Curauá fibre is one of many natural fibres suggested as a suitable replacement for less ‘green’ glass and carbon fibre reinforcements – especially in the automotive sector. Scientists from SABIC in Brazil looked at how its use can be optimized with polyamide 6 and polypropylene. 04 December 2009
New developments in antimicrobial additives for plastics are providing a much needed additional weapon against the spread of Healthcare associated infections. Alex Jones of Wells Plastics highlights some of these developments and discusses what to consider when selecting the best system for a particular application. 27 November 2009
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
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
Minerals used as fillers in plastic compounds have traditionally been used to reduce material costs by replacing a portion of the polymer with a less expensive material. However, nowadays many functional fillers or mineral modifiers are required to modify processing characteristics or finished part properties. Many are now also being used to reduce the level of more expensive additives such as pigments, flame retardants and impact modifiers. Jennifer Markarian reports on the changing face of fillers. 26 May 2009
Plastics continue to replace traditional materials such as metals in many high performance applications. Developments in fibre reinforcement for thermoplastics is helping to accelerate this trend. Jennifer Markarian reports on some of these developments and improvements in how fibres can be incorporated effectively into plastics. 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
The aesthetic and low maintenance properties of wood-plastic composites are continuing to drive growth in wood replacement applications. Volumes are growing, both in North America where the market is well established, but now also in Europe where it is now starting to get a foothold. Jennifer Markarian reports for Plastics Additives & Compounding. 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
High performance plastics often require high processing temperatures. However, at such temperatures organic molecules start to degrade. Additives to keep the polymer flowing in moulding applications are required to aid processing while preventing degradation. Dr. Chris DeArmitt and Dr. Paul Wheeler of Hybrid Plastics describe the advantages of the hybrid ceramic-organic structure of POSS additives that can provide thermal stability and the retention of mechanical properties. 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
Antistatic, electrostatic dissipative (ESD) and conductive additives are in demand for plastics compounds used in many applications, from packaging to automotive. Additive suppliers have introduced new migrating antistats, perma¬nent antistats, and nanomaterials for this market. Jennifer Markarian reports for Plastics Additives & Compounding. 26 May 2009
European polyvinyl chloride (PVC) processors have been seeking a high performance extrusion lubricant to use with calcium/zinc-based (Ca/Zn) stabilizers, which are increasingly being used in place of lead stabilizers. In response, Honeywell has developed the HPL (High Performance Lubricant). Dr. Rolf Spiekermann, technology manager Performance Products at the company’s Seelze plant in Germany explains how they can offer many quality and financial benefits. 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
Protecting plastics and preventing stain and odour growth have been the main requirements of an antimicrobial. However, consumer perception that products containing biocides can prevent the spread of diseases is also driving growth and prompting new developments with manufacturers. Jennifer Markarian reports. 21 May 2009
Modifying the surface of polymer film and sheet through the use of slip and antiblock additives can either improve performance in fabrication or downstream packaging equipment, or the end-use performance of the polymer. 19 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
Polymers and many additives that are used to provide useful properties in compounds are vulnerable to attack by micro-organisms. However, antimicrobials can be added to plastics to increase their resistance, which will maintain properties and boost product life. Plastics Additives & Compounding rounds up some of the products on the market in this important field. 19 May 2009
The use of fragrances and deodorants in plastics compounds is on the increase with key applications in packaging in particular. Jennifer Markarian reports on some of the applications already on the market and describes some of the difficulties encountered in their incorporation in plastic compounds. 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
The New Technology Symposium, the first of its kind presented by the Society of Plastics Engineers’ SPE) New Technology Committee, was recently held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the U.S. Speakers from academia and industry focused on emerging technology in advanced energy storage, nanotechnology and biotechnology. Attendees noted that their companies were looking for new technologies they could begin to study and apply now for commercialization five to ten years down the road. Plastics Additives & Compounding highlights some of the presentations related to additives and compounding. 02 May 2009
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