Polyestertime

Month: December 2023

Biomass-derived PET – Garware Technical Fibres has introduced an innovative coatable High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) braided knotted net, marking a significant milestone in the industry 30-12-2023

Biomass-derived PET

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

The forthcoming edition of the Milanese biennial dedicated to machine tools, robots, and automation, known as BI-MU, will spotlight Composites as one of its prominent themes. Slated for October 9 to 12, 2024, at Fieramilano Rho, this international exhibition encompasses machine tools, robots, automation, digital and additive manufacturing, as well as auxiliary and enabling technologies

The introduction of a thematic area exclusively devoted to composite materials marks a significant development, with the Composites theme being one of the eight integral components of the event.  Biomass-derived PET

In collaboration with Assocompositi, a notable association in the Italian composite materials sector, BI-MU organizers are actively engaged in crafting conferences focused on technological innovations and applications within the realm of composite materials. The decision to highlight Composites stems from BI-MU’s historic role as a magnet for key players in the automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors. These industries, along with others, widely employ composite materials, metals, and additive solutions.

Alfredo Mariotti, the General Director of Ucimu, the association promoting the exhibition, underscores the resilience and adaptability of BI-MU, which, with a history spanning over 60 years, has evolved into a pivotal international showcase for production systems, automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing. Biomass-derived PET

The success of the 2022 edition, drawing in 50,000 participants, underscores the enduring relevance and appeal of BI-MU in the rapidly evolving landscape of manufacturing and technology exhibitions.

Biomass-derived PET

Dwindling Demand Casts a Pall Over the US HDPE Market in December 2023

In the initial half of December 2023, the HDPE market experienced a decline in Western markets, especially in the US. This drop in prices can be mainly attributed to the weak demand for HDPE globally and sufficient stock availability. The decrease in the costs of feedstock Ethylene and upstream Crude oil in the region has also contributed to the downward trend in HDPE prices. Further, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, disruptions in the supply chain due to low water levels in the Panama Canal, and an attack by Houthi rebels, affecting transportation in the Red Sea amidst an economic slowdown, have collectively influenced market dynamics during this period and influenced pricing of HDPE. Biomass-derived PET

The US HDPE market showed a downshift as the demand from the downstream packaging and construction industries remained sluggish during the first half of this month. However, the feedstock Ethylene has been fluctuating as the market activity improved before the holidays, and upstream Naphtha continued to decline amid easing Crude oil prices. Further, the first week witnessed healthy market activity, characterized by the usual continuous customer order flow for HDPE. On the other side, some purchasers remained resolute in minimizing their buying activities towards the year-end, optimistic that December deals might extend into January while the export demand exhibited stability in Europe and Latin America. Biomass-derived PET

Sellers were receptive to reasonable bids, leading to lower prices in exchange for larger volumes, though within certain limits on the extent of discounting, which overall led to the price decline of HDPE in the USA. Moreover, the energy sector sustained a decline, with Crude Oil’s continuous drop which has overall impacted the production costs for the HDPE. Furthermore, the United States, being a significant exporter of HDPE to Asia, has experienced shipment delays due to restrictions in the Panama Canal caused by low water levels. While there hasn’t been any mention of the Suez Canal affecting US shipments at present, the situation could evolve if congestion at the Panama Canal intensifies, leading to additional delays in HDPE shipments. Biomass-derived PET

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Biomass-derived PET

Marubeni, Idemitsu, Oriental Petrochemical Taiwan to create biomass PTA supply chain

Marubeni Corporation, Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd., and Oriental Petrochemical Taiwan Co., Ltd. have collaboratively embarked on the creation of a groundbreaking supply chain for biomass Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA), derived from biomass naphtha, marking a significant stride towards sustainability in the plastics industry. The consortium is delighted to announce their agreement to establish this innovative supply chain, with plans for the commencement of biomass PTA production in Taiwan in 2024, marking the first-ever production of its kind in the region. Biomass-derived PET

Idemitsu Kosan is set to play a pivotal role by producing biomass Paraxylene (PX) from biomass naphtha utilizing the mass balance method. Subsequen100% biomass-derived PETtly, Oriental Petrochemical Taiwan, operating as a PTA manufacturer within the Far Eastern New Century Group, will convert the biomass PX into biomass PTA. Marubeni will oversee the coordination of the supply chain’s establishment and manage the marketing aspects of the biomass products.

The significance of this endeavor lies in the potential to create  resin, a key component in PET bottles, by utilizing biomass PTA and biomass ethylene glycol. Overcoming the challenge of replacing petroleum-derived PTA with biomass-derived PTA marks a pivotal moment in the quest for sustainable materials in the plastics industry.

The raw material for biomass products, biomass naphtha, is derived from renewable sources such as plants, presenting a noteworthy reduction in CO2 emissions compared to naphtha derived from petroleum. Biomass-derived PET

Idemitsu Kosan’s biomass PX has already secured the esteemed “ISCC PLUS Certification,” ensuring the sustainable supply chain of products made from biomass. OPTC is slated to attain the same certification in 2024, further solidifying the environmental credentials of the entire supply chain.

This collaborative effort by Marubeni, Idemitsu Kosan, and Oriental Petrochemical Taiwan signifies a tangible contribution to CO2 reduction in the plastics industry, aligning with the broader goal of expediting the realization of a low-carbon society. Through the establishment of this forward-thinking supply chain, the trio aims to pioneer a sustainable paradigm for the production of PET resin, playing a transformative role in the global shift towards eco-friendly practices. Biomass-derived PET

Biomass-derived PET

India Remains on Top in Asia for Demand of Polyolefins Chemicals

India is expected to remain on top in Asia for demand of petrochemical in 2024 given its strong economic growth and resilient industrial production, said Exportgenius.
However, the greater demand is unlikely ro bring much relief to domestic producers struggling with pressure on margins as prices of key chemicals in bulk are expected to remain suppressed due to ample supplies and new capacities coming on stream. According to a report, India’s market for chemical commodities is predicted to grow at around 7% in 2023 and 8% in 2024. Biomass-derived PET
The robust demand of India’s chemical products is being driven by a sharp flow of economic activities after the country emerged from COVID-19 lockdowns. While India’s domestic chemicals demand is expected to stay strong in 2024, price expectations will not be very robust as the market struggles to find the right balance. This is due to new production capacities on stream in the country and in the rest of Asia, weak global demand, changing trade flows and volatile upstream prices.
India’s import of polyolefins – the largest chunk of its petrochemical import market surged significantly in 2023, crossed USD 200 million mark in first half of the year itself. This led by higher demand and increased imports from China, where downstream demand scenario stood weak. India’s imports of polyolefins from the world totalled USD 159 million in 2020, that increased to USD 360 million in 2022. Biomass-derived PET

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India Remains on Top in Asia for Demand of Polyolefins Chemicals

Photocatalytic recycling: University of Adelaide researchers use light to upcycle PE into ethylene

An international team of researchers, led by Professor Shizhang Qiao from the University of Adelaide, Australia, has developed a way to convert PE waste into ethylene (C2H4) and propionic acid, which has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, using a light-driven photocatalysis method. Biomass-derived PET

The study outlines a method involving the atomic engineering of a titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalyst with reversible palladium (Pd) species. This modification enables the selective conversion of PE under mild conditions.

“We have upcycled polyethylene plastic waste into ethylene and propionic acid with high selectivity using atomically dispersed metal catalysts,” shares Qiao, chair of Nanotechnology and director of the Centre for Materials in Energy and Catalysis at the School of Chemical Engineering, University of Adelaide. Biomass-derived PET

“Plastic waste is an untapped resource that can be recycled and processed into new plastics and other commercial products. Catalytic recycling of PE waste is still in early development. It is practically challenging because of the chemical inertness of polymers and side reactions arising from structural complexities of reactant molecules.”

The process involves room-temperature, oxidation-coupled photocatalysis. The team achieved a 98.8% selectivity in propionic acid, which can be used as preservatives to extend the shelf life in food packaging or as plasticizers in producing certain packaging materials. Biomass-derived PET

itled “Photocatalytic Production of Ethylene and Propionic Acid from Plastic Waste by Titania-Supported Atomically Dispersed Pd Species,” the research was published in the journal Science Advances.

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Photocatalytic recycling: University of Adelaide researchers use light to upcycle PE into ethylene

Garware Technical Fibres has introduced an innovative coatable High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) braided knotted net, marking a significant milestone in the industry

This pioneering product allows the application of traditional water-based antifouling paints, overcoming the challenge posed by HDPE fibers’ inherent low surface energy, which impedes paint adhesion. Unlike nylon nets with higher surface energy, HDPE nets typically resist water-based antifouling paints.

The breakthrough lies in Garware’s V4 technology, which selectively modifies the surface properties of polyolefin material without altering its bulk properties. By increasing the surface energy of the polyolefin fibers, the V4 Technology facilitates the spreading and adhesion of water-based antifouling paints on the net surface. Biomass-derived PET

Extensive trials in Scotland demonstrated comparable antifouling performance over a 100-day period in peak summer for both V4-treated CBN-CFR nets (braided knotted net) and nylon knotless nets. Pål Korneliussen, Country Manager for Norway, hailed this as a significant achievement.

While Garware’s Sapphire CFR nets have proven effective against dogfish attacks in Norway, a notable limitation for fish farmers has been the inability to antifoul the nets. The introduction of Garware’s polyethylene nets with antifouling properties addresses this challenge, offering fish farmers greater flexibility to alternate between antifouling painting and in-situ cleaning strategies based on site and regulatory conditions. With over 100 Coatable Braided HDPE Nets sold to the salmon farming industry, Garware continues to deliver exceptional performance in terms of antifouling paint efficacy and protection against predator attacks.  Biomass-derived PET

Garware Technical Fibres has introduced an innovative coatable High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) braided knotted net, marking a significant milestone in the industry

Baxter Expands PVC Intravenous Bag Recycling Program

Baxter International has successfully completed the initial phase of its groundbreaking intravenous (IV) bag recycling pilot program, conducted in collaboration with Northwestern Medicine. This pioneering initiative has diverted over six tons of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) IV bag waste away from landfills, demonstrating a significant stride towards sustainable healthcare practices.  100% biomass-derived PET

Cecilia Soriano, President of Baxter’s Infusion Therapies and Technologies division, underscores the importance of IV bags in healthcare, emphasizing their widespread use in hospitals for administering clinically essential solutions such as fluids, nutrition, and medicines. The conventional disposal method for non-hazardous IV bags involves draining residual fluids and discarding them as waste, contributing to landfill accumulation. Baxter’s pilot program, however, introduces a novel approach by integrating material separation for recycling into the nursing workflow. This innovative process addresses common space constraints in hospital settings and engages stakeholders from various Northwestern Memorial Hospital departments.  100% biomass-derived PET

Partnering with dedicated third-party logistics and recycling firms, the collected PVC IV bags undergo transportation and inspection before being recycled into diverse products, including industrial floor mats and protective edging for docks and landscaping. The success of this pilot phase is attributed to the collaboration with Northwestern Medicine and the active involvement of hospital departments in developing and implementing an efficient recycling process. All IV bags involved in the pilot were composed of PVC.

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Baxter Expands PVC Intravenous Bag Recycling Program

Sustainability Benefits – “Navigating the Future: The Evolution of Eco-Friendly Propulsion Technologies” 29-12-2023

100% biomass-derived PET

Sustainability Benefits – “Navigating the Future: The Evolution of Eco-Friendly Propulsion Technologies” 29-12-2023

Sustainability Benefits

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

“Navigating the Future: The Evolution of Eco-Friendly Propulsion Technologies”

In recent years, the automotive industry has undergone a transformative shift with the advent of electric cars. However, a new wave of innovation is emerging, challenging the dominance of electric vehicles (EVs) and bringing attention to the potential of eco-friendly petrol engines.

The push for zero-emission vehicles has been reinforced by the European Union’s commitment to phase out petrol and diesel cars by 2035. While this ambitious goal aims to pave the way for a greener future, it recognizes the reality that internal combustion engine cars will persist on the roads until at least 2050, driven by those who made purchases before the 2035 deadline.  Sustainability Benefits

To address the challenge of reducing emissions from existing vehicles, Europe is exploring alternatives such as synthetic fuels derived from water and CO2, effectively removing the largest climate pollutant from the atmosphere. Additionally, biofuels sourced from plant residues and waste materials present another eco-friendly option.

While the EU envisions a future dominated by electric cars and environmentally friendly fuels by 2030, not all member states are in unanimous agreement. Italy, for instance, challenges the exclusive focus on electric vehicles and calls for a more technologically neutral approach. Giorgia Meloni, the President of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic, expresses support for the electrification of light vehicles but emphasizes the need for a diversified approach to achieve zero emissions. Sustainability Benefits

Amidst the discussions, Adolfo Urso, the Minister of Business and Made in Italy, emphasizes the importance of reason and pragmatism in the pursuit of ecological and industrial transition. Italy’s stance reflects a broader call for revisiting regulatory approaches and embracing a vision aligned with the evolving landscape of sustainable transportation. As the automotive industry navigates this complex terrain, it remains to be seen how the interplay between electric and eco-friendly petrol engines will shape the future of transportation.

Sustainability Benefits

R-LLDPE Market Faces Downturn Amid Oversupply and sluggish downstream Demand

Ex-Riyadh: In the Arabian Recycled Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (R-LLDPE) market, an ongoing trend of declining prices persists, driven by challenges related to the diminishing price support for scrap LLDPE materials and the increasing rates of post-consumer product collection.  Sustainability Benefits

These factors pose obstacles to the sustainable growth of R-LLDPE recyclers. The market landscape is further complicated by a marginal weakening in the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). On the supply side, an oversupply situation of R-LLDPE, coupled with ample inventories, and subdued procurement activities from overseas markets during the current seasonal phase, contribute to weakened export dynamics. Suppliers are responding with consistent discount offerings to incentivize larger volume purchases. However, the downstream industry is grappling with heightened freight rates with increased shipping cost, prompted by security concerns following attacks by Yemen’s Houthi militants on commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

Consequently, the European R-LLDPE market remains stable, reflecting the impact of elevated import costs for the product.  Sustainability Benefits

The Arabian market is grappling with an oversupply scenario, sustained by an unaltered production capacity of R-LLDPE material, which has established a bearish sentiment. This situation poses a challenge for suppliers in effectively managing excess inventory. The R-LLDPE market faces downward price pressure attributed to weakened product procurement activities during the Christmas holidays, influenced by reduced downstream industrial production and manufacturing activities for the final finished product with fewer staff members available during the holiday season.

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Sustainability Benefits

Kao Thailand Partners with SCGC and Dow to Develop Packaging with Key Sustainability Benefits

Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (Kao) has partnered with two leading global packaging experts, SCG Chemicals Co., Ltd. (SCGC) and Dow Thailand Group (Dow), to develop packaging designed for recyclability.  Sustainability Benefits

The partnership aims to provide consumers with more sustainable packaging options, with a focus on high-quality packaging that has a lower carbon footprint and is recyclable. Today, the three companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Dow Thailand’s headquarters in True Digital Park West.

Kao, a leading manufacturer of consumer products from Japan including Attack, Biore, Haiter, Laurier and Magiclean, plan to use the new, sustainable packaging across a wide range of its product portfolio in Thailand in the near future. The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Kao Thailand President, Yuji Shimizu; SCGC Executive Director, Pisan Uawithya; and Dow Thailand President, Chatchai Luanpolcharoenchai.  Sustainability Benefits

“Kao is delighted to partner with leading chemical companies such as SCGC and Dow to joint develop innovations for sustainable packaging based on the 4R principles: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Replace, which align with our ESG strategy or what we call the ‘Kirei Lifestyle Plan,'” said Yuji Shimizu, Kao Thailand President “Kao is committed to achieving Zero Carbon Emission by 2040 in an effort to help mitigating global warming and climate change issues. This is why our business is seriously focused on energy conservation within our production plants and products design and development throughout product lifecycle to reduce carbon emissions.  Sustainability Benefits

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Sustainability Benefits

Mitsubishi Chemical sells Indonesian PTA business to Lintas Citra Pratama

In a strategic move to enhance its business portfolio and reinforce its commitment to sustainable growth, Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corporation has recently announced the decision to transfer shares of its subsidiary, PT Mitsubishi Chemical Indonesia (MCCI). The shares will be transferred to PT Lintas Citra Pratama, a company with plans to commercialize paraxylene, a key raw material for pure terephthalic acid (PTA) in South East Asia.

Reasons for Share Transfer: MCCI, a company established in 1991, has been a major player in the Indonesian PTA market, contributing significantly to the production of polyester products such as fibers, PET bottles, and films. Sustainability Benefits

Despite the stability and strength of Indonesia’s PTA market, Mitsubishi Chemical Group has continuously evaluated its business direction, aligning with its management policy of “Forging the future” through portfolio management focused on market growth, competitiveness, and sustainability.

Affiliates of PT Lintas Citra Pratama presented a compelling proposition to Mitsubishi Chemical Group, expressing their intention to operate the PTA business through vertical integration from raw material paraxylene to PTA. Sustainability Benefits

This integration is anticipated to strengthen MCCI’s competitiveness, and the company is expected to continue its development and growth under the new ownership structure.

Mitsubishi Chemical sells Indonesian PTA business to Lintas Citra PratamaMitsubishi Chemical sells Indonesian PTA business to Lintas Citra Pratama

CIP and Mexican authorities to collaborate on green hydrogen and maritime fuels project

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), the world’s largest fund manager within greenfield renewable energy, has agreed with Mexican authorities to collaborate on Helax Istmo, a green hydrogen and green maritime fuels project in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, in Oaxaca, Mexico.

CIP will develop the Helax Istmo project in Mexico through its Growth Markets Funds II and Energy Transition Fund I.  Sustainability Benefits

To this end, CIP signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (CIIT) and Mexico’s national Ministry of Navy, the Secretaría de Marina (Semar), on December 22, 2023.

Under the MoU, the parties will collaborate to support the development of the large-scale, integrated renewable energy project in Oaxaca which aims to produce green hydrogen and green maritime fuels, contributing materially to Mexico’s sustainable development goals, as well as to the decarbonization of the shipping industry globally.

CIP noted that the MoU acknowledges that Helax will undergo formal indigenous and social consultations under Mexican law. The consultations are expected to take place in early 2024.  Sustainability Benefits

Ole Kjems Sørensen, partner at CIP and co-head of Growth Markets Funds, said: “This MoU showcases our long-term commitment to Mexico through the development of a pioneering project that offers green maritime fuels at scale — a first for the region. We would like to thank the Mexican authorities for their continued interest and support, and we look forward to continuing to engage constructively with national and local stakeholders and further develop Helax.”

CIP and Mexican authorities to collaborate on green hydrogen and maritime fuels project

SK On cooperates with domestic and foreign companies to advance the intelligence of battery production equipment

■ SK On collaborates with Beckhoff, Cisco, IFM Electronic, Yaskawa Electric, and Woowon Technology to enhance battery production efficiency

■ This initiative will establish the groundwork for a “smart factory” by improving productivity and minimizing downtime  Sustainability Benefits

SK On is advancing the intellectualization of battery production equipment through collaboration with domestic and international companies that possess global-level core technologies. This strategy aims to leverage Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to maximize equipment efficiency and enhance productivity.

On December 26 (KST), SK On formalized a six-party Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Beckhoff Automation, Cisco, IFM Electronic, Yaskawa Electric Korea, and Woowon Technology at the SK Green Campus in Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea. This MOU is aimed at enhancing the control and communication systems for battery production equipment.  Sustainability Benefits

SK On intends to verify the performance, quality, and stability of the technologies and services offered by these companies and discuss strategic cooperation for the intellectualization of battery production equipment. These efforts are expected to strengthen SK On’s manufacturing competitiveness by reducing costs and improving yield, without the need for extensive equipment remodeling.

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SK On cooperates with domestic and foreign companies to advance the intelligence of battery production equipment

The prevalence of “Hot V” engines, a term coined for a specific architectural configuration, has become increasingly widespread in the automotive industry

Typically associated with V-shaped engines, the conventional layout positions intake ducts inside the V between the two banks, with exhaust directed outward. This design, optimized for naturally aspirated engines, facilitates the connection of intake manifolds and allows for convenient placement of throttle bodies and injection systems. Sustainability Benefits

However, when transitioning to turbocharged engines, the dynamics change. The complexity arises as intake and exhaust, previously distinct, converge in the double scroll of turbocharged engines. Ferrari engineers confronted this challenge in the early 1980s during the development of the turbocharged 126 CK, leading to the evolution of a novel architecture known as the “hot internal V” or Hot V. In this configuration, contrary to tradition, exhaust is positioned between the cylinder banks, while intake faces outward.

This innovative design, initially applied to high-performance racing engines, has gained traction in the road sector.  Sustainability Benefits

Prominent examples include the Ferrari V6 in the 296 GTB, the Mercedes-Benz 4.0 V8 featured in various AMG and Aston Martin models, as well as similar engines from Audi and BMW. The advantages of the Hot V layout are multifaceted. The integration of turbines within the V results in a more compact architecture with reduced lateral bulk. Improved thermal management concentrates the hottest components in the center and upper areas of the engine, enhancing heat dissipation and minimizing the impact on other regions. Additionally, the shortened intake and exhaust ducts optimize gas flow, leading to improved accelerator response and mitigating turbo lag—a coveted achievement in engine performance.

The prevalence of "Hot V" engines, a term coined for a specific architectural configuration, has become increasingly widespread in the automotive industry

Recycling Nylon – UBE now supplying nylon 6 resin for high-pressure hydrogen tanks in new crown FCEV 28-12-2023

Sustainability Benefits

Recycling Nylon – UBE now supplying nylon 6 resin for high-pressure hydrogen tanks in new crown FCEV 28-12-2023

Recycling Nylon

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Recycling Nylon with New Catalyst from Northwestern University

Northwestern University chemists have developed a new catalyst that quickly, cleanly and completely breaks down Nylon-6 in a matter of minutes — without generating harmful byproducts. Even better: The process does not require toxic solvents, expensive materials or extreme conditions, making it practical for everyday applications.

Not only could this new catalyst play an important role in environmental remediation, it also could perform the first step in upcycling Nylon-6 wastes into higher-value products.

The research was published in the journal Chem.

Marks is the Charles E. and Emma H. Morrison Professor of Chemistry and Vladimir N. Ipatieff Professor of Catalytic Chemistry at Northwestern’s Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences and a professor of materials science and engineering at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering.Recycling Nylon

He also is a faculty affiliate at the Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy. Northwestern co-authors include Linda J. Broadbelt, the Sarah Rebecca Roland Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering and senior associate dean of McCormick, and Yosi Kratish, a research assistant professor in Marks’ group.

Recovering building blocks for upcycling
To bypass these issues, the researchers looked to a novel catalyst already developed in Marks’ laboratory. The catalyst harnesses yttrium (an inexpensive Earth-abundant metal) and lanthanide ions. When the team heated Nylon-6 samples to melting temperatures and applied the catalyst without a solvent, the plastic fell apart — reverting to its original building blocks without leaving byproducts behind. Recycling Nylon

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Recycling Nylon

Changan and Ganfeng Collaborate for Solid-State Battery Development

Changan Automobile and Ganfeng Lithium have announced their collaboration to manufacture solid-state batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) 1. 

Solid-state batteries are considered a next-generation energy storage device because of their superior performance and safety compared with the current batch of liquid-state electrolyte lithium-ion batteries 1.

 The two companies are among several international automakers that have bet on solid-state batteries, with leading promoter Toyota reportedly projecting adoption by 2027 1.

Ganfeng Lithium has already begun construction of a solid-state battery production facility in Chongqing, which will be the largest of its kind in China to date 2. 

The factory will offer annual capacities of 10 GWh each for the production of battery cells as well as battery packs 2.  Recycling Nylon

The company is also working on solid-state battery technology, and its first-generation solid-state battery has an energy density of 260Wh/kg 3.

This collaboration between Changan Automobile and Ganfeng Lithium is a significant step towards the commercialization of solid-state batteries and the electrification of transportation 1.

  Recycling Nylon

Polyester is not stain resistant

Recently, we attended a webinar about how to keep your home free of toxins.  In the conversation about which fabrics to choose for your furniture, one of the panelists suggested using a synthetic (polyester) fabric to avoid stains.

People often think synthetic fiber fabrics are naturally stain resistant. They are not. They are stain resistant because of the addition of chemicals which you do NOT want to bring into your home.   Recycling Nylon

Now, the situation is a little more complicated than: They are NOT.  Synthetic fibers are both hydrophobic, meaning that they resist absorbing liquids; and oilophilic, meaning that they more readily absorb oils and grease. There is a continuum of these states, hydrophilic – hydrophobic and oilophilic – oilophobic; but it is true that natural fiber fabrics are both hydrophilic and oilophobic.  This means that natural fiber fabrics absorb water well, but oil poorly.   Synthetic fiber fabrics are the opposite:  They are hydrophobic and oilophilic, meaning that they resist absorbing water but more readily absorb oils and grease.

The fact that natural fibers are hydrophilic also means that they clean much better than hydrophilic synthetics.  Washing machines (all washing action, with a machine, or by hand) depends on water absorption to clean.  The more absorbent the fibers, the better they will clean.   Recycling Nylon

So what do these hydro/oil phobic/philic characteristics mean for the staining and stain removal behavior of natural fibers versus synthetic fibers? It means that, lacking the addition of chemicals that we would all prefer to avoid, or that we should avoid AT ALL COSTS, a natural fiber fabric will absorb water-based stains more easily than a synthetic, but you will have an easier time removing that stain.  Natural fibers will resist oil-based stains better than synthetics. And should you get an oil-based stain, you will have an easier time removing it than from a synthetic fabric.  Synthetics will not clean in your washer nearly as well.   Recycling Nylon

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Polyester is not stain resistant

UBE now supplying nylon 6 resin for high-pressure hydrogen tanks in new crown FCEV

UBE Corporation has revealed its role as a supplier of polyamide (nylon) 6 resin, specifically UBE NYLON™ 1218IU, for Toyota Motor Corporation’s newly launched Crown FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle). Developed collaboratively by Toyota Motor and UBE, this nylon 6 resin serves as a plastic liner material for high-pressure hydrogen tanks in fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). Notably, the Crown FCEV becomes the second Toyota Motor fuel cell passenger vehicle, following the MIRAI, to incorporate UBE’s nylon 6 resin.

The UBE NYLON™ 1218IU meets rigorous standards as an approved plastic liner material for the high-pressure hydrogen tank in the Crown FCEV.   Recycling Nylon

Positioned as the innermost component of the tank, the plastic liner plays a crucial role in preventing hydrogen leakage. This nylon 6 resin exhibits exceptional performance in preventing hydrogen permeation, displaying robust mechanical characteristics for enduring rapid temperature changes during hydrogen filling and discharging, as well as providing impact resistance in low-temperature environments.

Since initiating the production and marketing of nylon 6 resin in 1959, UBE has evolved into a prominent global producer, boasting an annual manufacturing capacity of 198,000 tonnes.    Recycling Nylon

The company has extended its influence as a composite materials manufacturer, emphasizing various engineering plastics to meet the increasingly sophisticated demands of the market. With a production capacity of 53,000 tonnes for engineering plastics composite materials, UBE maintains a global presence with operations in Japan, Asia, Europe, and North America. The company’s commitment to enhancing production capacity for engineering plastics composites aligns with its focus on developing products that cater to the diverse performance requirements of evolving automotive applications.

In related news, Manchester United plc has announced a significant agreement involving the acquisition of 25% of Class B shares and up to 25% of Class A shares by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman of INEOS.

Additionally, a substantial investment of $300 million is earmarked to facilitate future developments at Old Trafford.    Recycling Nylon

UBE now supplying nylon 6 resin for high-pressure hydrogen tanks in new crown FCEV

EQUATE announces Jan MEG India Contract Price at USD520/tonne

EQUATE, the global monoethylene glycol (MEG) producer, has declared a Contract Price (ICP) of $520 per tonne CFR for its January 2024 MEG shipments to India, as stated by the company. This figure marks a $43 per tonne increase from the December pricing.

It’s worth noting that EQUATE’s India Contract Price (ICP) for Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) in December 2023 was set at $477 per metric ton CFR for arrivals at India Main Ports. This pricing strategy is influenced by the current regional supply and demand dynamics, offering a glimpse into short-term market conditions.    Recycling Nylon

The specified Contract Price applies to the cost and freight (CFR) at India Main Ports, emphasizing the comprehensive financial aspects involved in the transaction. EQUATE’s regular updates on ICP play a crucial role in informing stakeholders about pricing fluctuations and market trends in the MEG sector. The January 2024 ICP of $520 per tonne reflects EQUATE’s response to evolving market conditions and its commitment to transparent communication in the industry.

EQUATE announces Jan MEG India Contract Price at USD520/tonne

Vietnam’s textiles and garments yet to fully unlock FTA’s advantages and potential

Vietnam textile and garment industry has not been able to fully capitalise on the advantages and potential of FTAs, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT).

To address this issue, the MoIT, as the leading agency for FTA negotiation and enforcement, has been enhancing connections with ministries, localities, associations, and stakeholders to establish a collaborative ecosystem to help the textile industry effectively leverage FTAs.    Recycling Nylon

According to Ngo Chung Khanh, deputy head of the multilateral trade policy department under the MoIT, the Vietnamese government has signed various FTAs with many markets around the world, with a key focus on reducing tariffs to the lowest and quickest levels and simpler rules of origin for Vietnamese goods, especially in the textile and garment sector.

In a recent survey by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), while most enterprises had some understanding of the FTAs, only about 8 per cent possessed a clear understanding.    Recycling Nylon

According to the ministry, Vietnam’s trade balance has been significantly in deficit in the East Asian markets, amounting to nearly US$129 billion in 2022, with $60.5 billion in trade with China, $37.9 billion with South Korea, and $13.42 billion with Asean.

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Vietnam's textiles and garments yet to fully unlock FTA's advantages and potential

AI shows how microplastics are harming global soil and agriculture

In recent years, the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment has emerged as a pressing concern.

While the pollution of oceans by plastics is widely recognized, the presence of microplastics in soils across the globe is equally alarming.    Recycling Nylon

These plastics, breaking down into microplastics (MPs), significantly impact soil properties and, alarmingly, find their way into the human food chain, raising health concerns.

Microplastics, soil, and corporate sustainability

The effects of microplastics on soil are crucial in the realm of corporate sustainability, particularly under the ‘Environmental’ pillar of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.

Companies worldwide are increasingly expected to adopt eco-friendly approaches, with a strong focus on addressing plastic pollution.    Recycling Nylon

However, the complex interaction between soil and microplastics, influenced by the diversity of both soil types and microplastics, complicates understanding and managing their environmental impact.

Innovative research using AI machine learning

To bridge the research gap in this area, a team led by Prof. Yong Sik Ok, a Korean University Professor and a prominent figure in environmental governance, applied AI machine learning (ML) techniques to study microplastics in soil.    Recycling Nylon

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AI shows how microplastics are harming global soil and agriculture

Plastic packaging – Pressolysis: is the Pressolysis a Sustainable Recycling Method for Plastics and Composites? 27-12-2023

  Recycling Nylon

Plastic packaging – Pressolysis: is the Pressolysis a Sustainable Recycling Method for Plastics and Composites? 27-12-2023

Plastic packaging

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Germany’s producer prices decline 7.9% YoY in November 2023

INSIGHTS

  • In November 2023, Germany’s industrial product prices fell 7.9 per cent YoY, an improvement from October’s 11 per cent drop, as per Destatis.
  • The decline is mainly due to lower energy costs, with a significant 21.4 per cent decrease in energy prices.
  • Excluding energy, prices slightly rose by 0.3 per cent YoY but fell 0.1 per cent from October.

The producer prices of industrial products in Germany experienced a 7.9 per cent decrease in November 2023 compared to the same month in 2022, according to a recent update from the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). This change, albeit significant, marks an improvement from the 11 per cent year-on-year (YoY) drop seen in October 2023. The fluctuation is largely attributed to a base effect resulting from the high price levels in the previous year.  Plastic packaging

The decrease in November 2023, compared to October 2023, was more modest at 0.5 per cent. This downward movement in prices is primarily driven by a notable decrease in energy costs, which have been the primary factor behind the YoY decline in producer prices.

Energy prices in November 2023 were significantly lower than the previous year, down 21.4 per cent.  Plastic packaging

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Plastic packaging

BYD has officially chosen Hungary as the location for its inaugural European factory, marking a historic move as the first Chinese automaker to directly produce cars on the continent

The longstanding speculations surrounding BYD’s intentions have been confirmed, with Szeged in Hungary selected as the site for the groundbreaking facility. This strategic decision reflects a shift in pace for the Shenzen-based group.

The implementation of this pivotal plan will unfold through several phases, commencing with the establishment of a robust supply chain involving numerous suppliers, many of which are affiliated with BYD.  Plastic packaging

The overarching goal is the creation of a “local green ecosystem.” BYD envisions the generation of thousands of new jobs in Hungary, citing the country’s favorable geographical position, well-connected infrastructures, and established industrial base, underscored by the presence of renowned car manufacturers such as Audi, Mercedes Opel, and Suzuki, along with key suppliers like Bosch, Continental, Delphi, Denso, Michelin, Hankook, Lear, and Luk. Germany and France were also contenders for the factory, especially given BYD’s existing European research and development center in Germany.

While specific dates for the construction of the BYD plant and details about the models to be produced remain uncertain, it is confirmed that the focus will be on plug-in hybrid and electric cars.  Plastic packaging

The assembly process will take place on cutting-edge production lines equipped with the latest technologies. Currently, BYD is engaged in productive operations in Hungary, specifically for electric buses and trucks in Kamarom, near the northern border with Slovakia. The automotive plant, however, is slated for construction in Szeged, situated on the northern border of Hungary, neighboring Serbia and Romania.

Despite BYD’s global threat to Tesla in the electric car sales arena, its European footprint is still burgeoning, with only 13 thousand units sold in the region. Nevertheless, BYD boasts a presence in 19 countries through 230 dealers, showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding its influence in the European automotive market. Plastic packaging

Plastic packaging

Coca-Cola Philippines accelerates efforts to achieve circular economy on plastic packaging, water security

Coca-Cola Philippines concludes 2023 with significant progress in its commitment to environmental sustainability and enters 2024 with an increased resolve to accelerate its efforts. This year, the company continued to strengthen its initiatives to meet its World Without Waste targets and launched “May Ikabobote Pa”, a brand-led initiative aiming to inspire behavior change among consumers regarding recycling.

This includes expanding partnerships with organizations sharing a commitment to advancing a circular economy for plastic packaging.  Plastic packaging

The Coca-Cola Company also unveiled its 2030 Water Security Strategy, which aims to achieve 100% circular water use across 175 facilities globally. Additionally, the company plans to partner with like-minded organizations to enhance the health of 60 critical watersheds and return a cumulative total of 2 trillion liters of water to nature and communities between 2021 and 2030.

“We are grateful for all our projects this year, which demonstrate our dedication to conducting our business more sustainably and empowering the communities where we operate and serve,” said Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines.

“We recognize our responsibility to continue making a positive impact in communities and the environment and acknowledge that we still have a long way to go and that we cannot do this alone.  Plastic packaging

We encourage everyone to join us in these efforts.”

More…

Plastic packaging

Introduction to Biodegradable and Compostable Plastics

Biodegradable and compostable plastics have gained significant attention in recent years as the world grapples with the environmental impact of traditional plastics. These innovative materials offer a potential solution to the problem of plastic waste, but many people are still confused about the differences between biodegradable and compostable plastics. In this article, we will explore the various types of bioplastics and shed light on the distinctions between biodegradable and compostable plastics.

Bioplastics are derived from renewable sources such as plants, vegetable oils, and starches. They are designed to break down naturally over time, reducing their impact on the environment. Plastic packaging

However, not all bioplastics are created equal. There are different types of bioplastics, each with its own unique properties and characteristics.

One type of bioplastic is biodegradable plastic. Biodegradable plastics are made from organic materials that can be broken down by microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi. These plastics break down into natural elements like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. Biodegradable plastics can be a suitable alternative to traditional plastics, as they do not accumulate in landfills or oceans, reducing the overall environmental impact.

Compostable plastics, on the other hand, are a specific subset of biodegradable plastics. Compostable plastics are designed to break down in a composting environment, where they can decompose alongside other organic matter. Composting is a natural process that turns organic waste into nutrient-rich soil.  Plastic packaging

Compostable plastics break down into non-toxic components, leaving behind no harmful residues. They are an excellent choice for products that are likely to end up in composting facilities, such as food packaging or disposable cutlery.

More…

Introduction to Biodegradable and Compostable Plastics

Pressolysis: A Sustainable Recycling Method for Plastics and Composites

Plastics and composites are widely used materials in various industries, such as packaging, automotive, aerospace, construction, and electronics. However, they also pose significant environmental challenges, as they are often difficult to recycle and end up in landfills or oceans, causing pollution and harming wildlife. According to a 2017 study, only 9% of the global plastic waste was recycled, 12% was incinerated, and 79% was accumulated in landfills or the natural environment1.  Plastic packaging

To address this problem, researchers and innovators have been developing various recycling methods that can recover valuable materials from plastic and composite waste, and reduce their environmental impact. One of these methods is pressolysis, a pressure-based technology that uses only steam to separate and recover organic materials from waste streams2. Pressolysis is also known as thermo-cyclic pressolysis, as it involves cyclic heating and cooling of the waste materials under high pressure3.

How does pressolysis work?

Pressolysis is a chemical recycling method that breaks down the molecular bonds of plastic and composite materials, and converts them into reusable monomers or oligomers. The process consists of four main steps3:

  1. Preparation: The waste materials are shredded and mixed with water in a reactor vessel.  Plastic packaging
  2. Heating: The reactor is heated to a high temperature (around 300°C) and pressurized to a high pressure (around 200 bar) using steam. This causes the water to become supercritical, meaning it has both liquid and gas properties, and can act as a solvent and a catalyst for the depolymerization reaction.
  3. Cooling: The reactor is rapidly cooled to a low temperature (around 100°C) and depressurized to a low pressure (around 1 bar) using cold water. This causes the depolymerized products to separate from the water and form two phases: an organic phase and an aqueous phase.  Plastic packaging
  4. Recovery: The organic phase, which contains the monomers or oligomers, is collected and purified for further use. The aqueous phase, which contains water and some dissolved salts, is recycled back to the reactor.

More…

Pressolysis: A Sustainable Recycling Method for Plastics and Composites

Taiwan’s Paraxylene Industry Faces Uncertainties with Tariff Adjustment

On December 20th, 2023, the Tariff Commission of China’s State Council announced a suspension of tariff concessions on specific products covered by the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement. Beginning January 1, 2024, tariff rates for 12 imported products, including Paraxylene (PX) from Taiwan, will no longer receive concessions. The current 0% tariff on Paraxylene will be adjusted to 2%. This new 2% tariff will be applicable on Paraxylene imports from Taiwan, same as that from other countries expect for the ASEAN market.  Plastic packaging

Taiwan’s sole Paraxylene producer, FCFC (Formosa Chemicals & Fibre Corp.), mainly supplies its Paraxylene exports to the PTA plant in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province in China and sells some Paraxylene to other PTA plants.

In the period of January-November 2023 alone, Paraxylene imports from Taiwan represented 14% of the total, with an average monthly volume of 106kt. With the introduction of a 2% tariff, it is estimated that the cost of importing Paraxylene from Taiwan will likely increase and the competitiveness of Taiwan’s Paraxylene will decline. Presently, Paraxylene imports from Taiwan benefit from a favorable 0% tariff policy, resulting in relatively low import costs.  Plastic packaging

Although, in practical transactions, both buyers and sellers often share the tariff reduction benefits, buyers still enjoy an advantage of approximately 1% tariff reduction compared to imports from Japan and South Korea. Therefore, with the implementation of 2% tariff, Paraxylene imports from Taiwan will no longer be able to enjoy this 1% reduction advantage, leading to an increase in the cost of importing from Taiwan. This may prompt buyers to turn to Paraxylene from ASEAN countries or imports from Japan and South Korea.  Plastic packaging

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Taiwan's Paraxylene Industry Faces Uncertainties with Tariff Adjustment

Freight on the Red Sea route soars, and China’s polyester exports to North Africa stagnate

Recent developments in the Red Sea have gained global attention, with many shipping companies announcing suspensions of service or a halt in offering new slots. Previously, the four major container shipping giants in Europe had all suspended services that required passing through the Red Sea route. As a result, shipping costs between Asia and Europe, as well as between Asia and Africa, have significantly increased in the short term. The current freight cost for a 20-feet standard container from China to North Africa has risen to around $3,500, an increase of several hundred dollars compared to before. However, shipping companies are actually unable to provide available slots, and their pricing adjustments are mainly opportunistic. Plastic packaging

Even if factories are willing to accept the higher rates, it does not necessarily guarantee the availability of slots.

Historically, disruptions in the Suez Canal have led to longer shipping distances and higher prices. In March 2021, the grounding of the MV Ever Given in the Suez Canal caused a six-day blockage, resulting in significant losses. Therefore, it is important to assess the potential impact of the “Red Sea Crisis.”

The Red Sea-Suez Canal route is one of the busiest shipping routes in the world, with approximately 12% of global cargo transportation passing through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.Plastic packaging

The recent suspensions of Red Sea navigation by the four international shipping companies (Germany’s Hapag-Lloyd, Denmark’s Maersk Line, Mediterranean Shipping Company, and France’s CMA CGM) account for 53% of global container trade volume.

More…

Freight on the Red Sea route soars, and China's polyester exports to North Africa stagnate

Plastics technology – Chinese scientists have successfully developed a revolutionary knittable fiber, drawing inspiration from the insulating properties of polar bear fur 26-12-2023

Plastic packaging

Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling – Pressolysis: A Sustainable Recycling Method for Plastics and Composites – Every year, around 380 million tons of plastic are produced, with only 9% being recycled 27-12-2023

Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling

Pressolysis: A Sustainable Recycling Method for Plastics and Composites

Plastics and composites are widely used materials in various industries, such as packaging, automotive, aerospace, construction, and electronics. However, they also pose significant environmental challenges, as they are often difficult to recycle and end up in landfills or oceans, causing pollution and harming wildlife. According to a 2017 study, only 9% of the global plastic waste was recycled, 12% was incinerated, and 79% was accumulated in landfills or the natural environment1.  Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling

To address this problem, researchers and innovators have been developing various recycling methods that can recover valuable materials from plastic and composite waste, and reduce their environmental impact. One of these methods is pressolysis, a pressure-based technology that uses only steam to separate and recover organic materials from waste streams2. Pressolysis is also known as thermo-cyclic pressolysis, as it involves cyclic heating and cooling of the waste materials under high pressure3.

How does pressolysis work?

Pressolysis is a chemical recycling method that breaks down the molecular bonds of plastic and composite materials, and converts them into reusable monomers or oligomers. The process consists of four main steps3:

  1. Preparation: The waste materials are shredded and mixed with water in a reactor vessel.  Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling
  2. Heating: The reactor is heated to a high temperature (around 300°C) and pressurized to a high pressure (around 200 bar) using steam. This causes the water to become supercritical, meaning it has both liquid and gas properties, and can act as a solvent and a catalyst for the depolymerization reaction.
  3. Cooling: The reactor is rapidly cooled to a low temperature (around 100°C) and depressurized to a low pressure (around 1 bar) using cold water. This causes the depolymerized products to separate from the water and form two phases: an organic phase and an aqueous phase.
  4. Recovery: The organic phase, which contains the monomers or oligomers, is collected and purified for further use.
  5. The aqueous phase, which contains water and some dissolved salts, is recycled back to the reactor. Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling

The heating and cooling cycles are repeated until the desired degree of depolymerization is achieved. The number of cycles depends on the type and composition of the waste materials, and the quality and quantity of the recovered products.

Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling

What are the advantages of pressolysis?

Pressolysis has several advantages over other recycling methods, such as pyrolysis, solvolysis, and mechanical recycling. Some of these advantages are23:

  • It is a clean and green process, as it uses only water and steam, and does not produce any harmful emissions or residues.  Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling
  • It is a versatile and flexible process, as it can handle various types of plastic and composite materials, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polyurethane, epoxy, and carbon fiber reinforced polymer.
  • It is a high-yield and high-quality process, as it can recover up to 90% of the original mass of the waste materials, and produce monomers or oligomers that are free from impurities and have similar properties to virgin materials.
  • It is a cost-effective and energy-efficient process, as it uses low amounts of water and electricity, and can generate heat and water as by-products that can be reused or sold.  Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling

What are the challenges and opportunities of pressolysis?

Pressolysis is a promising recycling method that has the potential to revolutionize the plastic and composite industry, and contribute to a circular economy. However, it also faces some challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed. Some of these are3:

  • The process needs to be optimized and standardized for different types of waste materials, and the optimal parameters and protocols need to be established and validated.  Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling
  • The process needs to be scaled up and commercialized, and the economic and environmental benefits need to be demonstrated and quantified.
  • The process needs to be integrated and coordinated with other recycling methods and waste management systems, and the regulatory and policy frameworks need to be updated and harmonized.
  • The process needs to be supported and promoted by various stakeholders, such as manufacturers, recyclers, consumers, governments, and NGOs, and the awareness and acceptance of the process need to be increased and enhanced.

Conclusion

Pressolysis is a novel and innovative recycling method that uses steam to depolymerize plastic and composite materials, and recover reusable monomers or oligomers. It is a clean, versatile, high-yield, and cost-effective process that can reduce the environmental impact of plastic and composite waste, and create new value and opportunities for the industry and society. Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling

Pressolysis is still in its early stages of development, and requires further research and development, as well as collaboration and communication, to overcome the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling

Plastics technology – Chinese scientists have successfully developed a revolutionary knittable fiber, drawing inspiration from the insulating properties of polar bear fur 26-12-2023

Pressolysis Sustainable Recycling

PET-Resin rPET – Feedstock increase – Global Oil Prices Dip Following Angola’s OPEC Exit Announcement : Will other countries follow Nigeria? 26-12-2023

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

PET-Resin rPET

PET-Resin rPET

  • Polymers : PET – r-PET – Filament grade semidull chips -Filament grade bright chips – Ny6 – Ny66 – PP
  • Feedstocks  PX – PTA – MEG – CPL – Adipic Acid – Benzene – ACN – Ethylene – Phenol – Naphtha
  • Textile : Polyester POY – DTY – FDY – PSF – Recycled Polyester POY – Nylon POY – DTY – FDY Spandex 20-30-40 -Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  Acrylic Staple Fiber 

PET-Resin rPET

PET-Resin rPET

Yuan vs US$

Polyestertime
ITEM 18/12/2023 26/12/2023 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 6,800 yuan/ton 6,925 yuan/ton +125
Bottle grade PET chips export market 875 $/ton 885 $/ton +10
Filament grade Semidull chips domestic market 6,620 yuan/ton 6,730 yuan/ton +110
Filament grade Bright chips domestic market 6,640 yuan/ton 6,730 yuan/ton +90
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market 5,655 yuan/ton 5,850 yuan/ton +195
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA export market 700 $/ton 730 $/ton  

+30

 
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,160 yuan/ton 4,380 yuan/ton +220
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 492 $/ton 517 $/ton +25
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market

PET-Resin rPET

 982 $/ton 1,024 $/ton
 +42
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 959 $/ton 1,001 $/ton +42
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,005 $/ton 1,050 $/ton +45
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,400  yuan/ton 7,600 yuan/ton
 +200
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,500 yuan/ton 7,550 yuan/ton +50
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 8,820 yuan/ton 8,900 yuan/ton +80
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F

PPET-Resin rPET

 8,800 yuan/ton 8,900 yuan/ton +100
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market 8,100 yuan/ton 8,225 yuan/ton +125
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,180 yuan/ton 7,300 yuan/ton +120
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 13,000 yuan/ton 13,750 yuan/ton
 +750
Caprolactam CPL overseas  market 1,600 $/ton 1,600 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,850 $/ton 1,850 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 13,950 yuan/ton 14,350 yuan/ton +400
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market

PET-Resin rPET

 14,250 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton +350
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market 19,600 yuan/ton 19,600 yuan/ton –
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,350 yuan/ton 16,600 yuan/ton +250
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,500 yuan/ton 18,850 yuan/ton- +350
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,050 yuan/ton 17,450 yuan/ton +400
Spandex 20D  domestic  market

PET-Resin rPET

 35,000 yuan/ton 34,500 yuan/ton -500
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 33,500 yuan/ton 33,000 yuan/ton -500
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  30,500 yuan/ton 30,000 yuan/ton -500
Adipic Acid domestic market 8,650 yuan/ton 9,100 yuan/ton +450
Benzene domestic market

PET-Resin rPET

 7,000 yuan/ton 7,280 yuan/ton +280
Benzene overseas  market 866 $/ton 882 $/ton +16
Ethylene South East market 850 $/ton 850 $/ton –
Ethylene NWE market 744 $/ton 744 $/ton –
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market

PET-Resin rPET

 9,700 yuan/ton 9,700 yuan/ton –
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF  domestic market 14,600 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton –
Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  domestic market 12,800 yuan/ton 12,650 yuan/ton -150
PP Powder domestic market

PET-Resin rPET

 7,300 yuan/ton 7,330 yuan/ton +30
Naphtha overseas market  683 $/ton 674 $/ton -9
Phenol domestic market 7,862 yuan/ton 7,725 yuan/ton -87

r-PET high end eco-friendly chips =7,900 yuan/ton  — 7,900 yuan/ton   –

PET-Resin rPET

Global Oil Prices Dip Following Angola’s OPEC Exit Announcement

Global oil prices took a hit on Thursday as news emerged of Angola’s decision to withdraw its membership from the OPEC. The country’s move has raised concerns about OPEC’s ongoing efforts to support oil prices by controlling the supply in the global market.

The announcement of Angola’s impending exit from OPEC sent shockwaves through the industry, resulting in a $1 decrease in oil benchmarks. The country’s oil minister, Diamantino Azevedo, asserted that remaining part of OPEC was not in Angola’s best interests. Over the past few months, OPEC, led by Saudi Arabia, has been rallying support for reducing output and driving up oil prices.  PET-Resin rPET

Shipping tracking firm Kpler’s Matt Smith suggested that OPEC appears to be losing its battle to keep prices high, especially as non-OPEC producers like the U.S. increase production to fill the emerging supply gap. Angola’s daily oil production, which is around 1.1 million barrels, is a small percentage of OPEC’s total daily output of 28 million barrels.

Angola might be one of the smaller contributors to OPEC’s output, but its decision to leave the group has prompted questions about OPEC’s unity and future strategy. However, Smith also pointed out that the impact of Angola’s departure on global supplies could be relatively minor.  PET-Resin rPET

More…

PET-Resin rPET

Plastics technology – Chinese scientists have successfully developed a revolutionary knittable fiber, drawing inspiration from the insulating properties of polar bear fur 26-12-2023

Plastics technology

PET-Resin rPET – Feedstock increase – Global Oil Prices Dip Following Angola’s OPEC Exit Announcement : Will other countries follow Nigeria?

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Plastics technology

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

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Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

NEXTCHEM (MAIRE) awarded licensing, process design and catalyst supply for biodegradable plastics intermediates in China

  • NEXTCHEM’s subsidiary CONSER, biodegradable plastics technology licensor, will provide the licensing, the process design and technical assistance expertise for its proprietary Duetto technology to produce added value products from maleic anhydride
  • This is the first award reflecting CONSER’s extended technology package, including hydrogenation catalyst supply

MAIRE (MAIRE.MI) announces that NEXTCHEM (Sustainable Technology Solutions BU), through its biodegradable plastics technology licensor CONSER, has been awarded technology licensing and catalyst supply by a prominent client, as part of a larger project located in Northwestern China.  Plastics technology

The scope of work entails licensing, process design package for CONSER proprietary Duetto technology and technical assistance during project execution, up to commissioning and start-up. As part of the agreement, CONSER will also supply the hydrogenation catalyst[1]. The Duetto technology offers a valuable solution in terms of CapEx, OpEx and energy efficiency to produce, with the same process, both butanediol[2] and dimethyl-succinate, the two intermediates needed to obtain biodegradable polymers.

Alessandro Bernini, MAIRE CEO, commented: “Since the acquisition of CONSER in April 2023, we have been working to further strengthen our technology package for the production of biodegradable polymers, which now spans from technology licensing and high-value process design services to the supply of catalysts. This award is a further demonstration of our top-class and broad portfolio of leading technologies that support our clients in the energy transition process.”  Plastics technology

[1] Hydrogenation Catalyst is a catalyst that activates a chemical reaction between hydrogen and another compound or element.

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Plastics technology

KAIST Unveils Eco-Friendly Strategies for Polyamides Production

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

– Provides current research trends in bio-based polyamide production

– Research on bio-based polyamides production gains importance for achieving a carbon-neutral society

Global industries focused on carbon neutrality, under the slogan “Net-Zero,” are gaining increasing attention. In particular, research on microbial production of polymers, replacing traditional chemical methods with biological approaches, is actively progressing.

Polyamides, represented by nylon, are linear polymers widely used in various industries such as automotive, electronics, textiles, and medical fields. They possess beneficial properties such as high tensile strength, electrical insulation, heat resistance, wear resistance, and biocompatibility.  Plastics technology

Since the commercialization of nylon in 1938, approximately 7 million tons of polyamides are produced worldwide annually. Considering their broad applications and significance, producing polyamides through bio-based methods holds considerable environmental and industrial importance.

KAIST (President Kwang-Hyung Lee) announced that a research team led by Distinguished Professor Sang Yup Lee, including Dr. Jong An Lee and doctoral candidate Ji Yeon Kim from the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, published a paper titled “Current Advancements in Bio-Based Production of Polyamides”.

The paper was featured on the cover of the monthly issue of “Trends in Chemistry” by Cell Press.  Plastics technology

As part of climate change response technologies, bio-refineries involve using biotechnological and chemical methods to produce industrially important chemicals and biofuels from renewable biomass without relying on fossil resources.

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Plastics technology

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive choices, safety has become a paramount consideration for discerning consumers

Beyond the usual factors like design, power, and comfort, the reliability and safety of a vehicle are now in the spotlight. Recent crash tests in 2023 have brought forth surprising revelations, positioning China at the forefront of car safety rankings.

While Chinese cars traditionally target the domestic market, their global influence is rapidly expanding. Notably, Chinese electric cars, navigating the delicate equilibrium between technological innovation and cost-effectiveness, are making a substantial impact. Despite lingering perceptions of affordability and high-tech features, there’s a newfound recognition of the safety prowess exhibited by Chinese vehicles.

In the latest crash tests conducted by Euro NCAP, a prominent independent safety assessment body, Chinese BYD emerged among the safest cars on the road. Traditionally lauded European brands such as Volkswagen and BMW still maintain their reliability status, but the inclusion of Chinese BYD Tang in the upper echelons of safety rankings signals a significant shift.  Plastics technology

As the automotive landscape continues to transform, the importance of feeling secure behind the wheel is escalating. The 2023 crash tests underscore that safety considerations are no longer confined to renowned European brands, with Chinese electric cars demonstrating commendable performance in protecting occupants during collisions.

This paradigm shift signifies the maturation of the Chinese automotive market, positioning it as a formidable contender on a global scale. Beyond mere aesthetics and speed, consumers are increasingly prioritizing safety, especially those with families or those who have experienced past accidents.  Plastics technology

The resilience exhibited by Chinese electric cars in crash tests is a testament to the industry’s maturity and its readiness to engage on equal terms in Western markets. In an era where safety is non-negotiable, China has overtaken its competitors and claimed its spot at the pinnacle of car safety rankings.

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive choices, safety has become a paramount consideration for discerning consumers

EU economy emissions in 2022: down 22% since 2008

In 2022, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated by economic activities of EU resident units stood at 3.6 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalents (CO2-eq), indicating a 22% decrease compared with 2008.

The activities with the highest GHG emissions in 2022 were the manufacturing industry and the supply of electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning, both with 745 million tonnes of CO2-eq, representing 21% of total greenhouse gases emitted. These were followed by households (718 million tonnes of CO2-eq; 20%), which are emitters of greenhouse gases related to transportation, heating and other purposes.  Plastics technology

Looking back, between 2008 (the first available year of data) and 2022, the largest relative decrease in GHG emissions was recorded in mining and quarrying (-40%), followed by the supply of electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning (-37%) and manufacturing (-28%).

These are estimates for the EU economy according to the air emissions accounts, which show the environmental impact of the whole economy, including international transport.

Source: Eurostat
EU economy emissions in 2022: down 22% since 2008

LyondellBasell and Pigeon Singapore Collaborate to Incorporate CirculenRenew Polymers in Nursing Bottles

LyondellBasell  and Pigeon Singapore – a market leader producing high quality mother and baby care products for Southeast Asia, Middle East, Africa and Oceania regions – announced today their collaboration on advancing the sustainable research and development efforts in baby nursing bottles.  Plastics technology

The renewed series of the Pigeon nursing bottles will use the LyondellBasell bio-based CirculenRenew polypropylene polymers, as part of Pigeon’s transitioning away from using 100% virgin polypropylene resins

LyondellBasell bio-based CirculenRenew polypropylene polymers (PP) are used in the cap and hood of the renewed Pigeon SofTouch™ T-Ester, PPSU and Glass nursing bottle (first three bottles from the left), and in the cap, hood and bottle of the PP nursing bottle and PP straw bottle (last two bottles). They are also used in the bottle handle of the PP straw bottle.  Plastics technology

The LyondellBasell CirculenRenew polymers are made from renewable feedstocks derived from bio-based wastes and residual oils, such as used cooking oils. These feedstocks are used in our conventional production processes along with conventional feedstocks, and are allocated to CirculenRenew products using an ISCC PLUS-certified mass balance approach. The use of renewable feedstocks offers a lower carbon footprint compared to fossil-based feedstocks.

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LyondellBasell and Pigeon Singapore Collaborate to Incorporate CirculenRenew Polymers in Nursing Bottles

Chinese scientists have successfully developed a revolutionary knittable fiber, drawing inspiration from the insulating properties of polar bear fur

The breakthrough, detailed in a study published in the journal Science on Friday, introduces an encapsulated aerogel fiber that possesses remarkable thermal insulation capabilities. Unlike traditional aerogel fibers, this innovative creation is washable, dyeable, and durable, making it ideal for incorporation into advanced textiles.

Inspired by the unique structure of polar bear fur, the researchers from Zhejiang University replicated a core-shell design featuring a porous core enveloped by a dense shell structure.  Plastics technology

This design effectively mimics the bear’s ability to stay warm and dry in harsh conditions. The resulting aerogel fiber, with lamellar pores, not only exhibits strength and stretchability but also retains its insulating properties even in wet or humid environments.

Remarkably, the fiber maintained its thermal insulation performance after undergoing 10,000 repeated stretching cycles at a 100 percent strain. In practical application, the researchers tested the fiber in a thin sweater, which, despite being only one-fifth as thick as a traditional down jacket, delivered comparable thermal insulation.

The successful development of this knittable fiber opens up exciting possibilities for the creation of multifunctional aerogel fibers and textiles, paving the way for innovative advancements in the field.  Plastics technology

Chinese scientists have successfully developed a revolutionary knittable fiber, drawing inspiration from the insulating properties of polar bear fur

Engineering plastics – Compostable fishing nets: An end to Ghost Nets in the oceans? 23-12-2023

Plastics technology

Engineering plastics – Compostable fishing nets: An end to Ghost Nets in the oceans? 23-12-2023

Engineering plastics

Japanese refining and petrochemical company Idemitsu has initiated the operational phase of its polystyrene (PS)-based engineering plastics plant in Johor state, Malaysia, boasting an annual production capacity of 9,000 tons

This successful launch in Malaysia has effectively doubled Idemitsu’s overall output capacity for its syndiotactic PS, a type of PS-based engineering plastic. The company already operates a similar 9,000-ton plant in Chiba prefecture, east Japan.

Syndiotactic PS plastics, known for their lightweight properties and resilience to heat and chemicals, find applications in electric vehicle (EV) components, home appliances, and kitchen utilities. Anticipating a surge in demand, particularly in Southeast Asia for EVs and kitchen utilities, Idemitsu strategically expanded its production capabilities in Malaysia to ensure stable output.  Engineering plastics

The decision to choose Malaysia as the new production site was facilitated by the proximity to Idemitsu SM Malaysia, a subsidiary providing the necessary feedstock styrene monomer (SM). The latter operates a 240,000-ton-per-year SM plant located adjacent to the syndiotactic PS project. However, specific details regarding the quantity of SM required for the annual production of 9,000 tons of syndiotactic PS were not disclosed.

In a move to streamline its petrochemical business, Idemitsu has opted to discontinue bisphenol-A production by October 2024. This decision stems from increased competition with Asian producers and oversupply in the market.  Engineering plastics

Engineering plastics

STF America announces the sale of a PET Bottle Washing Plant to Malama One Recycling LLC, Waiakea Volcanic Water

STF Group of Germany and Zimmer America Recycling Solutions announce the sale of a complete STF PET Bottle Recycling Plant in Hilo, Hawaii. The equipment will be installed at Malama One Recycling LLC, Waiakea Water, a supplier of sustainably sourced and packaged premium volcanic water.

The line has an initial capacity of 1.5 metric tons/hour output of flakes. It incorporates a modular design where the output can be increased to 2.5 metric tons/hour in the future.

In addition to PET, HDPE and PP are also recovered to be sold into the recycled material markets.  Engineering plastics

The line consists of machinery and equipment manufactured by STF Group in Germany. The sorting line includes Material Feeding and Conveying Systems, Bale Braker, Dosing Screws, Magnetic Over-Belt Metal Separator, Manual Sorting Station, Label Scraper, and Star Screen. The line also features wide Tomra AutoSort optical bottle sorters with two parallel streams.

The washing equipment includes STF Wet Grinder with Friction Cleaner and Circulation System, Air Stream Separation, Hot-Washers, Sink/Float Separation Stage with Stirring and Separating Containers, Post-Washers, Tomra Flake Sorting, Filling Stations for PET, PO and Labels as well as a Water Treatment System with Decanter, Neutralization Tank and Dosing Station.  Engineering plastics

 

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Engineering plastics

Emerging industries attract foreign investment

Volkswagen Anhui’s MEB plant in Hefei, capital of East China’s Anhui province, is buzzing with activity as more than 1,000 robots engage in the production of new energy vehicles.

Next to the production plant, two supplier parks have been set up, with 18 partners already moving in.

In just two and a half years, Volkswagen has built a new hub in Hefei, covering the complete value chain from research and development to manufacturing, sales and service of NEVs.  Engineering plastics

“We are specifically utilizing new technologies and the outstanding infrastructure of Anhui,” said Erwin Gabardi, CEO of Volkswagen Anhui. “We will also benefit from this innovative strength.”

Volkswagen is among several global companies that have consistently increased investments in China’s emerging industries.

As China promotes industrial innovation with technological innovation, more high-quality, high-end, and technologically innovative industries are becoming the new magnet for foreign investment.

Data from the Ministry of Commerce show that the actual use of foreign investment in manufacturing rose 1.9 percent year-on-year to 283.44 billion yuan ($39.84 billion) during the first 10 months, with that in high-tech manufacturing logging an increase of 9.5 percent.  Engineering plastics

 

ngineering plastics

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Engineering plastics

Compostable fishing nets: An end to Ghost Nets in the oceans?

Ghost nets lost from fishing boats become deadly traps for marine wildlife, persisting for centuries. Now a South African/Swedish joint venture aims at ending the problem with compostable fishing nets.

Fishing nets lost at sea are a major source of plastic pollution in the ocean. These so-called “ghost nets” drift globally, ensnaring and killing fish, dolphins, seals, birds, and sea turtles. They can last up to 600 years, releasing microplastics as they slowly degrade.

Now South African initiative Catchgreen, is developing a solution. By creating nets and other gear from compostable Biodolomer, a net lost at sea would degrade into biomass within a few years. They also have a higher density so they will sink to the bottom of the ocean where they cause less harm and are subject to microbes that speed up decomposing.  Engineering plastics

– Biodolomer nets will not only reduce ghost fishing,” says Emma Algotsson, project lead at Catchgreen and CEO of Kompost-It. “It will reduce the amount of micro plastics in the ocean. And old nets can be disposed of at industrial composting facilities and turned into biomass.

Biodolomer was invented by packaging material legend Åke Rosén who has been instrumental in developing many materials for Tetra Pak and has over 65 patents to his name.  Engineering plastics

 

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Compostable fishing nets: An end to Ghost Nets in the oceans?

Plastic waste – whose responsibility?

India has opted for the EPR route

Over the past 100 years, the world has produced more than 8.8 billion tonnes of plastic, 460 million tonnes (or 5%) of which were produced in 2019 alone. As a result, plastic waste has proliferated, and plastic pollution has become one of today’s most pressing environmental challenges around the globe.

In India, the problem of plastic waste is being tackled by an Extended Producer Responsibility system. Under the present EPR system, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has mandated recyclers to report their plastic packaging recycling data and generate EPR credits for the same.  Engineering plastics
It is a policy approach under the Solid Waste Management Rules of 2016, which makes producers responsible for the end-of-life disposal of their products. This means that manufacturers, brand owners, and importers are legally obligated to manage the collection and disposal of their products in an environmentally sound manner. The goal of EPR is to encourage producers to design products that are more environmentally friendly and to take responsibility for the entire life cycle of their products, including their disposal.

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Plastic waste - whose responsibility?

OQ’s latest polymer innovations

Headquartered in Oman, OQ stands out for its diverse expertise as an energy transition enabler across various markets. Excelling in polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), catering to both flexible and rigid packaging solutions, OQ has announced two major product launches designed to solve industry challenges and provide key sustainability benefits.

First is the OQ Luban polypropylene impact copolymer portfolio, introducing Luban EP 2340L, EP 2340P, and EP 2348R, which underwent initial proving in 2022 and are set for a full launch in Q4 2023. These grades, along with the upcoming Luban EP 2348S and EP 2348T are scheduled for launch in the same quarter. These products provide solutions covering a broad range of applications, including thin-walled packaging, appliances, automotive parts, and consumer goods, industrial, containers, crates, batteries, and beyond.  Engineering plastics

Alongside this, OQ is also launching Luban LL8446.21 – a new LLDPE Rotomoulding solution. Designed to enable safe, clean, and reliable storage and transportation of water and other liquids, it has multiple applications, including water tanks, chemical containers, pallets, traffic barriers, air conditioning enclosures and refuse bins.

OQ will showcase all its latest polymer portfolio innovations at Arabplast 2023 in Hall 4/C110

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OQ’s latest polymer innovations

Taking Pressure from Supply Shift, The US and Mexico Propylene Prices Surge in December

In the second week of December 2023, the U.S. Propylene market experienced a significant price surge of 8.5%, driven by pivotal shifts in commercial crude oil inventories, a crucial feedstock for Propylene production. The latest U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) weekly petroleum status report revealed a notable 4.3-million-barrel decrease in inventories, excluding the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), between December 1 and December 8.  Engineering plastics

This decline directly influenced Propylene prices, reaching the week-ending December 15. U.S. crude oil stocks, excluding the SPR, declined to 440.8 million barrels on December 8, down from 445.0 million barrels on December 1, significantly lower than the December 9, 2022, figure of 424.1 million barrels. SPR crude oil remained steady at 351.9 million barrels on both December 8 and December 1, compared to 382.3 million barrels on December 9, 2022. The broader U.S. petroleum market experienced a 10.0-million-barrel week-on-week decrease and a 2.2% downturn, with total petroleum stocks reported at 1.611 billion barrels on December 8.

Meanwhile, in the Mexican market, Propylene prices observed an 8.4% increase, influenced by expensive Propylene imports from overseas, particularly the USA, where prices rose by 8.5%. Despite this, the Propylene Refinery Grade price remained stable at USD 281 per metric ton.  Engineering plastics

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Taking Pressure from Supply Shift, The US and Mexico Propylene Prices Surge in December

Plastics circularity -Environment could be in for a break after enzyme found that can devour plastic 22-12-2023

Engineering plastics

Plastics circularity -Environment could be in for a break after enzyme found that can devour plastic 22-12-2023

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

Plastics circularity

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Batteries that charge twice as much: the invention of a start-up from the Polytechnic University of Milan

Exciting developments are emerging from the Polytechnic University of Milan, where a dynamic startup, Lyft Energy, founded by two visionary researchers, Eugenio Gibertini and Maurizio Sansotera, is revolutionizing the landscape of electric vehicle technology. The groundbreaking innovation lies in their ability to transform lithium metal batteries, renowned for their superior storage capacity yet traditionally considered disposable, into rechargeable powerhouses, effectively doubling their charging potential.

Lithium anode batteries, distinguished by a capacity ten times greater than those utilizing graphite or other metals, have long been hindered by their single-use nature. Gibertini and Sansotera, experts in applied physical chemistry and chemical foundations of technologies, respectively, have successfully devised an insulating film to impede lithium movement between the anode and cathode.  Plastics circularity

This innovative film ensures that the battery remains functional even after multiple uses, addressing the disposability challenge.

The researchers entrusted the construction of the prototype to materials engineer Piergiorgio Marziani, whose initial results demonstrated remarkable promise. To expedite the industrialization of their invention, the trio welcomed Ground Control Holding as a strategic partner, acquiring a 10% stake in Lyft Energy.

The remaining ownership of this groundbreaking startup firmly rests in the hands of the visionary researchers, signifying a promising journey toward reshaping the future of electric vehicle technology.  Plastics circularity

Plastics circularity

Environment could be in for a break after enzyme found that can devour plastic

Plastic pollution is a huge environmental challenge, contributing to the proliferation of extensive landfill sites across the world. Plastic does not degrade naturally in the same way wood rots or even metal rusts, meaning that once the material is discarded into the environment, its impact is felt for years. Less than 10 percent of plastic around the world is recycled.

To address this issue, scientists have discovered an enzyme which is capable of rapidly breaking down the polymer bonds within plastics. By breaking down plastics to a molecular level, landfill sites will significantly enhance their recycling capacity for these materials.

Polyethylene terephthalate or PET, is the plastic commonly used in consumer packaging such as water bottles, food packaging and many other types of containers, making it account for more than 10 percent of all global waste. Plastics circularity

Scientists in the United States, South Korea and the European Union are using machine learning to develop enzymes which can break down PET into smaller parts and then reform them. The enzyme is so efficient that some plastics could be broken down in as little as 24 hours.  Plastics circularity

First discovered over 20 years ago in a pile of rotting leaves, naturally occurring bacteria use such enzymes to break down the cuticle wax on fallen tree leaves.

Usually plastics in landfill sites are simply burned to remove them. This process takes up a lot of energy and significantly pollutes the atmosphere with toxic waste. The alternative recycling process is also far from ideal, taking huge amounts of energy to break plastics down chemically in order to reform them in the recycling process.

Plastics circularity

INEOS Inovyn expands PVC portfolio; new products include NEOVYN range with reduced CO2 footprint, RECOVYN made from 100% recycled carbon feedstock, and the bio-attributed PVC BIOVYN

  • INEOS Inovyn introduces NEOVYN, the new PVC range with a reduced carbon footprint meeting 2030 market targets on GHG reductions;
  • BIOVYNTM, our current bio-attributed PVC, is optimised to progressively reach a carbon neutral footprint, becoming the net zero option;
  • For circularity, RECOVYNTM completes the new Sustainable PVC Portfolio, for customers aiming to increase recycled content with PVC.
  • “The new products we bring to the market will help our customers’ and business to jointly achieve our sustainability goals” says Arnaud Valenduc, Business Director of INEOS Inovyn.  Plastics circularity

INEOS Inovyn has today announced the expansion of its PVC portfolio – to offer new products that meet society’s everyday needs, with a significantly reduced carbon footprint and increased recycled content.

In the area of carbon neutrality, BIOVYNTM, the bio-attributed PVC launched by INEOS Inovyn in 2019, is designed to become carbon neutral and the net zero option. BIOVYNTM has been used increasingly across various sectors from automotive, building and construction, to medical and fashion applications, where fossil-free solutions with a reduced carbon footprint are needed.  Plastics circularity

To support customer targets for 2030 GHG reductions, INEOS Inovyn offers NEOVYN, which is a new PVC range with a significantly reduced carbon footprint that is 37% lower than the European industry average for suspension PVC (reduced to 1.3 kg CO2 per kg PVC).

NEOVYN will be produced from the many sustainable initiatives that INEOS Inovyn is pursuing, such as an increased access to renewable energy, process electrification and the production and use of renewable hydrogen. NEOVYN will become the new low carbon footprint standard enabling converters to progress on their carbon roadmap by reducing their Scope 3 emissions and offer low carbon footprint products to their customers.

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Plastics circularity

In the closing months of 2023, Italian industries are embracing a hydrogen-powered future with vigor, marking a significant stride towards cleaner processes

The impending three years will see pivotal utilization of public funds earmarked for territorial centers, primarily situated in derelict industrial zones. Notably, four projects have been unveiled in a single week, spanning from the north to the south of the country.

In Abruzzo’s Goriano Sicoli, an accord was inked between the municipal administration and Infinite Green Energy – IGE Italia, signaling the initiation of large-scale green hydrogen production in the Peligna Valley. Meanwhile, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region has allocated 14 million euros for renewable hydrogen production in abandoned industrial areas. In Basilicata, the region boasts the highest renewable energy production and has received 12 requests for the production of renewable hydrogen.  Plastics circularity

Looking southward to Lazio, the Frosinone industrial district is set for reconversion by 2026. The “HELIOS” project in Patrica, a collaboration involving ENGIE, Società Gasdotti Italia (SGI), and the Lazio Industrial Consortium, aims to become Central Italy’s largest electrolysis production center, with an investment of 20 million euros, partially financed by the PNRR “Hydrogen Valleys” tender.

This surge in interest aligns with European decarbonization goals, as articulated by President Ursula von der Leyen, who recently revealed authorizing over €17 billion in state aid for 80 hydrogen projects across the EU. The Lazio valley project, occupying a 10-hectare disused industrial area, is poised to rejuvenate the pharmaceutical sector, producing approximately 400 tonnes of green hydrogen annually through electrolysis of water using renewable energy.  Plastics circularity

This initiative, developed in collaboration with the University of Cassino, signifies a modern power-to-gas plant, indicative of Italy’s commitment to hasten the transition to cleaner energy and enhance competitiveness for small and medium-sized businesses in 2023.

In the closing months of 2023, Italian industries are embracing a hydrogen-powered future with vigor, marking a significant stride towards cleaner processes

H2 Tank – First Cevotec system destined for Japan

FPP unit will be primarily dedicated to the production of H2 composite tanks with dome reinforcements.
Cevotec, the leading provider of automation equipment based on fibre patch placement (FPP) technology, is introducing the first FPP production system to the Japanese market.Fuji Industries, a specialised Japanese trading company in industries such as aerospace and high-tech equipment, has ordered Cevotec’s Samba Pro PV system which will be primarily dedicated to advancing H2 tank production with dome reinforcements which reduce the weight, cost and environmental footprint of composite tanks significantlyThe order follows a preview of Cevotec’s new Samba Pro PV FPP system dedicated to the production of reinforcements for hydrogen pressure vessels at the 2023 JEC in Paris.  Plastics circularity
Fuji  is committed to advancing Japan’s composites production capabilities and support the local industry with advanced technology solutions.“With FPP it is possible to reinforce the dome areas of type 4 hydrogen tanks which leads to significant material savings,” said Junji Yamada, president and CEO of Fuji Industries.
“This technology has the potential to establish a new standard in composite tank production – it enables us to support our customers with new automation options that they need to stay competitive.”In order to enable broad industrial and scientific engagement with the first FPP system in Japan, Fuji is planning to situate the system at a strategic R&D location accessible to relevant industry companies in aerospace and H2 and is well integrated in the Japanese composite research ecosystem.  Plastics circularity
More…H2 Tank - First Cevotec system destined for Japan

ICIS: Cautiously optimistic future for plastics circularity

The circular economy has been one of the most powerful megatrends affecting the plastics industry over the last few years and is widely anticipated to keep building momentum in the future.

However, in 2023, global macroeconomic headwinds including recessionary fears became a real test for companies’ sustainability commitments.  Plastics circularity

Overall low polymer demand across the key end-use industries with subsequent drops in virgin prices over 2023 made some companies (particularly those less exposed to consumer or regulation pressure) switch to low-cost feedstock alternatives. In the first half of 2023, this was virgin material. As a result, the existing record high prices for recycled polymers began to decline as well. While this may seem like a positive development as more brand owners might access more cost competitive recycled polymers, the long-term affect is likely to be adverse – disincentivising much-needed investments into building sorting and recycling capacity.

The current global mechanical recycling penetration rates (recycled polymer production divided by total polymer consumption) across the major commodities, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), sits within 5-15%, according to the ICIS Supply & Demand Database and ICIS Recycling Supply Tracker – Mechanical. Despite a challenging 2023, production of mechanically recycled polymers is forecast to witness relatively strong growth supported by continuing consumer pressure, voluntary pledges and new legislation across the globe.  Plastics circularity

However, if the current market trends continue and no major acceleration happens, ICIS does not expect those global mechanical recycling penetration rates to exceed 20% by 2050. The main reasons include not only the overall growth of polymer consumption, but also the existence of certain plastic applications, which are intrinsically challenging to be recycled mechanically (for example, flexibles or textiles) as well as stringent requirements for contact-sensitive applications (for example, food-grade recycled polyolefins).

ICIS: Cautiously optimistic future for plastics circularity

Boosting hemp fibre production in Texas

 Panda Biotech has completed the construction and commissioning of the Panda High Plains Hemp Gin in Texas with the capacity to process ten metric tons of industrial hemp for textiles and nonwovens every hour.

In addition it will produce hurd, short-fibre hurd mix and a nutrient-rich co-product that will be pelletized. The facility is expected to be the largest hemp decortication centre in the Western Hemisphere and among the largest in the world.  Plastics circularity

“Each piece of the Panda Hemp Gin production line, including the three miles of overhead pneumatic duct lines, refining, blending, mechanical cottonization, hurd bagging and baling must be individually started, checked, balanced, and commissioned,” says Panda Biotech executive vice president Scott Evans. “Currently, all equipment is individually being brought online to be officially placed in service.”

Using only renewable energy sources, the engineering and production process at the Panda Hemp Gin has been certified green by Mid-South Engineering Company, in accordance with the International Capital Market Association’s Green Bond Principles. Panda Biotech has also partnered with Oritain, a scientific traceability company, to bring the most traceable hemp grown 100% in the United States to market.  Plastics circularity

Boosting hemp fibre production in Texas

Green Hydrogen – APK is gearing up for the establishment of its expansive Newcycling® plant, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s strategic evolution 21-12-2023

Plastics circularity

Green Hydrogen – APK is gearing up for the establishment of its expansive Newcycling® plant, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s strategic evolution 21-12-2023

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

Green Hydrogen

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Economic Decline: Ecosystems’ Impact on Global Well-being

In a sobering study conducted by scientists at the University of California, Davis, and Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, the future economic landscape is predicted to bear the brunt of ongoing ecosystem degradation. Published on December 19, 2023, the research forewarns that by 2100, economic benefits derived from ecosystem services may plummet by up to 9%, exacerbating global inequalities.

The analysis, employing global vegetation and climate models alongside World Bank estimates, posits an average 1.3% reduction in gross domestic product worldwide due to climate change-induced alterations in vegetation, rainfall patterns, and elevated CO2 levels.  Green Hydrogen

This grim outlook is compounded by the unequal distribution of impacts, as the world’s poorest 50% of countries are projected to shoulder a staggering 90% of GDP damages. In contrast, the wealthiest 10% may experience more limited losses at just 2%. The study emphasizes the critical role natural capital plays in less developed countries’ economies, underscoring the need for robust climate mitigation measures to safeguard these ecosystems.

Bernardo Bastien-Olvera, a doctoral student at UC Davis, poses a crucial question: What is lost when an ecosystem is degraded? The study contends that the losses extend beyond economic impacts, encompassing clean air, water, healthy forests, and biodiversity—collectively constituting “natural capital” that directly influences human well-being and economic prosperity. The researchers stress the urgency of recognizing and addressing these often overlooked damages to mitigate economic losses and foster global well-being in the coming decades.  Green Hydrogen

Green Hydrogen

MEGlobal rolls over January MEG ACP

MEGlobal has maintained the monoethylene glycol (MEG) Asian Contract Price (ACP) for January 2024 at $840 per tonne, according to a company insider. This marks a stability compared to the December ACP. The pricing structure is established on a CFR (cost and freight) basis in the Asian market.

It’s noteworthy that MEGlobal had previously set the ACP for December 2023 at $840 per tonne, reflecting a $10 per tonne increase from the November ACP, as communicated by a company source. Again, the pricing for December was based on CFR terms in the Asian market.  Green Hydrogen

The decision to rollover the MEG ACP for January suggests a strategic approach to maintaining pricing consistency in the market. This move comes after a modest increment in the previous month, indicating stability in MEGlobal’s pricing strategy amidst market dynamics. The ACP not only serves as a benchmark for industry players but also reflects MEGlobal’s response to prevailing economic factors influencing the monoethylene glycol market in the Asian region.

Green Hydrogen

Aquafil Ranked First Among Global Companies in the “textiles” Subindustry …

Aquafil S.p.A. [ECNL:IM] [ECNLF:OTCQX] ranked as the top company globally in the “Textiles” subindustry according to the Morningstar Sustainalytics ESG Risk Rating1.

The excellent rating of 10.7 improved by 4.7 points2 from the rating received in 2022.

Today, the Group is ranked in the “low” ESG risk level, slightly above the “negligible” one.

The score is measured on a scale consisting of 5 levels (Negligible, Low, Medium, High, Severe) and a rating from 1 (lowest risk) to 100 (highest risk).

Moreover, with this result, Aquafil is in the third percentile of the companies rated globally by Morningstar Sustainalytics, a leading company in ESG analysis and evaluation. An abstract of the report is posted on the website at: https://www.sustainalytics.com/esg-rating/aquafil-spa/2005614095   Green Hydrogen

“The result obtained confirms our commitment and the effectiveness of the improvement process already initiated, which aims to achieve, by 2025, a negligible assessment of the ESG risk level”, stated Giulio Bonazzi, Chief Executive Officer of Aquafil.

For more information on Aquafil’s ESG commitment and specific initiatives, please see the Sustainability section on the website https://www.aquafil.com/esg-agenda-2030/

Aquafil is a pioneer in the circular economy also thanks to the ECONYL® regeneration system, an innovative and sustainable process able to create new products from waste and give life to an endless cycle. The nylon waste is collected in locations all over the world and includes industrial waste but also products – such as fishing nets and rugs – that have reached the end of their useful life. Such waste is processed to obtain a raw material – caprolactam – with the same chemical and performance characteristics as those from fossil sources. The polymers produced from ECONYL® caprolactam are distributed to the Group’s production plants, where they are transformed into yarn for rugs carpet flooring and for clothing.  Green Hydrogen

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Aquafil Ranked First Among Global Companies in the "textiles" Subindustry ...

APK is gearing up for the establishment of its expansive Newcycling® plant, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s strategic evolution

Hailing from Merseburg/Leuna, Germany, APK AG is poised to enter the new year with robust momentum, having meticulously laid the groundwork for its ambitious expansion in 2023. The company has not only secured the backing of formidable investors such as LyondellBasell and KIRKBI A/S but has also attained noteworthy ISO certifications. The inking of initial product supply agreements further fortifies APK AG’s foundation, setting the stage for the commencement of construction in 2024.

Dr. Robert Marx, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of APK AG, underscores the propitious environment for expansion, attributing it to the European Commission’s initiative mandating the use of plastic recyclates in packaging and, subsequently, in the automotive sector.  Green Hydrogen

The groundwork laid in early 2023, with LyondellBasell and KIRKBI A/S committing a substantial investment of 130 million euros, positions APK AG to utilize mixed waste from flexible plastic packaging for producing high-quality LDPE recyclates.

APK AG achieved a significant milestone in the summer of 2023 when TÜV Rheinland certified the company in accordance with ISO Standard 9001-Quality Management Systems. These certifications, encompassing quality management, environmental management, and energy management systems, play a pivotal role in attracting and assuring investors.

Looking ahead to 2024, APK AG anticipates an exciting journey with the full-scale planning and construction of the Newcycling® plant. CTO Dr. Robert Marx hints at forthcoming details about the plant’s location and capacity, signaling a promising and dynamic year for APK AG and its groundbreaking Newcycling® technology.  Green Hydrogen

Green Hydrogen

As a forward-thinking automotive industry leader, Toyota remains committed to diversification in its pursuit of sustainable mobility

Recognizing that one-size-fits-all solutions don’t apply to the future of electric vehicles (EVs), Toyota is strategically investing in various battery technologies to address different needs.

The company’s dedication to innovation is evident in its exploration of solid-state batteries, a technology poised to redefine zero-emission transport. While progress is incremental, Toyota aims to enhance its existing batteries, projecting a 1,000 km range for its EVs by 2027, ensuring that traditional lithium-ion batteries with liquid electrolytes remain relevant.  Green Hydrogen

In tandem with these developments, Toyota is actively researching solid-state batteries, foreseeing a potential 1,200 km range on a single charge. Although the market release date remains undisclosed, Toyota’s pioneering work since 2020 suggests a commitment to staying ahead of competitors, hinting at a potential surprise announcement.

A notable addition to Toyota’s future lineup is the introduction of bipolar batteries, anticipated by 2026 or 2027. Green Hydrogen

Leveraging a distinct internal structure, these batteries promise increased autonomy and faster charging. For instance, the bZ4X electric car equipped with bipolar batteries is projected to achieve a range of 480 to 800 km, with an impressive 20-minute charge time from 10% to 80%, outperforming current standards.

Derived from the technology developed for nickel-metal hydride batteries in Toyota’s hybrid cars, bipolar technology will be implemented in both traditional lithium-ion batteries and lithium iron phosphate accumulators. This forward-looking approach underscores Toyota’s commitment to providing diverse and efficient solutions, reinforcing its position as an industry leader in the electric vehicle revolution.  Green Hydrogen

As a forward-thinking automotive industry leader, Toyota remains committed to diversification in its pursuit of sustainable mobility

APEAL regrets lack of support for recyclability shown by European Council

APEAL regrets a lack of ambition regarding recyclability measures in the European Council’s General Approach to Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

“Initiatives such as the European Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP) serve as a global model. The General Approach of the Member States in Council missed the opportunity to signal the importance of delivering an ambitious packaging and packaging waste plan for Europe,” said Steve Claus, Secretary General of APEAL.

APEAL acknowledges the Council’s efforts to define high-quality recycling. However, we believe that incorporating the concept of multiple recycling into the definition of high-quality recycling within the legislative articles would convey an even more robust message to industry.  Green Hydrogen

An ambitious definition of high-quality recycling could act as a driving force for packaging manufacturers to enhance the recyclability of their products, thereby fostering to a more effective and efficient recycling process.

APEAL particularly regrets that ‘recyclability performance grades’ based on design for recycling criteria, will not realise their full potential.  Green Hydrogen

“Ambitious recyclability performance grades, including strong qualitative recyclability criteria, would have been a great step forward to a truly EU Circular Economy, ensuring that packaging that can be recycled multiple times and can feed a closed material loop scheme is duly recognised at the top of the recycling hierarchy”.

APEAL regrets lack of support for recyclability shown by European Council

SIBUR to register climate project with Global Carbon Council

SIBUR, a Russian petrochemical company, will issue carbon credits following the registration of a solar power projects at one of its facilities, said the company.
The project will be registered with the Global Carbon Council (GCC), an international carbon offsetting programme.
During COP28, the Qatar-registered GCC announced the launch of its own carbon credit registry, which, among other things, will enable Russian businesses to register projects and issue carbon credits, something they are currently prevented from doing by IHS Markit, an international carbon credit market operator.  Green Hydrogen
SIBUR has applied to the GCC to register a solar power project at its POLIEF facility. Once the project is registered, SIBUR will become the first Russian company to issue carbon credits under an international programme since Russia established its own system for emissions trading. SIBUR plans to issue around 18,000 carbon credits.
The solar power plant, which has a capacity of 4.9 MW (10,080 solar panels) and takes up an area of more than 8 hectares, supplies power for the production of Vivilen PET pellets using recycled plastics.
Elena Myakotnikova, Head of SIBUR’s Climate Initiatives and Carbon Regulation, said: “We have been upgrading our production facilities and reducing our environmental footprint thanks to consistent investment over a period of many years. The registration of our carbon credits with the Global Carbon Council will be a milestone in terms of recognition of our climate-related projects, laying the foundation for our carbon credits to be traded on the international market.”  Green Hydrogen

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SIBUR to register climate project with Global Carbon Council

Ionomr Innovations raises $26.7 million cad to boost Green Hydrogen sector

Simon Fraser University spinout has raised $55.4 million CAD to date.

Vancouver and Rochester, NY-based electrochemical engineering startup Ionomr Innovations has closed a $26.7-million CAD ($20-million USD) Series A extension.

The financing was led by returning investors NGIF Cleantech Ventures and Pallasite Ventures, and saw participation from Shell Ventures, Chevron Technology Ventures, Finindus, Samsung Ventures, SAIC Capital, N.V. Bekaert, and Asahi Kasei.

According to a spokesperson from Ionomr, the round is an extension raised at a higher valuation. The startup’s last funding round totalling $18.7 million CAD was announced in early 2022. This funding brings its total Series A financing to $46.6 million CAD, and its total funding to $55.4 million CAD.  Green Hydrogen

“The participation of leaders across our industry underscores that Ionomr is delivering proven competitive advantages to our customers and their system users.”

Bill Haberlin

Founded in 2018 and spun out of Vancouver’s Simon Fraser University, Ionomr Innovations develops ion-exchange membranes and polymers, which are designed to be more efficient, cost-competitive solutions for the hydrogen economy that eliminate the need for expensive precious metal requirements for hydrogen production and CO2 electrolysis.

Ionomr’s materials, Pemion and Aemion, are designed for use in fuel cells, hydrogen production, and carbon capture and conversion processes.  Green Hydrogen

Last year, the startup was one of the 13 Canadian companies named to the Global Cleantech 100.

“We are delighted to receive the financial support of industry players that represent the full spectrum of the hydrogen ecosystem,” said Bill Haberlin, CEO of Ionomr Innovations. “The participation of leaders across our industry underscores that Ionomr is delivering proven competitive advantages to our customers and their system users.”

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PET Bottles – Focus on circular and sustainable packaging  20-12-2023

Green Hydrogen

PET Bottles – Focus on circular and sustainable packaging  20-12-2023

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

PET Bottles

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Tomra and Sutco Collaborate to Enhance Sorting Capabilities at Svensk Plaståtervinning’s Expanded Facility in Sweden

Svensk Plaståtervinning’s Site Zero, a Swedish plastics recycling facility, has undergone a significant expansion with the support of technology providers Tomra and Sutco.

The facility, located in Motala, Sweden, now boasts over 60 Tomra Autosort units as part of its sorting process for discarded packaging, resulting in 12 marketable polymer fractions. The expansion, completed in late 2022, positions the facility to process up to 42 metric tons of material per hour, contributing to the CEO’s vision of achieving zero waste and closing the loop on plastics in Sweden.  PET Bottles

Mattias Philipsson, CEO of Svensk Plaståtervinning, emphasized the importance of the project in increasing plastic recycling rates in Sweden, aiming to tap into the substantial potential of recyclable materials.

The collaboration with Tomra and Sutco has allowed the facility to adopt state-of-the-art sorting technology, facilitating material recovery and achieving purity levels of up to 98 percent.  PET Bottles

The project reflects a successful partnership, with Tomra providing cutting-edge sorting technology, Sutco leading in plant construction, and Svensk Plaståtervinning driving the initiative.

The resulting Site Zero serves as a model for sorting facilities across Europe, demonstrating the commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. The facility’s owner has plans to further enhance reprocessing capacities nearby, solidifying the project’s impact on the circular economy and promoting a greener future for plastic recycling. PET Bottles

PET Bottles

Victoria’s largest PET plastic bottle recycling plant opens

A new $50 million PET plastic bottle recycling plant has opened in Melbourne, coinciding with the start of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme.

The Circular Plastics Australia (PET) plant has the capability to recycle the equivalent of up to one billion 600ml PET plastic beverage bottles a year into high-quality, food-grade resin, which is then used to make new recycled PET beverage bottles and food packaging such as meat trays and fruit punnets.

PET is a joint venture between Pact Group, Cleanaway Waste Management, Asahi Beverages, and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) and was formed to accelerate the local plastic circular economy.  PET Bottles

Amanda Sellers, CEO of Asahi Beverages, said it is a big step towards creating a truly circular economy in Victoria.

“This plant helps ensure soft drink bottles collected via the Victorian CDS and recycling bins get another life as beverage bottles or food packaging.”

The facility is the biggest of its kind in Victoria and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment capable of producing 2.5 tonnes of recycled PET resin per hour, and at full production, the facility will employ about 45 people for its 24/7 operations and supported around 60 full-time jobs during its construction.  PET Bottles

Orlando Rodriguez, Managing Director at CCEP, said CCEP is determined to be a leader in Australia’s circular economy.

“Through this investment, alongside the introduction of Victoria’s CDS, we have made great strides in closing the loop on beverage packaging locally. Seven out of 10 of our PET bottles are now made from 100 per cent recycled plastic (excluding caps and labels).”

This is the second PET recycling facility now operational in Australia, with the first, in Albury NSW, commencing operations in March 2022.  PET Bottles

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PET Bottles

Focus on circular and sustainable packaging 

The emerging significance of recycling technologies

The increased focus on the environment and climate has pushed companies harder to consider the sustainability of packaging and at the same time maintain its quality. Recycling technologies are critical components of the continuously improving process of transforming discarded plastic into new products.

Advanced and mechanical recycling each have an important role in creating more efficient processes.  PET Bottles

Speaking on the importance of the topic, Bambang Candra, Asia-Pacific commercial vice-president, of Dow packaging & specialty plastics told Packaging South Asia, “At Dow, we recognize that the world simultaneously needs more sustainable packaging options and less waste.

Plastic waste is in large supply – but it is not being accessed.

The gap between the downstream demand for circular plastics and the available supply is significant. The recycling of packaging waste, however, presents considerable logistical and operational challenges – with materials often ending up incinerated or buried along with general household waste.”  PET Bottles

According to Candra, though about 54% of recycled waste comprises rigid plastics, there is significant room for flexible packaging to become more recyclable. “The industry must realize that plastics are simply too valuable to be thrown away.

The 18 million metric tons of recycled plastic waste in 2022 alone generated a total gross product equivalent to CNY (Chinese Yuan) 105 billion (US$14.8 billion) in value. There is value in waste, and we are working to transform waste into circular and renewable solutions that contribute to sustainable packaging.”  PET Bottles

PET Bottles

US Paraxylene Contracts Exhibit a Decline in December

In December, contract prices for U.S. paraxylene (PX) witnessed a decline, dropping by one cent to reach 54 cents per pound (equivalent to USD 1,190.5 per tonne). This dip in prices can be attributed to the persistent downward trend in mixed xylene (MX) prices, coupled with subdued demand in the market. The ongoing decrease in xylene prices follows the culmination of the summer driving season, a period marked by heightened demand for MX due to increased gasoline consumption.

However, the outlook for MX demand suggests a continuing decline throughout the remainder of the year.  PET Bottles

The surplus in paraxylene supply remains a significant factor influencing pricing dynamics. The subdued demand for paraxylene stems from the sluggish market conditions for polyethylene terephthalate (PET), primarily driven by factors such as elevated mortgage rates and interest rates. These economic factors have rendered home purchases, renovations, and automobile acquisitions less affordable for consumers. Consequently, the demand for PET, a major application of paraxylene, has remained low.

Paraxylene plays a pivotal role in the production of polyester, as well as in the manufacturing of terephthalic acid (TPA) or dimethyl terephthalate (DMT). These materials serve as key components in various industries, with approximately 98% of paraxylene utilized for polyester and TPA or DMT production. Moreover, DMT is also employed in the synthesis of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resin.  PET Bottles

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US Paraxylene Contracts Exhibit a Decline in December

Teijin Frontier Announces Development Of Microft™ MX, A New Material For Sports And Outdoor Wear That Evenly Combines The Texture And Functionality Of Polyester And Nylon

Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd., the Teijin Group’s fibers and products converting company, today announced the development of Microft™ MX, a next-generation, high-quality, high-performance material. This product is made from highly-deformed cross-section multifilament yarn*, which is a uniform mixture of single filaments of polyester and nylon, using a unique spinning technology, as the optimal woven or knitted structure. The evenly mixed polyester and nylon filaments produce deep colors.  PET Bottles

And Microft™ MX has the appearance of a finely woven chambray due to difference in dyeing effect of both materials.

*Multifilament yarn: A filament yarn made by pulling together dozens of single yarns (single fibers) into a single yarn.

The raw yarn has a gently V-shaped highly-deformed cross-section, which provides bulkiness and a spun-like, soft texture. Uniformly mixing polyester and nylon on the surface and in the structure of the woven fabric produces a combination of desirable features from both materials, such as the abrasion resistance and color development capabilities of nylon, and the water absorption, quick-drying properties and shape stability of polyester.  PET Bottles

In recent years, fashions that combine the practicality of sports and outdoor apparel with lifestyle have been expanding in popularity. There is a growing need for fabrics with superior functionality, plus new looks and textures, that differ from conventional products.

Polyester and nylon are often used in sports and outdoor clothing. Advances in product development are being made to take advantage of polyester’s stretch properties, dimensional stability, water absorption and quick-drying properties, and nylon’s abrasion resistance and vivid colors. However, no progress has been made in developing materials that combine the texture and functionality of polyester and nylon. PET Bottles

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Teijin Frontier Announces Development Of Microft™ MX, A New Material For Sports And Outdoor Wear That Evenly Combines The Texture And Functionality Of Polyester And Nylon

Proposed Bill Aims to Transform Plastic Bottle Recycling reducing dependence on virgin polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Spearheaded by the Environmental Protection Authority and collaboratively crafted by experts from the Ministry of Industry and the Food and Beverage Industry Research and Development Center, the bill is positioned to legalize the incorporation of recycled PET (R-PET), particularly in the reuse of plastic bottles for food packaging.

Bekele Mekuria, the director of the Food and Beverage Industry Research and Development Center, underscores the necessity of standardized regulations for R-PET in food packaging. Aligning with the ‘Hazardous Waste Management and Disposal Control Decree Proclamation’ established in 2018, the proposed regulation aims to meticulously outline procedures for integrating R-PET into food packaging.  PET Bottles

The potential impact is immense—projected cost savings of up to USD 50 million annually in PET imports, job creation, and a substantial contribution to environmental preservation. The bill, currently under review by the Ministry of Justice, spans nine sections and over two dozen articles. It delineates roles, responsibilities, and standards for the entire process, encompassing PET material technology, control systems, compliance, and quality standards.

Once approved, the regulation is poised to attract investors to the packaging industry, fostering a sustainable future. It mandates transparent labeling by recycling companies and obligates food producers to inform consumers about packaging specifics, promoting responsible practices.  PET Bottles

This regulatory framework marks a pivotal step towards mitigating the adverse effects of plastic waste, emphasizing the intersection of human health, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

Proposed Bill Aims to Transform Plastic Bottle Recycling reducing dependence on virgin polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Coca-Cola introduces 100% recycled PET bottles for the first time in Malaysia

The new 100% recycled plastic PET bottles prominently feature the slogan Dari Botol Jadi Botol – signifying the transformative journey each bottle takes to re-enter the supply chain.

Coca-Cola Malaysia is making significant strides towards circularity in plastic packaging. On Dec 14, their nationwide launch featured CocaCola Original Taste and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar 500ml bottles made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, excluding the caps and labels.  PET Bottles

Coca-Cola currently offers at least one brand made from 100% recycled plastic bottles in over 40 countries worldwide, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore and now Malaysia.

The launch follows the company’s efforts to address the urgent issue of plastic waste and to promote sustainability in Malaysia. These efforts involve various strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing closed loop circular packaging.

Earlier on Oct 11, Coca-Cola Malaysia, in collaboration with the American Malaysian Chamber Of Commerce (Amcham Malaysia), hosted the Our Future, Our Choice sustainability forum where key stakeholders, including the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change (NRECC) Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad as well as the Malaysian Recycling Alliance (MAREA) were in attendance.  PET Bottles

The panel discussed the role of post-consumer packaging in advancing the circular economy, stressing the importance of creating the right ecosystem for collecting and recycling plastics, while ensuring consumers understand the recycling process.

The Coca-Cola Company (Asean and South Pacific) sustainability and partnerships director Kirsten van Zandwijk stated: “Recognising the urgency and complexity of the plastic waste challenge in Malaysia, we acknowledge the collaborative efforts needed to address this issue.

“In line with our commitment to building a circular economy in the country, we are introducing innovative packaging designs like our new 100% recycled plastic bottles. These bottles align with our brand philosophy of Dari Botol Jadi Botol, emphasising that every bottle has a second life. PET Bottles

We are also expanding collection and recycling programmes and deepening stakeholder and industry partnerships.

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Coca-Cola introduces 100% recycled PET bottles for the first time in Malaysia

Textile Industry – Before drinking tea or coffee in a paper cup, know its disadvantages, you will be surprised! 19-12-2023

PET Bottles

Textile Industry – Before drinking tea or coffee in a paper cup, know its disadvantages, you will be surprised! 19-12-2023

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

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Flame Retardant Could Be Made From Discarded Cocoa Husks

On cocoa farms around the world, cocoa beans are pulled from their pods, and the hard husks are discarded, leaving 20 million tons of plant waste to biodegrade and potentially harm future crops. These husks are a source of lignin, a substance that gives plants their rigidity. It’s extremely abundant—but often wasted.

A new study published in the journal ACS Sustainable Chemistry and Engineering found that the lignin processed from leftover cocoa pod husks could have a new use as an ingredient in flame retardant.  Textile Industry

“Lignin is pretty special, as it is very soluble in organic solvents,” said study co-author Dr. Nicholas Westwood, a professor of chemistry and chemical biology at St. Andrews University in Scotland, in an email. This means lignin can be chemically manipulated to create a number of useful substances relatively easily.

Because of lignin’s malleability, Westwood and his coauthors were able to add a flame-retardant molecule to the processed substance, and found that the modification increased its already naturally high ability to smother flames.

That’s just one possible application. While lignin hasn’t found widespread industrial use yet, scientists hold hope for it to become a greener alternative for fuel and a biodegradable plastic instead of just being leftovers. Processing biomass for food or fuel also produces a massive amount of lignin as a byproduct, which has been converted to materials like activated charcoal or carbon foam. “There are endless possibilities,” Westwood said.  Textile Industry

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Textile Industry

Sales of electric cars with Chinese batteries blocked in the United States

In response to the growing influence of Chinese electric car manufacturers and concerns about national security, the Biden administration has taken steps to impede the sale of electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with Chinese batteries and components in the United States. Despite the inevitable shift towards electric mobility, the government aims to curb the proliferation of EVs with ties to China. China has emerged as a major global player in electric vehicle battery production, prompting the U.S. to safeguard its market against potential vulnerabilities.

To deter the adoption of EVs with Chinese connections, the American government has implemented new eligibility criteria for incentives under the “Inflation Reduction Act” plan. Prospective buyers can now qualify for a tax credit of up to $7,500 only if the electric car they purchase does not contain batteries manufactured in the “foreign entity of concern” or components from China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. Textile Industry

Another stipulation requires that no critical minerals used in the electric car’s components are sourced from China.

This move not only impacts Chinese automakers but also affects global manufacturers like Stellantis and Ford, as it restricts the sale of vehicles with Chinese batteries. While the initial provision faced criticism due to the U.S. automotive sector’s inability to produce electric car batteries independently, adjustments have been made to exclude specific materials from the restriction, as outlined by the U.S. Treasury Department.

Textile Industry

Euro area Dec biz activity falls steeper; manufacturing leads downturn

INSIGHTS

  • Business activity in the euro area fell at a steeper rate in December, according to provisional purchasing manager’s index survey data, according to S&P Global Ratings and Hamburg Commercial Bank.  Textile Industry
  • Manufacturing led the downturn, with output falling for a ninth month running, the rate of decline re-accelerating after the moderation seen in November.

Business activity in the euro area fell at a steeper rate in December, according to provisional purchasing manager’s index (PMI) survey data, closing off a fourth quarter that has seen output fall at its fastest rate for 11 years barring only the early-2020 pandemic months, according to S&P Global Ratings and Hamburg Commercial Bank (HCOB).

Downturns were again recorded across the manufacturing sector, which reported a further steep fall in inflows of new business, leading to a further depletion of backlogs of work.

Jobs were cut for a second month running as firms scaled back operating capacity in line with the worsening order book situation and persistent gloomy prospects for the year ahead, with future sentiment remaining well below its long-run average despite lifting slightly higher.  Textile Industry

Factories also cut inventories of inputs at a rate not seen since 2009.

Inflation signals in the euro area were mixed: input cost inflation cooled but selling price inflation accelerated, the latter notably remaining elevated by historical standards, S&P Global said in a release.

The seasonally adjusted HCOB Flash eurozone composite PMI output index registered 47 in December, down from 47.6 in November to signal a seventh consecutive monthly reduction in business activity across the euro area.  Textile Industry

The weak reading rounds off the sharpest average quarterly decline in activity recorded by the survey since the fourth quarter of 2012, if early pandemic lockdown months are excluded.

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Textile Industry

Before drinking tea or coffee in a paper cup, know its disadvantages, you will be surprised!

  1. The Deceptive Allure of Convenience

The allure of convenience is undeniable, especially in a society that values efficiency and time-saving solutions. Paper cups, celebrated for their disposability, seem to offer a quick and easy fix for those constantly on the move. However, does the convenience of a paper cup overshadow potential health and environmental concerns?

1.1 Environmental Fallout

While the disposable nature of paper cups may seem convenient, it comes at a considerable environmental cost.  Textile Industry

The seemingly innocent act of using a paper cup contributes to the already escalating problem of single-use plastic alternatives. The environmental fallout demands a closer look at the true impact of our convenience-driven choices.

  1. The Plastic Predicament

Contrary to popular belief, paper cups are not entirely made of paper. They often feature a hidden plastic lining, a design choice aimed at preventing leakage. This raises questions about the environmental friendliness of these seemingly innocent vessels.

2.1 The Recycling Quandary

The blend of paper and plastic in these cups creates a recycling challenge.

The intricate separation process required for recycling diminishes the eco-friendly image of paper cups. This underscores the need for a more sustainable approach to our daily choices.  Textile Industry

  1. The Temperature Tango

One may not consider the interaction between hot beverages and paper cups, but this delicate dance can impact both taste and safety.

3.1 Heat and Chemical Interaction

When hot liquids come into contact with paper cups, chemical interactions can occur. This phenomenon raises concerns about the potential transfer of harmful substances from the cup to your drink. Textile Industry

The unsuspecting consumer may be unknowingly exposed to these substances, highlighting a previously overlooked aspect of the paper cup experience.

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Before drinking tea or coffee in a paper cup, know its disadvantages, you will be surprised!

Shale production in the United States restarts, threat to OPEC

Shale oil production is experiencing a resurgence in the United States, posing a significant challenge to OPEC+’s efforts to constrain production for price control. The current surge indicates an estimated daily output of 13.3 million barrels, surpassing the previous US federal government prediction of 12.5 million barrels, and even surpassing the entire production of Venezuela.  Textile Industry

This revival in shale production is attributed to advancements in technology, which have streamlined and accelerated the extraction process. In the aftermath of the 2014 market bubble that impacted the sector, American companies redirected their focus towards process enhancement and ensuring the profitability of investments, resulting in a notable rebound in shale oil production.

As reported by Bloomberg, the resurgence of shale in the United States threatens to disrupt OPEC+’s strategic approach, which relies on limiting production to influence and stabilize oil prices. The scale of the production increase underscores the resilience and adaptability of the US shale industry, underscoring its potential to reshape the global oil market landscape.  Textile Industry

Shale production in the United States restarts, threat to OPEC

Bangalore Hosts The Lenzing Conclave: Spearheading Sustainable Solutions for the Textile Industry

The Lenzing Group, a global leader in wood-based specialty fibers, organized ‘The Lenzing Conclave’ in Bengaluru. This event served as a platform for brands, retailers, and selected garment manufacturers to gather and exchange insights on current consumption trends and the future trajectory of textile fibers and fabrics leading up to 2030. The discussions delved into the crucial factors driving dynamic transformations within the industry.

The showcase featured a comprehensive display of end-products utilizing Lenzing fibers across various segments such as denim, home textiles, intimate and loungewear, general outerwear, and traditional wear. Participants had the opportunity to directly experience Lenzing’s latest products and innovations.  Textile Industry

Notably, the exhibition highlighted the impressive variety of LENZING™ ECOVERO™ black fibers, renowned for delivering exceptional depth of black color in fabrics, and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ with REFIBRA™ technology, a step closer to a circular economy. This innovative offering reflects Lenzing’s commitment to sustainability and the pursuit of groundbreaking products. Recently, Lenzing transformed its Indonesian manufacturing site to produce LENZING™ ECOVERO™ fibers, certified with the internationally recognized EU Ecolabel for environmental excellence[1]. The site will also provide LENZING™ ECOVERO™ black fibers for Asian customers.  Textile Industry

As a trailblazer in the evolving textile industry, Lenzing continues to introduce pioneering and environmentally conscious solutions that align with the evolving demands of the Indian market. The conclave witnessed enthusiastic participation from essential stakeholders, fostering valuable networking opportunities and collaborative dialogues, further solidifying Lenzing’s position as a frontrunner in the ever-changing textile landscape.

Bangalore Hosts The Lenzing Conclave: Spearheading Sustainable Solutions for the Textile Industry

With over two decades of experience in the Italian packaging machinery industry, I have played a pivotal role in contributing to the sector’s unprecedented success

As of 2023, the industry has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, surpassing €9 billion in total sales revenues, marking a remarkable 6% increase from the previous year and securing its third consecutive record.

My leadership as the Ucima Chairman has witnessed the industry’s robust growth primarily driven by exports, constituting an impressive 81.3% of revenues and expected to reach €7.36 billion by year-end—an outstanding 12% surge from 2022. Notably, export sales have seen substantial increases across diverse geographical regions, with North America, the European Union, Asia, and South America experiencing year-on-year growth ranging from 17% to 31%.  Textile Industry

Despite the positive outlook for 2024, challenges loom on the horizon, notably the impact of evolving geopolitical scenarios and pending EU directives on packaging usage. Nevertheless, the industry remains resilient, having secured a record 8.2 months’ worth of orders.

While celebrating these achievements, there is a need for cautious optimism, as domestic sales have experienced a concerning 14% decline, attributed to the inflationary crisis and uncertainties surrounding Industry 4.0. As the industry navigates through these challenges, the RePowerEU initiative’s allocation of €6.3 billion for the Industry 5.0 plan is seen as a positive development, though more clarity is sought on fund distribution and criteria.  Textile Industry

In terms of global leadership, the Italian packaging industry continues to shine, with Italian-made technologies enjoying sustained demand worldwide. I have championed innovation within the industry, emphasizing the integration of artificial intelligence solutions into machinery—a key focus for future development and international expansion.

Ucima’s active involvement in advocating for the Italian waste recycling model is evident in our collaboration with other supply chain associations. The recent positive outcome in the European Parliament’s packaging directive vote is applauded, but our commitment to defending our unique waste recycling system remains unwavering. Textile Industry

With over two decades of experience in the Italian packaging machinery industry, I have played a pivotal role in contributing to the sector's unprecedented success

Plastic loop – Eurecat Develops New Ultra-Thin Smart Interface for New Generation of Cars 18-12-2023

Textile Industry

Plastic loop – Eurecat Develops New Ultra-Thin Smart Interface for New Generation of Cars 18-12-2023

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

Plastic loop

yuan vs usd

Bright-PET chips – EXCLUSIVE-Eni exploring sale of stake in bioplastic maker Novamont 

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Plastic loop

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These Chinese LFP batteries boast ultrafast charging

In a groundbreaking development, Zeekr, a brand under the Geely group, has unveiled a cutting-edge lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery during the Zeekr Power Day event. Known as the Golden Brick Battery, this innovation promises an astonishing 500 km of autonomy in just 15 minutes, leveraging an 800 Volt architecture. Presented as a game-changer in the field of LFP batteries, known for their cost-effectiveness and ease of production compared to NMC lithium-ion counterparts, the Golden Brick Battery is set to hit the market in 2027, featuring an unprecedented 80% plus active material percentage.

What sets the Golden Brick apart is its remarkable resilience – proven to function flawlessly after enduring extreme conditions, including an 8-hour exposure to -45 degrees and exposure to flames at 1,000 degrees.  Plastic loop

This remarkable achievement was showcased during Zeekr Power Day, where the company illustrated its progress and future plans.

Notably, Svolt, a Chinese company under Great Wall ownership, also announced a revolutionary product during its Battery Day event. The Svolt Short Blade, featuring LFP chemistry and an 800 Volt architecture, can achieve a rapid 5C charging speed, translating to a remarkable 350 km of autonomy in just 10 minutes. Excitingly, the Short Blade is expected to hit the market in 2024, further advancing the landscape of fast-charging LFP batteries.  Plastic loop

Plastic loop

From Japan, a system for producing cheaper batteries

A breakthrough in battery technology has emerged from Japan, promising to revolutionize the production of lithium cobalt oxide, a crucial component in lithium-ion batteries. Researchers from Hokkaido University and Kobe University have developed a groundbreaking method that synthesizes lithium cobalt oxide at a significantly lower temperature of 300 degrees Celsius, in contrast to the current 800 degrees Celsius requirement, and achieves a remarkable tenfold increase in speed.

Traditionally, manufacturing lithium cobalt oxide involves lengthy industrial processes spanning 10 to 20 hours, necessitating exposure to high temperatures.

The Japanese researchers, however, have streamlined the process to a mere 30 minutes at a lower temperature, resulting in substantial time and energy savings.

The innovative approach employs cobalt hydroxide and lithium hydroxide as base materials, with sodium and potassium hydroxide as additives. Through systematic experimentation, the team perfected a hydroflow process for synthesizing layered crystals of lithium cobalt oxide.  Plastic loop

While the newly produced compound exhibits slightly lower technical characteristics and electrochemical properties compared to its high-temperature counterpart, it still delivers comparable performance.

Professor Masaki Matsui, leading the research project, highlighted the crucial role of water molecules in enhancing the crystallinity of the final product, underscoring a deep understanding of the chemical reactions driving the production process.

This groundbreaking method holds promise for accelerating battery production at reduced costs, contributing to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and fostering a more sustainable future.  Plastic loop

Plastic loop

Closing the plastic loop

Plastic products bring important benefits to society – they help improve living standards and deliver health, safety and sustainability benefits. Plastic waste, however, is a global issue and where waste is not managed appropriately, it ends up polluting the environment. Estimates suggest that of the 353 million tonnes of plastic waste generated globally, only 9% is recycled, and the remainder goes to landfill or incineration – or is unmanaged after use.

Shell, alongside many others, is committed to finding lasting solutions to plastic waste. We want to play our part in the transformation of the plastics value chain from linear to circular, reducing the need for raw materials and introducing more recycled products into everyday life.  Plastic loop

Chemical recycling: key to tackling plastic waste

In recent decades, plastic recycling has mostly been limited to plastic waste streams which are relatively easy to collect and mechanically recycle like drink bottles or milk containers. However, alternative techniques are needed for plastics that cannot be mechanically recycled and are currently incinerated or go to landfill. These are hard to recycle plastics like snack bags, plastic film, garden furniture and others.

Chemical or advanced recycling uses different technologies to expand the types of plastics that can be recycled. Shell is working on several technologies to utilise waste and is focusing particularly on chemical recycling through pyrolysis: a special heating process that turns hard-to-recycle plastics into a liquid.  Plastic loop

This liquid, referred to as pyrolysis oil, replaces virgin hydrocarbons in the production of chemicals which are the building blocks of a wide range of products we use every day, including new plastic products.

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Closing the plastic loop

Eurecat Develops New Ultra-Thin Smart Interface for New Generation of Cars

The technology center presents the Púlsar project, which has developed a smart plastic surface just 3 millimeters thick.

The Eurecat technology center has developed a smart plastic surface just 3 millimeters thick, which has an interface that allows users to communicate with a machine, software or intuitive system with built-in LED lighting and capacitive sensors which is expected to be embedded in the central electronic system of the new generation of cars.

“The need for digital transformation and the growing importance of design, integration, personalisation and standing out from the competition means the industry is constantly evolving and developing highly innovative products and services,” says David Pardos, head of business development in Eurecat’s Mobility team.  Plastic loop

“By way of example, functional surfaces with haptic response activation featuring tactile sensations are gaining ground.”

The innovation has been created as part of the Púlsar project which has been run at Eurecat’s plastronics pilot plant. The facility specializes in functional printing and embedded devices and “has a track record spanning over 10 years of experience in electronics whether printed, hybrid or injected in plastic parts and functional fabrics,” notes Cristina Casellas, head of technology transfer at Eurecat. “This enables the technology centre to deliver solutions to complex and specific challenges across a wide range of sectors such as the automotive industry.”  Plastic loop

The Púlsar project can be seen at the Automotive Interiors fair in Stuttgart, Germany, where Eurecat is also showcasing plastic parts which imitate various textures such as marble, wood and fabric along with plastronics parts simulating push buttons with printed contact sensors and embedded optoelectronic devices.

Eurecat Develops New Ultra-Thin Smart Interface for New Generation of Cars

New standard for circular plastics ensures higher quality and cost reduction

Cirplus has developed a new standard for the use of recycled plastics together with the IKK — Institute of Plastics and Circular Economy and the Kunststoff-Institut Luedenscheid.

DIN SPEC 91481 improves the quality assurance of polyamide-based recyclates through the correction of previously insufficient data quality. It provides clear guidelines for the classification and description of waste and recyclates, thus simplifying trade in recycled plastics. In addition, the cooperation partners have developed a concept for a digital product passport for recycled plastics and waste along the entire value chain, which can also be implemented at European level.  Plastic loop

The digital product passport in accordance with DIN SPEC 91481 ensures comprehensive data collection and processing from raw material to compound. The aim is to ensure the data quality of the material over its entire life cycle, and to create and legally pass on the often-missing information at raw material level.

“Quality variations and price differences between virgin and recycled plastics currently make it difficult to expand the recyclate market. Standards facilitate the use and procurement of recycled plastics.  Plastic loop

They are therefore a prerequisite for the scaling of the recycling industry. DIN SPEC 91481 creates more clarity for polyamide-based waste and recyclates and provides an important step towards a deeper digitalisation of the plastics and waste industry,” remarks Christian Schiller, founder and CEO of Cirplus.

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New standard for circular plastics ensures higher quality and cost reduction

Copyright: Cirplu

US import prices fall 0.4%, export prices by 0.9% in Nov 2023

The price index for imported fuel declined by 5.6 per cent in November following a 3.7-per cent drop in October. The November decrease was the largest monthly decline since the index fell by 5.6 per cent in February this year.

Prices for non-fuel imports in the United States rose by 0.2 per cent in the month, after declining by 0.2 per cent in each of the three previous months. The November increase was the first one-month advance since a 0.4-per cent rise in February 2023.

Despite the November increase, non-fuel import prices declined by 0.4 per cent over the past year.  Plastic loop

The price index for non-fuel industrial supplies and materials rose by 0.2 per cent in November following a 0.6-per cent decline the previous month.

Prices for major finished goods import categories remained mostly unchanged in November.

Lower prices for non-agricultural exports in November more than offset higher agricultural prices.

Non-agricultural export prices decreased by 1 per cent for the second consecutive month in November. The declines followed a 2.7-per cent increase for the third quarter this year, a BLS release said.  Plastic loop

The price index for non-agricultural industrial supplies and materials fell by 2.2 per cent in November, after decreasing by 2.4 per cent the previous month. Lower fuel prices drove the declines for both months, decreasing by 5.1 per cent in November and by 4.3 per cent in October.

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US import prices fall 0.4%, export prices by 0.9% in Nov 2023

Plastic tax – The APR Design® for Plastics Recyclability Program, formerly known as Meets Preferred Guidance (MPG), is undergoing a notable expansion, introducing six additional packaging components 16-12-2023

Plastic loop

Bright-PET chips – EXCLUSIVE-Eni exploring sale of stake in bioplastic maker Novamont 18-12-2023

 

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

Bright-PET chips

Bright-PET chips

  • Polymers : PET – r-PET – Filament grade semidull chips -Filament grade bright chips – Ny6 – Ny66 – PP
  • Feedstocks  PX – PTA – MEG – CPL – Adipic Acid – Benzene – ACN – Ethylene – Phenol – Naphtha
  • Textile : Polyester POY – DTY – FDY – PSF – Recycled Polyester POY – Nylon POY – DTY – FDY Spandex 20-30-40 -Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  Acrylic Staple Fiber 

 Bright-PET chips

 Bright-PET chips

Polyestertime
ITEM 11/12/2023 18/12/2023 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 6,800 yuan/ton 6,800 yuan/ton –
Bottle grade PET chips export market 875 $/ton 875 $/ton –
Filament grade Semidull chips domestic market 6,620 yuan/ton 6,620 yuan/ton –
Filament grade Bright chips domestic market 6,650 yuan/ton 6,640 yuan/ton -10
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market 5,715 yuan/ton 5,655 yuan/ton -60
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA export market 700 $/ton 700 $/ton –

 
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,065 yuan/ton 4,160 yuan/ton +95
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 480 $/ton 492 $/ton +12
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market

 Bright-PET chips

 974 $/ton 982 $/ton
 +8
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 951 $/ton 959 $/ton +8
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,030 $/ton 1,005 $/ton -25
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,425  yuan/ton 7,400 yuan/ton
 -25
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,500 yuan/ton 7,500 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 8,850 yuan/ton 8,820 yuan/ton -30
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F

 Bright-PET chips

 8,800 yuan/ton 8,800 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market 8,050 yuan/ton 8,100 yuan/ton +50
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,200 yuan/ton 7,180 yuan/ton -20
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 12,850 yuan/ton 13,000 yuan/ton
 +150
Caprolactam CPL overseas  market 1,600 $/ton 1,600 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,850 $/ton 1,850 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 13,750 yuan/ton 13,950 yuan/ton +200
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market

 Bright-PET chips

 14,150 yuan/ton 14,250 yuan/ton +100
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market 19,800 yuan/ton 19,600 yuan/ton -200
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,250 yuan/ton 16,350 yuan/ton +100
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,400 yuan/ton 18,500 yuan/ton- +100
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,100 yuan/ton 17,050 yuan/ton -50
Spandex 20D  domestic  market

 Bright-PET chips

 35,000 yuan/ton 35,000 yuan/ton –
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 33,500 yuan/ton 33,500 yuan/ton –
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  30,500 yuan/ton 30,500 yuan/ton –
Adipic Acid domestic market 8,700 yuan/ton 8,650 yuan/ton -50
Benzene domestic market

 Bright-PET chips

 6,970 yuan/ton 7,000 yuan/ton +30
Benzene overseas  market 842 $/ton 866 $/ton +24
Ethylene South East market 890 $/ton 850 $/ton -40
Ethylene NWE market 744 $/ton 744 $/ton –
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market

 Bright-PET chips

 9,700 yuan/ton 9,700 yuan/ton –
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF  domestic market 14,600 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton –
Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  domestic market 12,900 yuan/ton 12,800 yuan/ton -100
PP Powder domestic market

 Bright-PET chips

 7,300 yuan/ton 7,300 yuan/ton –
Naphtha overseas market  641 $/ton 683 $/ton +42
Phenol domestic market 7,742 yuan/ton 7,862 yuan/ton +120

r-PET high end eco-friendly chips =7,900 yuan/ton  — 7,900 yuan/ton   –

 Bright-PET chips

EXCLUSIVE-Eni exploring sale of stake in bioplastic maker Novamont

Eni is reportedly exploring the possibility of selling a minority stake in its bioplastic subsidiary, Novamont, engaging in discussions with potential investors, in a move that could value the bioplastic giant at approximately €1 billion ($1.1 billion).

Earlier this year, Eni expanded its chemical portfolio by acquiring the remaining 64% of Novamont, previously held by private equity funds Investitori Associati II and NB Renaissance. Bright-PET chips

Eni now aims to expedite Novamont’s growth by seeking partnerships with investors, potentially enhancing the sustainability of its overall chemical business and increasing exposure to the circular economy sector.

Novamont, located in Piedmont and owned through Eni’s chemical unit, Versalis, stands as the global leader in bioplastic production. Noteworthy investors expressing interest in the prospective deal include Norway’s private equity fund HitecVision and U.S. fund Blackstone. Discussions remain in their early stages, and Eni has not yet determined the exact stake size for potential sale.

In contrast to traditional plastics, predominantly derived from fossil fuels and posing environmental challenges, bioplastics such as Novamont’s MATER-BI are made from natural or renewable sources and boast biodegradable properties. Novamont’s extensive patent portfolio, with over 1,400 patents and applications, underscores its commitment to advancing sustainable alternatives in the bioplastic industry. Bright-PET chips

EXCLUSIVE-Eni exploring sale of stake in bioplastic maker Novamont

EPA Begins Process to Prioritize Five Chemicals for Risk Evaluation Under Toxic Substances Control Act

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it is beginning the process to prioritize five additional toxic chemicals for risk evaluation under the nation’s premier chemical safety law. If, during the 12-month long statutory process, EPA designates these five chemicals as High Priority Substances, EPA will then begin risk evaluations for these chemicals. Bright-PET chips

EPA plans to prioritize the following chemicals for risk evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA):

  • Acetaldehyde (CASRN 75-07-0),
  • Acrylonitrile (CASRN 107-13-1),
  • Benzenamine (CASRN 62-53-3),
  • 4,4’-Methylene bis(2-chloroaniline) (MBOCA) (CASRN 101-14-4), and
  • Vinyl Chloride (CASRN 75-01-4).

“Under the Biden-Harris Administration, EPA has made significant progress implementing the 2016 amendments to strengthen our nation’s chemical safety laws after years of mismanagement and delay. Today marks an important step forward,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff.  Bright-PET chips

“Moving forward to comprehensively study the safety these five chemicals that have been in use for decades is key to better protecting people from toxic exposure.”

“Most vinyl chloride is used to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, which poses significant health and environmental problems that have been known for over 50 years. This is one of the most important chemical review processes ever undertaken by the EPA. I applaud the EPA for launching this review,” said Judith Enck, President of Beyond Plastics and former EPA Regional Administrator.

This step is consistent with a commitment from the Biden-Harris Administration to understand and address environmental and toxic exposures as part of the Cancer Moonshot’s mission to end cancer as we know it, and as progress on delivering environmental justice. Bright-PET chips

More…

EPA Begins Process to Prioritize Five Chemicals for Risk Evaluation Under Toxic Substances Control Act

Plastic tax – The APR Design® for Plastics Recyclability Program, formerly known as Meets Preferred Guidance (MPG), is undergoing a notable expansion, introducing six additional packaging components 16-12-2023

“Plastic that makes the difference”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

Plastic tax

The German government is reportedly in the process of devising a plastic packaging tax, as disclosed by sources in German media

Steffen Hebestreit, a government spokesperson, has confirmed that the federal administration aims to levy charges on companies responsible for introducing plastic into the market. The anticipated consequence is that these companies will likely transfer the incurred costs to consumers. This initiative mirrors the EU’s plastic levy implemented in 2021, wherein 80 Euro cents per kilogram of non-recyclable packaging waste are charged. Presently, the German government, alongside several other EU counterparts, covers the 1.4 billion Euro levy from the state treasury.  Plastic tax

Since the commencement of 2023, manufacturers and importers of plastic in Spain have been subjected to a charge of 45 Euro cents per kilogram of plastic. Meanwhile, Italy is set to implement a tax on single-use packaging starting in 2024. According to reports from Germany, the projected impact on the average consumer would amount to an annual payment of €30 for the plastic tax. This move aligns with broader European efforts to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable practices in packaging and waste management.

Plastic tax

Werner & Mertz in cooperation with Alpla has increased the share of rPET from the Yellow Bag to 75% in their bottles

Werner & Mertz, in collaboration with Alpla, has significantly elevated the proportion of recycled PET (rPET) sourced from the Yellow Bag to 75% in their PET bottles. This accomplishment is part of Germany’s innovative dual-system plastic packaging collection, a pioneering initiative for the circular economy. The system serves as an optimal reservoir for the creation of new packaging through resource-efficient mechanical recycling, aligning with the principles of a climate-friendly circular economy.

The partnership between Werner & Mertz and Alpla within the Recyclate Initiative has yielded success in establishing a genuine circular economy. The Frosch PET bottles, manufactured by the German cleaning products company, now boast a composition of 75% rPET from the Yellow Bag, with the remaining 25% sourced from European deposit bottle collections, all subject to mechanical recycling.  Recycled PET

This achievement was facilitated by cutting-edge sorting facilities and insights gained from continuous monitoring of delivered PET bales in the recycling plant. Alpla’s advancements in sorting efficiency through software and computer technology have played a crucial role in enhancing the precision and speed of sorting.

It is crucial to note the origin of plastic packaging, as demonstrated by the success of recycling plastic from the Yellow Bag. The study by ETH Zürich emphasizes that the combustion of fossil carbon for plastics production far exceeds the carbon contained as feedstock in plastics. This revelation underscores the environmental significance of mechanical recycling over incineration, which not only reduces plastic waste but also minimizes greenhouse gas emissions associated with plastic production. The commitment to using recycled plastic from reliable sources contributes significantly to a more sustainable and climate-friendly circular economy. C

Visit Werner & Mertz

Visit Alpla

Plastic tax

North American PET recycling rate drops to 37.8% in 2022: NAPCOR

In its 2022 PET Recycling Report, the National Association for PET Container Resources (NAPCOR), representing the PET industry in the US, Canada, and Mexico, disclosed a dip in the North American PET recycling rate to 37.8%, down from 38.4% in 2021. Notably, the US experienced a decrease from 30.3% to 29% during the same period. Despite this, the report highlighted a milestone as the market consumption of recycled PET (rPET) bottles surpassed 50% in the US and Canada. Plastic tax

Moreover, the report indicated a 15% rise in recycled content usage in US bottles. NAPCOR projected a substantial increase in PET collection—1.75 billion pounds, an 85% boost compared to 2022—to meet the target of 25% rPET content in all bottles by 2025, with a subsequent goal of reaching 50% by 2030.

To address this challenge, the association urged the implementation of new policies and enhancements in recycling infrastructure to meet the escalating demand for post-consumer recycled content in North American markets. NAPCOR’s executive director, Laura Stewart, emphasized the imperative need for collaborative efforts among manufacturers, consumers, and packagers to effect significant changes for achieving full circularity in the PET industry.  Plastic tax

The report also underscored an 88% increase in the use of recyclate from post-consumer PET thermoforms in 2022, with an average post-consumer rPET content of 12%.

Plastic tax

Sulzer launches new biodegradable polymer for bioplastics

Sulzer, the Swiss technology giant, is broadening its bioplastics repertoire with the introduction of CAPSUL™, a cutting-edge licensed technology designed for the continuous manufacturing of polycaprolactone (PCL). PCL, a biodegradable polyester widely utilized in packaging, textiles, agriculture, and horticulture, is at the forefront of Sulzer’s sustainable plastic solutions.

CAPSUL™ stands out for its seamless end-to-end process, ensuring optimal performance in producing high-quality PCL grades at competitive rates.

This addition to Sulzer’s suite of renewable and circular plastic technologies, which includes polylactic acid (PLA) process technology, consolidates the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility.  Plastic tax

The CAPSUL™ PCL technology, developed by Sulzer Chemtech, integrates purification and polymerization steps into a fully streamlined, highly efficient, and continuous process.

This innovative biopolymer technology is versatile, adapting seamlessly to a wide range of industrial scales, and is poised to accelerate the adoption of biodegradable and compostable PCL. Key applications for premium PCL grades include consumer packaging, 3D printing, footwear, agricultural films, textiles, and medical devices.

Uwe Boltersdorf, President of the Chemtech Division at Sulzer, expressed enthusiasm about the role of PCL in curbing plastic waste, stating, “We are thrilled to facilitate the large-scale production of PCL from both conventional and renewable resources.

This aligns with our ongoing support for industry stakeholders in their journey towards sustainability.”  Plastic tax

Plastic tax

Tesla: ok to build the largest Gigafactory in the world

Tesla has secured the necessary permits to initiate the construction of its colossal Gigafactory in Mexico, as confirmed by documents obtained by the Milenio news agency from local and federal authorities. The Secretariat for the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) has announced that all required documents for final authorization from the Mexican federal government are ready, signaling a swift realization of the Gigafactory.

With the recent acquisition of the designated land by Tesla, the project appears to be progressing in the right direction. The actual commencement of construction, however, remains uncertain, though local media speculates that it could kick off within the next few weeks.  Plastic tax

Simultaneously, the state of Nuevo Leon is actively developing an industrial district to support the Gigafactory. Investments exceeding $130 million are earmarked for infrastructure, including roads, to facilitate Tesla’s operations in the region. Mayor Jesus Nava of Santa Catarina hopes for construction to commence by the first half of 2024.

In a departure from his usual approach, Elon Musk has expressed a desire for caution regarding the Mexican factory. While groundwork is being laid, he stated, “we want to get a good idea of what the global economy is like before we go full speed.”

The Gigafactory, announced in March as the world’s largest electric vehicle plant, is anticipated to require an investment of approximately 5 billion euros and will produce models based on Tesla’s next-generation platform, supporting both the Model 2 and the company’s robotaxi. Plastic tax

Tesla: ok to build the largest Gigafactory in the world

The APR Design® for Plastics Recyclability Program, formerly known as Meets Preferred Guidance (MPG), is undergoing a notable expansion, introducing six additional packaging components

This initiative, a cornerstone for third-party validation, assures adherence to North American recycling system standards and attaining the esteemed Preferred status. The forthcoming program expansions include PET and Colored HDPE containers, packaging constructions, Natural HDPE packaging, and PE films.

With an impressive two-decade track record, APR Design® Recognition has meticulously assessed packaging from over 120 companies, fostering widespread adoption of impactful innovations. This has significantly improved the recyclability of plastic packaging and contributed to reducing plastic waste. Ruben Nance, APR’s Preferred Design Recognition Program Director, emphasizes the positive implications of the program’s expansion, noting it will save time, effort, and resources for brands and retailers in identifying recyclable packaging solutions.  Plastic tax

The APR Design® Recognition program encompasses three distinct paths: Preferred Design, Critical Guidance, and Responsible Innovation. Despite differing approaches, all paths lead to the same recognition level, affirming a product’s adherence to the highest criteria for recyclability. This framework not only acknowledges but rewards component and packaging manufacturers, serving as a catalyst for addressing recycling challenges.

A notable aspect of the program is its contribution to enhancing high-quality Post-Consumer Recycled Content (PCR) in the market.

By setting stringent standards and recognizing products meeting these criteria, the program actively promotes the use of recycled materials in packaging, fostering a more sustainable and circular approach.  Plastic tax

The program’s expansion, incorporating PET and Colored HDPE containers, packaging constructions, Natural HDPE packaging, and PE films, reflects a proactive response to the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging.

This underscores APR’s commitment to staying abreast of industry developments and addressing emerging challenges associated with various plastic materials.

Ruben Nance’s emphasis on saving time, effort, and resources for brands and retailers aligns with the broader industry shift towards sustainability.

By providing a standardized recognition system, APR’s program streamlines the identification of recyclable packaging solutions, facilitating decision-making for businesses and aligning with sustainability goals. Plastic tax

The program’s acknowledgment of Responsible Innovation is noteworthy, incentivizing companies to explore new avenues for sustainable packaging beyond standard recyclability. This forward-thinking approach positions APR as a driver of positive change within the industry, encouraging continuous improvement and innovation.

In conclusion, the APR Design® Recognition program’s expansion marks a significant milestone in the journey towards more sustainable plastic packaging. With its multifaceted approach and anticipation of further expansions, APR demonstrates its commitment to driving positive change and guiding the industry towards sustainable practices. Initiatives like APR’s play a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of sustainable packaging, incentivizing positive practices within the industry. Plastic tax

The APR Design® for Plastics Recyclability Program, formerly known as Meets Preferred Guidance (MPG), is undergoing a notable expansion, introducing six additional packaging components. This initiative, a cornerstone for third-party validation, assures adherence to North American recycling system standards and attaining the esteemed Preferred status. The forthcoming program expansions include PET and Colored HDPE containers, packaging constructions, Natural HDPE packaging, and PE films. With an impressive two-decade track record, APR Design® Recognition has meticulously assessed packaging from over 120 companies, fostering widespread adoption of impactful innovations. This has significantly improved the recyclability of plastic packaging and contributed to reducing plastic waste. Ruben Nance, APR's Preferred Design Recognition Program Director, emphasizes the positive implications of the program's expansion, noting it will save time, effort, and resources for brands and retailers in identifying recyclable packaging solutions. The APR Design® Recognition program encompasses three distinct paths: Preferred Design, Critical Guidance, and Responsible Innovation. Despite differing approaches, all paths lead to the same recognition level, affirming a product's adherence to the highest criteria for recyclability. This framework not only acknowledges but rewards component and packaging manufacturers, serving as a catalyst for addressing recycling challenges. A notable aspect of the program is its contribution to enhancing high-quality Post-Consumer Recycled Content (PCR) in the market. By setting stringent standards and recognizing products meeting these criteria, the program actively promotes the use of recycled materials in packaging, fostering a more sustainable and circular approach. The program's expansion, incorporating PET and Colored HDPE containers, packaging constructions, Natural HDPE packaging, and PE films, reflects a proactive response to the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging. This underscores APR's commitment to staying abreast of industry developments and addressing emerging challenges associated with various plastic materials. Ruben Nance's emphasis on saving time, effort, and resources for brands and retailers aligns with the broader industry shift towards sustainability. By providing a standardized recognition system, APR's program streamlines the identification of recyclable packaging solutions, facilitating decision-making for businesses and aligning with sustainability goals. The program's acknowledgment of Responsible Innovation is noteworthy, incentivizing companies to explore new avenues for sustainable packaging beyond standard recyclability. This forward-thinking approach positions APR as a driver of positive change within the industry, encouraging continuous improvement and innovation. In conclusion, the APR Design® Recognition program's expansion marks a significant milestone in the journey towards more sustainable plastic packaging. With its multifaceted approach and anticipation of further expansions, APR demonstrates its commitment to driving positive change and guiding the industry towards sustainable practices. Initiatives like APR's play a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of sustainable packaging, incentivizing positive practices within the industry.

Minnesota Welcomes State-of-the-Art Flexible Film Recycling Facility

Myplas USA, a global subsidiary of MRI Investments and the proud owner of Myplas Pty Ltd, a renowned recycling business based in South Africa, has recently inaugurated a cutting-edge 170,000-square-foot flexible film recycling facility in Rogers, Minnesota.

This facility is dedicated to the recycling of various materials, including pallet wrap, shrink wrap, single-use shopping bags, and select food packaging.

Andrew Pieterse, CEO of Myplas USA, expressed his enthusiasm on this momentous occasion, stating, “This marks a significant milestone for Myplas as we establish our U.S. headquarters and unveil our inaugural U.S. recycling facility in Minnesota. The realization of this vision has been an extraordinary journey, and we take pride in contributing our expertise to this groundbreaking initiative. The unwavering commitment of our partners has played a pivotal role in bringing us to this juncture, and we eagerly anticipate the promising future that awaits us.”  Plastic tax

Upon reaching maximum operational capacity, the facility is poised to recycle nearly 90 million pounds of plastic waste annually, providing employment opportunities for close to 200 individuals.

Despite the annual consumption of 12 to 15 billion pounds of flexible packaging and films in the United States, a mere 5 percent is estimated to be recycled.

The establishment of this facility was made possible through a $13 million equity investment, with additional financial backing from prominent entities such as Closed Loop Partners, the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.  Plastic tax

Minnesota Welcomes State-of-the-Art Flexible Film Recycling Facility

Recycled PET – The European Bioplastics Conference 2023 commenced today in Berlin, Germany, with Hasso von Pogrell, Managing Director of European Bioplastics, providing a comprehensive overview of the bioplastics market, unveiling key statistics 15-12-2023

Plastic tax

Recycled PET – The European Bioplastics Conference 2023 commenced today in Berlin, Germany, with Hasso von Pogrell, Managing Director of European Bioplastics, providing a comprehensive overview of the bioplastics market, unveiling key statistics 15-12-2023

“Plastic that makes the difference”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

Recycled PET

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

The European Bioplastics Conference 2023 commenced today in Berlin, Germany, with Hasso von Pogrell, Managing Director of European Bioplastics, providing a comprehensive overview of the bioplastics market, unveiling key statistics

Following a stagnation period in 2020, the global bioplastics production experienced substantial growth, reaching 1.79 million tonnes in 2023, up from 1.51 million tonnes in 2022. Among the various types, PLA constituted 27%, PA 20%, PE 14%, PTT 13%, and APC 7%.

The installed production capacity escalated to 2.18 million tonnes in 2023, with projections indicating a rise to 7.43 million tonnes by 2028, as per EUBP figures collaborated with the Nova Institute. Analysis of 2023 data revealed that the bioplastics industry operated at nearly full capacity, boasting an average utilization rate of 82%, although individual polymers varied from 60% to 100%.  Recycled PET

Despite challenges such as the climate crisis, soaring energy costs, and disrupted value chains, von Pogrell emphasized the industry’s resilience and significance, attributing the growth in production capacity to global circumstances.

Packaging retained its dominance in bioplastics applications, comprising 43% of the market in 2023 and projected to grow to 48% in 2028. Notably, the fiber market is anticipated to decline from 21% in 2023 to 13% in 2028.

Examining materials, PLA is expected to constitute 43.6% of production capacity by 2028, followed by PA (18.5%), PHA (13.5%), PP (5.9%), and PTT (5.3%).

Geographically, the focus shifted eastward, with Europe’s share decreasing from 12.8% to 7.3% by 2028, while Asia’s share is predicted to rise from 55.3% to 71.5%.

Conversely, the Americas are expected to see a decline, with North America dropping from 18.7% to 17.0% and South America significantly decreasing from 13.0% to 3.9% by 2028.  Recycled PET

Von Pogrell stressed the importance of transparent and consistent data for informed decision-making and called for supportive legislative frameworks. Throughout the conference, speakers praised Europe’s bioplastics research and development efforts but criticized the lack of political support, hindering competitiveness.

Recycled PET

Nestlé’s Pure Life Bottles now include 50% recycled PET

Nestlé Nigeria has reached a significant milestone in its commitment to environmental sustainability by introducing new bottles for Nestlé Pure Life, incorporating 50% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET). This move effectively halves the use of virgin plastics in the company’s packaging, marking a pivotal step towards achieving 100% plastics neutrality.  Recycled PET

Nestlé Nigeria has been actively engaged in initiatives to recover and recycle plastics, adhering to a “one tonne in, one tonne out” principle since 2018.

Wassim Elhusseini, MD/CEO of Nestlé Nigeria PLC, emphasized the collaborative efforts with partners, particularly ALEF, in achieving this milestone.

The company’s commitment to reducing virgin plastic use by a third by 2025 has materialized with the successful inclusion of 50% rPET in water bottles. Nestlé Nigeria has played a leading role in establishing functional collection, sorting, and recycling systems for PET in the country, working closely with regulatory agencies like NESREA, SON, and NAFDAC to ensure compliance with the highest standards.  Recycled PET

Joy Abdulahi-Johnson, Category and Marketing Manager at Nestlé Waters, highlighted the brand’s dedication to rigorous safety processes and minimizing environmental impact. The introduction of the new rPET bottle coincides with Nestlé Pure Life’s global identity revamp, reinforcing the brand’s evolution for the better. The Minister for Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, commended Nestlé’s strategies supporting environmental sustainability and local economies. As Nestlé continues its global commitment to increasing rPET usage across brands, its achievement in Nigeria marks a pioneering step in incorporating recycled materials into bottled water packaging.  Recycled PET

Recycled PET

Because OPEC matters less and less

With OPEC’s diminishing role in the global oil market, evident by its share falling to 51%, the lowest since 2016, the International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights the challenges faced by the hydrocarbon industry in its December report. Despite a substantial increase in global oil demand this year, reaching 101.7 million barrels daily, concerns arise as estimates for 2023 consumption have been reduced by 400 thousand barrels a day. Projections for 2024 indicate a halved pace of consumption growth at 1.1 million barrels per day.

The OPEC+ cartel, grappling with falling prices despite extending production cuts into Q1 2024, is particularly affected by the strength of U.S. oil production exceeding 20 million barrels per day.  Plastic tax

The surge in American, Brazilian, and Guyanese oil production, coupled with a demand slowdown, has led to an oversupply, pushing oil prices $25 per barrel below September levels. The United States has emerged as a key player, contributing to a historic shift in the global oil supply hub from the Middle East to the Americas.

As OPEC’s influence wanes, the IEA notes a weakening bond between OPEC and Europe, while the transatlantic energy axis gains prominence. Amidst a global transition, China stands out as a dominant consumer, accounting for 78% of the consumption increase in 2023. Plastic tax

These dynamics mark a transformative period for the global energy landscape.

Because OPEC matters less and less

Revolutionizing Packaging: The Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Hemp Jar

Present the idea of the naturally degradable hemp container and its significance in the context of lasting product packaging. Highlight the growing requirement for environmentally friendly choices and set the stage for the thorough expedition of the product.  Recycled PET

The Surge of Lasting Packaging:

Review the increasing understanding of ecological issues and the international shift in the direction of lasting product packaging remedies. Mention the downsides of traditional packaging and how biodegradable options click here are acquiring popularity.

Attributes and Specifications

Provide an in-depth summary of the eco-friendly hemp jar, stressing its crucial features such as recyclability, biodegradability, and being made in the U.S.A..

Discuss exactly how the air-tight layout makes certain item freshness and talk about the measurements (2.87 x 1.55) to give viewers a clear understanding of the product.

Benefits of Hemp-Based Packaging

Discover the benefits of using hemp as a product for product packaging. Highlight its sustainable nature, rapid development, and marginal environmental impact compared to typical packaging materials. Go over how picking hemp adds to a more sustainable supply chain.  Recycled PET

More…

Revolutionizing Packaging: The Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Hemp Jar

Focus on recycling: Alpla sustainability report 2021-2022

The international ALPLA Group is presenting its fifth sustainability report under the motto ‘What we do matters’.

In it, the packaging and recycling specialist analyses the financial years 2021 and 2022 and focuses on the three pillars of ‘People’, ‘Planet’ and ‘Profitability’.

ALPLA is on track in spite of growth and global expansion thanks to energy efficiency measures and investments in the circular economy.  Recycled PET

The proportion of recycled material was increased from 16 per cent to 18 per cent between 2021 and 2022 and is expected to reach at least 25 per cent by 2025.

With its fifth sustainability report, the ALPLA Group offers insights into the environmental, social and economic developments of the financial years 2021 and 2022.

The report focuses on business-relevant issues such as climate protection, resource efficiency, equal opportunity, and legal and regulatory changes.

Data, charts and examples document the progress made and show where there is potential.  Recycled PET

‘Every day, we champion solutions that promote safe, affordable and sustainable life around the world.

With more than three billion people coming into contact with our products every day, we are assuming the great responsibility that comes with our mission,’ emphasises ALPLA CEO Philipp Lehner.

‘Every day, we champion solutions that promote safe, affordable and sustainable life around the world.

With more than three billion people coming into contact with our products every day, we are assuming the great responsibility that comes with our mission.’

More…

Focus on recycling: Alpla sustainability report 2021-2022

Choosing the right blow molding machine supplier: a comprehensive guide

In the world of manufacturing, selecting the right machinery is crucial to ensure the efficiency and quality of your production process. When it comes to blow molding, the choice of a reliable and competent supplier can make a significant difference in your business’s success. This article will guide you through the process of choosing the perfect Blow Molding Machine Supplier to meet your specific needs.  Recycled PET

Understanding Blow Molding Machines

Before diving into the process of selecting a supplier, it’s essential to understand blow molding machines and their types. Blow molding is a manufacturing process used to produce hollow plastic parts by inflating a heated plastic tube (referred to as a parison) inside a mold. The key types of blow molding machines include extrusion blow molding, injection blow molding, and stretch blow molding.

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing a blow molding machine supplier, several critical factors should be taken into account:

Quality and Durability

Quality should be a non-negotiable criterion when evaluating suppliers. Look for suppliers with a reputation for delivering robust and durable machines that can withstand the rigors of long-term industrial use.  Recycled PET

Capacity and Production Speed

The capacity of the machine must align with your production requirements. Consider the volume of plastic products you plan to manufacture and ensure the machine can meet your demands efficiently.

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Choosing the right blow molding machine supplier: a comprehensive guide

Hydrogen in internal combustion engines: after many years,there is Marelli’s solution

Marelli’s groundbreaking fully active electromechanical suspension system has earned the prestigious “Commendable” recognition in the “Engineering Product of the Year” category at the 2023 Digital Engineering Awards.  Recycled PET

This technological marvel signifies a significant leap forward in the automotive industry, garnering accolades for its remarkable impact on driving experiences by enhancing both safety and comfort.

The system, a brainchild of Marelli’s innovative engineering, boasts four electromechanical actuators, each housing a state-of-the-art “brushless” motor and a high-ratio gearbox seamlessly connected to the suspension arm.

This configuration enables real-time dynamic control of the suspension, ushering in a new era of automotive efficiency.  Recycled PET

Piero Monchiero, the Innovation Director of Marelli’s Ride Dynamics division, highlighted its efficacy not only in bolstering road safety but also in mitigating motion sickness, a common concern during activities such as reading or using a laptop—a feature crucial in the context of the rising prevalence of autonomous driving.

Antonio Ferrara, President of Marelli’s Ride Dynamics division, expressed pride in achieving this accolade, emphasizing the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation geared towards enhancing driving comfort and safety.  Recycled PET

The electronically controlled system, operating autonomously and processing information within milliseconds, adapts suspension behavior based on driving conditions, effectively neutralizing vibrations and body movements.

This results in a ride that is not only more stable but also remarkably comfortable, marking Marelli’s dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements to meet the evolving needs of customers and vehicle owners.  Recycled PET

Hydrogen in internal combustion engines: after many years,there is Marelli's solution

Biodegradable Plastic – Revelation Unveils Mystery of Peculiar Behavior in Strange Superconducting Materials14-12-2023

Recycled PET

Biodegradable Plastic – Revelation Unveils Mystery of Peculiar Behavior in Strange Superconducting Materials 14-12-2023

“Plastic that makes the difference”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

Biodegradable Plastic

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Polymateria Secures £20M in Series B Funding to Expand Biodegradable Plastic Technology

Polymateria, a prominent scale-up based at Imperial College London’s White City Campus, has achieved a significant milestone in its mission to combat global plastic pollution. The company recently announced a successful £20 million Series B funding round. This investment is earmarked for scaling up its revolutionary technology that renders plastics biodegradable, addressing a critical environmental issue.

Innovative Solution to Plastic Pollution

Polymateria’s cutting-edge technology uniquely addresses the issue of plastic waste leakage from collection systems, a problem that accounts for an estimated 32% of plastics globally.  Biodegradable Plastic

The technology is designed to attract microbes that biotransform plastic products such as bags and packaging, enabling these materials to biodegrade in the natural environment without leaving behind microplastics or harmful residues.

An important aspect of this technology is its ability to allow manufacturers to control the lifespan of plastic products. This ensures that the plastics remain functional for their intended use but can still be recycled, with recycling remaining the preferred method of disposal.  Biodegradable Plastic

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Biodegradable Plastic

Opinion: Southeast Asia’s dominance in the global plastic credit market

The global plastic credit market is witnessing a significant shift in dynamics, with Southeast Asia emerging as a key player. This region, encompassing countries like India, Indonesia, and Thailand, is poised to lead the way in plastic credit projects and contribute to the sustainable management of plastic waste. In this article, we will explore the role of Southeast Asia in the upcoming global plastic market, focusing on the insights provided by Verra’s pipeline data.  Biodegradable Plastic

Verra is a non-profit organisation that operates the Plastic Waste Reduction Program (Plastic Program) which is used for consistent accounting and crediting of a variety of plastic collection and recycling activities. Verra issues Waste Recycling or Collection Credits based on the volume of plastic waste recycled or collected above what would have happened in the absence of the Plastic Program project. Its registry stores data on all registered projects and tracks the generation, retirement, and cancellation of all Plastic Credits.

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Biodegradable Plastic

Revelation Unveils Mystery of Peculiar Behavior in Strange Superconducting Materials

A potential cause for the ‘peculiar’ behavior of cuprates, unique superconducting materials composed of copper and oxygen that hold promise for reducing electricity wastage in the future, has been uncovered.
This breakthrough, paving the way for more sustainable technologies, is reported in Nature Communications by researchers from the Polytechnic University of Milan, Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, and Sapienza University of Rome.
Superconductors are materials in which electric current flows without resistance below a certain temperature, distinguishing them from normal metals that generate heat and waste energy due to resistance.  Biodegradable Plastic
Cuprates, in particular, are superconducting materials that exhibit unconventional behavior above their critical temperature (when they are in the ‘normal’ state and do not have zero resistance), earning them the designation of ‘strange’ metals.
The peculiarity lies in the linear increase in resistivity with temperature, a phenomenon absent in normal metals.
Through X-ray scattering experiments conducted at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) and the UK’s Diamond Light Source synchrotron, researchers have discovered that fluctuations in charge density make cuprates ‘strange,’ influencing electrical resistance.  Biodegradable Plastic
Systematic measurement of the energy variations of these fluctuations has allowed the identification of the exact value of the charge carrier density at which it is minimal: the quantum critical point.
This finding not only demystifies the peculiar behavior but also holds significant implications for advancing the development of more efficient and sustainable technologies in the realm of electricity distribution.
Biodegradable Plastic

VDMA Circular Economy Conference in Mumbai provides technological impetus for plastics recycling

On 6th December 2023, the first Circular Economy Conference of VDMA Plastics and Rubber Machinery and VDMA India took place in Mumbai, one day prior to the opening of Plastivision, one of the major trade fairs for the plastics industry in India.

India aims to promote the circular economy. The need for action is great. India already has to deal with over 60’000’000t of waste every year. Plastic consumption is expected to increase by 7.4% annually to 26’400’000t by 2026. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) estimates that 40% of plastic waste is not recycled. Therefore, waste recycling has become a government issue.

Regulations are being introduced and political initiatives have been launched, such as the Clean India Programme, which is expected to lead to greater investment in recycling technology. The waste management industry in India is on a growth trajectory, especially in the plastics sector.  Biodegradable Plastic

The VDMA conference picks up on this trend. European machine manufacturers, member companies of the VDMA, presented their technology highlights along the process chain. From waste preparation and regranulation to the processing of regranulates in injection moulding or film extrusion. The aim is to use the right technology to produce regranulates of higher quality and thus high-quality plastic products. Over one hundred plastics processors, mainly from the packaging sector, but also recyclers, took part in the interactive discussion and B2B formats.  Biodegradable Plastic

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VDMA Circular Economy Conference in Mumbai provides technological impetus for plastics recycling

BASF launches Irgastab® PUR 71, a cutting-edge antioxidant improving regulatory compliance and performance for polyols and polyurethane foams

 

  • Formulated without aromatic amine to promote a better environmental, health and safety profile
  • Premium anti-scorch solution offers reduced emission levels and exceptional performance
  • Sustainable alternative offers polyol and foam producers a competitive advantage

BASF presents Irgastab® PUR 71, an innovative and advanced anti-scorch solution that not only ensures adherence to regulations but also offers exceptional performance. This premium solution has been formulated without aromatic amine, effectively addressing the limitations of conventional anti-scorch additives.  With its superior environmental, health, and safety profile, this solution meets the increasing regulatory pressure on substance classification and sustainability in the industry.  Biodegradable Plastic

“Irgastab PUR 71 reaffirms BASF’s commitment to innovation and partnership with the industry: We offer our customers a sustainable alternative to conventional solutions, empowering them to gain a significant advantage in the everchanging global market,” said Dr. Bettina Sobotka, Head of Global Marketing and Development, Plastic Additives, BASF.  “With a proven track record in additives, backed by our global team of experts dedicated to the development of the automotive and comfort industry, we strive to pioneer cutting-edge technologies and solutions that not only enhance performance, but also promote sustainability.”  Biodegradable Plastic

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BASF launches Irgastab® PUR 71, a cutting-edge antioxidant improving regulatory compliance and performance for polyols and polyurethane foams

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Market Resins Revolution: Market Dynamics 2023-2029

In the realm of thermoplastic polymers, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) reigns supreme, boasting a market size valued at US$ 31.16 Bn in 2022. Brace yourselves for a fascinating journey through the PET landscape as it anticipates a growth spurt of 5.4%, reaching a staggering US$ 45.03 Bn by 2029.
Unraveling the PET Tapestry
Versatility at its Core:
PET, a darling of the polyester family, takes center stage in garment fibers, fluid and meal vessels, thermoforming, and specialty resins. Whether transparent or semi-crystalline, PET’s chameleon-like nature adapts to processing and heating, making it a go-to choice in textiles and packaging.  Biodegradable Plastic

Global Polymer Powerhouse:
Accounting for 20% of global polymer output, PET sits proudly as the fourth most abundant polymer globally, following polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride. Its widespread use speaks volumes about its versatility and adaptability.

Recyclability Revival:
PET’s recyclability takes center stage as a major growth driver. Recycled PET (rPET) finds its way into various applications, from carpet fiber to clothing, furnishings, and even vehicle components.

Global giants committing to using 50% recycled material in plastic packaging fuel the demand for food-grade-certified recycled materials.  Biodegradable Plastic

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Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Market Resins Revolution: Market Dynamics 2023-2029

Polypropylene Makes Its Case for EV Lightweighting, Circularity

ExxonMobil says a reduction in filler levels, superior paint-free aesthetics, and advanced recycling are the keys to enhanced electric vehicle range and recyclability.

At a Glance

  • Increased use of PP in EV-specific components
  • Color-at-press consolidates materials usage
  • Advanced recycling optimal for safety critical components

Electric vehicle (EV) OEMs need to convince consumers of the driving range credentials of their cars.  Biodegradable Plastic

While the obvious solution is to throw in bigger batteries with higher energy storage, increased use of plastics remains one key to solving the issue of range anxiety.

One way to achieve this is to optimize material design to fit the technical needs of particular interior and exterior parts, according to ExxonMobil.

Speaking to PlasticsToday in an exclusive interview, Olivier Lorge, global marketing manager for polypropylene, Vistamaxx, and Exact (PVE) at ExxonMobil, noted additional trends have emerged in the EV plastics space. He cited the increased use of polypropylene (PP) in EV-specific components such as frunks and battery cases, materials consolidation throughout the vehicle, and greater content of recycled material in automotive compounds.  Biodegradable Plastic

Coloring at the press

“Color-at-press, or mold-in-color, injection molding using masterbatches has been around for some time in North America but that’s not the case in Europe and Asia,” notes Lorge. “[Using this process] you get thinner and lighter parts. 

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Polypropylene Makes Its Case for EV Lightweighting, Circularity

Smart textile – Toyota is working on a truly sustainable battery chain 13-12-2023

Biodegradable Plastic

Smart textile – Toyota is working on a truly sustainable battery chain 13-12-2023

“Plastic that makes the difference”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

Smart textile

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Cyclyx to build its first plastic feedstock production facility

The Cyclyx Circularity Centre will have a capacity to produce around 136,000 tonnes of plastic feedstock for chemical and mechanical recycling, with ExxonMobil and LyondellBasell holding offtake rights

Cyclyx International, a joint venture between Agilyx, ExxonMobil, and more recently LyondellBasell, has made the final investment decision to build its first Cyclyx Circularity Centre (CCC) in Houston, United States. Smart textile

The facility will have a capacity to produce around 136,000 tonnes (300 million pounds) of plastic feedstock for chemical and mechanical recycling, with ExxonMobil and LyondellBasell holding offtake rights. Together, the two companies are investing $135 million into Cyclyx to fund operating activities and construction costs for the new facility, which is expected to start operations in mid-2025.

Cyclyx draws on a database of over 1500 post-use plastic chemical characterisations to assesses each source of waste plastic to understand its chemical profile. It then uses artificial intelligence and big data to sort those profiles into the various mechanical and chemical recycling pathways that the plastics can be used for. Smart textile

The CCC will focus on sorting and custom blending collected material to ensure feedstock specifications and classifications meet expectations for ExxonMobil and LyondellBasell.

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Smart textile

Toyota is working on a truly sustainable battery chain

Toyota is actively advancing its commitment to sustainable battery practices through a strategic collaboration with Cirba Solutions in the United States. The agreement focuses on the recycling of electric car batteries, a crucial step in Toyota’s efforts to create a truly sustainable battery chain. In the Lancaster plant in Ohio, batteries from Toyota’s vehicles, including the widely distributed Prius and other electrified cars, undergo a meticulous dismantling process by Cirba Solutions, achieving an impressive 95% material recovery rate.  Smart textile

While Toyota may have entered the zero-emission vehicle market later than some competitors, it has a significant presence with over 6.2 million hybrid vehicles sold in North America. The collaboration with Cirba holds particular significance as it addresses the need to recycle batteries from Toyota’s existing fleet. Annually, approximately 25,000 batteries from end-of-life vehicles are collected by Toyota’s dealer network, emphasizing the importance of establishing sustainable practices.

Toyota’s partnership with Cirba aligns with its broader commitment to battery recycling, complementing existing agreements, such as the one with Redwood Materials on the West Coast. Christopher Yang, Vice President of Toyota Motor North America, underscores the significance of this collaboration, stating that Cirba Solutions’ network enhances Toyota’s ability to collect and recover batteries nationwide, contributing to cost reduction and a lowered operational carbon footprint.

The ultimate aim is to establish a closed-loop ecosystem, ensuring sustainability across the entire battery life cycle.  Smart textile

Smart textile

Stellantis tests electric car battery swapping

Stellantis and Ample have recently solidified a strategic partnership through a binding agreement, signaling a significant step in the realm of electric vehicle (EV) technology. The collaboration is centered around Ample’s Modular Battery Swapping solution, a groundbreaking battery swapping technology that enables Stellantis electric vehicle owners to replace depleted batteries with fully charged ones within minutes at dedicated swapping stations.  Smart textile

This innovative approach deviates from traditional recharging methods, promising a rapid turnaround of less than five minutes for a fully charged battery. Stellantis, the automotive giant, and Ample are not only committing to the integration of this technology into electric vehicles but are also contemplating its expansion to cater to the broader needs of the Stellantis fleet. Geographical diversity is also on the agenda, extending beyond Europe.

The pilot program, scheduled for a 2024 launch in Madrid, Spain, will initially involve 100 FIAT 500e vehicles, a flagship model for Stellantis in the electric vehicle market. This initiative aligns with the Free2move car-sharing service offered by Stellantis. Ricardo Stamatti, Senior Vice President of the Charging & Energy Business Unit at Stellantis, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing the exploration of solutions that facilitate mobility freedom for electric vehicle customers.

Khaled Hassounah, CEO of Ample, proudly highlighted the commitment to making electric vehicles universally accessible without compromises to make a substantial impact on emission reduction. Smart textile

Smart textile

Germany in provisional exercise, the Scholz government is in chaos over the budget and the economy is doing badly

In the midst of a provisional exercise, Germany finds itself ensnared in a tumultuous scenario under Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s leadership. Promising no cuts to the welfare state amidst plummeting poll numbers, over half of Germans contemplate early elections alongside European ones, as the current legislature, scheduled until autumn 2025, navigates a deep crisis, particularly with the budget.  Smart textile

Historically, Germany’s budget prowess, a stronghold during the Merkel era, now teeters, turning Berlin into the subject of European mockery. The Constitutional Court’s rejection of a 60-billion-euro expedient in November escalated the chaos, revealing 29 special vehicles with 869 billion against the Charter, leading to a freeze on spending by Finance Minister Christian Lindner, except for defense and parliament.

The looming specter of starting 2024 in provisional operation, where only essential expenses are permitted, underscores the critical impasse. With 17 billion yet to be covered, the “traffic light” majority, comprising the Social Democratic Party, the Greens, and the Liberals, grapples to reach a consensus on where to make cuts.

As the economic indicators reflect a dire situation—with manufacturing PMI below 50 points for over a year and a half and negative GDP growth—the political disarray is exacerbated by the rising popularity of the AfD, a conservative right-wing party accused of being “neo-Nazi.”  Smart textile

The potential influence of the AfD adds a layer of complexity to an already precarious political landscape, raising questions about the endurance of Germany’s established order. The nation, once an economic and political stalwart, now grapples with uncertainties that reverberate beyond its borders.

Germany in provisional exercise, the Scholz government is in chaos over the budget and the economy is doing badly

Puma expands fibre-to-fibre recycling

Puma is intensifying its commitment to sustainable practices by expanding its Re:Fibre polyester recycling technology. The sports brand aims to derive 100% of its polyester from textile waste, shifting away from PET fibers sourced from bottles. Starting in 2024, the majority of Puma’s replica football jerseys will feature fibers crafted from old garments and factory waste instead of recycled PET bottles.  Smart textile

The Re:Fibre pilot, initiated in 2022, has already been employed to produce replica kits for the Women’s World Cup and Girona’s 2023/24 season third kit. In 2024, the official Puma football replica jerseys, including those for the Euro and Copa América tournaments, will adopt the Re:Fibre technology. The program involves collecting, sorting, and processing textile waste through a chemical recycling process, ultimately producing new Re:Fibre fabrics.

Anne-Laure Descours, Chief Sourcing Officer at Puma, emphasizes the brand’s ambition for a complete transition to polyester sourced from textile waste, addressing the environmental risk posed by textile waste accumulation in landfills. Puma recognizes the need to rethink production methods, embracing a circular business model as a key element of its sustainability strategy.  Smart textile

To make the technical process more accessible, Puma has employed computer-generated imagery in an explanatory video showcasing the Re:Fibre journey, from waste collection to molecular chemistry. This effort aligns with Puma’s response to research revealing that 71% of young people desire brands to make stronger environmental commitments, communicate goals more effectively, and enhance transparency.

www.puma.com

Puma expands fibre-to-fibre recycling

Smart textile fiber places conductivity and flexibility side-by-side

Electrically conductive “smart fabrics” have many potential applications, but their specialized fibers typically aren’t as soft and flexible as those made of regular materials. An experimental new two-faced fiber, however, is both flexible and conductive.

Developed by a team of scientists at Washington State University, the fiber is made of two substances: cotton cellulose obtained from recycled T-shirts, and an existing conductive synthetic polymer known as polyaniline.  Smart textile

The polyaniline is combined with the cotton cellulose because it’s too brittle to be formed into usable fibers on its own. That said, the two materials aren’t simply blended into one homogenous mixture. If they were, the polyaniline would be diluted to the point that it would lose its conductivity.

Instead, liquid solutions of the two substances are extruded from two separate (but closely spaced) nozzles, merging and bonding to form a single fiber which is cotton cellulose on one side and polyaniline on the other. Smart textile

In lab tests, such fibers have exhibited excellent electrical conductivity while also offering the strength and flexibility of cotton. They have also been successfully used in textile systems that delivered power to an LED light, and that sensed ammonia gas.

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Smart textile fiber places conductivity and flexibility side-by-side

The objective is to comprehend the processes of degradation and biodegradation for the purpose of devising technical solutions to environmental challenges

Michelin, the renowned French tire manufacturer, joined forces with Clermont Auvergne University and the Center National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) to delve into the wear degradation of tires. This involves the consequential formation of microparticles and the subsequent study of the biodegradation mechanisms associated with these microparticles.  Smart textile

Establishing the BioDLab, a dedicated laboratory, is a pivotal step in this collaborative venture. The primary mission of BioDLab is to scrutinize the underlying causes of tire wear degradation and develop technical interventions for environmental predicaments. One of the focal points is exploring methods to render wear particles biodegradable in the environment.

Tire erosion, an inevitable consequence of contact with road surfaces, is essential for ensuring vehicle safety and traction. Tires, alongside fabrics, are identified as primary contributors to the creation and dissemination of microplastics in the environment, with rubber being the specific material of concern.  Smart textile

Over the span of four years, the project will systematically investigate the chemical phenomena associated with microparticle degradation under the influence of solar energy and water. This interdisciplinary approach combines material science, chemistry, and microbiology to unravel the intricate regulatory mechanisms of this process.

The research specifically targets the degradation of rubber used in tires, employing photochemical and thermochemical processes, as well as exploring biodegradation facilitated by microorganisms and enzymes. Approximately twenty researchers from the Clermont-Ferrand Chemistry Institute (University of Clermont Auvergne/CNRS) and ten technicians from Michelin’s Operational Research and Development Department will be actively engaged in this collaborative effort.

Michelin’s ongoing commitment to reducing tire abrasion has resulted in a 5% decrease in microparticle emissions from wear between 2015 and 2020, a testament to their expertise in materials science.  Smart textile

The objective is to comprehend the processes of degradation and biodegradation for the purpose of devising technical solutions to environmental challenges

AI in Packaging – Global PBT Resin Market 2024-2030 is Booming Around the world with Upcoming years 12-12-2023

Smart textile

AI in Packaging – Global PBT Resin Market 2024-2030 is Booming Around the world with Upcoming years 12-12-2023

AI in Packaging

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Artificial Intelligence in the Packaging Industry: A Revolution from 2023 to 2032

The packaging industry stands at the forefront of a revolution, driven by the incredible potential of artificial intelligence (AI). In this transformative journey from 2023 to 2032, AI is set to redefine packaging design, manufacturing, sustainability, and even recycling. This article explores the dynamic landscape of AI in packaging, shedding light on its profound impacts and future prospects.

AI-Powered Packaging Design

Traditionally reliant on human imagination, packaging design now embraces AI algorithms for unparalleled creativity and precision. AI analyzes vast data sets, including consumer preferences, market trends, and brand guidelines, enabling designers to craft unique and captivating packaging. AI in Packaging

Simulations help visualize the packaging’s appearance in different environments, saving time and resources while ensuring it resonates with the target audience.

Manufacturing Excellence with AI

AI’s influence extends to manufacturing, where intelligent systems equipped with computer vision swiftly detect flaws in packaging materials, minimizing waste and product recalls. Furthermore, AI optimizes packaging arrangements, maximizing material usage and reducing excess, resulting in cost savings and enhanced sustainability.

Sustainable Packaging through AI

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AI in Packaging

LyondellBasell announced its acquisition of a 25% equity stake in the Cyclyx joint venture, a partnership between Agilyx and ExxonMobil

Cyclyx, formed in December 2020, focuses on advancing plastic waste recycling with the ambitious goal of increasing the recyclability of plastics from 10% to 90%.

The addition of LyondellBasell to this collaboration is poised to significantly accelerate innovation and the development of essential infrastructure for a nationwide circular economy for plastics.  AI in Packaging

Cyclyx International aims to create an innovative supply chain through its mission brand, working in tandem with industry partners to drive advancements in plastic recyclability. The joint venture’s strategic vision aligns with LyondellBasell’s commitment to sustainable practices, emphasizing the importance of robust supply chains to enhance access to circular and renewable feedstocks.

Yvonne van der Laan, LyondellBasell’s Executive Vice President of Circular and Low Carbon Solutions, expressed the significance of investing in plastic waste value chain experts like Cyclyx. This collaboration is instrumental in establishing the necessary scale of recycled material and infrastructure, particularly for LyondellBasell’s planned integrated Circular and Low Carbon Solutions Hub in the Houston area.  AI in Packaging

Joseph Vaillancourt, CEO of Cyclyx, welcomed LyondellBasell to the ownership structure, emphasizing their shared vision for a more sustainable future. The inclusion of LyondellBasell is seen as a strategic move, given their global leadership and commitment to advancing sustainability goals in plastic circularity. The joint efforts of Agilyx, ExxonMobil, and LyondellBasell are expected to contribute significantly to the realization of a circular economy, addressing the challenges posed by plastic waste.

AI in Packaging

Non-toxic plasticisers for use in elastomers and thermoplastics

Bio-based plasticizers from Central Germany

The Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS is working with partners to develop a marketable, completely bio-based and non-toxic plasticizer for use in elastomers and thermoplastics. Using rapeseed oil as a starting product, more sustainable solutions for tires and packaging should become possible. The project partners also want to design a corresponding pilot plant in central Germany as part of the “Biocerine” project. AI in Packaging

Plasticizers are used to make plastics more flexible and pliable during the manufacturing process and/or during subsequent use. However, common industrially produced plasticizers such as phthalates are viewed critically because some of them can be potentially harmful to health and/or pollute the environment.

“Such plasticizers are not only frequently used in traditional plastics, but also in biopolymers, whose environmental compatibility they then impair. For this reason, alternatives are being sought worldwide that offer at least comparable quality at affordable prices and can ideally be produced from renewable raw materials,” says Dr. Patrick Hirsch, Group Leader “Sustainable Materials and Processes”, who is leading the project at the Fraunhofer IMWS.  AI in Packaging

This is precisely the solution the partners want to find within the project, which is being funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research as part of the “WIR! – Change through Innovation in the Region” program. The consortium is relying on the expertise and opportunities already available in Central Germany. In addition to the Fraunhofer IMWS, GLACONCHEMIE GmbH and Polymer Service GmbH from Merseburg are also involved, while Folienwerk Wolfen, Expinos GmbH and Reifenwerk Heidenau GmbH will test the product samples created in the research project as associated partners.

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AI in Packaging

Global PBT Resin Market 2024-2030 is Booming Around the world with Upcoming years

PBT Resin Market [2024-2030] research report is a comprehensive information that consolidates data and analysis gathered from diverse sources. Its primary purpose is to provide industry with a comprehensive understanding of the present market dynamics, including trends specific to their industry and insights into competitors’ activities within different applications like (Electrical & Electronics, Automobile Industry, Mechanical Equipment, Other Products) and Type (Injection Grade PBT, Extrusion Grade PBT). Armed with these valuable insights, organizations can make well-informed decisions and formulate successful growth strategies.  AI in Packaging

Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) is semi-crystalline, white or off-white polyester similar in both composition and properties to polyethyleneterephthalate (PET). It is a thermoplastic engineering polymer that is used as an insulator in the electrical, electronics, automobile, Mechanical Equipment and precision instruments industries. Compared to PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PBT has slightly lower strength and rigidity, slightly better impact resistance, and a slightly lower glass transition temperature.

In this report, the volume of PBT is calculated by PBT neat resin, excluding PBT modified resin and PBT Compounds.  AI in Packaging

The global PBT Resin market was valued at USD 4162.7 million in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 5382 million by 2029, witnessing a CAGR of 3.7 percent during the forecast period 2023-2029. The influence of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine War were considered while estimating market sizes.

PBT is present in everyday life and is common in electrical, electronic and automotive components. PBT resin and PBT compound are the two types of products that are used in various applications.

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Global PBT Resin Market 2024-2030 is Booming Around the world with Upcoming years

China to Achieve Circular Economy in EV Batteries Before Europe and the US, According to Researchers

The University of Münster researchers project that China will outpace Europe and the US in achieving a circular economy for electric vehicle (EV) batteries  AI in Packaging

Their analysis, detailed in Resources Conservation and Recycling, envisions China meeting its primary lithium demand for EVs through recycling by 2059, well ahead of Europe and the US, expected to achieve this milestone after 2070.

Examining crucial battery materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, the study predicts China reaching cobalt recycling by 2045, Europe by 2052, and the US by 2056. For nickel, China is expected to achieve recycling by 2046, with Europe and the US following suit in 2058 and 2064, respectively.  AI in Packaging

Utilizing dynamic material flow analysis and considering factors like market forecasts, battery production, and sales, the researchers emphasize the uncertain timeline for achieving “complete circularity” – a balance between material supply and demand.

They also suggest that a faster pace of electrification, coupled with reduced battery sizes and decreased use of second-life batteries, could expedite circularity realization.

However, the predictions underscore the importance of monitoring industry trends to adapt to evolving circumstances in the electric vehicle battery and recycling sectors.

China to Achieve Circular Economy in EV Batteries Before Europe and the US, According to Researchers

From useless plastic waste to valuable oil

Researchers and business people have developed a new technology that can make oil from plastic waste that cannot be recycled. This oil can be used to make new plastic and other oil-based products. The technology was recently used in a new commercial facility in West Zealand, Denmark.  AI in Packaging

Do you ever wonder how much (or how little) of the plastic waste (packaging, containers, and milk cartons) you put in your recycling bin is actually recycled? The garbage truck transports it to a waste management facility for sorting and recycling. The ‘good’ plastic is recycled, and the rest—which is either too dirty, mixed, or damaged for recycling—is incinerated.

In Denmark alone, around 370,000 tons of plastic waste is incinerated every year. According to the Danish Ministry of the Environment, plastic waste incineration makes up a significant portion of Denmark’s fossil-fuel carbon emissions. In other words, there is a huge green potential in developing new methods for recycling even more plastic waste than we do now.  AI in Packaging

If we can also reduce the amount of non-renewable plastic waste, we can reduce the need for the non-renewable raw materials needed for plastic production—oil and natural gas.

A group of DTU researchers have therefore investigated new possibilities for recycling our plastic waste in collaboration with Roskilde University and a number of industry partners. Their research project, RePlastic, has shown that valuable oil can be produced from otherwise useless plastic waste through pyrolysis.  AI in Packaging

“I’m surprised at the great potential of pyrolysis technology for the most impure and mixed plastic fractions. This process can handle the plastic we have no other uses for. This enables us to bring end-of-life plastic back into the cycle and make it useful again,” says Anders Egede Daugaard, Associate Professor at DTU Chemical Engineering and head of the RePlastic project.  AI in Packaging

Plastic is not just plastic

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From useless plastic waste to valuable oil

Polyethylene waste could be a thing of the past

undamental research has developed a way of using polyethylene waste (PE) as a feedstock and converted it into valuable chemicals, via light-driven photocatalysis.

The University of Adelaide’s Professor Shizhang Qiao, Chair of Nanotechnology, and Director, Centre for Materials in Energy and Catalysis, at the School of Chemical Engineering, led the team which published their findings in the journal Science Advances.

“We have upcycled polyethylene plastic waste into ethylene and propionic acid with high selectivity using atomically dispersed metal catalysts,” said Professor Qiao.

“An oxidation-coupled room-temperature photocatalysis method was used to convert the waste into valuable products with high selectivity.  AI in Packaging

“Nearly 99 per cent of the liquid product is propionic acid, alleviating the problems associated with complex products that then require separation.

“Renewable solar energy was used rather than industrial processes that consume fossil fuel and emit greenhouse gases.

“This waste-to-value strategy is primarily implemented with four components, including plastic waste, water, sunlight and non-toxic photocatalysts that harness solar energy and boost the reaction. A typical photocatalyst is titanium dioxide with isolated palladium atoms on its surface.”

Most of the plastics used today end up being discarded and accumulated in landfills. PE is the most widely used plastic in the world. Daily food packaging, shopping bags and reagent bottles are all made from PE.  AI in Packaging

It is also the largest proportion of all plastic waste and primarily ends up in landfills, posing a threat to global environment and ecology.

“Plastic waste is an untapped resource that can be recycled and processed into new plastics and other commercial products,” said Professor Qiao.

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Polyethylene waste could be a thing of the past

PET Bottles -Goodbye to oil? OPEC puts the veto : greenhouse gas emissions isn’t so important! – In contrast to the global trend of phasing out petrol cars, Australia appears to be an outlier, exhibiting a persistent dependence on fossil fuel vehicles, according to recent data 11-12-2023

AI in Packaging

Polyester Feedstocks – ‘Biodegradable’ plastic bags failing in Beijing – Nylon filament and its feedstock isn’t strong 11-12-2023

Polyester Feedstocks

Polyester Feedstocks

  • Polymers : PET – r-PET – Filament grade semidull chips -Filament grade bright chips – Ny6 – Ny66 – PP
  • Feedstocks  PX – PTA – MEG – CPL – Adipic Acid – Benzene – ACN – Ethylene – Phenol – Naphtha
  • Textile : Polyester POY – DTY – FDY – PSF – Recycled Polyester POY – Nylon POY – DTY – FDY Spandex 20-30-40 -Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  Acrylic Staple Fiber 

Polyester Feedstocks

Polyester Feedstocks

Polyestertime
ITEM 04/12/2023 11/12/2023 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 6,800 yuan/ton 6,800 yuan/ton –
Bottle grade PET chips export market 875 $/ton 875 $/ton –
Filament grade Semidull chips domestic market 6,640 yuan/ton 6,620 yuan/ton -20
Filament grade Bright chips domestic market 6,680 yuan/ton 6,650 yuan/ton -30
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market 5,675 yuan/ton 5,715 yuan/ton +40
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA export market 720 $/ton 700 $/ton -20
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,040 yuan/ton 4,065 yuan/ton +25
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 480 $/ton 480 $/ton –
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market

Polyester Feedstocks

 1,001 $/ton 974 $/ton
 -27
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 978 $/ton 951 $/ton -27
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,045 $/ton 1,030 $/ton -15
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,500  yuan/ton 7,425 yuan/ton
 -75
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,500 yuan/ton 7,500 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 8,850 yuan/ton 8,850 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F

Polyester Feedstocks

 8,825 yuan/ton 8,800 yuan/ton -25
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market 8,125 yuan/ton 8,050 yuan/ton -75
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,300yuan/ton 7,200 yuan/ton -100
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 13,000 yuan/ton 12,850 yuan/ton
 -150
Caprolactam CPL overseas  market 1,600 $/ton 1,600 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,850 $/ton 1,850 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 13,950 yuan/ton 13,750 yuan/ton -200
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market

Polyester Feedstocks

 14,300 yuan/ton 14,150 yuan/ton -150
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market 19,900 yuan/ton 19,800 yuan/ton -100
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,400 yuan/ton 16,250 yuan/ton -150
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,550 yuan/ton 18,400 yuan/ton- -150
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,150 yuan/ton 17,100 yuan/ton -50
Spandex 20D  domestic  market

Polyester Feedstocks

 35,500 yuan/ton 35,000 yuan/ton -500
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 34,000 yuan/ton 33,500 yuan/ton -500
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  31,000 yuan/ton 30,500 yuan/ton -500
Adipic Acid domestic market 8,775 yuan/ton 8,700 yuan/ton -75
Benzene domestic market

Polyester Feedstocks

 6,850 yuan/ton 6,970 yuan/ton +120
Benzene overseas  market 862 $/ton 849 $/ton -13
Ethylene South East market 940 $/ton 890 $/ton -50
Ethylene NWE market 744 $/ton 744 $/ton –
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market

Polyester Feedstocks

 9,900 yuan/ton 9,700 yuan/ton -200
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF  domestic market 14,600 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton –
Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  domestic market 12,900 yuan/ton 12,900 yuan/ton –
PP Powder domestic market

Polyester Feedstocks

 7,300 yuan/ton 7,300 yuan/ton –
Naphtha overseas market  667 $/ton 641 $/ton -26
Phenol domestic market 8,072 yuan/ton 7,742 yuan/ton -330

r-PET high end eco-friendly chips =7,900 yuan/ton  — 7,900 yuan/ton   –

Polyester Feedstocks

‘Biodegradable’ plastic bags failing in Beijing

Beijing’s market regulator has assessed 29 types of “biodegradable” plastic bag and found that 19 (or 65.5%) fail to meet industry and national standards.

The standards concern labelling, biodegradation rate, volatile organic compound emissions, and carrying capacity by weight. The regulator emphasised that producers and sellers falling short of these standards face legal consequences.

Humanity produces more than 430 million tonnes of plastic annually, two-thirds of which comprise short-lived products that soon become waste, according to the UN Environment Programme. In 2019, China accounted for one-fifth of global single-use plastic waste, more than any other nation, though the per capita figure is a fraction of that in Australia and the US, reports the SCMP.  Polyester Feedstocks

To tackle China’s plastic pollution during 2021-2025, the National Development and Reform Commission and Ministry of Ecology and Environment issued a five-year plan in September 2021.

A summary of the plan states: “By 2025, key sectors such as retail, e-commerce, and express delivery, are expected to drastically cut the unreasonable use of single-use plastics.” The plan also promotes use of alternatives to ​​non-biodegradable plastic “such as bamboo, wood, paper, and degradable plastics“.

“Biodegradable plastic substitution was previously a popular solution, but the [five-year] plan proposed that its true value in solving plastic pollution needs to be scientifically evaluated to avoid unreasonable capacity expansion,” Dr Tan Yiki of Tsinghua Circular Economy Research Centre, recently told the media.  Polyester Feedstocks

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‘Biodegradable’ plastic bags failing in Beijing

Hybrid Solar Sheets for Perpetually Clean Drinking Water and Hydrogen

In a world grappling with environmental challenges, innovative technologies are emerging to address pressing issues like clean water scarcity and sustainable energy production. One such breakthrough is the development of hybrid solar sheets that not only harness solar energy efficiently but also contribute to the production of perpetually clean drinking water and hydrogen.  Polyester Feedstocks

These hybrid solar sheets integrate photovoltaic cells with advanced water purification and electrolysis systems, creating a multifunctional solution for two critical global needs. The photovoltaic cells capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, powering the water purification process and electrolysis simultaneously.

The water purification system utilizes advanced filtration techniques, ensuring that the collected water is free from contaminants and safe for consumption. This innovative approach allows communities in water-scarce regions to access a sustainable source of clean drinking water, mitigating the impact of waterborne diseases and improving overall public health.  Polyester Feedstocks

Simultaneously, the electrolysis component of the hybrid solar sheets splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This process yields hydrogen gas, a clean and versatile energy carrier with various applications, including fuel for vehicles and power generation. By harnessing the power of the sun to produce hydrogen, these hybrid systems contribute to the advancement of green and sustainable energy solutions.

One of the key advantages of this technology lies in its scalability and adaptability. Hybrid solar sheets can be deployed in both urban and remote areas, providing a decentralized and reliable source of clean water and hydrogen. This makes them particularly valuable for regions with limited access to centralized infrastructure.

As the world seeks innovative solutions to combat climate change and ensure access to essential resources, hybrid solar sheets represent a significant step forward.

By integrating solar energy, water purification, and hydrogen production into a single, efficient system, this technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we address environmental challenges and create a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come. Polyester Feedstocks

Hybrid Solar Sheets for Perpetually Clean Drinking Water and Hydrogen

Polyester Feedstocks

PET Bottles -Goodbye to oil? OPEC puts the veto : greenhouse gas emissions isn’t so important! – In contrast to the global trend of phasing out petrol cars, Australia appears to be an outlier, exhibiting a persistent dependence on fossil fuel vehicles, according to recent data 11-12-2023

PET Bottles

This week commenced with a surge in crude oil prices, building on the momentum from the previous Friday’s upswing

The catalyst for this uptick was the revelation that the U.S. federal government is in the process of acquiring up to 3 million barrels for the strategic petroleum reserve (SPR). In a series of transactions, the government has already secured 9 million barrels, initiating the SPR’s replenishment following the drawdown of over 180 million barrels last year to stabilize fuel prices.

Presently, prices are positioned favorably within the Department of Energy’s (DoE) parameters. However, the expectation of price escalation upon the DoE’s procurement announcement has materialized. Nevertheless, the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) remains comfortably below the DoE’s self-imposed upper limit of $79 per barrel.

Analysts, such as Tony Sycamore from IG, acknowledge the Biden Administration’s endeavor to replenish the SPR as a supportive factor. However, concerns persist regarding the extent of price gains, with another IG analyst, Yeap Jun Rong, pointing to lingering apprehensions about China’s demand.

The backdrop to these developments is a seven-week decline in crude oil prices, despite OPEC+ implementing additional, more substantial production cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day from January through at least the end of March. The failure of this intervention is attributed to trader perceptions of oversupply and the anticipation of a slowdown in China’s oil demand growth in the upcoming year. Concurrently, reports of record-breaking U.S. production further intensified concerns about oversupply, particularly in light of rather pessimistic demand projections for the coming year according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

This week commenced with a surge in crude oil prices, building on the momentum from the previous Friday's upswing

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1 Chinese Yuan = 0,14 United States Dollar

Polyester Feedstocks – ‘Biodegradable’ plastic bags failing in Beijing – Nylon filament and its feedstock isn’t strong

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PET Bottles

INEOS Aromatics to propose mothballing one of its PTA plants in Geel, Belgium

INEOS Aromatics has unveiled its proposal to mothball the smaller and older Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) unit at its integrated PX and PTA production facility in Geel, Belgium. The decision stems from the unit being offline since 2022, prompting a comprehensive evaluation of its long-term viability. Despite concerted efforts to enhance its competitiveness, challenging market conditions have reached a tipping point. Escalating energy, raw material, and labor costs have eroded the unit’s competitiveness in the European market compared to newer PTA and derivative capacity in Asia.

PTA, a crucial component for manufacturing polyester PET, finds widespread use in textiles, fabrics, food and beverage packaging, and various household and commercial items. The decision to mothball the unit underscores the difficulties faced by European production in the face of fierce competition from Asia. PET Bottles

The company will initiate a consultation process with employee representatives to address the impact on affected staff, exploring redeployment opportunities within other activities at the Geel site whenever feasible. Importantly, the larger and more efficient second PTA unit, along with the PX unit, will remain operational, ensuring no disruption for customers.

Steve Dossett, CEO of INEOS Aromatics, expressed gratitude for the dedicated efforts of the Geel site personnel and acknowledged the challenging circumstances leading to the decision.PET Bottles

He highlighted the substantial disadvantage faced by European PTA production due to high energy and operating costs, emphasizing the competitive advantage enjoyed by Asian exporters with access to discounted Russian hydrocarbons.

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PET Bottles

Turkey moves to counter rising tide of Chinese EV imports

In response to the escalating influx of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) imports, Turkey has initiated stringent measures, aligning with the European Union’s investigation into China’s EV subsidies, according to a report by Bloomberg. Recently, Turkey’s Trade Ministry issued a decree stipulating that companies engaged in EV imports must establish a network of at least 140 authorized service stations across the country, accompanied by the opening of a dedicated call center for each brand. PET Bottles

This move, perceived as targeting Chinese vehicles specifically, excludes imports from the European Union and nations with existing free-trade agreements with Turkey. Importers face an imminent deadline, until the end of the month, to comply with these demanding requirements, a daunting task for many.

This unexpected regulatory shift poses a setback for businesses involved in the sale of Chinese cars in Turkey, the sixth-largest auto market in Europe. Industry insiders, including Erol Şahin, CEO of automotive consultancy EBS, highlight the challenges, emphasizing that not a single brand is currently in compliance with the rigorous regulations. PET Bottles

The primary hurdle arises from the mandate that importers establish their own service stations, complicating relationships with authorized third-party services.

Turkey’s electric vehicle market has been on the rise, fueled by the affordability of Chinese brands, the success of the domestic car Togg, and the entrance of Tesla Inc. EV sales have surged nearly tenfold from the previous year, constituting 7.1% of all passenger car sales.

The new regulations aim to bring order to the rapidly growing EV industry in Turkey, creating a controlled environment. Despite concerns raised by industry players, an anonymous official in Ankara stated that there are no plans to revise the rules or delay their implementation. PET Bottles

China, as Turkey’s largest importer, has contributed significantly to the country’s trade deficit, reaching almost $100 billion by November. Passenger car imports, particularly EVs, have been a major contributor to this deficit. China sold $184 million worth of EVs to Turkey in the first ten months of the current year, nearly double the figure for the entire 2022. Earlier in the year, Turkey imposed an additional 40% customs duty on EV imports from China, bringing the total customs tax rate to 50%.

PET Bottles

Goodbye to oil? OPEC puts the veto

Controversy following the latest document from the COP28 presidency released yesterday afternoon with a list of all the topics to be submitted to the ministers of the 197 countries participating in the Conference in the hope of finding convergence on a final agreement. In recent days, the head of OPEC in a letter had urged members of the oil cartel to reject any agreement in the climate negotiations underway in Dubai that would include the gradual elimination of fossil fuels. A veto that saw a firm reaction from environmentalists and other countries. PET Bottles
The Minister of the Environment and Energy Security Gilberto Pichetto defined the letter as “a move of pure party interest” and reiterated that “the COP must give a path which is that of decarbonisation which means overcoming the coal phase and subsequently the oil phase “. The French Energy Minister, Agnes Pannier-Runacher, said she was “stunned” and “angry” while the Spanish Minister for the Ecological Transition, Teresa Ribera, called the operation “disgusting”. ”
Meanwhile, vulnerable countries in particular are aiming for an ambitious agreement that leads to the abandonment of coal, oil and gas which according to science are at the origin of greenhouse gas emissions produced by human activity and which are responsible for global warming. PET Bottles
Emissions from major oil and gas projects in Gulf OPEC member countries will cause more than 43 million premature deaths in the region by the end of the century, according to researchers from the environmental network Lingo (Leave it in the ground).

OPEC against saying goodbye to fossils. Anger of EU countries

In contrast to the global trend of phasing out petrol cars, Australia appears to be an outlier, exhibiting a persistent dependence on fossil fuel vehicles, according to recent data

As other countries commit to banning new petrol car sales, concerns are mounting about Australia’s ability to achieve its climate targets. A report from the federal department of climate change and energy unveils troubling projections, indicating that petrol and diesel vehicles are expected to constitute nearly half of all new car sales in the country by 2035.

This forecast poses a significant threat to Australia’s emission reduction goals, especially considering that transport pollution already accounts for 21% of the nation’s total emissions. PET Bottles

Cars and light commercial vehicles are identified as major contributors, highlighting the urgent need for transformative changes in the automotive industry. The adoption of electric cars is deemed crucial, with experts advocating for a doubling of current projections to align with emission reduction targets.

However, the report paints a grim picture, forecasting that electric vehicles will represent only 13% of new car sales by 2026, 26% by 2030, and 51% by 2035. Even more disheartening is the outlook for electric utes and vans, projected to comprise a mere 9% of new vehicle sales by 2030 and 29% in 2035. Lindsay Soutar from Greenpeace Australia Pacific emphasizes the need for policymakers to prioritize making electric vehicles more affordable and accessible, while Behyad Jafari, CEO of the Electric Vehicle Council, expresses deep concern over the sluggish transition, urging the swift implementation of a fuel-efficiency standard promised in the National Electric Vehicle Strategy.

Despite assurances from government officials, the timeline for implementing this crucial standard remains uncertain. PET Bottles

Jafari insists that without an emissions cap on new cars, Australians are missing out on overseas models and sufficient electric vehicles to meet demand. The pressure intensifies on the government to take decisive action to align with global trends and secure a sustainable, low-emission future for the nation.

In contrast to the global trend of phasing out petrol cars, Australia appears to be an outlier, exhibiting a persistent dependence on fossil fuel vehicles, according to recent data

Andritz has successfully initiated operations of a novel textile recycling line at the facility of Italian recycling specialist Sfilacciatura Negro in Biella, Italy

This state-of-the-art line is specifically engineered for processing post-consumer textile waste with an automatic removal system for rigid components, bolstering Sfilacciatura Negro’s foray into expanding recycling sectors. PET Bottles

Driven by the escalating demand for sustainable fibers within re-spinning and nonwoven industries, Sfilacciatura Negro Biella opted to enhance its recycling capabilities. Renowned for its expertise in recycling industrial textile waste, the company already manages two tearing lines. Capitalizing on its longstanding partnership with ANDRITZ, it now ventures into recycling post-consumer clothing waste.

Sfilacciatura Negro’s CEO, Tiziano Negro, underscores their circular approach, emphasizing the conversion of textile waste into new fibers that would otherwise contribute to landfills. Negro expresses confidence in ANDRITZ as the ideal collaborator, citing the company’s extensive experience in both textile recycling and nonwovens. PET Bottles

The cutting-edge recycling line supplied by Andritz is the culmination of a decade-long collaboration, involving trials, technical center assessments, and on-site visits to customer facilities in Spain and Portugal. The comprehensive line, from sorted waste bale feeding to recycled fiber baling, is designed for optimal efficiency, energy conservation, and automated removal of rigid elements. With a streamlined process requiring only one operator, the recycling line culminates in the production of film-wrapped and tied bales weighing up to 350 kg.

Andritz has successfully initiated operations of a novel textile recycling line at the facility of Italian recycling specialist Sfilacciatura Negro in Biella, Italy

Australian-led study makes breakthrough in plastic recycling

A groundbreaking discovery in plastic recycling has been achieved by an Australian-led international research team, offering a promising solution to address the pervasive issue of plastic waste. The breakthrough, detailed in a recent publication led by the University of Adelaide with support from the Australian Research Council, focuses on the utilization of polyethylene (PE) waste as a crucial feedstock. PE plastics constitute a significant portion of global plastic waste, predominantly ending up in landfills.PET Bottles

The researchers harnessed the power of photocatalysis to convert PE waste into both a valuable feedstock and essential chemicals. Photocatalysis involves substances that expedite chemical reactions when exposed to light. The team successfully transformed PE waste into ethylene, a pivotal chemical feedstock applicable in the production of industrial and everyday items. Additionally, the process generated propionic acid, a versatile colorless liquid serving as an antimicrobial agent, preservative, and fungicide.

Shizhang Qiao, the study’s lead author and Director of the Centre for Materials in Energy and Catalysis at the University of Adelaide, emphasized the transformative potential of catalytic recycling for PE waste. The research not only highlights the viability of converting plastic waste into valuable resources but also underscores the importance of developing sustainable solutions for a circular economy. The collaborative effort involved experts from institutions such as the Wuhan Institute of Technology, University of Kent, and Heilongjiang University. PET Bottles

Australian-led study makes breakthrough in plastic recycling

Recycled Marine-Waste – India generates 26,000 tonnes of plastic waste every dayIndia generates 26,000 tonnes of plastic waste every dayIndia generates 26,000 tonnes of plastic waste every day 09-12-2023

PET Bottles

Recycled Marine-Waste – India generates 26,000 tonnes of plastic waste every dayIndia generates 26,000 tonnes of plastic waste every dayIndia generates 26,000 tonnes of plastic waste every day 09-12-2023

The European Commission has announced a new provisional agreement that aims to “help make sustainable products the new norm” in the European Union. In particular, the provisional agreement for “more sustainable, repairable, and circular products” – which was reached between the European Parliament and the Council on the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation this week – aims to ensure that products “last longer, use energy and resources more efficiently, [are] easier to repair and recycle, contain fewer substances of concern, and include more recycled content,” while also “leveling the playing field for sustainable products on the EU’s internal market and strengthen the global competitiveness of businesses offering sustainable products.”  Recycled Marine-Waste

The new law, as first proposed by the European Commission last year, will build on the existing Ecodesign Directive by “progressively setting performance and information requirements for key products placed on the EU market.” The Commission says that it will “adopt and regularly update a list of products identified on the basis of a thorough analysis and criteria notably related to the EU’s climate, environment and energy efficiency objectives” in order to ensure “predictability and transparency” on which products will be covered and when.

The Commission – which proposes new EU laws and policies and ensures the proper application of existing legislation – confirmed that it will give priority to “highly impactful products, including textiles (especially garments and footwear), furniture (including mattresses), iron and steel, aluminum, tires, paints, lubricants and chemicals, as well as energy related products, ICT products and other electronics.”  Recycled Marine-Waste

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EU Green-Lights New Law to Ban on Destroying Unsold Clothing, Footwear

Man-made yarns – Ecodesign: EU one step closer to making sustainable products the norm 08-12-2023

Recycled Marine-Waste

Man-made yarns – Ecodesign: EU one step closer to making sustainable products the norm 08-12-2023

Man-made yarns

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

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Fulgar, a Milan-based center of excellence in the production of man-made yarns, stands at the forefront of environmental responsibility with its revolutionary product, Amni Soul Eco

This innovative bio-degradable polyamide yarn, launched in 2014 in collaboration with the Rhodia-Solvay Group, has undergone further refinement, affirming its ability to rapidly decompose in marine environments without compromising on performance.

In response to the pressing challenges of environmental sustainability, Fulgar emphasizes the need for unprecedented action by governments, companies, and consumers alike. Microplastics, a burgeoning threat measuring less than five millimeters, result from the degradation of plastics and pose a serious risk to marine fauna and biodiversity. Fulgar takes a pioneering stance by producing biodegradable materials, such as Amni Soul Eco, which decompose twenty times faster in marine environments compared to conventional synthetic yarns.  Man-made yarns

Fulgar’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the product itself. Amni Soul Eco is designed with a focus on reducing environmental impact during production, incorporating water recycling and greenhouse gas reduction treatments. The yarn’s bio-degradable component ensures rapid decomposition in both marine and soil environments, as confirmed by tests adhering to ASTM D5511 and ASTM D6691 standards.

This high-performance yarn has gained recognition from prestigious brands like Herno, Colmar, and Save the Duck, solidifying its reliability and versatility in the fashion industry. Amni Soul Eco not only meets the demands of eco-conscious consumers but also redefines standards without compromising style and performance. Man-made yarns

Fulgar’s proactive approach to sustainability aligns with the evolving market for ecological yarns, providing client companies with viable solutions to achieve their own sustainability objectives.

Amni Soul Eco’s technical specifications include compliance with Oeko-TEX STD 100 CLASS I Appendix 6 certification, ensuring data transparency in line with the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) model. This model identifies and implements improvements that make both the product and production processes more sustainable. Fulgar invites the textile industry to seize this unique opportunity for real environmental impact reduction.

Man-made yarns

Linde has recently disclosed a significant augmentation in the production capacity of liquid hydrogen at its facility situated in McIntosh, Alabama

This enhancement enables the McIntosh facility to generate a noteworthy 30 tons per day of liquid hydrogen, primarily catering to the local merchant market.

The augmented capacity is in direct response to the escalating demand for hydrogen across various sectors, such as manufacturing and electronics, both from Linde’s existing customer base and potential new clients.

Moreover, the facility will play a crucial role in supplying hydrogen to Linde’s customers engaged in space launch activities and mobility solutions.  Man-made yarns

This expansion aligns seamlessly with Linde’s pre-existing hydrogen operations in the southeastern United States, contributing to an increased network density within the region.

The company has invested a substantial sum of approximately $90 million in this venture, signifying its commitment to meeting the burgeoning hydrogen needs in the market.

Todd Lawson, Vice President East Region at Linde, emphasized the company’s decade-long commitment to fortifying its hydrogen production and supply network in the U.S., solidifying Linde’s position as the largest supplier of liquid hydrogen in the country.

Lawson expressed pride in the successful and timely initiation of this project, attributing it to Linde’s technological prowess and operational expertise.  Man-made yarns

As the demand for liquid hydrogen continues its upward trajectory, Linde is poised to leverage its accumulated knowledge and cutting-edge technology to meet these evolving market requirements. This strategic move not only bolsters Linde’s market presence but also underscores its dedication to fostering sustainable solutions and innovation in the hydrogen sector.

Man-made yarns

Ecodesign: EU one step closer to making sustainable products the norm

EU legislators agree on Ecodesign rules, but fail to ban the destruction of unsold goods and ensure enforcement for products sold online.

The European Commission, Parliament and Council reached an agreement last night on a new framework to make products sustainable by design. The European Environmental Bureau (EEB) welcomes the ban on the destruction of unsold textiles as well as progressive provisions on cement and substances of concern, but lament the twofold failure to rule out the wasteful destruction of unsold electronics and provide a credible enforcement regime for products sold online.  Man-made yarns

The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) is one of the flagship initiatives of the Green Deal and Europe’s circular economy objectives. The policy is a revamp and extension of the existing Ecodesign and energy labelling framework, which only applies to electrical appliances. 

The new regulation will put in place minimum requirements such as efficiency, durability and recyclability for almost any product on the EU market. However, during the negotiations, some products such as military equipment and motor vehicles were removed from the scope. 

The regulation includes provisions to ensure the traceability of harmful substances in products, and the possibility to restrict them when they are a barrier to recycling or have a negative impact on human health. Man-made yarns

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Man-made yarns

In a noteworthy development, Trinseo, a major player in the polystyrene market, is implementing a significant reduction in the prices of polystyrene across Europe for the month of December

The company, known for its diverse range of polystyrene grades, is strategically revising its pricing strategy by lowering costs for all grades of polystyrene intended for general use (GPPS) and crystal applications (HIPS). This price adjustment spans across popular brands such as Styron, Styron A-Tech, and C-Tech.  Man-made yarns

Trinseo has communicated that the reduction in prices amounts to a substantial 90 euros per ton. This move is indicative of the company’s commitment to maintaining competitive pricing and adapting to market dynamics. Notably, this marks the second consecutive reduction in prices, following a previous cut of 125 euros per ton announced in November. The successive nature of these adjustments underscores the company’s responsiveness to market trends and its proactive approach in managing pricing structures.

The impact of this price drop extends across the entire spectrum of polystyrene grades, emphasizing Trinseo’s broad commitment to providing cost-effective solutions for various applications.

The affected grades include those catering to general use (GPPS) as well as crystal grades (HIPS). The price cut applies uniformly to products marketed under well-known brands such as Styron, Styron A-Tech, and C-Tech, further emphasizing the comprehensive nature of this strategic pricing move.  Man-made yarns

Trinseo’s decision to implement these price reductions aligns with the company’s objective of enhancing competitiveness, fostering market accessibility, and maintaining a dynamic response to evolving economic conditions. The consecutive reductions in November and December showcase Trinseo’s agility in navigating market fluctuations and its dedication to delivering value to its customers in the polystyrene segment.

Man-made yarns

Synthos signs a Memorandum of Understanding with Kumho Tire to jointly develop sustainable tire raw materials

Kumho Tire chooses Synthos as one of its key partners for sustainable development and seals the partnership during a ceremony in South Korea.

Synthos, a leading global producer of synthetic rubber, has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kumho Tire, a leading South Korean tire manufacturer, for the joint development of sustainable tire raw materials.

Under the MOU, the two companies will conduct a joint research and development project for Neodymium-Butadiene rubber using Bio-Butadiene and expand the use of environmentally friendly synthetic rubber in tire manufacturing.

Dr. Malte Wohlfahrt, R&D Director, Synthos Synthetic Rubber, emphasized the importance of collaboration in the research and development of sustainable rubber and tire materials. “We are very pleased to be selected as one of Kumho Tire’s key partners to strengthen its efforts to develop environmentally friendly tires. Man-made yarns

We strongly believe that we have the best chance to contribute to net zero mobility if we can work together with industry leaders like Kumho Tire, who has already produced tires made from 55% sustainable raw materials in 2022 and is currently developing tires made from 80% sustainable raw materials that will be launched by the end of 2023. Kumho Tire’s impressive experience in developing tires with a lower carbon footprint combined with Synthos’ extensive expertise in sustainable synthetic rubber will enable further carbon footprint reduction towards our shared goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.”

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Synthos signs a Memorandum of Understanding with Kumho Tire to jointly develop sustainable tire raw materials

Critical raw materials? In an electric car you need 207 kilos

A comprehensive study conducted by Intesa Sanpaolo, as presented in the ‘Med & Italian Energy Report 2023,’ sheds light on the weighty matter of minerals required for this paradigm shift. The study not only emphasizes the quantities involved but also addresses the geographical concentration of crucial minerals, highlighting potential challenges for Europe.  Man-made yarns

The sheer weight of the matter is evident in the fact that an electric car necessitates an average of 207 kilograms of diverse minerals, such as graphite, copper, cobalt, nickel, rare earths, lithium, and manganese. This stands in stark contrast to the 33.6 kilograms required for a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle, marking a sixfold increase. The report, presented to the European Parliament by the SRM study center linked to the Intesa Sanpaolo group, underscores the significance of CRM in the transition.

The distinction between critical raw materials and rare earths is pivotal in the study. While rare earths like Scandium, Yttrium, and Lanthanum find marginal use in the automotive sector, the primary focus is on critical raw materials. Solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, lithium-ion batteries, and electric motors are also examined for their mineral requirements. For instance, offshore wind turbines demand nine times more CRM than a conventional gas plant.  Man-made yarns

Director General of the SRM, Massimo Deandreis, raises concerns about the territorial concentration of key minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, copper, and rare earths. He emphasizes that Europe’s reliance on specific regions exposes the European Union to geopolitical risks, necessitating strategic planning to mitigate these challenges.

The report elucidates the global distribution of these critical minerals, with significant shares located in countries like Congo, Australia, China, and South Africa. The Mediterranean region, including European countries, is notably deficient in these resources, except for Morocco, which ranks among the top three global producers of phosphorus.  Man-made yarns

In response to these challenges, the European Union has proposed the Critical Raw Materials Act in 2023. This legislative framework aims to secure a safe and sustainable supply of critical raw materials, outlining objectives such as 10% of annual EU consumption covered by internal extraction, 40% by internal processing, 15% by internal recycling, and a cap of 65% covered by a single third country. As Europe strives to meet its 2050 objectives, the study underscores the imperative of addressing CRM dependencies for a successful energy transition.

The issue of critical raw materials (CRM) essential for the transition to a green economy has come under scrutiny, particularly in the context of electric vehicles (EVs)

End of take-make-waste economy impossible without recycling of unsold goods

On Monday, EU negotiators reached a provisional agreement on the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, a key part of Europe’s strategy to foster a circular economy.

This regulation aims to make products more durable, reusable, upgradable, reparable, recyclable, and easier to maintain. It targets a range of products including textiles and footwear and intermediate products.  Man-made yarns

EuRIC, the voice of Europe’s recycling industries, welcomes the agreement, which incorporated most of the recycling industries’ main points, such as the compliance of online marketplaces with EU legislation, the requirement for transparency in reporting the destruction of unsold goods, and the introduction of the “Digital Product Passport”.

However, we regret the fact that the imposed direct ban on the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear fails to consider the role of recycling. Ending the take-make-waste cycle (linear economy model) is a significant step towards circularity but is impossible without recycling operations.

To equate recycling with destruction contradicts the very objectives of the Circular Economy Action Plan. The path to circularity should be defined by recycling operations, providing a second life to materials.  Man-made yarns

Recycling is not destruction, but a resource recovery process, crucial for extending the lifecycle of materials.

Therefore, we strongly urge lawmakers to correct this miscalculated oversight and include recycling as a possibility to treat unsold goods, whenever reuse is not possible.

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End of take-make-waste economy impossible without recycling of unsold goods

Sustainable fuel – Innovative bio-based aromatics pave the way for 100% sustainable aviation fuel 07-12-2023

Man-made yarns

Electric vehicles – Innovative bio-based aromatics pave the way for 100% sustainable aviation fuel 07-12-2023

Electric vehicles

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Thyssenkrupp Uhde won contract for biopolymer plant from Gulf Biopolymers Industries Ltd

Thyssenkrupp Uhde has secured a basic engineering package and front-end engineering design package for the establishment of a biopolymer plant on the Arabian Peninsula, said Hydrocarbonprocessing.
The plant is intended to produce an industrial large-scale volume of polylactic acid polymer, utilizing lactic acid from corn as the primary feedstock. While polymer specialist Uhde Inventa-Fischer will perform the BEP for the PLA production based on its proprietary state-of-the-art technology, its sister company thyssenkrupp Uhde India will perform the FEED which covers the complete production complex including associated offsite and utilities.
The design of the biopolymer plant focuses on stringently optimized feedstock utilization during all stages: from starch conversion to lactic acid production, and finally polylactic acid production. Electric vehicles

An integral aspect of this project is the plant’s ability to sustainably produce a range of PLA grades, addressing the diverse requirements of various industries such as packaging, textiles, and hygiene supplies.
“Replacing fossil feedstocks with renewable ones can minimize the ecological impact of entire value chains,” stated Dr. Cord Landsmann, CEO thyssenkrupp Uhde. “This project is another proof that we can significantly contribute to a more sustainable production of much-needed materials for global key industries.”
Harald Kroll, CEO Gulf Biopolymers Industries: “We are proud to announce the establishment of the first large biopolymer plant in the MENA region. This project is a milestone for the reduction of fossil-based plastics and advancing the adoption of environmentally friendly PLA polymers.”Electric vehicles
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Electric vehicles

Toyota, new battery and fuel cell electric vehicles

At the Kenshiki 2023 event by Toyota Motor Europe, a cadre of global and European executives took center stage to unveil the automotive giant’s cutting-edge electrified products and technologies.

Chief Branding Officer and Head of Design at Toyota Motor Corporation, Simon Humphries, divulged a series of concept models poised to shape the next era of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) under the banners of Lexus and Toyota.

The key highlight was the introduction of a revolutionary modular design architecture, integrating gigacast chassis, component minimization, and the innovative Arena operating system.Electric vehicles

Humphries emphasized that this design framework not only facilitates enhanced design freedom but also elevates the overall user experience.

Toyota’s commitment to sustainability was underscored by the announcement of their goal to achieve complete carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040. In tandem, they aim to attain SBTi Scope 1 and 2 emissions neutrality in European operations and production facilities by 2030.

With a focus on Scope 3 emissions, Toyota sets ambitious targets, including a 100% reduction in CO2 emissions from new vehicle sales by 2035 and complete carbon neutrality across the value chain and logistics by 2040. The company is already making strides in this direction by incorporating hydrogen fuel cell electric heavy-duty trucks on crucial logistics routes. Electric vehicles

Toyota’s vision extends beyond battery electric vehicles, encompassing a robust hydrogen strategy. The Mirai and the new Crown spearhead their passenger car segment, while TME’s Hydrogen Factory Europe integrates fuel cell technology into a diverse array of commercial vehicles, including heavy goods vehicles, buses, coaches, boats, and pickups. The unveiling of the hydrogen fuel cell Hilux prototype at Kenshiki exemplifies this commitment.

In a nod to the future, Toyota plans to refine hydrogen technology further with the launch of its third generation fuel cell systems in 2026.

The Toyota Professional light commercial vehicle range is expanded with the addition of the Proace Max, a large van available in multiple configurations, offering customers versatility. Like its counterparts, the Proace Max is available with a battery electric powertrain, boasting an impressive range of 420 km (WLTP) and providing access to zero-emission zones.Electric vehicles

Completing the Toyota Professional fleet is the Hilux, a stalwart in Toyota’s commercial lineup, set to receive a boost with the introduction of a 48-volt hybrid system in the coming year.

This hybrid system promises increased power and torque, coupled with a 10% improvement in efficiency, solidifying Toyota’s commitment to innovation across its entire commercial vehicle spectrum.

Electric vehicles

 

Innovative bio-based aromatics pave the way for 100% sustainable aviation fuel

Iain Gilmore, Senior Manager, Catalyst Technologies, Johnson Matthey, and David Kettner, President and General Counsel of Virent, shed light on a groundbreaking development. This advancement, a collaborative effort between Johnson Matthey and Virent, the inventor of the technology, introduces bio-based aromatics as a key component in a 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) that is cleaner-burning, more efficient, and compatible with existing aviation fleets and infrastructure. Electric vehicles

The aviation industry is actively seeking solutions to curb emissions, and SAF emerges as a leading option. However, the effectiveness of SAF varies, with many available forms only permitting limited emission reductions due to blending constraints.

The term ‘SAF’ can be misleading, as it is applied to many synthetic fuels with a carbon intensity below a certain threshold in relation to conventional jet fuel, as defined by various policies and international agreements. This results in a range of fuel blends that sit under the SAF umbrella, which contain varying proportions of synthetic components, most of which are not 100% SAF.

Presently, SAF is typically blended with varying percentages of conventional jet fuel, producing varying qualities of fuel to meet the criteria of international standards, specifically to ensure it contains aromatics in the range of 8-25%. Aromatics are an important component of the fuel as, among other benefits, they enhance lubricity, lower freeze point, and interact with polymer seals in the engines and fuelling systems to help prevent fuel leakage. Electric vehicles

Traditional jet fuel naturally contains aromatics but many bio-based fuels, such as Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) and Fischer Tropsch (FT) products, do not. This restricts their use to a maximum blend of 50% with conventional jet fuel, which, in turn, limits emission reductions and falls short of meeting international aviation emission targets for 2030 and 2050.

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Electric vehicles

Germany’s plastic recycling rate breaks records in 2022

The recycling of plastic packaging is on the rise in Germany, experiencing a remarkable 20% increase in just four years, reaching 67.5% of the total introduced to the market in 2022. According to the industry association IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen, the recycling of plastic packaging in Germany reached 67.5% of the total introduced to the market last year, amounting to 1.54 million tons (a slight decrease compared to the previous year)Electric vehicles

The data, provided by German authorities (Central Packaging Registry ZSVR and Federal Environment Agency UBA), surpasses the 2022 target of 63% set by the packaging law enacted in 2019 and represents an unprecedented achievement. In the last four years alone, since the regulations came into effect, the recycling rate has surged by twenty percentage points.

Isabell Schmidt, the director of IK, emphasizes, “The growing recycling of plastic packaging is a great success. Now it is important to further solidify this positive development and shield it from undesired trends. Reducing plastic in the direction of composite packaging does not contribute to achieving the goal. Recyclability and material savings must be a priority in packaging design. We cannot tolerate false arguments and greenwashing.”Electric vehicles

According to the association of plastic packaging manufacturers, ZSVR and UBA have repeatedly criticized the significant increase in composite paper-based packaging entering the market, as they are more challenging to recycle. IK asserts that almost half of the recyclable packaging with less than 90% recyclability is of a composite nature.

“Discriminatory goals for plastic, as envisaged by the European packaging regulation, as well as exceptions to recycled content quotas, could further reinforce the trend towards composite packaging, even if not explicitly intended.”

Germany’s plastic recycling rate breaks records in 2022

VTT finds unprecedented extensible limits for formable cellulose-based food packaging to replace single-use plastic

Enabled by foam forming technology, VTT’s formable cellulose-based webs with 30% extensibility were used to make rigid packages using an industrial product packaging line. This opens up the manufacturing of a wide range of sustainable packaging solutions.

In a pilot-scale study to find alternative raw materials for rigid plastic packages, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland has obtained unprecedented maximum limits of its highly extensible formable cellulose-based webs used for rigid packaging applications. The results enable the manufacturing of a wide range of sustainable 3D packaging solutions that were previously unattainable.Electric vehicles

Typical commercial boards have between 3–6% extensibility (geometrical mean) and best commercial formable boards have 10–18% extensibility. By utilising foam forming technology, VTT has now obtained up to 30% extensibility. This enables brand owners to use rigid, cardboard-like packaging to serve consumers looking to buy more sustainable products. This material improvement enables e.g. food brands producing cold cuts to increase cardboard-like package size from 75 grams up to 200-250 grams. By adjusting the tray forming process and tray dimensions even larger cardboard-like packages can be produced.

“Polypropylene film is one of the world’s most used polymers – its extensibility is up to 300%. Our invention now offers a viable, sustainable alternative on the market,” says Jarmo Kouko, Research Team Leader at VTT. Electric vehicles

“There’s been a lot of great academic research around the world on how to eliminate plastics, but the challenge is that those seldom go beyond research. So, we’re extremely excited and proud of the results we’ve produced in our pilot-scale study, which clearly shows the commercial potential of our rigid cellulose-based packaging. packaging give suppliers a sustainable and affordable alternative to single-use plastic.

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VTT finds unprecedented extensible limits for formable cellulose-based food packaging to replace single-use plastic

Evolution of Battery Architecture: From Modules to Cell-to-Body Integration

Electric vehicles (EVs) have undergone a remarkable transformation in battery technology, moving from modular designs to cell-to-body integration. This concept involves embedding cells directly into the vehicle’s frame, unlike conventional gasoline-powered vehicles that depend on fuel tank size for capacity. EVs’ energy storage is determined by both physical dimensions and factors affecting energy density. Electric vehicles

The development of electric vehicle battery architecture can be traced from the traditional modular structures to the cutting-edge cell-to-body integration.

The chemistry of the cells and their internal architecture are two key factors that influence the energy density of EV batteries. This discussion focuses on the latter, exploring the evolution from established modular designs to the innovative realm of cell-to-body integration.

Lithium-ion batteries adopted a conventional structure with cells, modules, and battery packs. Modular designs, while enabling battery control and temperature management, introduced inactive elements, reducing energy storage efficiency.

The modular approach allowed automakers to adjust battery capacity by adding or removing modules. Electric vehicles

In a recent shift, automakers have adopted the cell-to-pack paradigm, eliminating the intermediate modules. This design integrates individual cells directly into the external casing, increasing energy storage capacity within the same external dimensions. However, these cell-to-pack batteries remain separate components attached to the vehicle’s chassis during manufacturing.

Leading the future, manufacturers like BYD, with its Seal sedan, have introduced a revolutionary structural design – cell-to-body integration. This approach incorporates cell housing directly into the lower part of the vehicle’s frame, eliminating the need for a separate element attached to the chassis. While not increasing the percentage of active material within the battery, similar to the cell-to-pack approach, this innovation simplifies components, minimizes external housing requirements, and enhances the structural integrity and overall efficiency of electric vehicles. The battery becomes an essential part of the vehicle platform, marking a paradigm shift in the electrification of the automotive industry. Electric vehicles

Evolution of Battery Architecture: From Modules to Cell-to-Body Integration

Argentina’s new bioethanol quotas may swamp demand

Argentine bioethanol supply quotas may outstrip demand over the coming years.

The outgoing federal energy department recently awarded 413,100m3/y of new supply quotas of bioethanol for blending with gasoline, known as E12. These will swell the 1.12Mm3/y (million cubic meters per year) in place.

The new facilities or plant expansions that will produce the additional ethanol are due to enter service in 2026 and could require capex of around US$500mn based on current exchange rates. Electric vehicles

But in 2026, the total annual E12 quota of 1.53Mm3/y will outstrip projected demand from refiners of 1.18Mm3, local bioenergy and rail transport consultant Claudio Molina told BNamericas. A mismatch is also projected for 2024-25.

“They’ve awarded more quotas than there is demand,” said Molina, adding that the process lacked transparency and would have future implications.

Molina said: “They’re going to have to arbitrate over a process so that, in a proportional manner, each sells less than the quota they have, because sufficient demand isn’t there. It’s like opening a can of worms.” Electric vehicles

By law, 12% of the finished gasoline blend must be ethanol made from corn or sugarcane.

Outgoing economy minister and former presidential candidate Sergio Massa had planned to raise the proportion to 15%, which would have absorbed the additional output. The increase was opposed by refiners and auto manufacturers, the latter citing the engine-calibration challenges associated with changing the blend. Massa had even pledged a hike to 25% if he had won the presidency.

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Biodegradable polymer – Toyota ‘not giving up’ on hydrogen but also ramps up production of battery electric cars 06-12-2023

Electric vehicles

Biodegradable polymer – Toyota ‘not giving up’ on hydrogen but also ramps up production of battery electric cars 06-12-2023

Biodegradable polymer

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Sulzer expands bioplastics portfolio with new biodegradable polymer

Sulzer is expanding its commitment to sustainable solutions with the introduction of a groundbreaking technology – CAPSULTM – designed for the continuous manufacturing of polycaprolactone (PCL), a biodegradable polyester widely employed in diverse industries such as packaging, textiles, agriculture, and horticulture. The CAPSULTM innovation represents an end-to-end licensed process that facilitates the production of high-quality PCL grades at competitive rates, reinforcing Sulzer’s dedication to advancing renewable and circular plastic technologies.

The CAPSUL™ PCL technology, developed by Sulzer Chemtech, revolutionizes the manufacturing process by incorporating all purification and polymerization steps into a seamlessly integrated, highly efficient, and continuous operation.

Leveraging Sulzer’s extensive expertise in separation and reaction processes, this biopolymer technology proves to be remarkably adaptable, catering to a wide spectrum of industrial scales. Its versatility is poised to accelerate the widespread adoption of biodegradable and compostable PCL, addressing critical environmental concerns related to plastic waste.  Biodegradable polymer

High-quality PCL derived from the CAPSUL™ process finds application in a myriad of sectors, including consumer packaging, 3D printing, footwear, agricultural films, textiles, and medical devices. Uwe Boltersdorf, President of the Chemtech Division at Sulzer, emphasizes the pivotal role of PCL in reducing plastic waste, highlighting the company’s commitment to facilitating larger-scale production from both conventional and renewable resources. The introduction of CAPSUL™ reflects Sulzer’s dedication to empowering industry stakeholders to gain a competitive edge in sustainability, ushering in a new era of environmentally conscious manufacturing practices. As the world grapples with the challenges of plastic pollution, Sulzer’s innovative solution marks a significant stride towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.  Biodegradable polymer

Biodegradable polymer

LYB acquires minority stake in Source One

 LyondellBasell (LYB) today announced it has acquired a minority share in Source One GmbH, Leiferde, Germany, a plastic waste sourcing and engineering company, specialized in developing technical solutions for hard-to-recycle post-consumer plastic waste. Both LYB and Landbell will be shareholders in Source One. Landbell is a global service provider who operates a comprehensive network of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and take-back organizations worldwide.  Biodegradable polymer

This strategic investment provides LYB access to Source One’s engineering and plastic waste sourcing services. It also establishes a relationship with Landbell to provide plastic packaging waste volumes for LYB’s advanced recycling operations. Processing plastic waste volumes from EPR Service Providers such as Landbell reinforces the commitment by LYB to support brand owners to close the loop for plastic packaging.

“We are committed to support the growing demand of our customers for circular solutions,” says Yvonne van der Laan, LyondellBasell Executive Vice President, Circular and Low Carbon Solutions. “With the investment in Source One we are taking another important step to secure access to plastic waste for our recycling activities and to strengthen our Circulen product portfolio of material made from recyclable or renewable resources.”  Biodegradable polymer

50% of the shares in Source One will be held by 23 Oaks Investments, Leiferde, Germany, which together with LYB has formed the joint venture Source One Plastics in 2022. Source One Plastics currently builds an energy efficient, advanced plastic waste sorting and recycling facility in Germany.

“Thanks to our relationship with LYB and Landbell, we are able to optimally position Source One and successfully implement our growth strategy,” says Kai Hoyer, Owner 23 Oaks Investments.

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Biodegradable polymer

Toyota ‘not giving up’ on hydrogen but also ramps up production of battery electric cars

Japanese carmaker ploughing ahead with hydrogen despite difficulties

Toyota has reaffirmed its commitment to hydrogen power but at the same time will also ramp up development of battery electric vehicles.

The Japanese carmaker has been a pioneer of hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) technology in recent years, and has developed two generations of its FCEV-powered Mirai saloon car, and launched the Japan-only Crown this year.  Biodegradable polymer

However Toyota has missed its own targets on sales of hydrogen cars, selling just over 3,900 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles last year, less than one per cent of its total worldwide sales of around 9.5m vehicles.

Media reports earlier this year quoted Hiroki Nakajima, Toyota executive vice-president and chief technical officer, admitting Mirai sales had not been successful, and that the carmaker would switch from building FCEV-powered cars to commercial vehicles.

But the carmaker has now reaffirmed its commitment to hydrogen-powered cars as well confirming it will diversify into commercial vehicles and other transport sectors. It will create a new hydrogen facility to produce more fuel cell systems to stimulate demand in Europe.  Biodegradable polymer

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Biodegradable polymer

Eurozone’s manufacturing PMI sees slight rebound in Nov 2023

INSIGHTS

  • The Eurozone manufacturing PMI, compiled by S&P Global for HCOB, remained below the growth threshold in November 2023, marking continuous contraction.
  • Austria, Germany, and France showed slight improvements, while Italy worsened.
  • Greece and Ireland saw growth, but overall, the sector faced reduced production, inventory levels, and staffing.

Eurozone’s manufacturing PMI, compiled by S&P Global for Hamburg Commercial Bank (HCOB), remained below the 50 growth threshold for the seventeenth consecutive month in November, indicating a continued decline in the goods-producing sector. However, there was a slight improvement, with the index rising to 44.2 from October’s 43.1, marking the highest reading since May and suggesting a less severe deterioration in manufacturing conditions.Of the eight nations included in the HCOB eurozone manufacturing PMI, six recorded in contraction territory. Austria was the worst performer in November, closely followed by Germany and France. Biodegradable polymer

All three countries recorded softer rates of decline, however, and this was also the case in the Netherlands and Spain. By contrast, Italy’s manufacturing downturn intensified. Two nations bucked the wider trend of contraction during November—Greece and Ireland—with the former seeing growth improve to a three-month high. Ireland’s manufacturing economy stabilised after back-to-back months of decline.

Factory production across the euro area continued to decrease during November. That said, while the pace of decline was strong overall, it eased to its softest since May. A slower fall in output coincided with a weaker contraction in new orders, and the slump in new export sales (which has been ongoing since March 2022) also moderated, as per S&P Global. Biodegradable polymer

Eurozone manufacturers were less aggressive with their destocking efforts, November survey data showed, with pre- and postproduction inventory levels falling at weaker rates. The fall in stocks of purchases was nevertheless the second-fastest seen since December 2012 amid another substantial month-on-month reduction in manufacturers’ buying activity.

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Biodegradable polymer

Sirmax building new compounding factory in India, expanding existing capacity

The Italy-based compounder said India is the ‘only [global region] experiencing growth’

Italian compounder Sirmax Group, known for its expertise in polypropylene compounds, engineering plastics, thermoplastic elastomers, recycled polymers, and more recently biocompounds,  announced it started building a new compounding factory in India.  Biodegradable polymer

It will be the company’s third facility in India upon completion, and its fourteenth global plant. The new facility is being built near Hosur, located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, and is scheduled to start operations in 2026. Sirmax did not disclose the capacity of the new factory, but it said it is expanding the capacity of its existing Palwal plant, located near India’s largest automotive district, by 15,000 tonnes per year. The Padua-based company said it aims to increase its production capacity in India to over 60,000 tonnes per year, with a total investment of around $10 million.

The operations are part of the group’s strategy to boost its foreign subsidiaries, and in particular to meet increasing demand for thermoplastics compounds in Southeast Asia, it said in a statement. Biodegradable polymer

“At this pivotal moment in history, India stands out as the sole global region experiencing genuine growth,” said Sirmax’s President and CEO Massimo Pavin. “The country has a large domestic market and is an important hub for Southeast Asia.

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Sirmax building new compounding factory in India, expanding existing capacity

SABIC & CJ CheilJedang collaborate on world-first ready-to-eat rice packaging bowls made with 25% certified renewable PP in Korea

SABIC, a global leader in the chemicals industry, has announced that a food-contact grade of its TRUCIRCLE portfolio of certified renewable polypropylene (PP) resins is used in the production of Hetbahn instant white rice packaging bowls by CJ CheilJedang, a South Korea-based global food company, said the company.

The rigid bowls are the first of their kind using certified renewable PP in a ready-to-eat-rice packaging in Asia Pacific and align with CJ’s strong ‘Nature to Nature’ sustainability roadmap. Biodegradable polymer

Mohammed Al-Zahrani, Vice President of SABIC’s Polypropylene Business, comments: “Food brands around the world are increasingly looking for materials that will help them reduce their carbon footprint without compromising the performance, convenience and food safety of their packaging. We are very pleased about this opportunity to demonstrate SABIC’s vast expertise in sustainable PP resins for rigid food containers. Our certified renewable grade from our TRUCIRCLE portfolio used in CJ’s Hetbahn rice bowls meet the food-contact regulations, and offers the same ease of processing and high end-use quality as competitive all-virgin polymers.”

The Hetbahn brand, which is one of the top brands in cooked rice and now expanding its product portfolio to include porridge, frozen rice, cooked rice with soup etc., was originally launched in 1996 and means freshly harvested and cooked rice and has changed consumers’ perception of Korean rice meal culture. The rice grain is polished in a strict raw material process, cooked the same day and packed in a sterile environment so that the delicious taste of the rice can be preserved.  Biodegradable polymer
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SABIC & CJ CheilJedang collaborate on world-first ready-to-eat rice packaging bowls made with 25% certified renewable PP in Korea

Rathi Group to Install Two R4000-HD Secondary Shredders

Rathi Group has finalised the order for two R4000-HD model secondary shredders from Ahmedabad-based Fornnax Technology

“The two R4000-HD secondary shredders set to double annual capacity for tyre shredding and tyre wire cleaning,” informed Ravi Rathi, Director, Rathi Group.

Fornnax Technology continues to book orders from the domestic and overseas markets for R4000-HD shredders after its global launch at the recently concluded IFAT Expo 2023 in Mumbai.

New lines to double the plant capacity

The new installation will increase tyre shredding and tyre wire cleaning capacities to 150,000 metric tons and 25,000 metric tons, respectively. “Alongside this, there is an expansion in the works for the pyrolysis system, increasing by 40 metric tons per day, which will boost the group’s total pyrolysis capacity to 160 metric tons per day.”

This expansion is a proactive response to the anticipated demand from prospective recovered carbon black (rCB) buyers. Biodegradable polymer

As a result, the company is in the process of establishing dedicated rCB production units specifically for its major customers. Currently, the company’s rCB product, CAPITAL CARBON, is in various stages of trials with leading users in the market.

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Rathi Group to Install Two R4000-HD Secondary Shredders

Plastic pyrolysis – How to reduce the product defective rate of PET fiber? 05-12-2023

Biodegradable polymer

Plastic pyrolysis – How to reduce the product defective rate of PET fiber? 05-12-2023

Plastic pyrolysis
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Innovation activity in bioplastics and chemical recycling technology continues apace

 Innovation in biopolymers (bioplastics) and plastics recycling has hit an all-time high, according to the latest-available patent data published by intellectual property firm, Appleyard Lees.

The third annual edition of the company’s Inside Green Innovation: Progress Report reveals that priority patent filings in bioplastics increased by almost a quarter in the 12 months to 2021 (from 458 to 569), with the 2020-21 period revealing a level of innovation in the field not seen since 2002. Plastic pyrolysis

Year-on-year rises in patent filings among the different types of bioplastics – including PHAs, butylene-based polymers and PLA – is broadly similar, while the latter remains ahead of the pack by a total of 93 patent filings in 2021, only 10 filings short of its previous high in 2011. However, starch blends’ recent patent numbers have fallen for the first time in six years.

Meanwhile, recent innovation activity in chemical recycling of plastics is sharply reversing the decline seen in the previous decade, with applications for thermal recycling pyrolysis technology increasing for three consecutive years and up by 25% from 2020 to 2021.

Appleyard Lees patent attorney, David Jasiewicz, said: “We’re in the midst of a second peak in bioplastics innovation, with the 2018-2021 period showing a significant increase in patent filing activity which outstrips the previous pinnacle in the early 2000s.”

Two key bioplastics trends emerge  Plastic pyrolysis

Technology innovation by the top patent filers indicates two trends in the bioplastics sector: improving bioplastics’ mechanical properties and appearance in line with conventional plastics and improving the materials’ biodegradability.

For example, South Korea’s LG Chemical has filed applications including copoloymers of lactones, lactic acid and other hydroxyacids, aiming to improve thermal and mechanical properties when compared to PLA. It has also shown innovation in resin compositions which blend bioplastics with the intention of replacing traditional plastics such as polyethylene films.  Plastic pyrolysis

Meanwhile Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation of Japan has focused on improving bioplastics’ biodegradability, such as finding bioplastic alternatives to PLA in additive manufacturing and blending polyesters with PHAs to use in shopping bags or food packaging.

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Plastic pyrolysis

CarbonScreen startup to develop monitoring method that doubles carbon fiber production speed

CarbonScreen technology will make it possible to control complex carbon fiber production through sensor monitoring, potentially increasing speeds to 30 m/min, enhancing turnover and making carbon fiber more available to other markets.

Felix Pohlkemper and Tim Röding from RWTH Aachen University’s Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA, Germany) are developing a technology with their startup company CarboScreen GmbH (Aachen) that makes complex carbon fiber production controllable through sensor monitoring.  Plastic pyrolysis

With the help of CarboScreen technology, it should be possible to double the production speed from the current 15 meters/minute to 30 meters/minute in the medium term. The doubling of production speed alone could result in an increase in turnover of up to €37.5 million per year. Pohlkemper and Röding were awarded third place in the AVK Innovation Award 2023 in the Processes and Procedures category for their development.

The production of carbon fibers is highly complex and in current state-of-the-art, the manufacturing process is only monitored manually by semi-skilled workers. However, even minimal fiber damage during production leads to a reduction in the quality of the carbon fiber. In extreme cases, it can also lead to plant fires.  Plastic pyrolysis

To ensure production quality, the production speed is currently limited to a maximum of 15 meters/minute. Using CarbonScreen’s technology could not only increase production speed and thus production volume, but could also reduce specific production costs of carbon fiber, potentially resulting in lower prices. This, in turn, would make it possible to drive carbon fiber and other composite materials more widely in markets like aerospace, wind and automotive.

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Plastic pyrolysis

Teijin breaks ground on carbon-fiber facility in South Carolina

The new facility in Greenwood, SC, is expected to create some 220 jobs and will represent $600 million worth of investment by around 2030, said the company. It’s the largest initial capital investment by a company in Greenwood

Teijin Ltd. (Tokyo) announced that it broke ground June 1 on a new carbon-fiber production facility of its wholly owned subsidiary Teijin Carbon Fibers Inc. (TCF), located in Greenwood, SC. Teijin will further evolve its carbon-fiber businesses under a long-term vision to reduce its environmental footprint and satisfy tightening environmental regulations worldwide, said the company.  Plastic pyrolysis

“We look forward to this new chapter of Teijin’s expansion in the U.S.,” said Yukito Miyajima, President of TCF. “We are strengthening its global upstream-to-downstream carbon-fiber business. In particular, we have been leveraging research and development to expand the carbon-fiber business in the aircraft and automotive fields.”

Teijin looked at multiple locations during the process of siting a new facility, but ultimately, with the support of local and state government officials, the company chose Greenwood as the ideal location for its new U.S. carbon-fiber facility.  Plastic pyrolysis

“South Carolina continues to make great strides in the manufacturing industry, and Teijin’s expansion and commitment to our state is proof that our hard work is paying off,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce, South Carolina. “We treasure our relationship with Teijin and look forward to industry success for years to come.”

More…

Plastic pyrolysis

RadiciGroup’s 100% natural nylon awarded in the Fibers and Insulation category

The Biofeel Eleven, RadiciGroup’s 100% natural nylon yarn derived from sustainable sources, has earned the prestigious ISPO Textrends award in the Fibers and Insulation category for the Fall/Winter 2025/26 collections.

This recognition, bestowed by a panel of industry experts, celebrates innovative trends within the textile and apparel sectors. Presented at the ISPO fair in Munich, a prominent event for fabrics and sportswear scheduled from November 28 to 30, 2023, RadiciGroup proudly accepts the award in the Fibers and Insulation category.

Since its introduction to the market in March, Biofeel Eleven has rapidly ascended to the “Top Ten” of new yarn products, showcasing its remarkable technical and environmental performance.  Plastic pyrolysis

Derived from a small, non-edible bean cultivated in India’s semi-arid soils, which do not compete with food production, this natural yarn originates from a unique oil extracted from the beans. RadiciGroup in Italy transforms this oil into biopolymers, crafting the distinctive Biofeel Eleven yarn.

Noteworthy characteristics of this yarn include low water absorption, heightened lightness, and enhanced strength properties.

These attributes enable the creation of durable yet comfortable fabrics—a crucial combination for sportswear and beyond.  Plastic pyrolysis

RadiciGroup's 100% natural nylon awarded in the Fibers and Insulation category

How to reduce the product defective rate of PET fiber?

Fibers are elongated substances of a certain length and fineness, usually consisting of many molecules. Fibers can be divided into two categories: natural fibers and chemical fibers.

Natural Fibres: Natural fibers are fibers extracted from plants, animals, or minerals, and common natural fibers include cotton, silk, and wool. Natural fibers have good breathability, moisture absorption, and comfort, and are widely used in textiles, garments, home furnishings, and other fields.  Plastic pyrolysis

Chemical fibers: Chemical fibers are fibers synthesized from raw materials through chemical methods, mainly including polyester fibers, nylon fibers, acrylic fibers, adenosine fibers, and so on. Chemical fibers have good strength, abrasion resistance, and durability, and are widely used in textiles, construction, automotive, medical, and other fields.

Chemical fibers have a wide range of applications, but there are still difficulties in their production and processing.

Raw material treatment: The manufacture of chemical fibers usually requires pre-treatment of raw materials, including polymerization, spinning, and other processes. The treatment of raw materials has an important impact on the quality and performance of the final fiber, so the composition, purity, and treatment conditions of the raw materials need to be controlled.  Plastic pyrolysis

Spinning process: The spinning of chemical fibers is to melt the polymer and then stretch it into silk through the spinneret orifice. During the spinning process, parameters such as temperature, pressure, and speed need to be controlled to ensure the uniformity and strength of the fibers.

Stretching and shaping: Chemical fibers need to be stretched and shaped after spinning to improve their strength and dimensional stability. This process requires control of temperature, humidity, stretching speed, and other factors to obtain the desired fiber properties.  Plastic pyrolysis

These are some of the difficulties that exist in the production and processing of chemical fibers. With the progress of science and technology and the improvement of processes, these difficulties have been gradually solved, and the production technology of chemical fiber has been continuously upgraded.

More…

How to reduce the product defective rate of PET fiber?

World’s First Nylon Plant, world record in Seaford, Delaware

Seaford, Delaware, United States–The city of Seaford, in western Sussex County, is known as the “Nylon Capital of the World,” because this is where one of the world’s most famous fibers was first produced on a large scale; DuPont’s siting of their nylon factory downstate in Seaford was regarded as a boon to Delaware; the Moderne plant came online with 850 workers in December 1939, setting the world record for being the World’s First Nylon Plant, according to the WORLD RECORD ACADEMY.  Plastic pyrolysis

“This booklet commemorates the designation of the DuPont Nylon Plant in Seaford, Delaware, as a National Historic Chemical Landmark. The designation was conferred by the American Chemical Society ( A C S ) , a non-profit scientific and educational organization of 150,000 chemists and chemical engineers. A plaque marking the A C S designation was presented to the plant on October 26, 1995,” the American Chemical Society says.

“The inscription reads: ” At this site on December 15, 1939, DuPont began commercial production of nylon. Among the earliest successes of a fundamental research program novel in the American chemical industry, nylon was the first totally synthetic fiber to be fashioned into consumer products.  Plastic pyrolysis

Prepared wholly with materials readily derived from coal, air, and water, nylon has properties superior to its natural counterparts, such as silk. Nylon revolutionized the textile industry and led the way for a variety of synthetic materials that have had enormous social and economic impact on the fabric of everyday life worldwide.”

“DuPont developed nylon in record time, five years between the creation of the molecule in the laboratory and plant start-up.The process was technically complex, involving new raw materials, new fiber-forming techniques and unfamiliar materials of construction. Plant construction took one year and cost $8 million.

The plant at Seaford initially employed 850 people and had a capacity of 4 million pounds a year; DuPont announced an expansion before the first pound was produced. T h e Seaford plant is still operating today, employs 1,600 people, and has a capacity of 400 million pounds—100 times greater than in 1939.”  Plastic pyrolysis

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World’s First Nylon Plant, world record in Seaford, Delaware

Closed Loop Partners invests $15M in recycling this year

The investments have helped to finance new collection carts and recycling technologies, supporting municipalities in advancing local circular economies.

According to Closed Loop Partners, it has provided approximately $15 million in investments to local municipalities for projects to upgrade recycling infrastructure and services across the Midwest and Southeast U.S. in the last year. Deployed by funds within the New York-based firm’s private credit arm, the Closed Loop Infrastructure Group, these investments are helping advance the infrastructure needed to collect, process and return materials to supply chains at their end of life.  Plastic pyrolysis

Closed Loop Infrastructure Group’s first fund was established in 2014 and funded by some of the world’s largest retailers, corporate foundations, technology and consumer goods companies, including 3M, Amazon, Coca-Cola, Colgate-Palmolive, Johnson & Johnson, BlueTriton, Keurig Dr Pepper, Procter & Gamble, PepsiCo, Danone North America, Danone Waters, Starbucks, Unilever and Walmart Foundation. It provides below-market rate loans to finance projects that build circular economy infrastructure in the United States. Since then, Closed Loop Infrastructure Group has added three additional funds—Closed Loop Circular Plastics Fund, Closed Loop Local Recycling Fund and Closed Loop Beverage Fund—that have invested in more than 45 different projects to date, including procuring recycling carts, making recycling facilities upgrades, supporting innovative recycling technologies and more, keeping more than 3 million materials in circulation and avoiding more than 6 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, according to Closed Loop Partners. Across all their investments, the funds have catalyzed capital inflow from other sources equivalent to three times what has been deployed.  Plastic pyrolysis

More…

Closed Loop Partners invests $15M in recycling this year

Green Hydrogen – Now NIO’s battery swap could truly become global 04-12-2023

Plastic pyrolysis

Green Hydrogen – Now NIO’s battery swap could truly become global 04-12-2023

Green Hydrogen

Polymers Textiles – Europe’s Imperative: Countering Russia’s Bid for Hydrogen Market Supremacy 

More…

Green Hydrogen

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Now NIO’s battery swap could truly become global

NIO, the Chinese electric vehicle company, is expanding its global reach by signing a strategic agreement with Geely. This collaboration could potentially introduce NIO’s battery swap technology to electric cars from various brands owned by Geely, including Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, smart, and Zeekr. NIO has already deployed over 2,000 battery swap stations in China and is expanding its presence internationally. Green Hydrogen

The partnership involves a joint approach between Geely and NIO in handling investments, construction, and design of battery swap stations. Both companies aim to enhance the efficiency and versatility of battery swap systems, intending to offer this technology in all future electric cars from the associated brands. The agreement is seen as mutually beneficial, allowing NIO to diversify investments and increase profitability, while Geely can quickly expand its battery swap station network, currently comprising 300 active points.

This collaboration has potential implications for the European market, where Geely’s ownership of brands with strong traditions and significant market share could make battery swap technology more widely adopted. The agreement reflects a renewed interest in battery swap technology, which had previously been considered by various brands but is now gaining traction once again. Green Hydrogen

Green Hydrogen

BASF advances 54-MW green hydrogen project

BASF SE, the German chemical giant, has achieved a major breakthrough with the formal approval of $136.2 million state grant dedicated to the establishment of a green hydrogen plant at its Ludwigshafen headquarters, said Chemanalyst.
This financial endorsement signals a critical advancement for the Hy4Chem-EI project, a collaborative endeavor between BASF and Siemens Energy, propelling it into the eagerly anticipated construction phase.
The funding for this pioneering project will be sourced from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. Green Hydrogen

The Hy4Chem-EI initiative is designed to introduce a cutting-edge 54-megawatt proton exchange membrane electrolyser, with the capacity to produce a substantial 8,000 metric tons of hydrogen annually.

The electricity essential for hydrogen generation will be derived exclusively from renewable energy sources, aligning the project with a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach.
The primary strategic objective for the hydrogen produced at the Ludwigshafen facility is to serve as a fundamental raw material for the decarbonization of BASF’s chemical production processes. Green Hydrogen

Additionally, a portion of the hydrogen output will be earmarked for deployment in transportation applications within the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region.
Anticipated to be among the largest of its kind in Germany upon activation, the Ludwigshafen electrolyser is expected to make significant contributions to the nation’s green hydrogen landscape.

The commissioning of this innovative facility is currently scheduled for the year 2025, marking a pivotal milestone in the transition towards sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions.
This recent funding approval represents a crucial milestone for the Hy4Chem-EI project, occurring approximately one year after the European Commission (EC) granted Germany the necessary approval to allocate a substantial grant to support this groundbreaking initiative.  Green Hydrogen

The collaborative efforts of BASF and Siemens Energy in the Hy4Chem-EI project underscore their commitment to pioneering advancements in the realm of green hydrogen technology.

As the global community intensifies efforts to combat climate change and transition towards more sustainable energy solutions, projects such as Hy4Chem-EI take center stage in contributing to a cleaner and greener future.

The support garnered from governmental bodies further underscores the recognition of the project’s significance in advancing the green hydrogen agenda.  Green Hydrogen

More…

Green Hydrogen

Toppan breaks ground on new plant in Czech Republic

Bolstering barrier film supply capabilities in Europe to meet rising global demand for eco-friendly packaging

Toppan Packaging Czech, a Toppan Group company, has held a groundbreaking ceremony to launch construction of a new plant in Most in the Ústí nad Labem region of the Czech Republic. The new plant will manufacture GL Barrier transparent barrier film developed and manufactured by the Toppan Group for eco-friendly packaging, a focus of increasing demand around the world.  Green Hydrogen

Distinguished guests at the groundbreaking ceremony included His Excellency Hideo Suzuki, ambassador of Japan to the Czech Republic, Czech senator Jan Paparega, and Jan Schiller, governor of the Ústí region. Attendees joined Toppan’s managing executive officer Masahiko Tatewaki and deputy head of global packaging Hiroshi Suzuki in praying for the safe construction of the plant, which is scheduled to launch operations at the end of 2024 as a strategic base catering to increasing needs for sustainable products in the European market.

Masahiko Tatewaki said: ‘I would like to express my great appreciation to everyone who has supported our plan for Toppan’s very first Czech site in the city of Most. Establishing a European base for our GL Barrier business has been a long-standing wish. More than 15 years ago, demand for transparent barrier packaging materials increased from Europe, and our efforts to establish overseas bases began at that time. Our barrier film is not only a sustainable and recyclable product but also uses the most advanced technology in the world.  Green Hydrogen

‘We are very proud and excited to support our customers and consumers by providing products from Most to the European market. I believe that by being able to come to the Czech Republic, we will be able to make an even bigger leap forward in this business.

More…

Toppan breaks ground on new plant in Czech Republic

Scientists develop revolutionary process to tackle plastic pollution

Chemists at Northwestern University have developed a new catalyst that “quickly, cleanly and completely” breaks down plastic.

Durable plastic pollution – such as fishing nets – can be easily degraded without leaving harmful by-products thanks to a new high-tech process.

Disturbing images of wildlife – including sea turtles, dolphins and seals – tangled in abandoned fishing nets have become all too common.  Green Hydrogen

Scientists explained that the main issue with Nylon-6 – the plastic inside fishing nets, carpet and clothing – is that it’s too strong and durable to break down on its own.

So, once it’s in the environment, it lingers for years, littering waterways, breaking corals and strangling birds and sea life.

Now, chemists at Northwestern University have developed a new catalyst that “quickly, cleanly and completely” breaks down Nylon-6 in a matter of minutes — without generating harmful by-products.  Green Hydrogen

They say that the new process doesn’t require toxic solvents, expensive materials or extreme conditions, making it “practical” for everyday applications.

The research team, whose findings were published in the journal Chem. believe it could even perform the first step in upcycling Nylon-6 wastes into higher-value products.

Study senior author Professor Tobin Marks said: “The whole world is aware of the plastic problem.

“Plastic is a part of our society; we use so much of it.

“But the problem is: What do we do when we’re finished with it? Ideally, we wouldn’t burn it or put it into landfills. We would recycle it.

“We’re developing catalysts that deconstruct these polymers, returning them to their original form, so they can be reused.”      Green Hydrogen

Up to one million pounds (453,000 kilos) of fishing gear is abandoned in the ocean each year – with fishing nets composed of Nylon-6 making up at least 46 percent of the notorious Great Pacific Garbage Patch, according to the World Wildlife Federation.

More…

Scientists develop revolutionary process to tackle plastic pollution

Electric Cars – A Glimpse into the Future

In this article, we explore the evolving landscape of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and look ahead to future possibilities. We provide an overview of emerging technologies, including wireless charging and bidirectional charging, transforming electric vehicles into interactive, mobile power sources.

  1. Wireless Charging Revolution:
    • Overview of wireless charging technologies beyond communication protocols (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC).
    • Inductive electromagnetic induction principle for wireless power transmission.  Green Hydrogen
    • Practical applications and testing, including BMW’s use in Formula E safety cars.
    • Dynamic wireless charging trials in Sweden and Italy, highlighting the Arena del Futuro project near Brescia.
  2. Multidirectional Energy Networks:
    • Concept of future energy networks resembling data networks – multidirectional and optimizing production, flows, and storage.
    • Introduction of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology – V2G, V2B, V2H, and V2L.  Green Hydrogen
    • Explanation of V2G enabling bidirectional energy flow between vehicles and the grid, maximizing vehicle and energy utilization.
    • Potential applications of V2B, V2H, and V2L for direct energy exchange with buildings and homes, as well as utilizing vehicle batteries for various purposes.
  3. Battery Evolution:
    • Focus on battery improvements for electric vehicles, addressing weight, size, and cost concerns.
    • Overview of current battery chemistry using lithium, graphite, nickel, manganese, and cobalt.  Green Hydrogen
    • Exploration of alternative materials like silicon, LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate), and LFMP (additional manganese).
    • Mention of future developments, such as glass electrolytes and solid-state batteries.
  4. Battery Management and Integration:
    • Increase in operating voltages from 400V to 800V and potential plans for 900V to reduce wiring and copper requirements.
    • Streamlining wiring through wireless technology for individual cell control.
    • Simplification of internal battery structure using blade cells and integration into the vehicle’s body for structural support.
    • Emphasis on thermal management using thin radiative surfaces or immersing cells in a special dielectric liquid. Green Hydrogen
    • Significance of intelligent battery management software, utilizing artificial intelligence for enhanced performance and longevity.
  5. Inverter and Power Electronics:
    • Importance of the inverter in converting DC from the battery to AC for the electric motor.
    • Overview of current inverter materials, including SiC (silicon carbide) and future possibilities with GaN (gallium nitride).
    • Integration of the inverter into the propulsion unit for efficiency and space optimization.
  6. Electric Motor Advancements:
    • Evolution of electric motor designs, focusing on reducing copper and rare earth material usage.  Green Hydrogen
    • Introduction of various motor types, including synchronous and asynchronous motors.
    • Exploration of Eesm, I2Sm, and Sesm motors as alternatives that eliminate the need for rare earth magnets.
    • Integration of the motor, transmission, and power electronics into a single structural unit for improved efficiency and cooling.

In conclusion, the article delves into the ongoing advancements in electric vehicle technologies, providing insights into the future of sustainable and efficient mobility.

Electric Cars – A Glimpse into the Future

OECD projects mild global slowdown in 2024, a bit better 2025 growth

  • The latest OECD Economic Outlook projects global GDP growth of 2.9 per cent in 2023, followed by 2.7 per cent in 2024 and 3 per cent in 2025.
  • Asia is expected to continue to account for the bulk of global growth in 2024-25, as it has in 2023.  Green Hydrogen
  • Consumer price inflation is expected to ease gradually back towards central bank targets in most economies by 2025.

Global growth is set to remain modest, with the impact of the necessary monetary policy tightening, weak trade and lower business and consumer confidence being increasingly felt, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) latest Economic Outlook.

The outlook projects global GDP growth of 2.9 per cent in 2023, followed by a mild slowdown to 2.7 per cent in 2024 and a slight improvement to 3.0 per cent in 2025. Asia is expected to continue to account for the bulk of global growth in 2024-25, as it has in 2023.  Green Hydrogen

Consumer price inflation is expected to continue to ease gradually back towards central bank targets in most economies by 2025, as cost pressures moderate. Consumer price inflation in OECD countries is expected to decline from 7 per cent in 2023 to 5.2 per cent in 2024 and 3.8 per cent in 2025.

GDP growth in the United States is projected at 2.4 per cent in 2023, before slowing to 1.5 per cent in 2024, and then picking up slightly to 1.7 per cent in 2025 as monetary policy is expected to ease.  Green Hydrogen

In the euro area, which had been relatively hard hit by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and the energy price shock, GDP growth is projected at 0.6 per cent in 2023, before rising to 0.9 per cent in 2024 and 1.5 per cent in 2025.

China is expected to grow at a 5.2 per cent rate this year, before growth drops to 4.7 per cent in 2024 and 4.2 per cent in 2025 on the back of ongoing stresses in the real estate sector and continued high household saving rates.

“Over the longer term, our projections show a significant rise in government debt, in part as a result of a further slowdown in growth. Stronger efforts are needed to rebuild fiscal space, also by boosting growth.  Green Hydrogen

To secure stronger growth, we need to boost competition, investment and skills and improve multilateral co-operation to tackle common challenges, like reinvigorating global trade flows and delivering transformative action on climate change,” OECD secretary general Mathias Cormann said in a release.

Geopolitical tensions remain a key source of uncertainty and have risen further as a result of the evolving conflict following HAMAS attacks on Israel. Amid heightened geopolitical tensions and a longer-term decline in the trade intensity of growth, the anticipated cyclical pick-up in trade growth could fail to materialise.  Green Hydrogen

More… OECD projects mild global slowdown in 2024, a bit better 2025 growth

Ecological Mobility – This new material could change the world 02-12-2023

Green Hydrogen

Polymers Textiles – Europe’s Imperative: Countering Russia’s Bid for Hydrogen Market Supremacy 04-12-2023

Polymers Textiles

Polymers Textiles

  • Polymers : PET – r-PET – Filament grade semidull chips -Filament grade bright chips – Ny6 – Ny66 – PP
  • Feedstocks  PX – PTA – MEG – CPL – Adipic Acid – Benzene – ACN – Ethylene – Phenol – Naphtha
  • Textile : Polyester POY – DTY – FDY – PSF – Recycled Polyester POY – Nylon POY – DTY – FDY Spandex 20-30-40 -Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  Acrylic Staple Fiber 

Polymers Textiles

Polymers Textiles

Polyestertime
ITEM 27/11/2023 04/12/2023 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 6,825 yuan/ton 6,800 yuan/ton -25
Bottle grade PET chips export market 880 $/ton 875 $/ton -5
Filament grade Semidull chips domestic market 6,640 yuan/ton 6,640 yuan/ton –
Filament grade Bright chips domestic market 6,710 yuan/ton 6,680 yuan/ton -30
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market 5,725 yuan/ton 5,675 yuan/ton -50
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA export market 730 $/ton 720 $/ton -10
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,045 yuan/ton 4,040 yuan/ton -5
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 477 $/ton 480 $/ton +3
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market

Polymers Textiles

 999 $/ton 1,001 $/ton
 +2
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 976 $/ton 978 $/ton +2
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,045 $/ton 1,045 $/ton –
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,470  yuan/ton 7,500 yuan/ton
 +30
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,400 yuan/ton 7,500 yuan/ton +100
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 8,850 yuan/ton 8,850 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F

Polymers Textiles

 8,800 yuan/ton 8,825 yuan/ton +25
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market 8,100 yuan/ton 8,125 yuan/ton +25
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,350 yuan/ton 7,300 yuan/ton -50
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 13,200 yuan/ton 13,000 yuan/ton
 -200
Caprolactam CPL overseas  market 1,600 $/ton 1,600 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,830 $/ton 1,850 $/ton +20
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 14,150 yuan/ton 13,950 yuan/ton -200
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market

Polymers Textiles

 14,350 yuan/ton 14,300 yuan/ton -50
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market 20,000 yuan/ton 19,900 yuan/ton -100
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,450 yuan/ton 16,400 yuan/ton -50
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,600 yuan/ton 18,550 yuan/ton- -50
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,150 yuan/ton 17,150 yuan/ton –
Spandex 20D  domestic  market

Polymers Textiles

 36,100 yuan/ton 35,500 yuan/ton -600
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 34,600 yuan/ton 34,000 yuan/ton -600
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  31,600 yuan/ton 31,000 yuan/ton -600
Adipic Acid domestic market 8,775 yuan/ton 8,775 yuan/ton –
Benzene domestic market

Polymers Textiles

 7,300 yuan/ton 6,850 yuan/ton -450
Benzene overseas  market 872 $/ton 862 $/ton -10
Ethylene South East market 940 $/ton 940 $/ton –
Ethylene NWE market 749 $/ton 744 $/ton -5
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market

Polymers Textiles

 10,300 yuan/ton 9,900 yuan/ton -400
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF  domestic market 14,600 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton –
Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  domestic market 13,100 yuan/ton 12,900 yuan/ton -200
PP Powder domestic market

Polymers Textiles

 7,270 yuan/ton 7,300 yuan/ton +30
Naphtha overseas market  653 $/ton 667 $/ton +14
Phenol domestic market 8,275 yuan/ton 8,072 yuan/ton -203

r-PET high end eco-friendly chips =7,900 yuan/ton  — 7,900 yuan/ton   –

Polymers Textiles

Europe’s Imperative: Countering Russia’s Bid for Hydrogen Market Supremacy

In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Europe finds itself at a crucial juncture, compelled to address the looming threat of Russia’s bid to dominate the global hydrogen market. Joseph Hammond, a seasoned journalist and fellow at the African Union, underscores the profound impact of Russia’s actions on Europe’s energy landscape, spotlighting the region’s vulnerable dependence on Russian oil, coal, and gas.

Hammond cautions that Russia, emerging from the shadows of conflict, is strategically poised to reclaim economic prominence through a concerted focus on natural resources. Central to this agenda is Russia’s ambition to emerge as a key player in the burgeoning global hydrogen market.  Polymers Textiles

Drawing attention to Russia’s tactical deployment of its vast natural gas reserves and robust infrastructure, Hammond outlines the nation’s goal to secure a formidable one-fifth share of the global hydrogen market by 2030. The author raises a red flag about Europe’s limited capacity to produce green hydrogen, underlining the pivotal role of sustainably produced hydrogen derived from wind and other renewable sources in ensuring Europe’s future energy security.

In exploring potential alternatives, Hammond references a significant energy agreement between an Emirati energy giant and Azerbaijan’s national oil company. The focus of this collaboration is on offshore wind and green hydrogen projects, presenting a viable pathway for Europe to diversify its energy sources and meet its green hydrogen demands.

Azerbaijan, a reliable gas supplier to Europe, emerges as a strategic partner in Europe’s quest for energy diversification and green hydrogen production.

The article underscores the nation’s potential to play a pivotal role in countering Russia’s hydrogen dominance.  Polymers Textiles

Moreover, the author sheds light on the United Arab Emirates’ unwavering commitment to spearheading the post-carbon transition. With substantial investments in renewable energy projects, including a robust focus on hydrogen production, the UAE is positioned as a beacon of progress. The upcoming COP28, hosted by the UAE, is anticipated to prioritize green hydrogen on the global agenda, providing a platform for collaborative efforts.

In light of these developments, Hammond urges Europe to take immediate action to avert potentially exorbitant costs in the future. Recognizing the shifting geopolitical dynamics surrounding oil, the article emphasizes the imperative for Europe to proactively prepare for potential shocks in the 21st century, underlining the critical need to safeguard its energy security and economic interests.  Polymers Textiles

Europe's Imperative: Countering Russia's Bid for Hydrogen Market Supremacy

Certification of the recyclability of multilayer films containing polyamide expanded

  • New studies prove recycling compatibility for broad portfolio of polyethylene/polyamide structures
  • Adhesive-laminated polyamide multilayer films also tested and certified as compatible in the polyethylene film recycling stream
  • Important fundament for fact-based development of European “Design for Recycling” guidelines

Following the studies already conducted in 2021 on the recyclability of coextruded polyethylene/polyamide (PE/PA) multilayer films, the independent institute cyclos-HTP GmbH has completed further extensive investigations into the recyclability of multilayer films containing polyamide 6 (PA6) and ethyl vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymer.

The subjects of the studies commissioned by BASF SE are coextruded PE/PA6/EVOH high-barrier films as well as and laminated PA6/PE films in household packaging waste. It has now been demonstrated that these two film types are also compatible for recycling in the polyethylene film stream.  Polymers Textiles

“The results show that PE film waste streams containing PA can be processed without significant adjustments to the recycling process. The certification confirms the standard market practice of PA-containing film waste already being recycled by film manufacturers today,” says Dr. Matthias Zorn, Senior Manager Market Development Polyamides for extrusion applications at BASF.”

The compatibilizer, which is incorporated additionally into laminated structures to enable distribution of the PA component in the PE matrix, plays an important role. In coextruded structures, the already present tie layer used to bond PA and PE in the film becomes an effective compatibilizer during the recycling process.  Polymers Textiles

“If additional functionalized polyethylene (PE-g-MAH) is also added as a compatibilizer during primary film production, the polyamide is even recognized as a valuable material in the polyethylene recyclate by cyclos-HTP,” says Zorn.

More…

Polymers Textiles

Ecological Mobility – This new material could change the world 02-12-2023

Ecological Mobility

This new material could change the world

In the realm of scientific breakthroughs, a name has emerged that could potentially alter the course of technology and energy transmission: LK-99, a superconductor that has ignited both excitement and skepticism. While its nomenclature might sound like the protagonist from a sci-fi narrative, the implications of this discovery are no laughing matter.

Hailing from the laboratories of South Korean scientists, LK-99 boasts the tantalizing prospect of being a room-temperature superconductor, a quality that could revolutionize technology as we know it. Unlike traditional superconductors that demand frigid temperatures to function optimally, LK-99 claims to defy this constraint by exhibiting superconducting properties at ambient temperatures. Ecological Mobility

The essence of this breakthrough lies in the ability to conduct electricity without any resistance, a feature previously achievable only under extreme cooling conditions. This characteristic has confined superconductors to niche applications, such as quantum computers and particle accelerators, due to the impracticality of sustaining extremely low temperatures for general use.

The composition of LK-99 comprises copper, lead, phosphorus, and oxygen. However, the international scientific community, particularly in America and Europe, remains cautious and skeptical about its superconducting claims.  Ecological Mobility

According to some experts, the configuration of copper sulfide within the compound challenges the assertion of LK-99 being a genuine superconductor, suggesting it might be an insulator instead.

The unfolding saga of LK-99 underscores the precarious nature of scientific breakthroughs and the fine line between revolutionary discoveries and unfounded fantasies. As South Korean scientists champion the potential of this material, their global counterparts approach the claims with a healthy dose of skepticism.

The verdict on whether LK-99 will truly usher in a new era of room-temperature superconductors awaits the conclusion of further studies, leaving the scientific community and enthusiasts alike in suspense regarding the fate of this potentially world-changing material. Ecological Mobility

Ecological Mobility

Borealis to acquire Integra Plastics AD, an advanced mechanical recycling player based in Bulgaria

  • Borealis announces the signing of an agreement to acquire a 100 % stake in Integra Plastics AD, an advanced mechanical recycling player based in Bulgaria
  • The investment will strengthen Borealis’ advanced mechanical recycling portfolio, adding more than 20,000 tons of recycling capacity and support growing customer demand for sustainable solutions
  • The transaction is part of Borealis’ EverMinds™commitment to accelerate the transition to a circular economy and represents another critical proof point of that ambition

Borealis announces that it has signed an agreement for the acquisition of Integra Plastics AD, a Bulgarian advanced mechanical recycling player. Closing of this transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.  Ecological Mobility

Based in Elin Pelin, Bulgaria, Integra Plastics AD operates a modern advanced mechanical recycling plant built in 2019 with state-of-the-art equipment. Integra Plastics has the ability to transform post-consumer waste into high quality polyolefin recyclates suitable for demanding applications.

“In line with Borealis’ Strategy 2030, we continue making steady progress on our circularity journey by reinventing essentials for sustainable living. The addition of Integra Plastics AD will strengthen our ability to deliver on our advanced mechanical recycling ambition and enable our customers to meet their sustainability targets,” says Lucrèce Foufopoulos, Borealis Executive Vice President Polyolefins, Circular Economy Solutions and Innovation & Technology.  Ecological Mobility

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Ecological Mobility

Cyclyx Welcomes Again Technologies to its Consortium

Cyclyx International, a consortium-based, post-use plastic innovation company with a mission to increase the recyclability of plastic from 10% to 90%, announces Again Technologies has joined the Cyclyx Consortium.

A supply chain partner, Again Technologies has experience bringing forth creative and strategic solutions to help ensure there is “no plastic left behind.” Again Technologies, a DCO International Group company launched in 2021, is the next generation business of the longstanding leader in plastic recycling. Again Technologies focuses on the potential value of plastic to be used again and again, instead of being destined for landfill. The visionary and driving force behind Again Technologies, CEO Claudine Osipow, has shaped and steered the innovation with her entrepreneurial spirit and determination to “show rather than tell.”  Ecological Mobility

This performance-driven approach has yielded impressive results. As documented on their website, since 2016, Again has facilitated the recycling of nearly 500M pounds of plastic.

“The Again Technologies Team is excited to partner with the Cyclyx Consortium”, stated Claudine Osipow. “Our WHY has always been to provide true solutions to the many so-called impossible streams that are at end of life (EOL). This requires the ability to access new technologies as well as collaboration with new partners. The Cyclyx relationship gives Again Technologies new avenues to help our communities leave no plastic behind.”

“We are thrilled to have Again Technologies join the Cyclyx Consortium,” said Ron Sherga, Vice President, Membership Engagement at Cyclyx.  Ecological Mobility

“With our combined experience of nearly half a century; science-based know-how; and practical, real-world application expertise, we can broaden the scope and scalability of our companies’ sustainability. It is clear that Again is well suited to help support Cyclyx’s mission to increase the recyclability of post-use plastics.”

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Ecological Mobility

Construction of our recycled PET plant in Messein (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

Circular economy: Aloxe inaugurates its new recycled PET plastic manufacturing plant in Messei

Yesterday afternoon, on Thursday, November 16th, Aloxe inaugurated its new recycled PET plastic manufacturing plant in Messein (Meurthe-et-Moselle), in the presence of Julien Le Goff, Deputy Prefect, Secretary-General of Meurthe-et-Moselle Prefecture, Dominique Potier, MP for Meurthe-et-Moselle, Philippe Bolo, MP for Maine-et-Loire and an expert in this field, Audrey Bardot, VP of Meurthe-et-Moselle Departmental Council, Filipe Pinho, Chairman of the Moselle-Madon Federation of Municipalities, and Daniel Lagrange, Mayor of Messein.  Ecological Mobility

Aloxe’s €25 million investment in this new plant provides a practical, tried-and-tested technological solution that responds immediately to the major challenges of reusing and recycling single-use foodgrade plastic bottles and, more broadly to the environmental transition in France and Europe.

In a mere two years, Aloxe has consolidated and accelerated its industrial development in France by opening the largest recycled PET manufacturing plant in the country, increasing its production capacity from 12.5 kt to 50 kt. In 2024, Aloxe will be independent leader in Recycled PET in Europe, with a 120kt capacity in France, Poland and Italy.

The new Messein plant, the largest recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) production facility in France  Ecological Mobility

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Circular economy: Aloxe inaugurates its new recycled PET plastic manufacturing plant in Messei

ECHA report confirms that regulatory action is needed on PVC and its additives

NGOs call on the European Commission to phase-out PVC by 2030

Civil society organisations welcome the publication of the investigation report on PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and its additives by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The findings clearly indicate environmental damage and harm to health from some substances added to PVC and the release of its microparticles.

More than 60 environmental NGOs are calling on the European Commission to phase-out PVC by 2030.

Therefore they are pushing for a restriction on the harmful plastic and its additives under the REACH regulation.  Ecological Mobility

The ECHA report sheds light on the damaging health and environmental impacts that PVC poses, some of which have been known for decades. The harmfulness of its additives is highlighted. ECHA moreover confirms the existence of safe alternatives across applications. The report supports the conclusion that we need immediate action by EU policy makers to reduce the risks of PVC and its additives. We therefore ask the Commission to act on PVC, as set out in the Restrictions Roadmap under the Chemical Strategy for Sustainability, and swiftly mandate ECHA to prepare an ambitious restriction under the REACH regulation as a first step to facilitate a complete phase-out of this material by 2030.  Ecological Mobility

The NGOs see the need for this restriction to not only include single problematic substances or groups of additives, but also the production, use and placing on the market of PVC itself.  Only essential uses of PVC, for which no safer alternatives are available and which are needed to protect our health or safety or are critical for society – should in their view be allowed under strictly controlled conditions.

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ECHA report confirms that regulatory action is needed on PVC and its additives

Ecological Mobility and Kinetic Energy Harvesting

In the ever-evolving landscape of clean energy, the focus on ecological mobility goes beyond electric vehicles, delving into harnessing untapped energy from vehicles themselves. This article explores the transformation of kinetic energy from decelerating vehicles into electricity, presenting a groundbreaking Italian innovation – the “Kinetic Energy Harvesting from Vehicles” (KEHV) project.  Ecological Mobility

The heart of this technology is the Italian-made Lybra module, developed by startup “20energy,” which efficiently converts kinetic energy during deceleration or braking into electricity. The project, led by the Aspi Center of Excellence for Research and Innovation, is currently undergoing experimentation on the Italian highway network, particularly the Tuscan stretch of the A1.

Preliminary estimates suggest that a single Lybra module could potentially generate up to 30,000 kWh annually from an average daily passage of 9,000 vehicles. This innovation holds promising environmental benefits, potentially saving significant amounts of CO2 emissions and offering a sustainable energy source.  Ecological Mobility

The article details specific pilot projects at toll booths and service areas, highlighting potential energy production and emissions reduction. Notably, the technology’s advantages over traditional photovoltaics include its ability to predictably generate kinetic energy day and night, regardless of weather conditions. The compact underground platforms require minimal space and offer a viable alternative to photovoltaic systems.

The KEHV project aligns with the broader “Mercury Smart Sustainable Mobility” program, aiming to establish a unified hub for technological innovation in transportation. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Autostrade per l’Italia group to modernize assets, enhance infrastructure sustainability, and contribute actively to the global decarbonization and digitization efforts in the realm of transportation.  Ecological Mobility

As the experiment progresses, the potential incorporation of this kinetic energy harvesting system into broader sustainability initiatives is anticipated, illustrating a forward-looking approach to revolutionize energy resilience within highway infrastructure.

Ecological Mobility and Kinetic Energy Harvesting

Techtextil Texprocess – Innovative and Eco-Friendly Food-Packaging Leader Inno-Pak Acquires Albany Packaging 01-12-2023

Ecological Mobility

Techtextil Texprocess – Innovative and Eco-Friendly Food-Packaging Leader Inno-Pak Acquires Albany Packaging 01-12-2023

Techtextil Texprocess

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Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Net-zero ethylene and polyethylene for Dow in Canada

Dow, a leading chemical manufacturer, has received board approval for a substantial investment in the Path2Zero project, a groundbreaking initiative set in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada, with an estimated cost of $6.5 billion. This strategic move aligns with Dow’s ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by the year 2050. The pivotal components of this venture include the construction of a state-of-the-art ethylene cracker and a substantial increase in polyethylene capacity by 2 million metric tonnes annually.

Anticipated to yield significant returns, Dow foresees a growth of $1 billion in core profits per year at full operational capacity for the net-zero emissions facility. The company is slated to commence construction activities in 2024, with the gradual introduction of additional capacities in phases.  Techtextil Texprocess

The initial phase, scheduled to commence operations in 2027, is projected to contribute around 1,285 kilo tonnes per annum (KTA) of ethylene and polyethylene capacity. The subsequent phase, set to initiate operations in 2029, will add an extra 600 KTA of capacity.

Dow’s expansion aims to address burgeoning customer demands in lucrative markets such as packaging, infrastructure, and hygiene. Additionally, the company envisions potential benefits from the commercialization of low and zero-emissions products. In a bid to meet environmental targets, Dow has committed to reducing its net annual carbon emissions by 15% by 2030, relative to its 2020 baseline, and ultimately achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.  Techtextil Texprocess

This significant development follows Dow’s recent long-term supply agreement with New Energy Blue, a bio-conversion company, reinforcing Dow’s commitment to sustainability. The agreement focuses on sourcing plastic materials derived from corn residue, marking a pivotal stride towards integrating renewable energy sources into its production processes. As Dow celebrates its board-approved investment, the company solidifies its dedication to pioneering eco-friendly practices and fostering sustainable growth in the chemical manufacturing industry.

Techtextil Texprocess

New packaging waste regulation draft could prove controversial

The latest draft of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) – which passed its plenary vote in the EU Parliament on Wednesday 22 November – brings further sweeping changes to the proposed legislation, some of which are likely to prove controversial.  Techtextil Texprocess

The wide-ranging changes from the initial draft, many of which are in line with the European Parliament’s Committee on Environment (ENVI)’s proposed amendments from October, include:

  • A watering down of minimum recycled content and collection targets at member state and company level
  • The acceptance of bio-based material as potentially counting towards 50% recycled content targets
  • Exemptions for linings in recycled content targets and recyclability assessments, which could encourage the use of difficult-to-recycle paper and cardboard food-contact packaging
  • Exemptions from recyclability assessments for wood and wax packaging
  • Bans on the intentional addition of bisphenol A (BPA) and per-and-polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) in packaging
  • Labelling obligations and data provision obligations – including making information publicly available  Techtextil Texprocess
  • An extension of Extended Producer Responsibility obligations, which would include member states using fees collected to support collection infrastructure and make producers/distributors responsible for covering recycling fees
  • A push towards ‘regulated value chains’
  • Further amendments to the definition of recycling, tying the PPWR to directive 2008/98/EC, as well as the legislation’s own definition of recycling
  • Amendments to mandated Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) proposals
  • Changes to reuse and refill targets, including adding requirements that it must be reusable ‘multiple times’ to the reuse definition
  • Including online retailers into many of the PPWR obligations
  • The setting up of a ‘Packaging Forum’ made up of value chain stakeholders to vet future legislation and targets

The legislation still needs to go through the trilogue stage, where recommendations from the EU Council and other stakeholders will be debated, before it is adopted, and the final version could look quite different from the version voted on by the Plenary.

At a minimum it is likely to provoke heated discussion and lobbying from all sides of the various packaging value chains.  Techtextil Texprocess

Recycled content targets

What will most likely prove one of the most hotly-debated changes under the latest version of the PPWR is the incorporation of ENVI’s proposed amendment on the acceptance of bio-based plastics as counting towards up to 50% of mandated recycled content targets in packaging.

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Techtextil Texprocess

APR joins Canada Plastics Pact

The APR will provide its industry perspective and technical expertise to support the CPP in its goals to eliminate plastic waste and create a circular plastics economy.

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), Washington, has joined the Ottawa, Ontario-based Canada Plastics Pact (CPP), which aims to eliminate plastic waste and pollution by bringing together businesses, government, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and other key stakeholders in the Canadian plastics value chain. Techtextil Texprocess

The APR says the two organizations share the common goal of creating a circular plastics economy, where plastic is kept in the economy and out of people, animals and the environment. The APR will join CPP’s more than 98 partners from across the plastics value chain that are taking steps to eliminate what they deem unnecessary and problematic plastics, redesign packaging and bolster their usage of recycled plastic.

“The Canada Plastics Pact is helping to shape important discussions on the management of postconsumer plastics and convening leaders across the value chain committed to solutions,” APR President and CEO Steve Alexander says. “APR’s tools and resources are endorsed and aligned internationally.  Techtextil Texprocess

This partnership is part of larger harmonization efforts across the globe including APR’s work to align North America’s design for recyclability guidance with Europe’s RecyClass. By working together, we will help achieve an effective and robust plastics recycling system in Canada and beyond.”

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Techtextil Texprocess

Ferrarelle Società Benefit relies on Sidel’s aseptic technology for its new range of functional water and teas

Ferrarelle Società Benefit partners with Sidel to install its first ever aseptic line at the Boario plant to produce its product range of Vitasnella ‘Le Linfe’ functional water and teas. With natural ingredients and a mix of flavours, the products have been designed with consumers well-being in mind, promoting a 360-degree healthy lifestyle.  Techtextil Texprocess
Ferrarelle Società Benefit, one of the largest mineral water producers in Italy well-known for its unique naturally sparkling water properties, bottles “Boario”, “Vitasnella” and “Fonte Essenziale” mineral waters at its Boario plant.
Close to the picturesque Iseo Lake, the plant sources its water from the mountains close to the factory.
This strategic location allows Boario to produce uniquely bottled mineral water with health-enhancing properties.
Ferrarelle Società Benefit chose Sidel’s Aseptic Combi Predis technology to produce its new range of functional water and teas.
Sidel supported the company in installing its aseptic technology to ensure a high-end taste experience, product integrity and a long shelf-life, utilising its Predis™ dry preform decontamination solution – a safe, hygienic, cost-effective way of packaging a variety of sensitive beverages.    Techtextil Texprocess
By installing Sidel’s Aseptic Combi Predis to produce Vitasnella ‘Le Linfe’ product range, Boario’s line is capable of handling two different formats, 0.5 litres and 1.25 litres, and achieves 18,000 bottles per hour.
This system ensures full production sterility, beverage integrity and food safety with easy operations.“‘Le Linfe’ functional waters and tea ranges are extremely important for us and we wanted to avoid any potential risks. That’s why we decided to turn to Sidel, given their extensive expertise in aseptic technology,” said Nicola Tignonsini, Operations Director at Ferrarelle.

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Innovative and Eco-Friendly Food-Packaging Leader Inno-Pak Acquires Albany Packaging

Increases Integrated Manufacturing Capabilities, Creates an Even More Resilient Supply Chain and Expands Product Portfolio in Paper

Inno-Pak, LLC (“Inno-Pak” or the “Company”), a portfolio company of Emerald Lake Capital Management and a leading designer, manufacturer, importer and supplier of innovative, eco-friendly packaging for prepared and takeout foods, today announced that it has acquired Albany Packaging Inc. (“Albany”).  Techtextil Texprocess

“We are excited to add Albany’s facilities, products and people to Inno-Pak as we strive to bring our world-class customers the best packaging available anywhere”

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Albany specializes in the design and manufacture of custom and stock folding paperboard cartons, including bakery boxes and food packaging items such as trays and takeout boxes. Albany has a manufacturing facility in Ontario, Canada, which services customers across the food service, grocery and convenience store channels.

“We are excited to add Albany’s facilities, products and people to Inno-Pak as we strive to bring our world-class customers the best packaging available anywhere,” said Chris Sanzone, Chief Executive Officer of Inno-Pak.  Techtextil Texprocess

“This acquisition increases our North American integrated manufacturing capabilities and marks a crucial step in our manufacturing expansion plan to create an even more resilient supply chain. Albany also deepens our ongoing investments in paper capacity as we continue to innovate to make packaging more eco-friendly.”

Jon Sill, Chairman of Inno-Pak, added, “Inno-Pak stands at an important inflection point with several favorable trends in our end markets of the food service, grocery, convenience store and hospitality industries. The acquisition of Albany enhances our ability to capitalize on these positive trends with one of the most diverse custom and stock folding carton programs. With our recent portfolio additions and our continued investments in innovation, we are better positioned to serve our customers.”  Techtextil Texprocess

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Innovative and Eco-Friendly Food-Packaging Leader Inno-Pak Acquires Albany Packaging

SABIC & CJ Cheiljedang collaborate on RTE rice packaging bowls made with 25% certified renewable PP

Instant white rice packaged in thermoformed food-contact polypropylene bowls with 25% renewable content offering high dimensional stability and heat resistance for microwaving

SABIC, a global leader in the chemicals industry, has announced that a food-contact grade of its TRUCIRCLE portfolio of certified renewable polypropylene (PP) resins is used in the production of Hetbahn ‘햇반’ instant white rice packaging bowls by CJ CheilJedang, a South Korea-based global food company. The rigid bowls are the first of their kind using certified renewable PP in a ready-to-eat-rice packaging in Asia Pacific and align with CJ’s strong ‘Nature to Nature’ sustainability roadmap.  Techtextil Texprocess

Mohammed Al-Zahrani, vice president of SABIC’s Polypropylene Business, comments, “Food brands around the world are increasingly looking for materials that will help them reduce their carbon footprint without compromising the performance, convenience and food safety of their packaging.

We are very pleased about this opportunity to demonstrate SABIC’s vast expertise in sustainable PP resins for rigid food containers. Our certified renewable grade from our TRUCIRCLE portfolio used in CJ’s Hetbahn rice bowls meet the food-contact regulations, and offers the same ease of processing and high end-use quality as competitive all-virgin polymers.”

The Hetbahn brand, which is one of the top brands in cooked rice and now expanding its product portfolio to include porridge, frozen rice, cooked rice with soup etc., was originally launched in 1996 and means freshly harvested and cooked rice and has changed consumers’ perception of Korean rice meal culture. The rice grain is polished in a strict raw material process, cooked the same day and packed in a sterile environment so that the delicious taste of the rice can be preserved. Techtextil Texprocess

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SABIC & CJ Cheiljedang collaborate on RTE rice packaging bowls made with 25% certified renewable PP

Discover how next Techtextil and Texprocess show see the future

From 23 April to 26 April 2024, Frankfurt am Main will host the upcoming editions of Techtextil and Texprocess 2024, two trade shows focused on presenting the latest innovations, textile solutions and networking in the international textile industry hosting more than 1,600 exhibitors from about 50 countries, welcoming global buyers and decision makers from more than 90 nations.  Techtextil Texprocess

To mark the occasion, the two events will organize well-known formats such as the Techtextil Innovation Award and the Texprocess Innovation Award, as well as the Techtextil Forum and the Texprocess Forum.
Visitors to Techtextil will enjoy the Nature Performance space, the special exhibition Future Materials, and the Denim Hub. In addition, Texprocess will present an area dedicated to emerging markets
“The textile industry is going through a phase of very rapid transformation, and participants will take the advantage to stay ahead of the curve, present innovations to a global audience, and find new solutions and business partners,” explained Olaf Schmidt, vice president Textiles & Textile Technologies, Messe Frankfurt.

Techtextil will offer the opportunity to discover a vast range of products aimed at many industries, including, along with fashion, the automotive, medicine and construction sectors.  Techtextil Texprocess
During the event, companies will present the latest developments in fibers and yarns, nonwovens, composites, coated technical textiles, technologies, and more, and often for the first time in public.

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Discover how next Techtextil and Texprocess show see the future

Automotive recycling – Exceptional : Hyundai develops new technology that reduces the size of its electric motors 30-11-2023

Techtextil Texprocess

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