The plastics additives industry is built on a mix of technical prowess, production expertise and commercial know-how. In the current disruptive economic climate maximizing the value of this mix can make the difference between mere survival or preparing for future growth. Industry insiders James and Ann Innes of Flame Retardants Associates, Inc. and Robert Leeuwendal of Haig Barrett, Inc. make the case for what the plastics additives industry can do to capitalize better on knowledge and to improve competitive advantage. 12 November 2009
Colours and special effects are key ingredients of plastics compounds, offering countless possibilities to designers who want to differentiate their products. Colorant suppliers sell their pigments and dyes primarily to compound and masterbatch producers, although a small volume goes directly to processors of finished parts. Jennifer Markarian reviews some of the basics, including types of colorants and special effects, how they are added to compounds and masterbatches, and concerns for adding them at the processing line. 04 November 2009
The European Parliament has adopted the proposals for the registration, evaluation and authorization of chemicals. Plastics Additives & Compounding reports on what is now required to comply with REACH. 26 May 2009
Compounding for wire and cable applications makes a number of varied demands on extrusion machinery. Jennifer Markarian looks at some of the equipment on the market and discusses some of the issues that need to be considered by the wire and cable manufacturer. 26 May 2009
Increasingly brand owners are looking for ways to differentiate their products - even applications of what had previously considered utilitarian products. Colorant suppliers are moving to meet this demand. Jennifer Markarian looks at current trends in colour and special effects for plastics. 26 May 2009
Biopolymers are produced from renewable resources, such as corn or starch, and are being touted as sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based polymers. The biopolymer industry is emerging, with new products being introduced and commercial plants starting up, although supply is currently still limited. Jennifer Markarian reports on the current state on the biopolymer market and the increasingly important role of additives. 26 May 2009
Up until recently setting up a manufacturing operation in China has meant a joint venture. However, changes in Chinese law now permit wholly foreign owned entities. Jennifer Markarian reports on how various companies are increasing their manufacturing presence in this rapidly expanding market. 26 May 2009
Applications for thermoplastic elastomers have continued to grow largely at the expense of thermoset rubbers. Innovation in processing and new materials is driving much of this growth Jennifer Markarian reports on some these developments. 26 May 2009
Adding colour and special effects to plastics continues to expand their role and potential applications. Jennifer Markarian reports on how design and fashion trends are shaping the market. 21 May 2009
Accurate and repeatable dosing and blending is crucial in the manufacture of compounds and masterbatches. A wide variety of equipment is available to ensure that extruders run efficiently. Jennifer Markarian outlines some of the systems on offer from machinery suppliers. 21 May 2009
Plastics Additives & Compounding looks at some of the top worker health and safety issues in the plastics compounding industry - hazardous materials handling, ergonomics, machinery safety, and noise control – and summarizes some of the keys to success. 19 May 2009
Scratch and mar resistance of automotive plastics is becoming increasingly important due to the growing use of plastics in the automotive industry and the trend to eliminate paint in favour of moulded-in-colour. Plastic surfaces can be protected by using coatings, laminates, scratch resistant resins, or additive formulations designed for improved scratch and mar resistance. Jennifer Markarian reports for Plastics Additives & Compounding. 02 May 2009
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