planet, but researchers say the FDA has a lax approval process for plastic food packaging that hasn’t kept pace with the science on chemical hazards in plastics. Plastics recycling

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Is recycled plastic safe for food contact? If the company making it says so, according to the FDA

Invista Kingston site earns ISCC PLUS certification

INVISTA  manufacturing site in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, has received International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS certification of its processes to verify and validate bio, circular and bio-circular adipic acid and hexamethylene diamine (HMD) use. This achievement marks another major milestone in the company’s global strategy and reinforces a dedication to stewardship via environmental protection, social responsibility, and operational transparency. Plastics recycling

“We’ve listened to industry feedback and are proud to offer the option for ISCC PLUS certified nylon 6,6 polymers and fibers to our customers,” said Carl Brech, INVISTA executive vice president of Downstream Nylon. “This type of differentiated offering is another tool that can help them with their environmental goals.”

ISCC PLUS is a global certification system that verifies the sourcing and traceability of bio, circular, and bio-circular* products applying a mass-balance approach. It validates consistency with environmental, social, and governance criteria throughout the supply chain, and it provides assurance to consumers and stakeholders regarding the production practices and use of resources. Plastics recycling

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Invista Kingston site earns ISCC PLUS certification

Plastics recycling

Nuclear – PS resins buck trends with slight price drop as other materials climb 20-08-2024

Nuclear – PS resins buck trends with slight price drop as other materials climb 20-08-2024

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PLASTICS strongly opposes White House position change on plastic production caps

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) released the following statement on the White House’s decision to change its position and support limiting virgin plastics production as part of the UN Plastics Agreement currently being negotiated:

“The White House’s misguided reversal in support of plastic production caps is not only impractical but directly harmful to all U.S. manufacturers and will get us no closer to reaching our shared environmental goals,” said Matt Seaholm, President and CEO of PLASTICS. Nuclear

“The plastic industry is the seventh largest manufacturing industry in the United States and employs one million people. With this decision, the White House has turned its back on Americans whose livelihoods depend on our industry, as well as on manufacturers in all sectors that rely on plastic materials.

“Plastic offers unparalleled safety, protection, and efficiency and can be reused and recycled, reducing our overall resource needs. An independent study confirms plastics have lower total greenhouse gas contribution than alternative materials. Yet, the White House’s decision ignores these facts in favor of misinformation spread by anti-plastic activists. Nuclear

“Furthermore, this reversal has undermined U.S. negotiators’ influence in UN negotiations as other countries know this extreme position will not receive support in the U.S. Senate.

“We are dedicated to keeping plastic waste out of the environment and believe we need to work together to achieve this. However, the White House’s drastic position change will not accomplish this goal, only set us back.” Nuclear

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Nuclear

Tesla Unveils Stylish Textile Interior For Model 3 RWD In Mexico

Tesla has just launched a brand-new interior option for its Model 3 RWD exclusively in the Mexican market. This inventive approach integrates grey textile seats and standard features, setting a precedent in vehicle customization driven by unique market demands.

A Fresh Take On Interior Design

In the ever-evolving world of automobile interiors, Tesla’s decision to introduce a textile interior for the Model 3 represents a significant shift. While leather and synthetic materials often dominate the scene, Tesla is pushing the boundaries of car interior aesthetics with the introduction of a premium textile option. Nuclear

The new grey textile seats offer a modern and minimalist look, perfectly aligned with Tesla’s futuristic design philosophy. The choice of a textile material also provides a comfortable and breathable seating experience, a stark contrast to traditional interiors that can often become uncomfortably hot in warmer climates.

Interestingly, Mexico is the first country to have exclusive access to this unique interior option. This move underscores Tesla’s strategy to tailor its offerings to meet the particular preferences and needs of its diverse customer base across different regions. By embracing market-specific customization, Tesla demonstrates its willingness to innovate and adapt, a trait that has long set the company apart in the automotive industry. Nuclear

Moreover, this exclusive interior option for the Mexican market may set a precedent for similar initiatives in other regions, potentially influencing auto manufacturers to consider more localized innovations in their vehicle designs.

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Nuclear

A New Era for Nuclear Power in the U.S.

  • The US government is supporting the reopening of the Palisades nuclear power plant, the first such effort in the country’s history.
  • This reflects a shift in US energy policy towards nuclear power as a clean energy source to meet growing clean energy demand.
  • The Palisades reopening could pave the way for the revival of other closed nuclear plants and the development of small modular reactors.

The U.S. Palisades Power Plant could become the first nuclear plant to reopen in the U.S. after shutting down, potentially signaling a new era for U.S. nuclear power. Nuclear

As the U.S. government supports a new wave of nuclear reactor development, in support of a green transition, the reopening of existing plants could help the country develop its nuclear power capacity more rapidly. The Biden administration has provided financial support to several struggling nuclear plants to help them keep their doors open, and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and other recent policies are encouraging the development of new nuclear operations.

Pressure from the government to decarbonize the economy and financial incentives for companies pursuing green energy could also support alternative nuclear developments, such as the restoration and reopening of old reactors. Nuclear

The Palisades Power Plant in Covert, Michigan, shut its doors after 40 years of operation in May 2022. This was largely due to the increase in production of cheap, abundant natural gas encouraging a shift away from nuclear energy. It was not the only power plant to shut down, with several prominent plants failing over the previous decade. The U.S. has the largest nuclear power plant fleet in the world, with 93 reactors capable of generating around 95,522 MW of electricity.

Nuclear power has contributed around 20 percent of the country’s electricity annually for the last 30-plus years. However, the huge expense of keeping nuclear plants open, as well as concerns around safety and nuclear waste, have resulted in the closure of several plants in recent years. Nuclear

Between 2012 and 2022, 12 U.S. nuclear plants, with a combined electric generating capacity of 9,436 MW, closed their doors. Some plants due for closure have managed to survive, thanks to state and federal intervention, but companies could not afford to keep many of the others running.

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A New Era for Nuclear Power in the U.S.

S Korea unveils Textile and Fashion Industry Competitiveness Strategy

  • South Korea recently unveiled its Textile and Fashion Industry Competitiveness Strategy aimed at responding to the growth of the industrial textile market, the demand for green transition and the diffusion of digital transformation.
  • It will leverage the strategy to apply AI and digital technology, and bolster the textile and fashion industrial base. Nuclear

South Korea recently unveiled its Textile and Fashion Industry Competitiveness Strategy aimed at effectively responding to the rapid growth of the industrial textile market, the accelerating demand for eco-friendly transition led by advanced countries and the diffusion of digital transformation across all areas, including product planning, production and logistics.Trade, industry and energy minister Dukgeun Ahn made the announcement while meeting representatives from domestic textile and fashion companies and experts at the Textile Centre in Seoul to discuss industry issues and future directions. Nuclear

His ministry is focused on leveraging the strategy to nurture advanced industrial textiles, facilitate the eco-friendly transition of the textile and fashion value chain, diffuse the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology, and bolster the textile and fashion industrial base, an official release said.

The objective is to help the domestic industry overcome production contractions as latecomer countries are gaining ground and by 2030, expand the current 2-3-per cent global market share of industrial and eco-friendly textiles to 10 per cent and raise the level of digital transformation from the 35 per cent now to 60 per cent to develop Korea into a textile and fashion powerhouse. Nuclear

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S Korea unveils Textile and Fashion Industry Competitiveness Strategy

PS resins buck trends with slight price drop as other materials climb

There were no lazy days of summer for polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC and PET bottle resin prices, all of which increased in North America in July.

But polystyrene fell 1 cent, driven by lower prices for benzene feedstock, which is used to make styrene monomer. Nuclear

In the short term, regional PS supplies also have been affected by a production outage at a resin plant operated by Americas Styrenics in Joliet, Ill. The plant has been out of production since a tornado knocked out power in the area on July 15. The tornado touched down on an adjacent property only 400 yards away and destroyed electrical transmission towers, causing a widespread power outage.

The PE and PP hikes surprised some buyers. Prices for each material rose an average of 5 cents per pound in July, according to buyers and market watchers contacted by Plastics News. Nuclear

For both materials, supply concerns over brief outages caused by Hurricane Beryl, which hit the Houston area in early July, played a role in the price hikes. The hurricane brought heavy rains and 90 mph wind gusts to the Houston area beginning July 8.

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PS resins buck trends with slight price drop as other materials climb

ZARA And Circ® Continue Partnership With New Collection Made From Recycled Polycotton Blended Textiles

Zara, in collaboration with Circ®, a US-based fashion technology company that recycles textile waste back into new fibers, revealed the latest Zara Women’s collection made with Circ Lyocell, achieving the look and feel of silk, with fibers derived from 50% recycled textile waste.

This follows Zara and Circ’s first collection, launched in April 2023, which marked the use of garments made with recycled polyes- ter and lyocell. The collection features four pieces, each made from fabric using only 100% Circ Lyocell . Nuclear

The Zara team designed the garments to showcase clean, minimalist silhouettes, with a natural look and feel, a testament to how Circ materials can be used to create elevated and timeless designs. The new collection will be available on August 15 in the US and other selected markets.

Breaking down blends of polyester and cotton – referred to as “polycotton” – was once a significant roadblock to creating recycled raw materials to make new garments. Circ’s innovative recycling technology provides a solution, as the only in-market platform to successfully separate polycotton blended textile waste and recover both cellulosic and synthetic fibers. Nuclear

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ZARA And Circ® Continue Partnership With New Collection Made From Recycled Polycotton Blended Textiles

Textile Waste – PET Bottle – Reimagining tyre waste management in the circular economy 19-08-2024

Nuclear

PET Bottle – Reimagining tyre waste management in the circular economy 19-08-2024

PET Bottle

Polyestertime
ITEM 12/07/2024 19/08/2024 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 7,090 yuan/ton 6,850 yuan/ton -240
Bottle grade PET chips export market 895    $/ton 882  $/ton -13
LDPE Est China 1,145 $/ton 1,140 $/ton -5
PET Semidull Fiber chips

PET Bright

 6,850 yuan/ton

6,930 yuan/ton

 6,730 yuan/ton

6,800 yuan/ton

 -80

-130
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market

PET Bottle

 5,530 yuan/ton 5,470 yuan/ton
 -60
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA FOB China 715 $/ton 700 $/ton -15
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,640 yuan/ton 4,600 yuan/ton
 -40
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 542 $/ton 542 $/ton –
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market 979 $/ton 959 $/ton
 -20
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 957 $/ton 937 $/ton -20
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,116 $/7on 1,080 $/ton -36
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,505  yuan/ton 7,450 yuan/ton
 -55
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,300 yuan/ton 7,420 yuan/ton +120
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 9,000 yuan/ton 9,050 yuan/ton +50
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F 8,920 yuan/ton 8,920 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market

PET Bottle

 8,150 yuan/ton 8,150 yuan/ton –
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,585 yuan/ton 7,435 yuan/ton -150
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 12,565 yuan/ton 12,800 yuan/ton
 +235
Caprolactam CPL Northeast Asia

PET Bottle
 1,540 $/ton 1,540 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,920 $/ton 1,920 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 13,500 yuan/ton 13,600 yuan/ton +100
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market 14,230 yuan/ton 14,420 yuan/ton +190
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market

PET Bottle

 18,700 yuan/ton 18,500 yuan/ton -200
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,300 yuan/ton 16,250 yuan/ton -50
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,640 yuan/ton 18,600 yuan/ton -40
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,450 yuan/ton 17,500 yuan/ton +50
Spandex 20D  domestic  marke 29,300 yuan/ton 29,000 yuan/ton -300
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 28,800 yuan/ton 28,500 yuan/ton -300
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  25,800 yuan/ton 25,500 yuan/ton -300
Adipic Acid domestic market

PET Bottle

 9,325 yuan/ton 8,950 yuan/ton -375
Benzene domestic market 8,490 yuan/ton  8,490 yuan/ton –
Benzene China CFR 1,056 $/ton 1,049 $/ton -8
Ethylene South East market 930 $/ton 930 $/ton –
Ethylene NWE market CIF 856 $/ton 846 $/ton -10
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market 8,175 yuan/ton 8,000 yuan/ton -175
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF CFR China

PET Bottle

 14,600 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton –
VSF viscose staple fiber 13,500 yuan/ton 13,500 yuan/ton –
PP Powder domestic market 7,450 yuan/ton 7,400 yuan/ton -10
Naphtha overseas market  657 $/ton 656 $/ton -1
Phenol domestic market 8,375 yuan/ton 8,462 yuan/ton +87

r-PET FLAKES =                   6,850 yuan/ton  —           6,820  yuan/ton   –       -30

PET Bottle

Reimagining tyre waste management in the circular economy

A critical component of the circular economy in tyre waste management is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

In a world increasingly driven by sustainability, the journey doesn’t end at the finish line—it extends far beyond. Tyres, essential components of our modern transportation systems, pose a significant environmental challenge once their tread is worn out. Discarded tyres occupy valuable landfill space, leach harmful chemicals into the soil, and serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The traditional method of burning tyres releases toxic fumes and contributes to air pollution. However, within the framework of a circular economy, tyre waste management can be revolutionised in a myriad of different ways that would be beneficial to the environment and the economy. PET Bottle

A circular economy seeks to eliminate waste and pollution by keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible. In the context of tyres, this approach involves innovative methods to reuse, recycle, or remanufacture them into new products after they reach the end of their useful life. This not only reduces environmental impact but also creates new economic opportunities by transforming waste into valuable resources.

The Global Challenge and Regulatory Landscape

According to a 2021 report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India generates around 1.3 million tonnes of used tyres annually, while over 1 billion tonnes of used tyres end up in the waste fills globally. PET Bottle

This figure is expected to rise significantly due to the growing global vehicle population, making used tyre management a pressing international concern. The Indian government has taken steps to regulate this issue through the Environment (Protection) Amendment Rules, 2016, which mandate the establishment of a collection and channelisation system for used tyres. These rules also set standards for processors and retreaders, ensuring that used tyres are managed in an environmentally sound manner.

Circular Economy Solutions

The circular economy offers a promising solution to the challenge of used tyre disposal. By reusing, recycling, or remanufacturing tyres, the industry can reduce its environmental impact and conserve valuable resources. PET Bottle

Major tyre manufacturers globally are investing in research and development to improve tyre reusability, recyclability, and the use of sustainable materials. Retreading and regrooving can significantly extend the usable life of tyres, reducing the overall demand for new tyres and associated waste generation. Retreading involves replacing the worn tread on a used tyre, making it almost as good as new. This process saves raw materials and energy compared to producing new tyres. PET Bottle

A significant way to lessen the environmental impact of used tires is through recycling. The materials recovered from recycling can be used in many areas, such as creating rubber pavers, athletic tracks, floor mats, and in construction projects, as well as in the production of new tires. Two primary recycling methods facilitate both material and energy recovery, and they are:

Devulcanization:
The devulcanisation process is a recycling method that reverses the cross-linking reactions of vulcanised rubber, occurring during the tire manufacturing stage, allowing the rubber to be reprocessed and reused. PET Bottle

Used rubber products are cleaned and transformed into a fine powder known as crumb rubber through shredding and grinding. This crumb rubber can be incorporated into new tires at certain percentages or further devulcanised using various thermo-mechanical or chemical processes to obtain reclaim rubber. This reclaim rubber can replace virgin rubber in the production of new tires and other rubber-based products.

Devulcanisation offers several advantages, such as minimising waste and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources. Additionally, it makes the production of reprocessed tires more cost-effective by utilizing reclaimed rubber, which is significantly less expensive than virgin rubber.  PET Bottle

Pyrolysis:
Another increasingly popular method is the pyrolysis of rubber products, which involves heating rubber in a closed reactor to break it down and recover valuable by-products for material and energy recovery. This eco-friendly process uses shredded waste rubber as feedstock, yielding carbon char, steel, pyrolysis oil, and syngas. Carbon char can be used as an alternative to cement kiln fuel, as a reinforcing filler, or upcycled into recovered carbon black for tires. Pyrolysis oil can replace diesel and fuel oil, support chemical production, and be utilized by refineries to enhance recycled material input. Syngas is employed for energy production and chemical synthesis, while recovered steel is either repurposed in steel production or sold as scrap. PET Bottle

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PET Bottle

PET Bottle

Textile Waste – PET Bottle – Reimagining tyre waste management in the circular economy 19-08-2024

Textile Waste

PET Bottle – Reimagining tyre waste management in the circular economy 

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Textile Waste

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Iranian Knowledge-Based Firm Produce Organic Fertilizer from Textile Waste

Experts at a technology company in Iran have used textile waste to produce an innovative organic fertilizer.

Reyhane Sadat Rafiei Alavi Alawijeh, the managing director of technology company “Tochal Kesht Sabz” based in Science and Technology Park of the Islamic Azad University, Najafabad Branch (IAUN) said that her company was founded in 2023 and it specializes in agricultural field based on organic products. Textile Waste

She who has a PhD in analytical chemistry added that they got the idea from a problem that the textile industry faced in terms of waste, saying that their organic fertilizer which is produced from textile waste also helps the environment and society’s health.

The Tochal Kesht Sabz managing director further said that organic fertilizer has no unpleasant smell and is free from insect eggs and weed seeds. Its use in the production of crops not only produces an organic product by absorbing moisture, but also reduces the amount of water consumption by about 30% and helps the farmer not to use toxic pesticides and chemical fertilizers, she added. Textile Waste

She also said that their team of researchers are working on producing more innovative technological products.or

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Textile Waste

Renault’s Hybrid Vision: Phasing Out Diesel by 2030

Renault is gearing up for a future where hybrid technology will replace diesel engines by 2030. CEO Fabrice Cambolive emphasizes the strategic importance of hybrids in Renault’s transition plan, positioning it as a key technology alongside the growing electric vehicle market. Textile Waste

The Strategic Shift to Hybrid Renault, while continuing its commitment to internal combustion engines, sees hybrid technology as the bridge to a more sustainable future. Cambolive highlights the company’s efforts to enhance hybrid performance, particularly with innovations like the new compact turbo in the Austral, Rafale, and Espace models. Hybrids offer a balance between the benefits of electric vehicles and the reliability of combustion engines, making them ideal for a market in transition and a critical step in reducing emissions. Textile Waste

Renault’s joint venture with Geely, named Horse, underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining a strong global presence in the hybrid sector.

Strategic Partnerships and Market Challenges Renault’s partnership with Geely is vital as it navigates future challenges, especially in light of changing European trade policies, including new import duties on Chinese electric vehicles.

While Renault is exploring local production of electric vehicles in Europe, the decision will hinge on upcoming EU policies. Meanwhile, Renault is strengthening its global presence in thermal and hybrid engines. Textile Waste

In a period of steady electric vehicle sales, Renault is focused on building an integrated ecosystem in France to support electric vehicle production and distribution. The development of the new electric Twingo, priced under €20,000, further demonstrates Renault’s commitment to making electric vehicles more accessible.

Renault’s Hybrid Vision: Phasing Out Diesel by 2030

Mazda is revisiting the two-stroke engine concept with a modern twist, as revealed in a patent filed in the U.S. under number US20220034265A1

Traditionally seen in motorcycles, the two-stroke engine now benefits from innovations such as a compressor, direct injection, and variable valve timing, combining features from Mazda’s SkyActiv X technology. This patent introduces a unique two-stroke engine with double overhead camshafts, a Roots-type compressor, and both intake and exhaust valves with adjustable timing. Textile Waste

The engine operates with a hybrid ignition method: at low loads, it uses compression ignition, similar to a diesel engine, but at higher loads, a spark plug ensures controlled ignition. This approach enhances combustion efficiency across different speeds while addressing the inherent challenges of two-stroke engines, such as scavenging losses that can lead to exhaust smoke due to unburned fuel. Textile Waste

Mazda’s innovation aims to merge the efficiency of a diesel engine with the power characteristics of a gasoline engine, all within a two-stroke cycle. While it’s unclear if Mazda will bring this engine to production, the patent indicates active experimentation with this design, reflecting Mazda’s ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of engine technology. The development could potentially revive the two-stroke engine with modern, efficient technology, making it relevant in today’s automotive landscape.

Mazda is revisiting the two-stroke engine concept with a modern twist, as revealed in a patent filed in the U.S. under number US20220034265A1

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) office for Turkiye, in collaboration with EkoDoku Women Sustainable Living Cooperative, has launched a new initiative to promote eco-friendly textiles and address the negative impacts of fast fashion

This initiative, funded by the US government, focuses on both sustainability and the creation of formal job opportunities. Textile Waste

EkoDoku, based in Ankara and Iskenderun, emphasizes circularity and sustainability in the textile industry. With ILO’s support, EkoDoku will produce a collection using nature-based fabrics and techniques. The project kicked off on August 3 with an ‘Eco Dyeing and Printing Workshop,’ where cooperative members learned natural dyeing, woodblock printing, and batik techniques on linen and hemp fabrics.

The ILO is also promoting Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) at EkoDoku to address decent work challenges, such as informal employment and low wages. Textile Waste

This pilot project aims to create green jobs and foster inclusiveness, benefiting Syrians under temporary protection, international protection applicants, and host communities.

The ‘HarmonyUnity’ collection, backed by the ILO, highlights sustainable living and global unity. Nature-based solutions are key to creating resilient and inclusive employment opportunities, supporting environmental protection, and promoting social equity.

The ILO recognises cooperatives as essential for transitioning textile workers, many of whom are women, into the formal economy by ensuring decent employment, income, and access to essential services and social protection. Textile Waste

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) office for Turkiye, in collaboration with EkoDoku Women Sustainable Living Cooperative, has launched a new initiative to promote eco-friendly textiles and address the negative impacts of fast fashion

Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) spot prices inch higher in Europe

A European industry source while requesting to remain unidentified informed a Polymerupdate team member, “Although trading activity turned sluggish amid the ongoing seasonal summer lull with most market participants staying away from business activities, prices gained owing to supply constraints. Current pricing trends are chiefly being determined by supply-side factors with Europe experiencing reduced import shipment inflows. Textile Waste
Market observers anticipate a fall in import volumes towards September end while a few August price settlements were heard over the past week in the contractual market.”
In the spot markets, LLDPE prices were assessed at the Euro 1165-1175/mt FD Northwest Europe levels, a gain of Euro (+20/mt) from last week.
In the contract markets, LLDPE grade prices were assessed at the Euro 1600-1605/mt FD NWE Germany and FD NWE France levels, both steady from last week. Textile Waste
Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) spot prices inch higher in Europe
Textile Waste

Automotive – SÜDPACK to showcase sustainable packaging innovations at FACHPACK 17-08-2024

Automotive

OC Oerlikon : Automotive supplier Sailuda integrates backwards in BCF yarn production

Chinese automotive supplier Sailuda is expanding its process chain with the commissioning of a Oerlikon Neumag BCF plant. In future, the specialist for automotive interiors will produce its own BCF yarns. The company is thus integrating the entire process from the yarn to the finished carpet and can therefore better influence production and quality of its car carpets. Automotive

Caption: The three-end BCF S+ system impresses with its cost-effectiveness: high production speed and capacity and reliable components combined with the highest yarn quality make this model particularly attractive for carpet yarn manufacturers.

Oerlikon Neumag commissions BCF plant in China

Sailuda is one of the major suppliers for international car brands such as BMW, Volvo, VW and Ford, but also for well-known Chinese e-car manufacturers such as NIO, Lixiang and SERES. Automotive

“The quality of our products is our recipe for success,” says CEO John Zhu, explaining the strategy. The company has been reporting a constant increase in turnover for years. With its own in-house carpet yarn production, Sailuda wants to diversify its product range and create outstanding and exceptional end products.

In this way, the visionary trendsetter is creating a competitive advantage in the highly competitive automotive sector. Automotive

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Automotive

Researchers develop fabric that generates electricity from body heat

The fabric offers possibilities for health checks, and activity tracking.

In the near future, there could be coats made from smart fabric that use the sun’s energy to keep us warm.

Researchers at the University of Waterloo showcased one such smart fabric technology.

This innovative material has been designed to convert both body heat and sunlight into electricity. And the best part? This technology eliminates the need for bulky batteries to power the cloth. This makes it an easy-to-wear, stretchy fabric. Automotive

The smart fabric’s functionality can be enhanced when integrated with sensors. This way, the fabric could be used to monitor heart rate and temperature, and even detect chemicals in your breath.

“We have developed a fabric material with multifunctional sensing capabilities and self-powering potential. Automotive

This innovation brings us closer to practical applications for smart fabrics,” said Yuning Li, a professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering.

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Automotive

Newlyn fishing net recycler achieves funding target

The company recycles old Cornish gillnets into virtually carbon free marine nylon for use in advanced engineering and manufacturing

A PIONEERING Newlyn company that transforms end-of-life fishing nets into high-value materials for 3D printing and injection moulding has surpassed its fundraising campaign.

Fishy Filaments has secured more than £100,000 of investment from more than 215 individuals in 18 different countries through its Crowdcube campaign. Automotive

The company, which was established in 2016, recycles old Cornish gillnets into virtually carbon free marine nylon for use in advanced engineering and manufacturing saving fishing fleets hundreds of pounds a ton by recycling it free of charge.

Its materials are already being used by big names including Philips Lighting, and trials have been conducted with high-profile brands such as L’Óreal, Prada, Ford, and Daimler-Benz. Automotive

Ian Falconer, founder and CEO Fishy Filaments, said: “Hitting our Crowdcube target well ahead of close on August 31 is an incredible achievement and, alongside our successful PA-CF powder print, is a major milestone for the business.

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Newlyn fishing net recycler achieves funding target

Shinkong Synthetic Fibers invests $10M in Ambercycle facility

Ambercycle says Shinkong’s investment builds upon three years of collaboration between the companies. Automotive

Shinkong Synthetic Fibers Corporation, a Taipei, Taiwan-based manufacturer of polyester, has invested $10 million into Los Angeles-based material science company Ambercycle’s first commercial facility.

Ambercycle says Shinkong’s investment builds upon three years of collaboration and will help expand global production capacity for its material made from end-of-life textiles called Cycora. Automotive

“This investment signifies a crucial milestone in our endeavor to make circular materials widely available,” Ambercycle Co-founder and CEO Shay Sethi says. “We are excited to deepen our partnership with Shinkong. This investment enables us to scale up to meet the growing demand of our customers and push the boundaries of sustainable textile production.”

According to Ambercycle, demand for decarbonized polyester is expected to reach approximately 7 million metric tons (approximately 7.7 million tons) annually in 2026, up from 5 million metric tons (approximately 5.5 tons) in 2015, as more brands seek out circular materials to reach their sustainability goals. Automotive

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Shinkong Synthetic Fibers invests $10M in Ambercycle facility

Spandex demand analysis from downstream operation in H1 2024

From 2021 to 2024, supply of spandex in Chinese mainland has maintained a continuous double-digit growth rate, and the growth of production capacity is still “climbing.” In contrast, the growth rate of demand has shown significant fluctuations over the five-year period, resembling a deep “V” shape. Notably, substantial price declines and macroeconomic disturbances led to 2022 being a rare year of negative growth for spandex demand. Although demand for spandex still showed double-digit growth in 2023 and the first half of 2024, there remains a discrepancy between the average growth rates of demand and capacity over the past four years Automotive

In the first half of 2024, words such as slow sales, poor domestic sales, and unsold inventory continued to be high-frequency terms in the spandex market. The spandex industry has undergone continuous adjustments for three years since the high prosperity cycle of 2021. For example, the price difference between spandex 40D, previously considered an upscale fiber, and nylon DTY or imported cotton yarn is now minimal. The mainstream price for 40D is around 25,500- 27,000yuan/mt, while a few differentiated products are slightly higher. Automotive

What is the operating rate of downstream weaving and knitting mills in the first half of 2024? At what level is the growth rate of domestic demand for spandex?

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Spandex demand analysis from downstream operation in H1 2024

SÜDPACK to showcase sustainable packaging innovations at FACHPACK

A primary focus for the company is its Pure-Line portfolio of recyclable, single-material films comprising PP and PE.

Film manufacturer SÜDPACK will highlight its commitment to sustainable packaging solutions at the upcoming FACHPACK trade show in Nuremberg, Germany.

The company said it will unveil new products and services designed to help businesses create greener, more profitable packaging processes. Automotive

A key focus for SÜDPACK is its Pure-Line range of recyclable, single-material films made from polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE).

These films boast a smaller carbon footprint than traditional options while maintaining product quality and safety.

Applications of these films span from thermoformed packaging and trays to pouches for various food products.

The company is also introducing a PP-based solution for coffee stand-up pouches, which it claims reduces carbon footprint by more than 30% compared to polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/aluminium composites. Automotive

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SÜDPACK to showcase sustainable packaging innovations at FACHPACK

Plastic bottles – Topsoe chosen as technology provider for Holborn’s Hamburg renewable fuels refinery 16-08-2024

Automotive

Plastic bottles – Topsoe chosen as technology provider for Holborn’s Hamburg renewable fuels refinery 16-08-2024

Plastic bottles

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Few small plastic bottles are recycled, 90% target still far off

Consumers are still reluctant to recycle small plastic bottles and they account for just 25% of bottles handed in via supermarket and railway station recycling points, according to collection agency Verpact.

Some 74% of all plastic bottles were collected for recycling last year, Verpact said on Tuesday.  This includes a small percentage of juice and dairy bottles which currently don’t carry a deposit and have been fished out of regular waste. Plastic bottles

Every year, one billion small and 700 large plastic bottles end up in circulation and by law 90% should be recycled.

Verpact says that more automated recycling points would help consumers return more small bottles but is struggling to find more outlets to accept the machinery. There are currently around 5,000 nationwide.

Campaigners also say shops should be required by law to take in empty bottles, as is the situation in Germany, but the government has already rejected this idea. Plastic bottles

There are also some 23,000 places where people can donate their plastic bottles and raise money for charity.

Deposits were introduced on cans last April but as yet Verpact has not published an annual report about progress in recycling them.

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Plastic bottles

Lithium: Essential Element for Electric Vehicles

Lithium became a crucial component of batteries following the invention of the rechargeable lithium-ion battery by John B. Goodenough in 1980. Initially powering electronic devices, lithium is now vital for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. Plastic bottles

Why Lithium Is Key for Batteries Lithium is favored in battery production due to its high charge-to-weight ratio, electrochemical potential, and rapid charging capabilities. It’s also the lightest among commonly used battery metals and offers superior cycle life, making it ideal for EV batteries.

Lithium Production and Mining Lithium is primarily sourced from hard rocks and brines. Hard rock mining, which accounts for about 60% of production, involves crushing rock to extract lithium, while brine extraction involves evaporating mineral-rich water. Major lithium-producing countries include Australia, Chile, and China, with the U.S. expected to increase production significantly. Plastic bottles

Global Lithium Production Lithium production has surged from 9,500 metric tons in 1995 to 180,000 metric tons in 2023. The majority of lithium (74%) is used in batteries, with the rest used in glass, ceramics, and other applications. Despite its abundance, the complex extraction and refinement processes contribute to high costs, with prices expected to rise to $20,000 per metric ton by 2025.

Future Supply and Demand Current estimates suggest sufficient lithium resources for billions of EVs. Technological advancements and improved recycling methods are expected to enhance supply, ensuring lithium’s availability for the ongoing transition to electric vehicles. Plastic bottles

Plastic bottles

Topsoe chosen as technology provider for Holborn’s Hamburg renewable fuels refinery

  •  Located in Hamburg, Germany, HOLBORN’s renewable fuels complex is expected to be operational in early 2027 and aims to produce 220,000 tons of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) per year.
  • Topsoe will deliver its HydroFlex™ technology, which enables the production of SAF and renewable diesel from waste and residue materials.
  • The licensing agreement represents continued momentum in the global market for Topsoe’s technology to produce renewable fuels. Plastic bottles

Topsoe, a global leader in carbon emission reduction technologies, has signed an agreement with HOLBORN Europa Raffinerie GmbH (HOLBORN), to provide its HydroFlex™ technology for the production of SAF and renewable diesel at its plant in Hamburg. HOLBORN is a successful oil refinery that supplies Hamburg and northern Germany with fuels and heating oil.

The production will serve to address the rapidly growing demand for SAF. As cited by the International Energy Agency’s Net Zero Scenario, over 10% of fuel consumption in aviation needs to be SAF by 2030 to stay on course for net zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

In 2022, the International Air Transport Association estimated global SAF production to make up only around 0.1% to 0.15% of total jet fuel demand. Plastic bottles

Elena Scaltritti, Chief Commercial Officer at Topsoe, said:
“We are pleased to sign this agreement with HOLBORN. To support the energy transition, we need a cleaner long-distance transportation sector. A key step in securing this is by increasing production of SAF and renewable diesel. Plastic bottles

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Topsoe chosen as technology provider for Holborn’s Hamburg renewable fuels refinery

Low density polyethylene (LDPE) prices journey southward in Asia

This week, Low density polyethylene prices dropped in Asia.
An industry source in Asia wishing to remain unidentified informed a Polymerupdate team member, “Signs of de-escalation in Middle Eastern tensions has led to a perceived lowering of oil supply disruption risks from the region. Meanwhile, global oil prices have also trended lower with the International Energy Agency (IEA) down revising its oil demand growth forecast for 2024 and 2025.”  Plastic bottles
In Far East Asia, LDPE film grade prices were assessed at the USD 1100-1150/mt CFR levels, a fall of USD (-10/-20/mt) from the previous week.
In China, Middle Eastern producers have offered their LDPE film grades in the range of USD 1100-1150/mt CFR levels for shipment in August 2024.
In China, the LDPE market experienced a protracted weakness with many downstream buyers exercising caution while making import purchases as they anticipated a rise in supplies in the domestic market. Plastic bottles
In Southeast Asia, LDPE film grade prices were assessed at the USD 1190-1250/mt CFR levels, a week on week decline of USD (-20/mt).
In Vietnam, Middle eastern producers have offered their LDPE film grades in the range of USD 1190-1250/mt CFR levels for shipment in August 2024.
More…

Low density polyethylene (LDPE) prices journey southward in Asia

Mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, bio-based plastics all needed to scale circularity

Meeting ambitious circular plastic targets will require the use of all three current major routes, mechanical recycling, chemical recycling and bio-based plastics, Mirjam Mayer, vice president Circular Economy Solutions at Borealis, told ICIS in an interview.

“To actually reach that scale on circular products by 2030 we do see all of the things you’ve mentioned playing a role, mechanical [recycling], chemical [recycling], and bio-based… we’ve started on mechanical recycling…  we also have with Renasci [in which Borealis has a majority stake] a chemical recycling plant, and will be a key user of the ReOil plant [operated by parent company OMV],” Mayer said. Plastic bottles

ReOil is OMV’s proprietary pyrolysis-based chemical recycling technology, which uses mixed polyolefins as a feedstock. OMV has a pilot plant at Schwechat, Austria, with an installed input capacity of 16,000 tonnes/year. OMV is expected to start an industrial-scale ReOil unit with a processing capacity of up to 200,000 tonnes/year by 2027. Borealis collaborates with OMV on ReOil.  OMV holds a 75% stake in Borealis (ADNOC owns the remaining 25%). Plastic bottles

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Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) prices fall in Asia

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) prices in Asia have experienced a noticeable decline as of August 2024, driven primarily by several key factors. A significant reason for this downward trend is the reduction in demand, particularly in China and Southeast Asia, where economic activities have slowed, leading to lower consumption of PET, especially in the packaging and textile sectors. Plastic bottles

Additionally, the oversupply of PET in the region has exacerbated the situation, as production levels remained high despite weakening demand. This imbalance between supply and demand has forced manufacturers to lower prices to remain competitive.

Furthermore, fluctuating feedstock costs, particularly for purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and monoethylene glycol (MEG), have also contributed to the decline in PET prices. These raw materials’ prices have softened recently, reflecting reduced production costs and subsequently lowering PET prices. The global market uncertainty, driven by economic challenges and shifts in trade policies, continues to add pressure on PET producers, leading to further price adjustments. Plastic bottles

Overall, the PET market in Asia is currently characterized by weak demand, ample supply, and fluctuating feedstock prices, all contributing to the ongoing decline in PET prices

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) prices fall in Asia

Plastic bottles

Electric vehicles – PLA Enters August with a Price Rollover Amidst Rising Demand and Sustainability Efforts15-08-2024

Electric vehicles – PLA Enters August with a Price Rollover Amidst Rising Demand and Sustainability Efforts15-08-2024

Electric vehicles

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Q2 2024 Sees Decline in Plastics Machinery Shipments, but Industry Growth Potential Remains

The Plastics Industry Association’s Committee on Equipment Statistics (CES) reported a decline in North American plastics machinery shipments for Q2 2024. The total shipment value reached $224.8 million, reflecting a 15.4% decrease from the previous quarter and a 36.2% year-over-year (Y/Y) drop. Electric vehicles

In the primary plastics machinery sector, single-screw extrusion experienced a 3.4% quarter-over-quarter (Q/Q) increase but a 28.6% Y/Y decline. Twin-screw extrusion saw a 23.5% Q/Q drop and a 25.3% Y/Y decrease. Injection moulding shipments decreased by 16.3% Q/Q and 37.7% Y/Y.

Plastics’ Chief Economist, Perc Pineda, PhD, noted that the consecutive quarterly decline is not due to a decrease in plastics demand.

Despite the shipment drop, plastics demand has recently grown, and there is no sign of weakening baseline demand for plastic products. Electric vehicles

Finished goods inventories in plastics and rubber products were $15.0 billion in June 2024, slightly down from $15.2 billion in June 2023, indicating slow inventory adjustments.

The CES survey revealed that 79.9% of respondents expect steady or improved market conditions over the next year. However, only 40.0% reported increased quoting activity, down from 48.9% in the previous quarter.

In Q2 2024, U.S. exports of plastics equipment fell by 14.7% to $341.0 million, while imports decreased by 3.8% to $856.8 million. Over half (53.4%) of U.S. exports were to Mexico and Canada, totaling $182.3 million. Electric vehicles

Pineda remarked that higher interest rates continue to affect capital expenditure plans, though the industry still has growth potential as capacity utilization remains below maximum levels.

Electric vehicles

PLA Enters August with a Price Rollover Amidst Rising Demand and Sustainability Efforts

During the early weeks of August, Polylactic Acid (PLA) prices in the Netherlands sustained a steady position. This stability was driven by consistent demand and a well-balanced supply. The sustainable packaging sector, a significant consumer of PLA, played a crucial role in maintaining this demand, supported by the textiles, agriculture, and 3D printing industries, which helped prevent significant price fluctuations.  Electric vehicles

The Netherlands’ domestic PLA production effectively aligned with demand, aided by the consistent availability of feedstock lactic acid, ensuring uninterrupted production and price stability. Stable raw material costs and effective inventory management by producers helped in maintaining market balance, while balanced export-import activities further prevented price fluctuations. PLA exports saw modest growth between April and May 2024, particularly to Italy, Germany, and Belgium, with domestic inventories remaining sufficient.

The Netherlands’ leadership in sustainable packaging was showcased at the 2024 Paris Olympics using Luminy® PLA bioplastics, produced in partnership of Sansu and TotalEnergies Corbion. Electric vehicles

This initiative highlighted the country’s commitment to reducing single-use plastics and advancing recycling efforts, aligning with Europe’s broader sustainability goals and the European Commission’s push for improved recycling practices. Internationally, South Korea’s plastic industry is also advancing in sustainability, demonstrated by the collaboration between South Korean producer Sansu and TotalEnergies Corbion.

More…

Electric vehicles

Honda, Nissan to recycle plastic from scrapped cars

Proposed environmental rules in Europe drive push to create supply chains

Honda Motor and Nissan Motor are among the Japanese automakers building supply chains for recycled plastic, Nikkei has learned, to make their vehicles greener and comply with expected new European regulations. Electric vehicles

Plastic is an essential material in automobile production, used in bumpers, interior components and other parts. Under a 2023 proposal by the European Commission, at least 25% of a new vehicle’s plastic would have to be recycled plastic. This regulation would take full effect as early as 2031, raising the specter of noncompliant new vehicles being barred from sale in the European Union.

Auto parts constituted only about 3% of all the plastic recycled into new plastic products in 2022 data for Japan from the Tokyo-based Plastic Waste Management Institute. Automakers in Japan are hard-pressed to recycle plastics, given the time-consuming process of sorting plastic pieces after vehicles are scrapped. Electric vehicles

Honda aims to partner with chemical manufacturers and recycling companies to create a supply chain for recycled plastic by around 2040. Plans call for decreasing the types of plastic used in new cars by around 60% to six or seven, facilitating the sorting process at recycling stations. Honda’s first mass-produced electric vehicle, the Honda e, used around 25 types of plastic.

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Electric vehicles

The HyperHybrid system by Obrist is poised to revolutionize electric vehicles, offering a groundbreaking range extender

Based on a Ford 2.0 Zetec engine, known for its challenging timing, this system showcases near-zero vibrations—a rarity for a two-stroke engine. Inspired by the famous Lexus LS400 commercial, the HyperHybrid system’s smooth operation is demonstrated by a champagne glass that remains still on the engine. This feat is achieved through dual crankshafts working in opposite directions, a rubber reducer, and a soundproof box housing the engine. Electric vehicles

Weighing just 110 kg and producing 61 HP, the ZVG engine is not meant for conventional city cars but is designed to enhance electric vehicle autonomy. It powers a lightweight battery system weighing only 98 kg, around 85% lighter than Tesla Model Y’s batteries, allowing up to 80 km of electric-only driving. When combined with the internal combustion engine, the range extends significantly, rivaling electric SUVs.

Despite its readiness, the HyperHybrid system faces a significant challenge: the potential 2035 ban on petrol and diesel engines in Europe. Electric vehicles

However, there’s hope in the growing interest in e-Fuels, spurred by recent statements from Ursula Von der Leyen. If accepted, this could allow the HyperHybrid system to be a viable solution for extending the range of electric cars, blending traditional and innovative technologies.

The HyperHybrid system by Obrist is poised to revolutionize electric vehicles, offering a groundbreaking range extender

Chinaplas’s return to the greater bay area: A treasure trove of business opportunities

Chinaplas 2024, held successfully in Shanghai, marked a milestone in innovation and is set to return to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) for its 2025 edition. Scheduled for April 15-18, 2025, at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, this event will cover over 380,000 sqm and host more than 3,900 global exhibitors. Themed “transformation, collaboration, sustainability,” Chinaplas 2025 aims to drive the plastics and rubber industries towards intelligent, green development amid global economic uncertainty. Electric vehicles

Chinaplas serves as a comprehensive high-tech platform spanning the entire supply chain, where thousands of machines will be showcased, highlighting cutting-edge technologies. The event will facilitate face-to-face interactions among high-quality buyers and exhibitors, fostering collaboration and business opportunities.

With strong market demand, booth reservations are in high demand, reflecting confidence in China’s market and the global plastics industry. Electric vehicles

The Asian economy’s moderate recovery and the success of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) have further fueled optimism, offering vast opportunities for the plastics and rubber industries.

Shenzhen, China’s leading industrial city, is committed to advancing strategic industries, including those related to polymer materials. The return of Chinaplas to Shenzhen, a hub of innovation, promises to witness the growth of advanced manufacturing in the GBA. Global visitor promotion is already in full swing, ensuring Chinaplas 2025 will be an unmissable event for industry professionals worldwide. Electric vehicles

Chinaplas’s return to the greater bay area: A treasure trove of business opportunities

Textile Recycling: Reducing waste and promoting Circular Economy

The negative impact of textile waste is more significant than ever. Textile recycling and promoting a circular economy have emerged as urgent needs to attain sustainable development. Why is circular economy becoming popular? What is the need for that?

Textile recycling 

Recycling is a sustainable practice to avert resource scarcity in the era of fast fashion. Disposal of petroleum-based synthetic fabrics or water-intensive natural fabrics and preparatory chemicals has a significant impact on the ecosystem. Electric vehicles

By collecting and reprocessing residuals, which would eventually end up in landfills or incinerators, recycling minimizes the extraction of virgin resources, reduces energy consumption, and decreases pollution.

Let’s take a look at several approaches to textile recycling;

Mechanical Recycling

Shredding and tearing undamaged second-hand textiles into fibres, then spinning them into new yarns and fabrics. Electric vehicles

Chemical Recycling

Decomposing contaminated textiles into original components for new materials.

Upcycling

Transforming used intact textiles into higher-value products to extend their lifespan.

Recycling opens the possibility for the development of a circular economy by reintroducing materials into the production cycle. Electric vehicles

More…

Textile Recycling: Reducing waste and promoting Circular Economy

PLA Polymer – Germany faces growing economic challenges as order shortages worsen 14-08-2024

Electric vehicles

PLA Polymer – Germany faces growing economic challenges as order shortages worsen 14-08-2024

PLA Polymer

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Germany faces growing economic challenges as order shortages worsen

  • Germany’s economy faces growing challenges as order shortages worsen, with 39.4 per cent of companies reporting a lack of orders in July, up from 38.4 per cent in April.
  • Manufacturing is particularly affected, with 43.6 per cent of companies lacking orders.
  • The textile sector is especially strained, with 66.5 per cent of companies reporting shortages. PLA Polymer

Germany’s economy is facing increasing challenges as the order shortage worsens, according to the latest data from the ifo Institute. In July, 39.4 per cent of companies reported a lack of orders, a rise from 38.4 per cent in April.

The manufacturing sector has been particularly hard hit, with the percentage of companies reporting insufficient orders increasing from 39.5 per cent in April to 43.6 per cent in July.

More…

PLA Polymer

Study shows that basic polymers can be recycled up to 10 times

The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee, which includes most UN member states, plans to finalize the development of an international legally binding document at a meeting in Seoul in November 2024 to combat plastic pollution.

The document will focus on the collection of plastic and its incorporation into the production of new products (recycling) without limiting the production of polymers, which possess unique properties, such as their lightweight, low cost, ability to keep out moisture and air, and the potential for recycling. PLA Polymer

Despite the unique properties of plastic, the global attitude towards it is mixed. Earlier this year, the Centre for Climate Integrity (CCI) released a provocative report accusing international petrochemical companies of deceiving the public for years by claiming that plastic recycling is feasible on an industrial scale.

The environmental group stated that most plastic waste cannot be recycled due to technological and economic constraints. One of the arguments the CCI presented to support its conclusions was that “the quality of plastic degrades as it is recycled,” limiting its use and further recyclability. PLA Polymer

A recent study by the Russian Chemists Union completely refutes this claim, proving that the most common (high-tonnage) types of polymers – PP, LDPE, HDPE, PVC, and PS – can be successfully recycled multiple times without losing their consumer properties.

PLA Polymer

New CPC line for Suominen

Company has got closer to a return to profitability in the first half of 2024.

Nonwovens manufacturer Suominen, headquartered in Espoo, Finland, has announced a €20 million investment in a new card-pulp-card (CPC) production line at its plant in Alicante, Spain, to become operational in the second half of 2025.

The CPC process is a highly efficient route to the production of wipes substrates and other nonwovens based on natural fibres and pulp. PLA Polymer

“With this investment we are responding to the accelerating demand for sustainable nonwovens in Europe,” said Tommi Björnman, Suominen’s president and CEO.

For the first six months of 2024, Suominen reports net sales of €232.3 million, up 5% on the first six months of 2023, with increased volumes and lower raw materials prices, offset by lower sales prices. Net sales in the Americas were €145.7 million and in EMEA were €86.5 million.

The company managed to reduce its operating loss for the first six months of 2024 to €2.9 million, compared to a loss of €12.1 million in the first six months of 2023. PLA Polymer

“Our ability to innovate and meet market needs is reflected in the share of net sales from new products launched in the last three years, which continued on a very good level and exceeded 37% in the first half of this year, “Björnman said.

More…

New CPC line for Suominen

CCL Expands Range of Floatable Polyolefin Shrink Sleeves to Enhance PET Recycling

CCL Label, a leader in labels and packaging solutions, has expanded its range of sustainable low-density, floatable polyolefin (PO) shrink sleeves. PLA Polymer

These sleeves are designed to support recycling in established PET, HDPE, and PP waste streams, providing a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials that hinder recycling.

Reinhard Streit, VP and Managing Director of Food & Beverage at CCL Label, highlighted the versatility of the new range, which includes options like a high-shrink version for complex bottle shapes, a thinner 45-micron version for material efficiency, and a white version ideal for light-sensitive products like dairy and supplements. PLA Polymer

The EcoFloat sleeves, made from low-density material, offer an effective solution for mechanical recycling. These sleeves automatically separate from PET flakes during the sink/float process at recycling facilities, floating to the top while PET sinks, resulting in cleaner PET flakes that can be recycled into new bottles, thus closing the recycling loop.

Shivern Reddy, Sales Director at CCL Label South Africa, emphasized the high-shrink version’s capability to contour seamlessly to complex bottle shapes, while the 45-micron version offers material efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint. PLA Polymer

CCL Expands Range of Floatable Polyolefin Shrink Sleeves to Enhance PET Recycling

Making a Play With PHA

Processors with sustainability goals or mandates have a number of ways to reach their goals. Biopolymers are among them.

The drive toward sustainability is requiring North American processors — especially those serving the disposable packaging markets — to give more consideration to their material choices. PLA Polymer

Whether driven by their brand owner customers or internal demands or goals, molders and extrusion processors slowly are investigating and even in some cases deploying new materials and structures aimed at making their products greener.

Of course, sustainability has many definitions and takes on many shapes and forms. Where material choices are concerned, it could mean moving toward single-resin structures that are more readily recyclable. PLA Polymer

This is an emerging trend in flexible packaging, where all-PE multilayer structures are replacing multipolymer systems of those that combine plastics and other materials. There is also a growing push in packaging and beyond, or products made with a healthy dose of postconsumer reclaim. And biopolymers are also gaining a toehold in the green movement.

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Making a Play With PHA

French collaboration for compostable PLA

Enzymatic material disintegrates and biodegrades at a much faster rate than the 26 weeks required for certification. PLA Polymer

Following their successful collaboration on the enzymatic depolymerization of PET polyester which is now rapidly being commercialised, Carbios and the Toulouse Biotechnology Institute (TBI) are jointly developing another engineered enzyme that can be embedded into PLA (polylactic acid) to make it also self-biodegradable.

A study published in the joural Nature in July describes the engineering strategies deployed to ensure the development of the enzyme which is capable of biologically depolymerizing PLA materials over a wide temperature and pH range, reflecting the natural variations found in the life cycle of domestic compost. PLA Polymer

The study also describes the methodologies and challenges involved in obtaining a homogeneous incorporation of the enzyme into PLA films at high temperatures of 170°C, while retaining sufficient activity to enable the polymer produced to degrade completely and rapidly under domestic and industrial composting conditions, as well as in anaerobic digestion (methanization).

More…

French collaboration for compostable PLA

Plastics Recycling – Tough plastics broken down sustainably with common chemical, sunlight, air 13-08-2024

PLA Polymer

Plastics Recycling – Tough plastics broken down sustainably with common chemical, sunlight, air 13-08-2024

Plastics Recycling

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Plastics Recycling is a Failure – How to Solve the Problem

Is it time to remodel your existing facility or build a new one? Your Formaspace sales representative or strategic dealer partner can help you plan and choose the right furniture solutions to make your new space more productive, efficient, and ergonomic.

The fourth Global Plastics Treaty negotiations (INC-4) held in Ottawa, Canada, in April 2024 Produced a Mixed Outcome  Plastics Recycling

Given all the breaking news stories in the last few months, perhaps you were not aware that member countries of the United Nations came together in April to negotiate a new Global Plastics Treaty.

Advocates of a global treaty argue that plastic pollution is a worldwide problem and that it will take an international binding agreement to slow (or hopefully reverse) the damage that plastics (especially microplastic pollution) are causing to our oceans and the human food chain that we depend upon. Plastics Recycling

Proponents of a strong treaty not only wanted to address problems of single-use plastics but also to place overall limits on the production of plastic polymers, including the phase-out of what they described as dangerous PVC, polystyrene, and polyurethane plastics, while severely restricting the high-volume manufacture of polyethylene, polypropylene and PET plastics most associated with environmental plastic pollution. Such an agreement would reduce the use of plastic polymers by 40% between 2025 and 2040.
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Plastics Recycling
In the first half of 2024, Turkish apparel exports dropped by 10%, totaling 8.5 billion US dollars

This decline underscores the challenges the Turkish apparel industry faces amid a global economic slowdown and shifting trade dynamics. Plastics Recycling

Key factors driving this downturn include reduced consumer spending in major markets and increased competition from other apparel-exporting countries. Currency fluctuations also played a role in weakening the industry’s performance.

Despite these setbacks, the Turkish apparel sector remains vital to the economy. Efforts are underway to counteract the decline, with industry leaders focusing on entering new markets and boosting production efficiency. Plastics Recycling

The government is also implementing supportive policies to enhance the industry’s resilience and encourage innovation.

The recovery of Turkish apparel exports in the second half of 2024 will hinge on the success of these strategies and broader global market trends.

Plastics Recycling

Polypropylene (PP) prices quote higher in Europe

This week, PP prices increased in the European region.  Plastics Recycling

An industry source in Europe informed a Polymerupdate team member, “European polypropylene spot market prices were driven higher on the back of prevailing supply tightness, which mitigated the short-term impact of a tepid buyer interest. Market participants noted that a tight supply situation has been instrumental in bringing about an equilibrium in prices in spite of generally dampened demand and weak buyer appetite, signalling a downturn during the summer holiday in Europe. The supply constraints stemmed from delayed import shipments, the result of shipping disruptions and elevated freight rates, while consumers continued to be impeded in their efforts to procure material due to domestic outages.” Plastics Recycling
In the spot markets, PP injection moulding grade prices were assessed at the Euro 1215-1225/mt FD North West Europe mark, a rise of Euro (+10/mt) from the previous week. Meanwhile, PP block copolymer grade prices were assessed at the Euro 1295-1305/mt FD Northwest Europe levels, a gain of Euro (+20/mt) from last week.

Polypropylene (PP) prices quote higher in Europe

Is the Era of Explosive U.S. Shale Growth Over?

  • US oil production growth is slowing, with the EIA forecasting a modest increase in 2025.
  • Shale drillers are focusing on profitability and shareholder returns rather than maximizing production volumes.
  • Lower oil prices, high costs, and industry consolidation are contributing to the slowdown. Plastics Recycling

U.S. oil production growth is slowing down in response to lower international prices. The trend will likely extend in evidence that the shale industry is at a new stage in its evolution. The days of a million-bpd annual growth rate may be over—unless prices rise.

In its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook, the Energy Information Administration reported an estimated production rate for this year of 13.2 million barrels daily. That’s up from 12.9 million barrels daily last year, which is already a revision on earlier estimates about production growth in 2023—and it’s a downward revision. Plastics Recycling

The EIA’s outlook for the immediate future is quite measured, too, with the agency expecting the 2025 average at 13.7 million barrels, barely 500,000 bpd above this year’s average. Of course, these are simply estimates, and a lot could change if the price changes. Besides, half a million barrels daily in production growth is not too shabby and would be an acceleration of the 2023/2024 growth rate—if the price is right.

The first stage of the shale industry’s evolution is over.

More…

Is the Era of Explosive U.S. Shale Growth Over?

Tough plastics broken down sustainably with common chemical, sunlight, air

Engineers in Australia are championing a sustainable, low-energy and low-cost method to break down plastics. Plastics Recycling

Polystyrene, a type of plastic that is not biodegradable has long been viewed as detrimental to the environment. So much so that countries across the world have banned the use of polystyrene in various forms.

Last year, England banned single-use plastic cutlery, balloon sticks, polystyrene cups, and food containers. They can no longer be sold in the country. The government says the supply of single-use plastic plates, trays, and bowls has also been restricted.

Recently, scientists at the University of New South Wales in Kensington, Australia have devised a low-energy, sustainable technique to break down a myriad of plastics including polystyrene. Plastics Recycling

The new technique uses a common chemical compound (also seen in high school experiments) along with sunlight and air to separate seven unique categories of polymers by 90 percent.

The process takes just 30 minutes while the reduction elevates to 97 percent after three hours, the engineers from UNSW noted in a statement.

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Tough plastics broken down sustainably with common chemical, sunlight, air

INVISTA Completes Nylon 6,6 Capacity Expansion in Shanghai

INVISTA announced the completion of its nylon 6,6 polymer site expansion at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park (SCIP). With a total investment of 1.75 billion RMB ($240 million), the expansion doubles the site’s annual capacity to 400,000 metric tons. This increase is crucial for maximizing the value of INVISTA’s integrated nylon 6,6 value chain, meeting growing demand for high-quality products, and ensuring a stable local supply with faster market response. Plastics Recycling

The expansion event was attended by key officials from the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park, China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation, and INVISTA’s senior executives. Ruan Li, director general of SCIP, emphasized the role of INVISTA in developing an advanced and competitive nylon industry base. Pang Guanglian, executive board member of China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation, highlighted INVISTA’s leadership in technological innovation and market trends.

Nancy Kowalski, executive vice president of Upstream Nylon Global at INVISTA, noted that the expansion is a milestone in serving customers in China and globally.

It will support the development of cutting-edge solutions in engineering plastics, textiles, and industrial fibers, advancing industries like automotive, electronics, and consumer products. Plastics Recycling

The expanded site is integrated with INVISTA’s existing facilities and uses advanced polymerization technology, enhancing safety, environmental performance, and energy efficiency. The project’s construction phase successfully reduced safety risks and maintained ongoing production, achieving 5 million safe working hours without lost time injury.

This expansion reinforces INVISTA’s position as a global leader in nylon production, offering materials that meet the rising demand for high-performance products.

INVISTA Completes Nylon 6,6 Capacity Expansion in Shanghai

PCR polyester – Malaysia has launched anti-dumping investigations on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) imports from China and Indonesia, according to the trade ministry 12-08-2024

Plastics Recycling

PCR polyester – Malaysia has launched anti-dumping investigations on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) imports from China and Indonesia, according to the trade ministry 12-08-2024

PCR polyester

PET Packaging – DataBeyond Innovates with Advanced PET Bottle Sorting Technology, Partnering with New Ruibang Fiber Technology for Large-Scale Recycling Project

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Shurtape launches recycled tape series made from PCR polyester

The company says the new line is designed to reduce the use of virgin plastic in end-of-line packaging.

The new line consists of three packaging tapes made from 90 percent postconsumer recycled polyester.

Shurtape Technologies LLC, a Hickory, North Carolina-based manufacturer of adhesive tape and consumer home and office products, has launched its Shurtape Recycled Series Packaging Tapes.  PCR polyester

The new line consists of three packaging tapes made from 90 percent postconsumer recycled (PCR) polyester from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and rigid containers. The company says the new line is designed to reduce the use of virgin plastic in end-of-line packaging.

“There is a pressing need for sustainable packaging solutions that not only allow our customers to reduce their packaging footprint and waste, but also minimize their reliance on virgin plastics, while contributing to a more circular plastics economy,” says Bradley Dunlap, director of product marketing, packaging. “We are stepping up to the plate with carton sealing options that match our customers’ environmental priorities and sustainability goals while still providing the same quality and reliability that Shurtape packaging solutions are known for.”  PCR polyester

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PCR polyester

Malaysia has launched anti-dumping investigations on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) imports from China and Indonesia, according to the trade ministry

The inquiry, prompted by a domestic producer’s petition received on July 10, alleges that PET imports from these countries are being sold at prices significantly lower than their domestic rates. This underpricing, the petitioner claims, has led to an increase in import volumes, causing material harm to local producers. PCR polyester

The ministry stated that preliminary findings will be available within 120 days from the start of the investigation, though the exact commencement date was not disclosed. If the preliminary results confirm the allegations, provisional anti-dumping duties will be imposed to protect the domestic industry from further damage.

Additionally, the ministry announced an administrative review of existing anti-dumping duties on stranded steel wires for pre-stressing concrete imported from China. Malaysia has been applying duties ranging from 2.09% to 21.72% on these goods since December 2021, following a previous investigation. PCR polyester

The review was initiated after a domestic producer claimed that the dumping margin of these imports had significantly changed, necessitating a reassessment under local anti-dumping laws.

Malaysia has launched anti-dumping investigations on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) imports from China and Indonesia, according to the trade ministry

CATCO2NVERS: Creating added-value chemicals from bio-industrial CO2 emissions

The CATCO2NVERS project works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) through three catalytic processes (electrochemical, enzymatic, and thermochemical) and transform CO2 emissions into five chemicals.

Launched in 2021, CATCO2NVERS is a Horizon 2020 research and innovation project which aims to create added-value chemicals from bio-industrial CO2 emissions using integrated catalytic technologies.  PCR polyester

The CATCO2NVERS project is led by the Fundación Tecnológica Advantx (FUNDITEC), which promotes the generation of knowledge and its application for the development and strengthening of the competitive capacity of companies and organisations in the field of technology and innovation.

What is CATCO2NVERS?

The core purpose of CATCO2NVERS is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from the biobased industry by developing five innovative and integrated technologies based on three catalytic processes:  electrochemical, enzymatic, and thermochemical.

The project objective is to transform waste CO2 from two biobased industries into five added-value chemicals: glyoxylic acid, lactic acid, furan dicarboxylic methyl ester, cyclic carbonated fatty acid methyl esters, and bio-methanol, with application in the chemical, cosmetics, and plastic industries.  PCR polyester

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CATCO2NVERS: Creating added-value chemicals from bio-industrial CO2 emissions

TN Federation of Power looms Associations calls for shutdown against use of polyester yarn

Chennai, Aug 10 Tamil Nadu Federation of Power looms Associations on Saturday called for a shutdown against the use of polyester texturised yarn in the production of sarees during Pongal.

The federation also demanded that only cotton yarn should be used in the production of sarees during the festival season. PCR polyester

“The strike will start at 6 am and end at 6 pm on August 12. Our members would also observe a fast from 9 am to 5 pm near Veerappanchatiram bus stop in Erode,” said the federation.

On August 8, the Tamil Nadu Handloom Department invited e-tenders for the purchase of 4,306 tonnes of dyed polyester yarn, 2,960 tonnes of dyed polyester, 2,291 tonnes of grey polyester, and 358 tonnes of TPM dyed polyester. PCR polyester

“Tamil Nadu’s existing sizing process – done to prepare the yarn for weaving – is unsuitable for polyester yarn,” the federation said.

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TN Federation of Power looms Associations calls for shutdown against use of polyester yarn

How the plastic mountain of waste from health care could be recycled

Single-use health care items—everything from gloves and blood bags to surgical equipment—have become a growing environmental problem worldwide. Their use has increased sharply in recent years, and there are currently no methods for recycling such plastic medical waste.  PCR polyester

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology, in Sweden, have now shown how mixed waste from health care can be recycled in a safe and efficient way, using a technique where the material is heated and converted into chemical building blocks, which can then be used in the production of new plastic.

Their study is published in Resources, Conservation and Recycling .

Disposable health care items today create enormous amounts of waste. In the best-case scenario, this waste is incinerated, but in many countries it ends up in landfills, and it can also be released into the environment. PCR polyester

The COVID pandemic has contributed to an avalanche-like increase in disposable items being used. Worldwide, used face masks alone were estimated to weigh around 2,641 metric tons per day in 2022.

In circular economy policies, medical waste is often overlooked. Disposable health care items usually consist of several types of plastic that cannot be recycled with today’s technology. In addition, the items must be considered contaminated after use, and so, they must be handled so that risks of spreading potential infections are avoided.

More…

How the plastic mountain of waste from health care could be recycled

PCR polyester

PET Packaging – DataBeyond Innovates with Advanced PET Bottle Sorting Technology, Partnering with New Ruibang Fiber Technology for Large-Scale Recycling Project 12-08-2024

PET Packaging

PET Packaging

Polyestertime
ITEM 05/07/2024 12/08/2024 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 7,040 yuan/ton 7,090 yuan/ton +50
Bottle grade PET chips export market 910     $/ton 895  $/ton -15
LDPE Est China 1,152 $/ton 1,145 $/ton -7
PET Semidull Fiber chips

PET Bright

 7,010 yuan/ton

6,930 yuan/ton

 6,850 yuan/ton

6,930 yuan/ton

 -160
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market

PET Packaging

 5,700 yuan/ton 5,530 yuan/ton
 -170
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA FOB China 735 $/ton 715 $/ton -20
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,660 yuan/ton 4,640 yuan/ton
 -20
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 543 $/ton 542 $/ton -1
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market 991 $/ton 979 $/ton
 -12
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 969 $/ton 957 $/ton -12
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,131 $/7on 1,116 $/ton -15
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,770  yuan/ton 7,505 yuan/ton
 -265
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,300 yuan/ton 7,300 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 9,380 yuan/ton 9,000 yuan/ton -380
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F 9,100 yuan/ton 8,920 yuan/ton -180
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market

PET Packaging

 8,350 yuan/ton 8,150 yuan/ton -200
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,750 yuan/ton 7,585 yuan/ton -165
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 12,600 yuan/ton 12,565 yuan/ton
 -35
Caprolactam CPL FL Far East

PET Packaging
 1,660 $/ton 1,660 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,920 $/ton 1,920 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 13,500 yuan/ton 13,500 yuan/ton –
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market 14,200 yuan/ton 14,230 yuan/ton +30
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market

PET Packaging

 19,400 yuan/ton 18,700 yuan/ton +700
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,275 yuan/ton 16,300 yuan/ton +25
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,640 yuan/ton 18,640 yuan/ton –
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,450 yuan/ton 17,450 yuan/ton –
Spandex 20D  domestic  marke 29,800 yuan/ton 29,300 yuan/ton -500
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 29,300 yuan/ton 28,800 yuan/ton -500
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  26,300 yuan/ton 25,800 yuan/ton -500
Adipic Acid domestic market

PET Packaging

 9,450 yuan/ton 9,325 yuan/ton -125
Benzene domestic market9, 8,265 yuan/ton  8,490 yuan/ton +225
Benzene overseas  market 882 $/ton 882 $/ton –
Ethylene South East market 925 $/ton 930 $/ton +5
Ethylene NWE market CIF 820 $/ton 856 $/ton +36
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market 9,400 yuan/ton 8,175 yuan/ton -1,225
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF CFR China

PET Packaging

 14,600 yuan/ton 1,4,600 yuan/ton –
Viscose Bright VFY 120D 12,900 yuan/ton 12,900 yuan/ton –
PP Powder domestic market 7,450 yuan/ton 7,450 yuan/ton –
Naphtha overseas market  644 $/ton 657 $/ton +13
Phenol domestic market 8,475 yuan/ton 8,375 yuan/ton -100

r-PET FLAKES =                  6,850 yuan/ton  —          6,850 yuan/ton                  –      

PET Packaging

Mura Technology Secures Grant for Sustainable Development of Hydro-PRT

UK-based chemical recycler Mura Technology, in collaboration with the Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) at the University of Warwick, has secured a grant from Innovate UK for a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP). This partnership aims to advance Mura’s Hydro Plastics Recycling Technology (Hydro-PRT) by developing sustainability models for its future projects. PET Packaging

The KTP grant, awarded by the UK government’s innovation agency, will support a two-year project where WMG will create operational sustainability models for Mura’s chemical recycling technology. These models will include Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) to ensure that Hydro-PRT meets environmental standards across all Mura project sites. The sustainability platform developed through this project will serve as an educational and informative tool for stakeholders such as global regulators, policymakers, and the plastics value chain, highlighting the low carbon potential of Hydro-PRT.

A peer-reviewed LCA published by WMG last year revealed that Mura’s hydrothermal treatment of plastic waste reduces the carbon impact by approximately 80% compared to incineration, on a tonne-for-tonne basis. This significant reduction underscores the environmental benefits of Hydro-PRT. PET Packaging

Mura anticipates that the operational sustainability models will enhance the commercialization of its technology through licensing agreements. The first commercial Hydro-PRT plant is expected to be operational in Teesside, UK, by the end of 2024, with additional plants under construction in South Korea and Japan in partnership with local entities.

Dr. Geoff Brighty, Mura’s head of sustainability and R&D, emphasized the importance of the ongoing collaboration with WMG. He stated, “Hydro-PRT has sector-leading sustainability credentials, but every prospective site will be unique, influenced by the local energy grid, plant configurations, as well as its material supply chain. PET Packaging

The KTP project models will inform options appraisals and decision-making, ensuring sustainability is at the heart of our global growth programme.”

Unlike pyrolysis, Hydro-PRT uses water under high pressure and temperature to convert post-consumer, multi-layered, flexible, and rigid plastics into hydrocarbon feedstocks. This process can handle various plastic waste forms, including films, pots, tubs, and trays.

WMG’s LCA also identified that electricity consumption is the primary contributor to global warming in the hydrothermal treatment process. PET Packaging

Electricity grids rich in renewable energy sources have the potential to further reduce the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of the technology. Additionally, plant configurations that recycle process gas can enhance environmental performance.

The sustainability models developed through this project will enable stakeholders to identify opportunities for further improving the environmental performance of the Hydro-PRT process. This initiative not only strengthens Mura’s commercial prospects but also positions Hydro-PRT as a leading technology in sustainable plastic recycling. PET Packaging

PET Packaging

DataBeyond Innovates with Advanced PET Bottle Sorting Technology, Partnering with New Ruibang Fiber Technology for Large-Scale Recycling Project

China-based technology company, DataBeyond, known for its expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and optoelectronic sorting equipment, is making significant strides in the recycling industry. The company has announced a strategic collaboration with New Ruibang Fiber Technology, a prominent producer of recycled hollow polyester staple fiber (PSF). This partnership is focused on developing a highly advanced recycling operation in Suqian, China, where eight state-of-the-art PET bottle sorting lines are being constructed. These lines are designed to process an impressive 300,000 tonnes of PET bottles annually, transforming them into high-quality recycled hollow PSF. PET Packaging

The project’s ambitious scale is evident, with the aim to recycle around 20 billion PET bottles every year. This massive recycling effort is projected to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions by approximately 450,000 tons annually. The initiative is part of a broader effort to address the growing concerns around plastic waste and carbon footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals.

The first of the eight sorting lines was successfully commissioned in March of this year, marking the beginning of this large-scale operation. PET Packaging

The next two lines are slated to become operational by August, with the entire project being supported by a substantial investment of CNY 5 billion, equivalent to around €639 million. Once fully operational, these sorting lines will play a crucial role in the production of recycled hollow PSF, a material widely utilized in a variety of industries including home goods, toys, and apparel.

DataBeyond is deploying its cutting-edge optical sorting technology in this project, ensuring that the recycling process is both efficient and precise. The initial phase of the project saw the installation of six AI+SPEC AI hyperspectral sorters. These sophisticated machines are capable of identifying up to 256 different wavelength bands, enabling the accurate removal of various unwanted materials such as PC, PVC, PP, PE, PO, PETG, and complex composites. This precision is crucial in maintaining the high purity of the final recycled product. PET Packaging

The sorting process developed by DataBeyond is meticulously designed, encompassing 11 stages of sorting and processing. The workflow includes a wide array of equipment spread across nearly one kilometer, featuring unpackers, conveyors, vibrating screens, de-labeling machines, bottle sorting mechanisms, and pre-washing units. PET Packaging

Each of these stages is optimized to ensure that the PET bottles are processed as efficiently as possible, minimizing waste and maximizing the quality of the recycled output.

To further enhance the operational efficiency and reliability of the sorting lines, DataBeyond has integrated its proprietary DataBeyond Cloud Brain technology.

This system allows for continuous monitoring of the equipment, facilitating remote upgrades, predictive maintenance, and real-time management around the clock. This advanced level of control ensures that the equipment operates at peak performance, reducing downtime and maintaining the high standards required for such a large-scale recycling operation.  PET Packaging

Founded in 2018, DataBeyond has rapidly established itself as a key player in the global recycling technology market. The company is committed to providing sophisticated yet cost-effective AI-based sorting solutions that cater to the needs of the recycling industry worldwide. Its product portfolio includes a range of high-performance optical sorters that incorporate cutting-edge technologies such as the MSWDataBase and deep neural network algorithms. These technologies are complemented by various optical sorting methods, including near-infrared (NIR), infrared (IR), hyperspectral imaging, fluorescence detection, and X-ray scanning. PET Packaging

DataBeyond’s influence extends far beyond its home market in China. The company’s advanced sorting solutions have been successfully exported to numerous countries, including Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Japan, Malaysia, Nigeria, various European nations, and the United States. This global presence underscores the company’s ability to meet the diverse needs of recycling operations around the world, further solidifying its reputation as an industry leader. PET Packaging

In conclusion, DataBeyond’s partnership with New Ruibang Fiber Technology represents a significant advancement in the recycling industry, both in terms of scale and technological innovation. With its cutting-edge sorting equipment and commitment to sustainability, DataBeyond is poised to make a lasting impact on the global recycling landscape, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste and carbon emissions on a massive scale. This project not only highlights the capabilities of DataBeyond’s technology but also sets a new benchmark for the recycling industry as a whole. PET Packaging

PET Packaging

PET Packaging

LFP batteries – Aramco to Gain Majority Stake in Petro Rabigh, Enhancing Financial Stability and Turnaround Strategy 10-08-2024

LFP batteries

The production of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries is at risk due to an inadequate supply chain struggling to meet growing demand

LFP batteries are becoming increasingly important, particularly in China, where they power about 50% of zero-emission vehicles, and are gaining popularity in the USA and Europe. However, as demand surges, the supply chain faces potential bottlenecks that could destabilize the market. LFP batteries

China dominates the supply of phosphate rock, essential for LFP batteries, with 81% of global production concentrated in just six countries. This concentration creates a vulnerable market, especially since only 3% of mined phosphate rock is suitable for battery production. Furthermore, purified phosphoric acid, crucial for LFP batteries, is in short supply, with demand expected to increase significantly by 2030. Without new supply channels, prices may rise, and availability could decline, threatening the electric mobility sector. LFP batteries

A potential solution lies in recovering phosphorus from wastewater, a method under exploration in China and the USA. This process, though complex and still in development, could offer a new source of phosphorus. Interestingly, LFP batteries using phosphorus from wastewater may exhibit better charging capacity and longer lifespan, providing an unexpected benefit amid the supply challenges. LFP batteries

LFP batteries

Infinity Recycling and others partner to tackle plastic pollution

Infinity Recycling will support companies to develop their recycling capabilities via its Circular Plastics Fund.

Infinity Recycling, a Dutch growth equity investor, has announced a partnership with BlueInvest and the European Investment Fund (EIF) to address the escalating plastic pollution issue.

With €50m ($54.61m) in financing from InvestEU via the EIF, Infinity is set to invest in advanced recycling technologies that aim to enhance the recycling of plastic waste and make it profitable. LFP batteries

Through its Circular Plastics Fund, Infinity Recycling will support European companies in developing and scaling up technologies that can fully recycle plastic waste.

These technologies will enable the production of new plastics with properties equivalent to virgin materials, a significant improvement over traditional recycling methods that often degrade the quality of plastics. LFP batteries

LFP batteries

Aramco to Gain Majority Stake in Petro Rabigh, Enhancing Financial Stability and Turnaround Strategy

  • Aramco to Purchase Additional Shares in Petro Rabigh from Sumitomo Chemical
  • Agreed Mechanism to Strengthen Petro Rabigh’s Financial Health

Aramco, a global leader in integrated energy and chemicals, has finalized an agreement to acquire an additional 22.5% stake in Rabigh Refining and Petrochemical Co. (“Petro Rabigh”) from Sumitomo Chemical for $702 million.

Petro Rabigh, situated on Saudi Arabia’s west coast, is a key refining and petrochemical complex. LFP batteries

Currently, both Aramco and Tokyo-based Sumitomo Chemical hold 37.5% shares in Petro Rabigh, which has been publicly traded on the Saudi Exchange since 2008. The transaction, priced at SAR7 per share, will increase Aramco’s ownership to approximately 60%, making it the majority shareholder. Sumitomo Chemical will retain a 15% equity stake. This deal, pending customary closing conditions including regulatory and third-party approvals, is part of a broader financial strategy aimed at bolstering Petro Rabigh’s financial standing. LFP batteries

According to the share sale agreement, all proceeds from Sumitomo Chemical’s sale will be reinvested into Petro Rabigh. Additionally, Aramco will inject matching funds of $702 million into Petro Rabigh, bringing the total financial boost to $1.4 billion. This injection aims to enhance Petro Rabigh’s financial stability and support its strategic goals.

Furthermore, Aramco and Sumitomo Chemical have agreed to gradually waive $750 million each in shareholder loans, collectively reducing Petro Rabigh’s liabilities by $1.5 billion. LFP batteries

Aramco to Gain Majority Stake in Petro Rabigh, Enhancing Financial Stability and Turnaround Strategy

Lenzing Group Reports Further Improvement In Operating Result

The Lenzing Group, a supplier of regenerated cellulose fibers for the textile and nonwovens industries, reports a gradual improvement in its business performance in the first half of 2024. As expected, the recovery of the markets relevant to Lenzing proved to be sluggish. Although fiber sales volumes increased, fiber prices remained at a low level. The cost of raw materials and energy remained high. At the same time, logistics costs rose significantly in the reporting period. LFP batteries

Revenue grew by 4.8 percent year-on-year to EUR 1.31 bn in the first half of 2024, primarily thanks to higher revenue from fibers (+9.3 percent).

The trend in the operating result primarily reflects the positive effects of the comprehensive performance program. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) rose by 20.4 percent from EUR 136.5 mn in the first half of 2023 to EUR 164.4 mn in the same period of 2024. The EBITDA margin increased from 10.9 to 12.5 percent. LFP batteries

The operating result (EBIT) amounted to EUR 18.9 mn (compared with minus EUR 12 mn in the first half of 2023) and the EBIT margin stood at 1.4 percent (compared with minus 1 percent in the previous year). Earnings before tax (EBT) amounted to minus EUR 22.3 mn (compared with minus EUR 76.1 mn in the prior-year period).

Earnings per share stood at minus EUR 1.84 (compared with minus EUR 3.92 in the first half of 2023). LFP batteries

More…

Lenzing Group Reports Further Improvement In Operating Result

Regulation and voluntary action fail to inspire circular packaging

The rising tide of corporate commitments and regulatory targets relating to the circular economy have made “disappointingly little impact” on the global plastics industry in the past decade, according to Wood Mackenzie. The global economy “remains wedded to an extractive, rather than circular, model”, the consultants conclude in a new whitepaper. 

The circular economy, a critical strategy for delivering a lower-emission, more sustainable future by reusing materials and minimising waste has “struggled to navigate traditional value chains and business practices”. LFP batteries

“The circular economy model has not made the impact many plastics industry observers predicted when it was first mooted, but there are some exciting initiatives underway that could change that,” said Guy Bailey, VP of oils & chemicals research at Wood Mackenzie. “The successful negotiation and introduction of the United Nations Plastic Treaty [a legally binding agreement that would end plastic pollution] is a necessary starting point, but the adoption of new business models to drive coordination across the value chain is the key to real change.” LFP batteries

The report states that currently petrochemical companies, technology companies and waste management firms all operate with different assumptions about what a ‘fair’ allocation of value looks like. This has led to slow progress.

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Regulation and voluntary action fail to inspire circular packaging

Mattress Recycling Council expanding into Oregon

Statewide mattress recycling program to begin Jan. 1, 2025.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has announced it has authorized the Mattress Recycling Council (MRC), Alexandria, Virginia, to establish and administer a statewide mattress recycling program in the state. Oregon DEQ approved a modified operating plan, including a budget and stewardship assessment to fund the program.

The program will begin Jan. 1, 2025, and will be funded by a $22.50 per unit DEQ-approved stewardship assessment collected on the sale of each mattress and foundation sold for use in Oregon. LFP batteries

“With our nearly 10 years of experience in administering our existing state programs, we’re ready to bring mattress recycling to Oregon,” says MRC’s Chief Operating Officer Mike O’Donnell. “We appreciate the support of the solid waste and recycling community, mattress manufacturers and retailers which has resulted in MRC recycling over 13 million mattresses through our state programs.”

Before the Oregon program begins, retailers, manufacturers, importers, distributors and renovators of mattresses and foundations sold for use in Oregon must register their business with MRC. LFP batteries

Those selling these products to end-users—individual consumers or a large-volume buyers—must also be prepared starting Jan. 1, 2025, to collect the $22.50 per unit stewardship assessment, and displaying that amount as a line item on the receipt, invoice or other sales documentation that the seller provides the purchaser.

“MRC encourages the mattress industry, solid waste facilities and other interested parties to learn about this program and understand their role in a successful recycling program,” O’Donnell says. “We offer a library of resources and have a wonderful team ready to answer your questions.” LFP batteries

More…

Mattress Recycling Council expanding into Oregon

Tethered PET caps – Solid-state batteries have been a hot topic for years, heralded as the next big thing in the automotive industry 09-08-2024

LFP batteries

Tethered PET caps – Solid-state batteries have been a hot topic for years, heralded as the next big thing in the automotive industry 09-08-2024

Tethered PET caps

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

New Foam for Car Interiors Showcased at Fakuma

LyondellBasell, in partnership with Antolin and Renault, will unveil the first applications of their newly developed expanded polypropylene (Hostacom TYC 2463F E2) at the Fakuma fair in Germany. This innovative material is designed to enhance the finish of car interiors and will be commercially used for the first time in Renault’s new Rafale hybrid SUV.

A component made from this new material will be displayed by LyondellBasell at Fakuma, held from October 15-19 in Friedrichshafen. Tethered PET caps

The development of this compound is attributed to LyondellBasell’s advanced catalysis system, which enhances the rheology of the expanding agent, making it ideal for producing interior parts with intricate designs and complex surface textures.

Key benefits of the new grade include high flowability, a broader processing window, and excellent melt resistance, resulting in a more uniform cell structure. Tethered PET caps

Additionally, the new formulation of the chemical foam system contributes to weight reduction.

The material is scratch-resistant, low in emissions, and has a semi-ductile consistency, making it suitable for various car interior applications.

Nathalie Etienne-Morange, head of door panels at Renault, states, “The collaboration between Renault, LyondellBasell, and Antolin has led to a groundbreaking solution. The use of this foam material in the new Renault Rafale marks a significant milestone in our pursuit of innovation and sustainability in automotive design.” Tethered PET caps

Tethered PET caps

Solid-state batteries have been a hot topic for years, heralded as the next big thing in the automotive industry

These batteries promise higher energy density compared to current lithium-ion batteries, leading to better performance, longer range, shorter charging times, and reduced weight and volume. Samsung, a leader in this field, recently announced at the SNE Battery Day 2024 in Seoul that their solid-state batteries can offer nearly 1,000 km of range and can charge from 10% to 80% in just nine minutes. According to a Samsung SDI spokesperson, customer feedback on the samples provided has been very positive. Tethered PET caps

Benefits and Challenges

Samsung’s solid-state batteries boast an energy density of 500 Wh/kg, significantly higher than the best current batteries, and are designed to last at least 20 years. They use a solid electrolyte instead of a liquid one, which contributes to their higher energy density and improved safety by eliminating flammability issues. Tethered PET caps

However, the main barrier to widespread adoption is the high production cost.

Industry Progress

Many companies are racing to perfect this technology. Chinese firms like NIO, CATL, and BYD are close to introducing solid-state batteries. In the U.S., companies such as QuantumScape, Factorial, and Solid Power are making strides, while Europe has the Spinmate project. Toyota has also committed to bringing solid-state batteries to market by 2027. It seems that solid-state batteries will soon become a reality, though it remains to be seen how quickly they will become affordable and widely accessible. Tethered PET caps

Tethered PET caps

Electric-Thermal Hybrid Vehicles: The Right Choice?

Hybrid vehicles are increasingly popular among buyers, especially those not yet ready to commit to a fully electric car. This is mainly due to the limited number of charging stations available nationally, making charging inconvenient. Let’s explore their consumption and why they are favored.

Hybrid Car Consumption Hybrid cars present a viable alternative for those hesitant to switch from petrol engines but not ready for a fully electric vehicle. Their appeal lies in the balance they strike between efficiency and convenience. Tethered PET caps

However, the consumption data provided, based on the WLTP cycle, is often misleading. This data is collected under “laboratory” conditions, not reflective of real-life usage, leading to higher actual consumption. Nonetheless, hybrids remain fuel-efficient, with consumption ranging from 3.8 liters per 100 km for models like the Toyota Yaris, to over 6 liters for larger vehicles. Tethered PET caps

Advantages of Hybrids Compared to similar petrol engines, hybrids offer the benefit of using electric power for short trips, reducing carbon emissions to zero during those times. This feature makes hybrids an attractive option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing convenience.

Making the Choice While consumption is crucial, opting for a hybrid, whether small or medium-sized, over a purely electric or petrol vehicle, represents a significant step towards modernizing the vehicle fleet. Tethered PET caps

Hybrids offer adequate power through their thermal engines and benefit from regenerative braking, alleviating energy supply concerns. Considering sales trends and practical benefits, hybrids are an excellent choice for those considering a new car today.

Electric-Thermal Hybrid Vehicles: The Right Choice?

Expanding Luminy® PLA Bioplastics Distribution in Japan

Nagase & Co., Ltd. partners with TotalEnergies Corbion to distribute and expand sustainable Luminy® PLA bioplastics in Japan

Nagase & Co., Ltd. has signed an agreement with TotalEnergies Corbion (TEC) to distribute Luminy® PLA bioplastics in Japan.Through this partnership, Nagase will expand the reach of Luminy® PLA in Japan, a country that has a strong focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As one of the world’s largest economy, Japan’s ambitious goals of carbon neutrality by 2050 has set the country in trajectory of adopting new technologies that reduce carbon emissions and minimize waste. Tethered PET caps

In addition to expanding sales of Luminy® PLA in the Japanese market, NAGASE and TEC will collaborate on research and development to evaluate and enhance material properties to develop new applications that meet customer needs. Through this strategic collaboration, both companies aim to reduce environmental impact by mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a world based on a sustainable, circular and regenerative economy. Tethered PET caps

TotalEnergies Corbion’s Luminy® PLA is derived from ethically sourced, annually renewable sugarcane crops. With a significantly lower carbon footprint – 75% less than conventional plastics – Luminy® PLA offers inherent advantages such as a range of melting points, with excellent heat resistance and robust mechanical strength as well as favorable color appearance (including transparency). This makes it an ideal choice across a diverse range of applications. PLA is utilized across several sectors including food packaging, apparel, and durable goods such as automotive interior components, hardware components and luxury casing. Tethered PET caps

More…

Expanding Luminy® PLA Bioplastics Distribution in Japan

Indorama Ventures to Close PTA Plant in Montréal-Est as Part of Asset Optimization

Montréal, Québec, Canada – Indorama Ventures’ Combined PET business segment will cease operations at its Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) plant in Montréal-Est, starting preparations for closure in September 2024. Tethered PET caps

This decision follows significant changes in the polyester industry, notably the new builds and persistent overcapacity in China, which have strained Western producers. The resultant feedstock cost pressures, declining demand, and inflation have led to low utilization rates and regional plant closures. To remain resilient and cost-competitive amid these structural shifts, Indorama Ventures has reviewed its portfolio for necessary asset optimization. Tethered PET caps

Despite the closure, customers will not be affected, as the company’s US production assets and global footprint ensure continued reliable supply solutions.

Muthukumar Paramasivam, President and Co-leader of the Combined PET Segment, stated: “We are deeply saddened to make this announcement. This was a very tough decision, but it is essential to adapt to challenging market conditions. We thank our Montréal employees for their loyal service since 2015. We are committed to mitigating the adverse effects on our employees and the local community.” Tethered PET caps

Indorama Ventures to Close PTA Plant in Montréal-Est as Part of Asset Optimization

Origin Materials Introduces Innovative Engineering and Design for Tethered PET Beverage Caps

Enhanced Recycling with Mono-Material PET Caps

Origin Materials (“Origin”), a leading technology company dedicated to promoting sustainable materials, has unveiled groundbreaking engineering and design advancements in its production of tethered PET caps—the first of their kind. These caps simplify recycling by using “mono-material” containers and can be manufactured from either unmodified virgin PET plastic or 100% recycled PET plastic. This innovation also facilitates lighter packaging and extends product shelf life. Tethered PET caps

Environmental and User Benefits

The tethered design keeps caps attached to bottles, preventing environmental litter.

Compliance with EU Regulations

John Bissell, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Origin, highlighted that their PET cap innovations align perfectly with the European Union’s Single-Use Plastic Directive, which mandates caps remain connected to bottles. Bissell anticipates that other regions will adopt similar regulations, further enhancing the demand for their advanced PET cap technology. This positions Origin to capture a significant share of the $65 billion caps and closures market, which currently relies on non-recyclable materials. Tethered PET caps

Advancing Recycling Circularity

Bissell emphasized the importance of using the same material—PET—for both caps and bottles to avoid the need for separation at recycling centers. This ensures a higher purity of recycled materials and maintains the value of PET plastic within the recycling loop.

Lightweight and Versatile PET Caps

Origin’s tethered PET caps build on their previously announced PET closure, known as the world’s lightest carbonated soft drink (CSD) cap compatible with the PCO 1881 neck finish. These caps can be produced from virgin PET, recycled PET (rPET), or bio-based PET.

Origin Materials Introduces Innovative Engineering and Design for Tethered PET Beverage Caps

Tethered PET caps

Biorecycling – Many EU Member States not on track to meet recycling targets for municipal waste and packaging waste 08-08-2024

Pyrolysis – BMW is collaborating with the German startup DeepDrive to develop dual-rotor electric motors for new electric cars 06-08-2024

Pyrolysis

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BMW is collaborating with the German startup DeepDrive to develop dual-rotor electric motors for new electric cars

Unlike traditional electric motors that have a single rotor and stator, DeepDrive’s innovative design features both an internal and an external rotor. This dual-rotor configuration is being tested by BMW in various electric car prototypes.

DeepDrive’s motors are being evaluated in two configurations: one that powers an entire axle and another that powers individual wheels via hub motors. BMW began working with DeepDrive in 2021 and has been impressed with the performance of the sample motors provided. Pyrolysis

According to Karol Virsik, head of BMW’s research and development center, the motors have exceeded expectations, which is rare for new technologies at this stage.

Initial bench tests have shown promising results, and road tests are set to begin soon. BMW believes these dual-rotor motors are scalable and could significantly advance electric vehicle technology. DeepDrive is also working with other major manufacturers, including Continental, which has developed a brake system for DeepDrive’s wheel hub motors. This technology won the German Innovation Award in 2024. Pyrolysis

The collaboration with BMW is part of the “BMW Startup Garage” initiative, which supports young companies in developing cutting-edge technologies. Felix Pörnbacher, co-founder and co-CEO of DeepDrive, views this partnership as a crucial step towards bringing their innovative motors to market.

Pyrolysis

Mitsubishi and Goldwin Partner for Sustainable Polyester Supply Chain

Mitsubishi Corporation and Goldwin, the operator of the North Face brand in Japan, are leading a consortium to create a sustainable PET polyester fiber supply chain. This initiative uses a mass balancing approach to ensure credible traceability of material streams. The polyester will be produced from renewable and bio-based materials, including paraxylene derived from carbon capture and utilization (CCU).  Pyrolysis

The consortium includes Mitsubishi, Goldwin, Chiyoda Corporation, Toyobo, Indorama Ventures, SK geo centric, India Glycols, and Neste. Goldwin will initially use these fibers in sports uniforms, with plans for further product launches.

Neste will supply renewable naphtha from bio-based waste, Chiyoda will provide CCU paraxylene from CO2, and SK geo centric will also supply renewable paraxylene. Indorama Ventures will produce PTA using these monomers, India Glycols will provide bioethylene glycol, and Toyobo will manufacture the renewable bio-CCU PET polyester. Pyrolysis

Pyrolysis

How is Plastic Recycled? Exploring the Different Plastic Recycling Processes

1/ Mechanical Recycling

2/ Chemical Recycling

3/ The Anellotech Process

Plastic recycling involves several methods tailored to the specific type of plastic being processed. With approximately ten different types of plastics, each composed of varying elements and additives, not all plastics can be recycled similarly. Thierry Gauthier, Circular Economy Advisor at the French Institute of Petroleum (IFPEN) Chemistry for Industry Center in Lyon, shed light on the current recycling processes. He also highlighted IFPEN’s innovative methods to indefinitely recycle plastics like PET and integrate biomass into recycling processes.  Pyrolysis

1/ Mechanical Recycling

Mechanical recycling of plastic is a process where plastic waste is transformed into new materials or products without altering their fundamental chemical structure. This process involves several key steps:

Plastic waste is collected, often through yellow bins, then sorted by type and color. Once sorted, plastics are cleaned to remove impurities such as labels, food residues, or other contaminants.

The cleaned plastics are then shredded into small pieces or flakes. These flakes are melted and extruded to form plastic pellets or new finished products. Pyrolysis

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How is Plastic Recycled? Exploring the Different Plastic Recycling Processes

Continental Tire commits to recycled content in Europe

Tire maker reaches what it calls long-term supply agreement with recycled carbon black producer in Germany.

Continental says its tires already contain recycled materials, including rubber from mechanically processed end-of-life tires, recycled-content steel and recycled polyester from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles.

Hanover, Germany-based Continental AG says its Continental Tires business unit has reached a long-term purchase agreement with Pyrum Innovations for the latter firm to provide Continental with recycled-content carbon black (rCB) to be used in tire production.

Continental describes Germany-based Pyrum as “a specialist in the thermolysis technology of end-of-life tires” whose process can create “particularly high-quality rCB recovered from end-of-life tires.” Pyrolysis

The tire maker says it intends to use rCB in the production of passenger car tires. Continental says previously it had signed a development agreement with Pyrum in 2022. That same year, Pyrum announced a joint venture agreement to build a pyrolysis-based tire recycling plant in southern Germany.

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Continental Tire commits to recycled content in Europe

Plastics Recycling Show Middle East & Africa 2024

The Plastics Recycling Show Middle East & Africa (PRS ME&A) is scheduled for September 10-12, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, UAE. This exclusive three-day event is dedicated to the burgeoning field of plastics recycling in the region.

PRS ME&A aims to bridge the gap between delegates and the latest advancements in plastics recycling technology. It is a hub for thought leaders, innovators, and technology providers to exchange insights and propel the industry forward. Pyrolysis

The event will feature an extensive exhibition displaying cutting-edge market solutions and technologies. Concurrently, a comprehensive conference will delve into critical themes such as the circular economy, regulatory landscapes, industry challenges, opportunities, innovations, technologies, and trends.

Renowned international experts will lead conference sessions, sharing valuable insights and experiences from various segments of the plastics sector. The discussions will encompass the latest industry trends and developments, recent legislative changes, and emerging challenges and opportunities. Pyrolysis

PRS ME&A aims to unite the entire value chain, promoting collaboration and accelerating the shift towards a sustainable and circular plastics recycling industry. This gathering is poised to be a pivotal moment for stakeholders committed to driving progress in plastics recycling across the Middle East and Africa.

Registration for PRS ME&A 2024 is free of charge.4

Plastics Recycling Show Middle East & Africa 2024

TotalEnergies Corbion CEO: Scaling bioplastics in the face of geopolitical uncertainties

TotalEnergies Corbion is one of the world’s biggest producers of polylactic acid (PLA), a bio-based polymer with contested environmental benefits. The company claims its Luminy PLA material brand, which is developed from sugarcane, has a 75% lower footprint than conventional plastics. But the sector is facing myriad challenges.

PLA is used for various applications, including flexible packaging and nonwovens to durable goods and 3D printing. TotalEnergies Corbion is working with stakeholders, including Novolex, PepsiCo, Sansu and Danone. Pyrolysis

We speak to Thomas Philipon, CEO of TotalEnergies Corbion, about the company’s R&D, business expansion, PLA’s human and environmental health impacts, geopolitical affairs and other issues.

What are the challenges in scaling PLA and making it competitive with conventional plastics?
Philipon: We already have a 75,000-ton annual production capacity for Luminy PLA, which is significant. However, the bioplastics sector still faces some challenges. Awareness is a critical factor for both consumers and brand owners. We have an important job to do in educating the public about the benefits of bioplastics. Pyrolysis

More… TotalEnergies Corbion CEO: Scaling bioplastics in the face of geopolitical uncertainties

EV Cars – CARBIOS and SASA Discuss Licensing Agreement for PET Biorecycling Facility in Turkey 05-08-2024

Pyrolysis

Biorecycling – Many EU Member States not on track to meet recycling targets for municipal waste and packaging waste 08-08-2024

Biorecycling

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Axial Flux Electric Motors: Pioneering the Future of Electric Mobility

Axial flux electric motors are revolutionizing the electric vehicle industry with their superior efficiency, power, and compact design. These motors offer benefits like faster acceleration and enhanced energy efficiency, though their complex construction currently leads to higher production costs. As the technology evolves, it promises greener and more efficient mobility solutions. Biorecycling

A New Frontier for Electric Vehicles

Axial flux motors are gaining traction among engineers and EV enthusiasts due to their distinctive features. Unlike conventional motors where the magnetic flux traverses the rotor perpendicularly, axial flux motors have the flux aligned parallel to the axis. This configuration boosts energy efficiency and provides higher torque at lower speeds, making them ideal for electric vehicles that require quick acceleration and optimal performance.

Advantages and Challenges

The innovative design of axial flux motors reduces resistive and eddy current losses, enhancing overall efficiency. They also produce greater torque at low speeds, essential for rapid acceleration in EVs.  Biorecycling

Their compactness allows for reduced size and weight, perfect for applications with limited space. However, their intricate construction leads to higher manufacturing costs and potential noise issues, with reduced torque at high speeds.

Applications and Future Prospects

Beyond automotive use, axial flux motors are well-suited for drones and robots, where space and weight are critical. Biorecycling

In industrial applications, their high torque and precision make them ideal for driving pumps, compressors, and machine tools. As technology advances and production costs decline, axial flux motors are poised for widespread adoption, enhancing the efficiency and performance of various electric systems.

Biorecycling

Many EU Member States not on track to meet recycling targets for municipal waste and packaging waste

Europe aims to become a circular economy. To encourage this, the EU has set targets for the 27 Member States (EU-27) to increase recycling and reduce landfilling. Specifically, by 2025, 55% of municipal waste and 65% of packaging waste must be prepared for re-use or recycled. This briefing assesses Member States’ prospects of meeting these targets and its findings constitute the basis of the European Commission’s 2023 early warning report.

Key messages

  • 10 Member States are at risk of missing both the municipal waste (55%) and the total packaging waste (65%) recycling targets in 2025. Biorecycling
  • Eight Member States are at risk of missing the municipal waste (55%) recycling target but on track to meet the total packaging waste target in 2025.
  • Nine Member States (Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Slovenia) are likely to meet the recycling targets for both municipal waste and total packaging waste, but only four of them are likely to also meet all material-specific packaging targets in 2025.
  • 12 Member States are at risk of missing at least two material-specific packaging recycling targets in 2025. Biorecycling
  • Plastic packaging is the most demanding packaging waste stream to recycle. 19 Member States will struggle to meet the 50% recycling target in 2025.
  • Many Member States need to significantly step up their efforts and better monitor the effectiveness of policy measures to address the risk areas identified in this assessment.

Biorecycling

CARBIOS and FCC Environment collaborate on UK-based PET biorecycling facility

CARBIOS says recycling has plateaued in the UK in recent years, but UK government policy supports a continual move to a more circular economy, which FCC Environment supports. Biorecycling

Achieving a circular economy requires innovation and investment to deliver real environmental change, CARBIOS says, and exploring biorecycling is one way of doing this.

FCC states it is keen to understand this technology better by seeking an evidence-based view on the advantages of using enzymes for the treatment of PET, such as lower energy consumption and better circularity of the polymers back into the PET production lines. The depolymerization process developed by CARBIOS also facilitates the recycling of all kinds of PET waste, including problematic fractions such as polyester textiles, into high-quality recycled PET. Biorecycling

In order to tackle the plastic waste crisis, CARBIOS says it has developed a revolutionary enzymatic depolymerization technology that enables efficient and solvent-free recycling of PET plastic and textile waste into virgin-like products. As well as the ‘world’s first’ industrial-scale enzymatic PET recycling plant currently under construction in Longlaville, France, the UK-based plant would process PET waste that is currently not recyclable using conventional recycling technologies, such as coloured, multilayered or textile waste. Biorecycling

More…

CARBIOS and FCC Environment collaborate on UK-based PET biorecycling facility

Brindisi Under Review by LyondellBasell

The Brindisi petrochemical plant is under review by LyondellBasell for potential investments, rationalizations, or divestments, among six European assets being evaluated. These sites include Berre in France, Muenchmuenster in Germany, Tarragona in Spain, Carrington in the UK, and Maasvlakte in the Netherlands (in partnership with Covestro). Notably, the Brindisi site experienced the closure of a polypropylene plant at the end of last year. Biorecycling

Ferrara in Italy remains a strategic asset, with planned investments in catalysis systems. This review program, part of LyondellBasell’s European activities assessment announced last May, was highlighted during the presentation of the financial results for Q2 2024.

From April to June, LyondellBasell reported a net profit of $924 million and an EBITDA of $1.4 billion, attributed to increased production and improved demand. In North America, sales volumes of olefins and polyolefins rose, supported by favorable costs of ethane and natural gas. European polyethylene margins improved due to increased LPG usage at favorable conditions. Biorecycling

To enhance profitability, LyondellBasell sold its Ethylene Oxide & Derivatives (EO&D) business to Ineos for $700 million and invested approximately $500 million to acquire a 35% stake in the Natpet joint venture in Saudi Arabia. The company also plans to exit refining by Q1 2025, converting its Houston refinery, a strategy reiterated last year.

Brindisi Under Review by LyondellBasell

Emirates Biotech: Revolutionizing the PLA Bioplastics Sector

SS Royal Kit Emirates Investment and Global Biopolymers Industries have launched Emirates Biotech, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming the PLA bioplastics sector across the Middle East, Africa, and India. Biorecycling

This venture focuses on producing and promoting PLA biopolymers as a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based plastics.

Emirates Biotech is dedicated to offering high-quality, renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable PLA biopolymers, aligning with circular economy principles. Strategically positioned to cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly products, the company not only supplies PLA biopolymers but also provides expertise in application development, recycling, and sustainable end-of-life solutions. Biorecycling

Shaikh Suhail Ali Saeed Rashed Al-Maktoum emphasized that this collaboration reflects a strong commitment to advancing sustainability both regionally and globally. By investing in PLA bioplastics, Emirates Biotech aims to foster a more environmentally conscious society, aligning with the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030 vision.

Emirates Biotech plans to commence commercial operations in early 2025 and aims to begin constructing its first PLA production facility in the UAE by 2026. Biorecycling

This initiative underscores a significant step towards sustainable development, offering a viable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastics and contributing to a greener future.

Emirates Biotech: Revolutionizing the PLA Bioplastics Sector

Innovia launches new in-mold film

Semi-cavitated labeling film is designed for large format containers typically used in the paint, food and industrial markets.

Innovia Films, a major producer of BOPP films, has launched RayoForm ELR70, a new film for large-format in-mold labeling containers.

This five-layer semi-cavitated film, with one side matt and one side gloss, offers a reduction in density versus standard white films. Biorecycling

The two-side treatment allows for the control of anti-static levels for the high-speed sheet feeding and molding process, giving optimal print and molding performance.

‘The high stiffness of the film allows for bigger labels and larger sheet conversion. This product performs excellently on both PP and PE containers,’ said Paul Watters, product manager for labels at Innovia Films. Biorecycling

More…

Innovia launches new in-mold film

Bioplastic – Can private value chains boost polyolefin recycling? 07-08-2024

Biorecycling

Bioplastic – Can private value chains boost polyolefin recycling? 07-08-2024

Bioplastic

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Bottle Closure Printing Station for Labelless Water Bottles

Domino Printing Sciences has launched a new range of high-speed product handling and printing solutions to support the shift away from labels on bottles for environmental and legislative reasons. These stations print variable data and machine-readable codes, including QR codes, onto HDPE bottle caps and closures.

Nigel Allen, Marketing Manager at Domino, highlights the growing interest in labelless bottles within the beverage industry, emphasizing their role in promoting a circular economy. Removing labels simplifies recycling, reduces plastic usage, and can save manufacturers up to 5% on production costs. Bioplastic

Governments worldwide are exploring projects to increase plastic recycling rates. South Korea, for instance, will prohibit external labels on bottled water from January 2026. This poses a challenge for manufacturers to meet labelling requirements without compromising production performance.

Domino’s solution includes high-speed, in-line variable data printing on bottle closures, providing a link to all necessary product information. The stations can be customized for various production environments, offering high-speed printing of loose caps and in-line coding of filled bottles. Bioplastic

The in-line solution features advanced product handling, high-resolution printing, and integrated machine vision for code inspection. Domino recently installed its first in-line bottle closure printing station in Korea, with several more installations following as brands recognize the benefits of labelless PET bottles.

Bioplastic

Invista to Reopen Nylon Intermediate Plant

Invista plans to invest $17 million to reopen its hexamethylenediamine (HMD) plant in Maitland, Ontario. This plant was previously shut down in 2009 along with the production of another nylon 6,6 raw material, adipic acid, at the same site. The company aims to restart operations at the Maitland plant by 2025, contributing to its global nylon supply chain. The reopening is part of Invista’s broader strategy to enhance its production capabilities and meet growing demand for nylon intermediates. Bioplastic

In 2023, Invista had announced the shutdown of HMD and its raw material adiponitrile production in Orange, Texas. The decision to reopen the Maitland plant signifies Invista’s commitment to maintaining a robust supply chain and its strategic investments in key production facilities. The $17 million investment will focus on modernizing the plant’s infrastructure, ensuring it meets contemporary environmental and operational standards. This move is expected to bolster the local economy, providing job opportunities and supporting the region’s industrial base. Bioplastic

Invista’s reopening of the Maitland plant underscores its proactive approach to managing its global operations and addressing the needs of its customers in the nylon industry. The company’s efforts to revitalize its production capabilities highlight its dedication to sustainability and innovation in the manufacturing sector.

Invista to Reopen Nylon Intermediate Plant

Polymer Center Drives Bottle-to-Bottle Circularity

Republic Services’ award-winning facility is on a mission to turn plastic waste into packaging for customers including Coca-Cola. Bioplastic

  • The Nevada Polymer Center processes post-consumer PET, HDPE, and PP.
  • In July 2024, Coca-Cola sourced 500,000 lb of rPET flake from the center to make new bottles.
  • At a second Polymer Center, in Indianapolis, Blue Polymers will produce rHDPE and rPP pellets.

The National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) honored Republic Services with the 2024 Sustainability Game Changer Award, for the company’s eight-month-old Polymer Center in Las Vegas.

The 71,000-square-foot Polymer Center, Republic’s first in a planned national network of centers, processes baled plastics from materials recovery facilities into recycled PET (rPET) flake and color-sorted high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP).

Incoming post-consumer materials include plastic bottles, jugs, and containers collected from homes and businesses. The Las Vegas Polymer Center has the capacity to produce more than 100 million pounds of recycled plastics per year. Bioplastic

More…

Polymer Center Drives Bottle-to-Bottle Circularity

Can private value chains boost polyolefin recycling?

Major players are best placed to form partnerships across industries and bridge the yawning supply gap. Bioplastic

Sustainability and circularity is key to the future of the plastics industry, yet Wood Mackenzie data, only about 30% of polyolefins reaching the market today are recyclable. With demand for more environmentally friendly products rising rapidly, improving recyclability is a pressing issue.

We recently published an in-depth insight into the potential role of private value chains in boosting polyolefin recycling. Fill in the form to download a complimentary copy of the report, which is based on data and analysis from our Recycled Polyolefins Service, and read on for some key takeaways. Bioplastic

Despite strong demand for recycled plastic, most polyolefins being produced are non-recyclable

Industries across the plastics value chain are keen to decarbonise their operations by using products with a lower carbon footprint. Yet linear design practices in product development and waste management result in seven out of every ten tonnes of polyolefins produced ending up in landfill or being incinerated. Aside from the environmental impact, the lack of suitable material for recycling is one of the main reasons why the polyolefin market is so supply-constrained. Bioplastic

More…

Can private value chains boost polyolefin recycling?

Bioplastic Fishing Nets: A Sustainable Innovation

A recently completed EU research programme has explored solutions to reduce plastic pollution on land and at sea. The four-and-a-half-year European research programme, called SeaLive (Strategies of Circular Economy and Advanced Biobased Solutions to Keep Our Lands and Seas Alive from Plastics Contamination), which concluded last March, assessed the feasibility of producing bioplastic fishing nets based on polylactic acid (PLA), as well as equipment and packaging made from polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and other bio-based polymers. Bioplastic

TotalEnergies Corbion contributed its Luminy PLA to the project. The fishing nets studied by SeaLive can be industrially composted at the end of their useful life and are expected to degrade naturally after 10 years if accidentally dispersed at sea, which is 40 times faster than conventional plastic fishing nets. PLA has also been used to evaluate new applications in fishing boxes and net bags for oyster cultivation. Bioplastic

As part of the research program, Pellenc ST developed an optical sorter capable of identifying and separating bioplastics from waste streams, avoiding contamination and ensuring the circularity of materials. The machine is also able to separate different fractions of biopolymers, such as PLA, PBS, PBAT, PHB-PHBV, and cellulose acetate.

In addition to fishing gear, solutions to reduce plastic pollution on land and at sea have been studied, including rigid food containers, flexible packaging, single-use cutlery, and agricultural films. Bioplastic

Bioplastic Fishing Nets: A Sustainable Innovation

Loop Industries Hits Milestone

Loop Industries, Inc., a clean technology company whose mission is to accelerate a circular plastics economy by manufacturing 100 percent recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic and polyester fiber, provided an update regarding the Company’s joint venture (JV) partnership and financing agreement with Reed.

Reed and Societe Generale announced that Societe Generale has agreed to acquire 75 percent of Reed and provide funding for Reed initially amounting to $250 million, which can be further increased to $350 million. This transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approval, would secure Reed’s funding for its planned investments, including its previously announced JV partnership for the European deployment of Loop’s technology and a tiered financing package for Loop as disclosed in the agreement between Reed and Loop. Bioplastic

Under the terms of the agreement between Loop and Reed, Reed would provide capital as follows:

  • 10 million investment in a Convertible Preferred Security to be issued by Loop, which contains a 13 percent PIK dividend rate and 5 year term, which may convert into Loop stock at $4.75 per share or redeemed in cash Bioplastic

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Loop Industries Hits Milestone

Bioplastic

Pyrolysis – BMW is collaborating with the German startup DeepDrive to develop dual-rotor electric motors for new electric cars 06-08-2024

R-PET Bottles – The Engine That Could Revolutionize Electric Vehicles 05-08-1014

R-PET Bottles

R-PET Bottles

Polyestertime
ITEM 29/07/2024 05/08/2024 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 7,150 yuan/ton 7,040 yuan/ton -110
Bottle grade PET chips export market 900 $/ton 910 $/ton +10
LDPE Est China 1,155 1,152 $/ton -3
PET Fiber chips 7,050 7,010 yuan/ton -40
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market

R-PET Bottles

 5,850 yuan/ton 5,700 yuan/ton
 -150
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA FOB China 740 $/ton 735 $/ton -5
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,700 yuan/ton 4,660 yuan/ton
 -40
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 543 $/ton 543 $/ton –
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market 996 $/ton 991 $/ton
 -5
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 974 $/ton 969 $/ton -5
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,135 $/7on 1,131 $/ton -4
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,770  yuan/ton 7,770 yuan/ton
 –
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,600 yuan/ton 7,300 yuan/ton -300
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 9,380 yuan/ton 9,380 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F 9,200 yuan/ton 9,100 yuan/ton -100
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market

R-PET Bottles

 8,380 yuan/ton 8,350 yuan/ton -30
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,800 yuan/ton 7,750 yuan/ton -50
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 12,650 yuan/ton 12,600 yuan/ton
 -50
Caprolactam CPL FL Far East

R-PET Bottles
 1,680 $/ton 1,660 $/ton -20
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,920 $/ton 1,920 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 13,450 yuan/ton 13,500 yuan/ton +50
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market 13,850 yuan/ton 14,200 yuan/ton +350
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market

R-PET Bottles

 19,200 yuan/ton 19,400 yuan/ton +200
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,150 yuan/ton 16,275 yuan/ton +125
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,550 yuan/ton 18,640 yuan/ton +90
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,400 yuan/ton 17,450 yuan/ton +50
Spandex 20D  domestic  marke 31,000 yuan/ton 29,800 yuan/ton -200
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 29,500 yuan/ton 29,300 yuan/ton -200
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  26,500 yuan/ton 26,300 yuan/ton -200
Adipic Acid domestic market

R-PET Bottles

 9,450 yuan/ton 9,450 yuan/ton –
Benzene domestic market, 8,350 yuan/ton  8,265 yuan/ton -85
Benzene CIF China  1,170 $/ton 1,190 $/ton +20
Ethylene South East market 925 $/ton 925 $/ton –
Ethylene NWE market CIF 795 $/ton 820 $/ton +25
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market 9,100 yuan/ton 9,400 yuan/ton +300
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF  domestic market

R-PET Bottles

 14,600 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton –
Viscose Bright VFY 120D 12,900 yuan/ton 12,900 yuan/ton -50
PP Powder domestic market 7,550 yuan/ton 7,450 yuan/ton -100
Naphtha overseas market  688 $/ton 644 $/ton -44
Phenol domestic market 8,535 yuan/ton 8,475 yuan/ton -60

r-PET FLAKES =                   5,700 yuan/ton  —          5,475 yuan/ton   –       –  225

R-PET Bottles

Nylon 6 Chip Trading Expands: A Sign of Bottoming Out?

Starting from July 15-19, the trading volume of nylon 6 conventional spinning (CS) chips has increased, particularly on July 17. Major CS chip factories in regions like Shanxi, Shandong, Hunan, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang have seen significant surges in sales/production ratios, with daily sales reaching over a thousand or two thousand tons. Some factories have raised prices slightly by 50-100 yuan/mt.  R-PET Bottles

Simultaneously, polymer plants have increased their purchasing of CPL, with trading sentiment in East China improving significantly in the range of 12,400-12,450 yuan/mt. Downstream buyers are actively inquiring, and sellers are cautiously optimistic.

Factors Leading to Recent Price Decline:

  1. Decline in Benzene Prices: Tight benzene supply and capital behavior in late June led to a sharp decline in benzene prices, which dropped to 850 yuan/mt in early July, causing a significant downward adjustment in CPL and chip prices.
  2. Commissioning of Luxi Chemical’s New Plants: New CPL and PA6 units have been gradually put into operation since June. By late July, the new CPL plant’s operating rate was at 60%, and four PA6 units were in production. The market impact of 200kt/year has been largely realized, with short-term impacts weakening as prices stabilize. R-PET Bottles
  3. Seasonal Off-Season: July and August are traditionally slow seasons for the textile and engineering plastics markets. Demand has lightened in some filament market specifications, and modified plastic plants reported a slight decrease in chip usage compared to June. R-PET Bottles

Current Market Analysis:

Despite the price decline in the first half of July, factors such as stabilizing benzene prices, realized new capacities at Luxi Chemical, and positive purchasing willingness indicate a potential for short-term stabilization and rebound in prices. However, sustained upward trends are unlikely without more positive news developments, as the supply side remains stable with high operating rates and no production cuts.

R-PET Bottles

The Engine That Could Revolutionize Electric Vehicles

Imagine placing a glass of champagne on the cylinder head of a two-stroke engine. Typically, the vibrations would cause the glass to topple. However, new technology from the Austrian-German company Obrist has changed this scenario.

Years ago, a mechanic demonstrated the precision of a well-tuned Ford 2.0 Zetec engine by balancing a coin on its valve cover. While impressive, this feat pales in comparison to Obrist’s latest innovation.  R-PET Bottles

The Glass Test

Inspired by a famous Lexus LS400 commercial, Obrist’s ZVG engine can balance a glass of champagne without spilling a drop, even while running. This is remarkable for a two-stroke engine, which traditionally experiences more vibrations than a four-stroke engine. The ZVG achieves this through optimal operation and dual crankshafts that counteract each other’s vibrations. Additional noise reduction is provided by a rubber reducer and a flywheel, all housed in a soundproof box. R-PET Bottles

Hybrid Ready

Weighing just 110 kg, the 45 kW (61 HP) Obrist engine is designed not for direct propulsion but as part of an electrified system to recharge batteries. According to CEO Frank Obrist, this engine could address the range limitations of electric vehicles, consuming only 1.5 liters of gasoline or e-fuel per 100 km.

Lightweight and Efficient

The batteries recharged by the ZVG engine weigh only 98 kg, significantly lighter than those in a Tesla Model Y. Despite their smaller size, they offer over 80 km of pure electric range. When combined with the internal combustion engine, the total range becomes comparable to, or even exceeds, that of large electric sedans and SUVs. R-PET Bottles

Future Prospects

Obrist’s HyperHybrid system is nearly ready for market but faces regulatory challenges. If the European ban on gasoline and diesel engines takes effect in 2035, the system may only be viable if exemptions for e-fuels are granted.

The Engine That Could Revolutionize Electric Vehicles

R-PET Bottles

EV Cars – CARBIOS and SASA Discuss Licensing Agreement for PET Biorecycling Facility in Turkey 05-08-2024

EV Cars

R-PET Bottles – The Engine That Could Revolutionize Electric Vehicles 

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EV Cars

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CARBIOS and SASA Discuss Licensing Agreement for PET Biorecycling Facility in Turkey

Clermont-Ferrand (France) and Adana (Turkey), August 1, 2024 – CARBIOS (Euronext Growth Paris: ALCRB), a leader in biological technologies for plastics and textiles, and SASA, a top polyester manufacturer, have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI). This agreement could lead to SASA acquiring a license for CARBIOS’ PET biorecycling technology. EV Cars

The license would enable SASA to build and operate a 100,000-ton/year enzymatic depolymerization plant in Adana, Turkey. This plant would recycle PET waste into polyester pellets, fibers, and textiles, addressing the growing demand for sustainable materials in Europe.

Boost for European Recycled Polyester Production

Currently, less than 1% of textile waste is recycled into new fibers. With EU regulations pushing for at least 20% recycled fibers by 2030, demand for recycled polyester is set to rise. EV Cars

Turkey, alongside Asian countries, is poised to become a major producer. SASA aims to lead in high-value polyester production by integrating recycling into its operations, which span the entire PET value chain. CARBIOS’ technology is crucial to SASA’s strategy of enhancing competitiveness, expanding capacity, and achieving circularity.

EV Cars

Mexico recycler Alcamare receives FDA approval for post-consumer PP

Alcamare International Recycling Group S de RL de CV says it has won approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to produce food-grade recycled polypropylene.

“Alcamare has received a letter of no objection (LNO) from the … FDA confirming the capability of Alcamare’s recycling process to produce recycled polypropylene that is suitable for food-contact applications,” the Mexican company told Plastics News by email July 24.  EV Cars

The recycled resin produced by Alcamare at a 1.1 million square foot processing plant in Comonfort, Guanajuato state, is intended for use in rigid articles such as beverage bottle caps, coffee and take-away food containers and microwaveable food containers, the company added.

The fourth generation, family-run business collects 375 million pounds of post-consumer plastics every year, of which 166 million pounds are reprocessed. Most of the material collected is PET, polyethylene and PP.  EV Cars

Rubén Valdéz, Alcamare’s industrial director, said the company had created “a brand new, state-of-the-art, mechanical recycling process” after nearly three years of “numerous tests and reconfiguration of the washing-extrusion and devolatilization lines.”

Two new extruder and devolatilization lines came on line on July 2, he said. Each can produce up to three tons an hour, which will add 79 million pounds to the firm’s annual output.  EV Cars

More…

https://www.sustainableplastics.com/news/mexico-recycler-alcamare-receives-fda-approval-post-consumer-pp

Eco-friendly plastic being developed from abaca fiber

A research initiative is paving the way for eco-friendly bioplastic films using nanocellulose extracted from a hybrid of the local abaca plant. EV Cars

The project, spearheaded by the Forest Products Research and Development Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-FPRDI), is being funded the DOST Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD).It is making use of fibers from the Bandala abaca hybrid developed by the Institute of Plant Breeding of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) which made use of abaca and banana tissues to create a hybrid that is resistant to the Bunchy Top Virus. EV Cars

This project aims to leverage Bandala’s unique properties to produce bioplastic films, offering a value-added product that extends beyond traditional fiber uses.Led by Dr. Anniver Ryan P. Lapuz, the project team is exploring various processes, including pulping and bleaching, to derive cellulose pulp from BANDALA fibers. They will also characterize the properties of extracted cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and test different CNC amounts in starch-based bioplastic films. EV Cars

According to Dr. Lapuz, an essential aspect of the project involves assessing the production costs of CNC and CNC-reinforced bioplastic films, ensuring the feasibility of large-scale production.Long considered as the world’s strongest natural fiber, abaca is the preferred raw material for making ship and power transmission ropes, car interiors, well-drilling cables, furniture, texture, and even security paper being used in money.

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Eco-friendly plastic being developed from abaca fiber

AVADI MA-250: A Revolutionary Engine

The AVADI MA-250, born in the USA, is a groundbreaking 4-stroke engine without valves. It features a piston that moves up and down on two connecting rods attached to a crankshaft, which rotates both on itself and like a propeller. This unique design includes bevel gears, resembling a car differential, and a rotating shaft that can potentially connect to various transmissions. EV Cars

The engine operates by rotating the piston, opening and closing gaps similar to 2-stroke engines. Early studies are promising, and AVADI Engines is nearing a breakthrough. The MA-250 combines the benefits of alternating piston movement with rotary piston advantages. It is compact, simple, and lightweight at just 11kg, offering high compression and direct action on the rotating crankshaft for impressive torque and power.

The 250cc engine delivers 30Nm at 3,500 rpm and 15hp at 3,700 rpm. While these figures are modest, the engine’s efficiency is notable at 42%, compared to the 30-35% of conventional engines. EV Cars

It also boasts low fuel consumption, no camshafts, and reduced friction due to the straight piston movement. The potential for this engine in the mobility sector is significant, though its future remains to be seen.

AVADI MA-250: A Revolutionary Engine

Official: Nissan, Honda, and Mitsubishi Unite

Nissan, Honda, and Mitsubishi have confirmed their collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding to develop electrified and intelligent cars. This agreement, building on a previous one between Nissan and Honda from March 15, aims to accelerate carbon neutrality, eliminate road accidents involving Japanese brand cars, and create new business opportunities. EV Cars

Goals and Vision

Nissan’s Representative Executive Officer, President, and CEO, Makoto Uchida, expressed confidence that this collaboration will generate “greater value” and lead to unique products and services from each company. Honda’s President and Executive Officer, Toshihiro Mibe, highlighted the transformative period in the automotive industry, emphasizing that combining Nissan and Honda’s technologies with Mitsubishi’s strength and experience will address global electrification and intelligence challenges more swiftly.

Nissan and Honda have also signed a definitive agreement to develop a new platform and powertrains for electric vehicles, enhancing their competitiveness in the global market. Mitsubishi Motors’ Representative Executive Officer, President, and CEO, Takao Kato, stressed the importance of partnerships in today’s rapidly changing automotive industry, driven by technological innovations like electrification and intelligence. EV Cars

This partnership marks a significant step towards a future of advanced, intelligent, and sustainable automotive solutions, leveraging the combined expertise and resources of Nissan, Honda, and Mitsubishi.

EV Cars

Packaging – Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL) has joined the T-REX (Textile Recycling Excellence) Project, an EU-funded initiative aimed at creating a harmonized blueprint for recycling household textile waste 03-07-2024

Packaging – Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL) has joined the T-REX (Textile Recycling Excellence) Project, an EU-funded initiative aimed at creating a harmonized blueprint for recycling household textile waste 03-07-2024

Packaging

New Record for Packaging Technologies

In 2023, the Italian packaging machinery and equipment industry achieved a historic milestone, surpassing 9 billion euros in turnover for the first time. The industry reached 9.229 billion euros, marking an 8% increase from 2022. This achievement represents the third consecutive record year, driven primarily by robust export performance.

Exports accounted for 7.26 billion euros, over 78% of the total turnover, with a 10.5% growth compared to 2022.  Packaging

In contrast, domestic sales remained stagnant at 1.9 billion euros. The sector comprises 594 companies employing over 38,000 people, with significant concentrations in the Via Emilia region, Lombardy, Piedmont, Veneto, and Tuscany.

The food and beverage industry was the largest customer, contributing 57% of the total turnover, with food alone accounting for 2.85 billion euros, 83% of which was exported. Other significant markets included tissue and other products (1.7 billion euros), pharmaceuticals (1.5 billion euros), cosmetics, and chemicals.  Packaging

Primary packaging led the applications with 52.4% of the turnover, followed by end-of-line, labeling, and auxiliary equipment (27.2%), and secondary packaging (20.4%). Ucima President Riccardo Cavanna highlighted the industry’s continuous growth and innovation, emphasizing the potential impact of the Industry 5.0 decree on future domestic investments.  Packaging

Packaging

Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL) has joined the T-REX (Textile Recycling Excellence) Project, an EU-funded initiative aimed at creating a harmonized blueprint for recycling household textile waste

This project seeks to support the fashion industry’s transition to a circular and sustainable future by bringing together key stakeholders across the value chain.

As the designated spinning partner, Indorama Ventures will process chemically recycled feedstock into polyester yarns and fibers, ensuring impurity elimination through the extrusion process. Packaging

This aligns with the company’s goals of promoting the circular economy and circular fashion through PET recycling and the supply of recycled materials.

Diego Boeri, Executive President of Indorama Ventures’ Fibers business, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainable solutions and the use of circular feedstock. He highlighted their extensive experience in manmade-fibers processes, particularly polyester, and their dedication to helping partners achieve sustainability goals. Packaging

The T-REX Project aims to create a circular system for post-consumer textile waste in Europe. It involves a consortium of 13 major players from across the value chain and research institutes, working together to transform end-of-use textiles into valuable feedstock and new business models that can be scaled up.

Packaging

TOMRA to showcase sensor-based sorting solutions at RWM Expo 2024

Visitors to RWM Expo 2024, which takes place on 11-12 September at the NEC in Birmingham, will have the opportunity to find out about TOMRA Recycling Sorting’s GAINnext applications to separate food-grade from non-food-grade plastics, as well as other world-class sensor-based sorting solutions for waste and metals on Stand ME-E200. Packaging

Directly behind Stand ME-E200, the team from TOMRA Collection will be on Stand ME-E203 to showcase its latest reverse vending machine solutions for clean loop recycling of aluminium, plastic and glass beverage containers. With approximately 85,000 installations across more than 60 markets, particularly in regions with deposit return systems, TOMRA reverse vending machines capture over 46 billion used bottles and cans each year.

A key focus for TOMRA’s Recycling Sorting division at this year’s show will be three new applications to separate food-grade from non-food-grade plastics for PET, PP and HDPE. GAINnext is a deep learning-based sorting add-on for TOMRA’s world-renowned AUTOSORT units. Packaging

By combining sensor-based material identification and deep learning object recognition, TOMRA is the first in the industry to be able to quickly and efficiently separate food-grade from non-food-grade plastics for PET, PP and HDPE on a large scale. GAINnext has made food-grade sorting a reality – and has made it possible to achieve higher than 95% purity rPET, rPP and rHDPE – the level EU regulation requires to fulfil food safety standards.

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TOMRA to showcase sensor-based sorting solutions at RWM Expo 2024

Bio-Fed Expands Bio-Attributes Range

Bio-Fed, a division of the German Akro-Plastic (Feddersen Group), has launched the M Biobase series, featuring compounds with renewable content attributed by certified mass balance. This innovation reduces the carbon footprint by replacing fossil-based feedstock with biobased and biomass materials during production. The ISCC Plus certification ensures the origin and traceability of these materials. Packaging

The M Biobase series includes compounds like bio-attributed polypropylene, derived from residues of vegetable oil refining or exhausted cooking oils instead of fossil raw materials. Other grades incorporate organic fillers such as wood or lignin from wood processing. These materials are designed for injection molding and extrusion, with plans to expand the variety over time.

In addition to the M Biobase portfolio, Bio-Fed offers other bio-attributed materials, including colored masterbatches (AF-CirColor), carbon-black concentrates (AF-CirCarbon), and additive masterbatches (AF-CirComplex). The M Vera compounds are biodegradable, while those with recycled content are branded as M Cyclose. Packaging

The global economy is facing $197bn (£153bn) of economic damage by 2030 and up to $434bn by 2050 if plastic waste continues to flow into oceans at its current rate

That is according to a new report by financial services firm Allianz, which warns that marine wildlife, fishing and aquaculture, coastal tourism and the shipping industry are all facing risks from ocean plastic waste. Packaging

Indeed, if the world’s oceans were an economy, it would be the seventh largest in the world, with the total value of its goods and services projected at $2.5trn every year.

If plastic production increases over the next few decades without new waste mitigation measures, the report claims that the economic cost could hit $229bn by 2030, and as much as $731bn by 2050.

“The ocean’s capacity to regulate our climate, provide food, and support livelihoods is being eroded by unsustainable practices and short-term thinking,” said Barbara Karuth-Zelle, member of Allianz’s board of management. Packaging

“This report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. It is a call to arms for governments, businesses, and individuals to recognise the critical role the ocean plays in our lives and to take decisive steps to safeguard its health and vitality.”

Production processes of the energy, industrial and consumer staples sectors have the most damaging effects on ocean ecosystem services, according to the report, creating a “vicious cycle” that poses risks to industrial production itself. Packaging

More…

The global economy is facing $197bn (£153bn) of economic damage by 2030 and up to $434bn by 2050 if plastic waste continues to flow into oceans at its current rate

ADS plastic purchases reach 50% recycled

Advanced Drainage Systems has reported flat consumption of recycled plastics over the past few years, but in fiscal 2024 the company increased the share of recycled materials to 50% of its total resin purchases, according to its most recent ESG report.

ADS – one of the largest plastics recycling companies in North America – bought 540 million pounds of recycled plastics in fiscal 2024, which ended March 31, 2024, according to the report. This was the same volume the company reported in 2023 but represents about 50% of the plastic resin ADS bought in the year, compared to 48% in the previous year and 45% in 2022. Packaging

ADS purchases accounted for one-third of the total North American volumes of color HDPE bottle bales, the report said.

In FY24, recycled HDPE comprised 34% of the ADS materials and recycled PP 12%, with other recycled plastic totaling 4%. Virgin HDPE was at 30%, while virgin PP was at 16% and other was at 4%.

Investing in supply and processing capacity

ADS continues to establish partnerships to help improve access to recycled materials and to develop end use markets, Nicole Voss, director of sustainability at ADS, told Plastics Recycling Update. Packaging

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ADS plastic purchases reach 50% recycled

PCR Plastics – Eastman is set to revolutionize plastic recycling by building the world’s largest molecular recycling plant in Port-Jérôme-sur-Seine, Normandy, France 02-08-2024

Packaging

PCR Plastics – Eastman is set to revolutionize plastic recycling by building the world’s largest molecular recycling plant in Port-Jérôme-sur-Seine, Normandy, France 02-08-2024

PCR Plastics

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Embracing technology can address feedstock issue

To address recycled feedstock supply challenges, robotics and AI company EverestLabs says there’s a need to pivot to new technologies.

Sam Kratky, an account executive at the Bay Area, California-based company, said in a July 30 webinar that “this problem of feedstock shortage that we are facing is not going away – and in fact it’s growing.”  PCR Plastics

“The nuances in which material to recover and how to recycle them is only going to get more complicated as packaging design and recycling collection evolves and we’re really going to need to rely on new technology rather than manual processes to solve this,” she added.

The webinar, “How to Leverage AI for Feedstock Management,” also featured Samir Kamat, an EverestLabs lead solutions engineer. He noted that demand growth for RPET is far outpacing supply growth.  PCR Plastics

A 2023 McKinsey and Company report found that between 2012 and 2022, RPET supply grew about 1% per year, while demand increased 4% each year.

AI and robotics can help with many of the current pain points, he said: the inaccuracy and expense of post-collection sorting, manual labor shortages and high levels of machine downtime due to failure or contamination.

Using AI and robotics can “ideally recover all the lost material from the MRFs and provide high quality feedstock to the reclaimers,” Kamat said, which would “result in a future where the cost of recycled PET would be equal to that of virgin material.”

Kratky added that the technology has also been improving. EverestLabs offers remote monitoring, so “you don’t need to babysit your robots.”  PCR Plastics

PCR Plastics

IKV launches project to improve LDPE recyclate qualities from household PCR

Key Highlights:

  • The Institute for Plastics Processing (IKV) in Industry and Craft at RWTH Aachen University (IKV) has initiated the industrial research project “LOOPCYCLING.”
  • The project involves the entire plastics recycling value chain in order to push the boundaries of mechanical recycling and achieve the best possible recyclate qualities using established industrial processes.  PCR Plastics
  • LOOPCYCLING considers the entire process chain of mechanical recycling as well as the characterisation of recyclates, reprocessing and reuse.

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) adopted by the EU Parliament in April 2024 sets, among other things, ambitious minimum targets for the percentage of recyclate in new plastic packaging, raising new challenges for industrial recycling technologies.  PCR Plastics

In order to meet the requirements, a significant increase of the percentage of recyclate in contact-sensitive applications like food and cosmetics packaging is mandatory. Chemical recycling processes provide recyclates that meet the quality requirements of such applications. However, the available capacities are far from sufficient to meet the demand. On the other hand, mechanical recycling, as the most energy and material-efficient plastics recycling process, can provide corresponding quantities, but not in the required recyclate quality. Intensive research into both recycling routes will therefore be crucial for the industry.  PCR Plastics

The Institute for Plastics Processing (IKV) in Industry and Craft at RWTH Aachen University has therefore initiated the industrial research project “LOOPCYCLING – Advanced mechanical recycling of flexible polyethylenes”.

More…

PCR Plastics

Samsara Eco: Innovating Sustainable Packaging Solutions

Samsara Eco is at the forefront of replacing plastic packaging with fossil fuel-free alternatives. The company develops and sells innovative polymer resins that can be integrated into supply chains, offering sustainable options for packaging and textiles.

Founded in 2020 in collaboration with the Australian National University, Woolworths, and Main Sequence Ventures, Samsara Eco has made significant strides in plastic recycling technology. The company focuses on scaling its enzyme library to recycle various plastics, including the challenging nylon 6,6, polyester, and nylon 6. PCR Plastics

Recently, Samsara Eco secured $65 million in equity funding, co-led by Temasek and Main Sequence, bringing its total funding to $105 million. This investment will support the construction of new facilities in Jerrabomberra, New South Wales, and expansion into North America and Southeast Asia.

Samsara Eco’s patented EosEco technology is a game-changer, reducing recycling time and operating at lower temperatures and pressures, significantly cutting energy use and carbon emissions. The company has partnered with global brands like Lululemon, launching products made from enzymatically recycled polyester, showcasing the potential for sustainable fashion. PCR Plastics

With a team of 60 staff across Australia and North America, Samsara Eco plans to expand to 90 employees by 2025. The startup aims to recycle 1.5 million tonnes of plastic annually by 2030, significantly reducing the carbon footprint and preventing plastics from ending up in landfills.

Samsara Eco is seeing strong demand from the apparel and consumer packaged goods industries and plans to enter the automotive and electronics sectors next, paving the way for broader commercialization on a global scale. PCR Plastics

Samsara Eco: Innovating Sustainable Packaging Solutions

KT (MAIRE) completes the acquisition of engineering company APS Evolution, increasing its operational capacity and enhancing its footprint in Italy and Eastern Europe

  • APS Evolution is the parent company of two engineering firms with a solid international reputation in the execution of projects for the conversion of natural resources and in green chemistry
  • Thanks to this acquisition, MAIRE will leverage on an additional workforce of about 290 professionals to expand its project management and engineering capacity in the process, automation, mechanical, piping, electrical and civil fields PCR Plastics

Further to the announcement made on 22 May 2024, MAIRE (MAIRE.MI) informs that KT – Kinetics Technology (Integrated E&C Solutions) has finalized the acquisition of the entire share capital of APS Evolution S.r.l.

APS Evolution S.r.l. is the parent company of Italy-based APS Designing Energy S.r.l. and Poland-based KTI Poland S.A., two engineering firms which boast a solid international reputation in the execution of projects for the conversion of natural resources (downstream petrochemical segment), with a specific focus on innovative rubbers, as well as in green chemistry, such as biofuels and bioplastics. PCR Plastics

As of 30 June 2024, the companies generated total revenues of €61.7 million and backlog was €137.3 million.

This acquisition will enable MAIRE to expand its engineering capacity by adding a multidisciplinary team of around 290 experts in different fields, such as process, automation, mechanical, piping, electrical, and civil engineering. PCR Plastics

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KT (MAIRE) completes the acquisition of engineering company APS Evolution, increasing its operational capacity and enhancing its footprint in Italy and Eastern Europe

Arburg will showcase 18 machines at Fakuma, the German moulding fair from October 15-19 in Friedrichshafen

Eleven machines will be at Arburg’s stand in Hall A3, with seven more hosted by partners. The stand will emphasize digitalization, featuring the interactive arburgSOLUTIONworld area with a “transparent press” and six expert-manned stations.

The Allrounder 270 A will be displayed, allowing visitors to see its electric drives and telematics system. PCR Plastics

New features include the Allrounder 720 E Golden Electric, a thinner and more economical version, debuting in Germany after its NPE launch. Other exhibits will focus on multi-component injection molding, recycled materials, transparent copolyesters, and liquid silicone. The Allrounder 570 H hybrid press will demonstrate fast molding of medical components, specifically 64 syringe plungers.

A notable innovation is the injection molding of fibrous material (additivated paper fiber), developed with Model and Biofibre. The Allrounder 370 A will use “paper pearls” to create furniture connectors. The aXw Control RecyclatePilot package will ensure injection weight stability. PCR Plastics

Additionally, the two-component molding of PBT and liquid silicone rubber (LSR) will be showcased on an Allrounder More 2000 press, operated by a six-axis Yaskawa robot, producing ready-to-use spatulas.

Arburg will showcase 18 machines at Fakuma, the German moulding fair from October 15-19 in Friedrichshafen

Eastman is set to revolutionize plastic recycling by building the world’s largest molecular recycling plant in Port-Jérôme-sur-Seine, Normandy, France

This facility will utilize Eastman’s advanced molecular recycling technology to process up to 110,000 metric tons of polyester-rich plastic waste annually, which currently lacks recycling options. PCR Plastics

The targeted plastic waste includes items like colored polyethylene terephthalate (PET) found in food packaging, reusable water bottles, and clothing that cannot be recycled mechanically. Traditional recycling methods fail to handle these materials, leading to their disposal in landfills, incinerators, or the environment.

The new facility will break down these hard-to-recycle plastics into basic components, enabling the creation of high-quality plastic that can be reused repeatedly, thus preventing pollution. Additionally, this molecular recycling process is expected to reduce costs for end products, making sustainable choices more affordable for consumers. PCR Plastics

By combining Eastman’s proven processes with renewable energy resources in Normandy, the facility aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional virgin PET plastic production methods. Eastman and the French government are collaborating to achieve a circular economy, transforming previously hard-to-recycle plastic waste into valuable resources. PCR Plastics

The plant in Port-Jérôme-sur-Seine is projected to be operational by 2027/2028, marking a significant step towards sustainable plastic management and environmental conservation.

Eastman is set to revolutionize plastic recycling by building the world’s largest molecular recycling plant in Port-Jérôme-sur-Seine, Normandy, France

Nonwoven – Reduced Stack Height of PET-Series Hot Runner System 01-08-2024

PCR Plastics

Nonwoven – Reduced Stack Height of PET-Series Hot Runner System 01-08-2024

Nonwoven

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Reduced Stack Height of PET-Series Hot Runner System

Mold-Masters, a leading developer of hot runners, controllers, auxiliary injection, and co-injection systems, has optimized its PET-Series hot runner system. The stack height is now reduced to 260mm for systems with 72 cavities or fewer, using standard components.

Traditionally, achieving a more compact stack height required a 2-platen design. However, the PET-Series maintains its 3-platen design, preserving the benefits of geometric thermal balancing and reduced plate bowing, which enhance preform quality. Nonwoven

This reduction in stack height allows the system to be used on a wider range of machines, including older models with stack height limitations of 260mm. The minimum nozzle pitch remains unchanged, consistent with regular 3-plate designs.

The PET-Series is optimized for high-performance production of 2-stage PET preforms, enhancing preform quality and productivity. It is compatible with any major brand of PET-preform mold and is available in various industry-standard configurations, with custom options available upon request. Nonwoven

Nonwoven

Kuraray Co., Ltd. is restructuring its nonwoven fabrics business, discontinuing dry-laid nonwoven fabrics and reducing meltblown nonwoven fabrics production

This aligns with Kuraray’s strategy to optimize resources and focus on high-growth areas. The Okayama Plant will cease dry-laid nonwoven fabric production by December 2024, with sales ending by March 2025. Meltblown nonwoven fabric production at Okayama halted in June 2024, consolidating at the Saijo Plant. These changes aim to enhance efficiency and streamline operations. Nonwoven

Kuraray’s medium-term strategy, PASSION 2026, focuses on strengthening core businesses and identifying areas for downsizing or divestment. This approach prioritizes social, environmental, and economic value, aiming for a sophisticated and effective business structure for long-term sustainability and competitive advantage.

With over 52 years in dry-laid nonwoven fabrics and 35 years in meltblown nonwoven fabrics, Kuraray faces challenges from oversupply and declining domestic demand. The company will reduce production capacity and focus on the meltblown nonwoven fabric sector to better align with market demands. Nonwoven

Founded in 1926, Kuraray pioneered synthetic materials, commercializing rayon and achieving a global first in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber with the KURALON™ brand in 1950. This established Kuraray as a leader in the synthetic fiber market and contributed to Japan’s synthetic fiber industry development.

Nonwoven

Solid-State Batteries: QuantumScape Introduces 100 Ah Model

QuantumScape’s solid-state batteries promise to revolutionize sustainable mobility. . After 1,000 charge cycles, the batteries have lost only 5% of their capacity.

QuantumScape’s Solid-State Battery Revolution

QuantumScape, a leader in the battery sector, recently announced a major advancement with its 100 Ah solid-state battery. Nonwoven

The 100 Ah battery from QuantumScape could enhance the range and practicality of electric vehicles, significantly contributing to sustainable mobility. This technology could be a catalyst for wider adoption of electric vehicles, making them a more practical and attractive choice for consumers.

Strategic Collaborations and Initial Tests

QuantumScape has received significant funding from notable investors like Bill Gates and Volkswagen and has formed partnerships with automotive companies like Ford and Hyundai. Nonwoven

Volkswagen’s initial tests are encouraging. The German company has successfully completed the first tests on QuantumScape’s solid-state batteries, yielding very promising results. After 1,000 charge cycles, the batteries have lost only 5% of their capacity, far exceeding the industry standards for traditional lithium-ion batteries.

Nonwoven

 New Bio-Ethanol Plants Established in India

The Indian government has introduced the “Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN (Jaiv Indhan-Vatavaran Anukool Fasal Awashesh Nivaran) Yojana” to provide financial support for the development of Second Generation (2G) bioethanol plants across the country. This initiative aims to promote the use of cellulosic and lignocellulosic biomass, utilizing both petrochemical pathways and alternative feedstocks. The program seeks to advance sustainable energy production and minimize environmental impact by encouraging the use of agricultural residues and other renewable resources for bioethanol. Nonwoven

Under the Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana, six commercial and four demonstration 2G bioethanol plants have been approved. The commercial projects are:

  • Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. in Panipat, Haryana
  • Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. in Bargarh, Odisha
  • Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. in Bathinda, Punjab
  • Numaligarh Refineries Limited in Numaligarh, Assam
  • Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd. in Davangere, Karnataka
  • RCPL in Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh  Nonwoven

The demonstration projects include:

  • Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. in Panipat, Haryana
  • Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. in Sagauli, Bihar
  • Lignopura Agrotech Pvt Ltd in Sangli, Maharashtra
  • Godavari Biorefineries Ltd in Sameerwadi, Karnataka

More…

 New Bio-Ethanol Plants Established in India

Europe Approves €1.2 Billion Green Hydrogen Funding for Spain

The European Commission has sanctioned a €1.2 billion state aid scheme to bolster renewable hydrogen production in Spain. This initiative, part of the State aid Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework (TCTF), targets investments in hydrogen production with a minimum capacity of 100 megawatts (MW). Eligible projects may include renewable hydrogen-derived fuels, storage solutions, and renewable electricity production.

Applicants must secure agreements for at least 60% of the hydrogen or fuel to be produced. Nonwoven

Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for competition policy, noted that this scheme will help Spain accelerate its renewable hydrogen capabilities, supporting the EU Hydrogen Strategy and the European Green Deal, while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. Spain aims to replace 25% of the 500,000 tonnes of fossil-based hydrogen used annually with green hydrogen.

Additionally, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez unveiled a €2.3 billion plan to advance the country’s clean energy transition, featuring subsidies for green energy industries and renewable hydrogen. Nonwoven

This plan also includes measures to support agriculture, infrastructure, and rural areas in transitioning to green energy.

Europe Approves €1.2 Billion Green Hydrogen Funding for Spain

Ami’s Plastics Recycling World Expo Europe

The Plastics Recycling World Expo Europe will take place at the Brussels Expo in Belgium on September 11-12, 2024. This free event, now in its fourth edition, gathers global industry leaders and experts for two days of learning, inspiration, and networking.

The conference agenda highlights technological innovations, legislative updates, and market trends in plastics recycling. Sessions will cover mechanical recycling machinery advancements, solvent-based recycling innovations, major textiles recycling projects, and new additives improving recyclate quality. Nonwoven

Additionally, there will be a training seminar on the complementary use of mechanical and chemical recycling.

Key panels will address industry challenges and opportunities. Topics include the impact of EPR schemes, the PPWR’s influence on packaging production and recycling, and the proposed ELV regulation’s expansion of recycling efforts. Panels will feature insights from Expra, Euric, Berry Global, Avery Dennison, and Flexible Packaging Europe, discussing legislative, economic, logistical, and technological factors shaping the future of recycling.

Keynote speakers will provide further insights. An in-house expert from Ami will discuss advances in mechanical and chemical recycling on day one, and a public affairs manager from Nestlé will share the company’s recycling strategies on day two. Nonwoven

Co-located with the Compounding World Expo and Plastics Extrusion World Expo, the event features over 170 exhibitors and multiple conference sessions across the three expos.

Ami’s Plastics Recycling World Expo Europe

EV Battery – Samsung Unveils Revolutionary Batteries for Electric Vehicles 31-07-2024

Nonwoven

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