Category: biodegradable food packaging

Nylon fibers

INVISTA, a key player in the nylon 6,6 and polypropylene sectors, has announced plans to explore strategic options for its nylon fibers division

This encompasses INVISTA’s fiber-centric portfolio, including airbag and industrial fibers, CORDURA® businesses, and five global manufacturing sites in Seaford, Delaware; Martinsville, Virginia; Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Gloucester, UK; and Qingpu, China.

Francis Murphy, President and CEO of INVISTA, stated, “As part of our Principle Based Management™ approach, we regularly evaluate asset value to ensure optimal ownership for growth. While nylon fibers are valuable, we believe other companies may unlock greater potential. However, if not, we’ll maintain operations.”  Nylon fibers

Regardless of any potential divestment, INVISTA commits to serving its global nylon and propylene customers with intermediates, polymers, and specialty chemicals. Proceeding with the exploration would streamline operations, reinforcing focus on core upstream businesses.

The nylon fiber division forms a significant part of INVISTA’s operations, and specifics of any potential deal remain confidential. Barclays has been enlisted as Exclusive Financial Advisor for this process. Nylon fibers

The Challenge of PMMA Recycling: A Shift Towards Chemical Solutions

In the realm of plastics recycling, Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), commonly known as acrylic or plexiglass, presents a unique challenge. PMMA is widely used for its clarity, strength, and resistance to UV light and weathering, making it a popular material in various industries, from construction to advertising. However, its recycling process is not as straightforward as other plastics.

Mechanical Recycling Limitations

Mechanical recycling, the process of grinding, melting, and remolding plastic waste, is limited when it comes to PMMA. Nylon fibers

This is due to PMMA’s properties, which can degrade when exposed to high temperatures during the recycling process. Additionally, PMMA waste streams often contain additives, colors, and other types of plastics, which can contaminate the recycled product. As a result, only PMMA waste that is clean, clear, and free from contaminants is suitable for mechanical recycling. This represents a small fraction of PMMA waste, leaving the majority either landfilled or incinerated.

Landfill and Incineration Issues

Landfilling PMMA waste is not a sustainable solution. It consumes valuable land resources and can lead to environmental contamination. Incineration, while recovering some energy, releases carbon dioxide and potentially harmful compounds into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and climate change.  Nylon fibers

Chemical Recycling: A Promising Alternative

Faced with these challenges, the plastic industry is increasingly turning to chemical recycling. This process involves breaking down PMMA waste into its molecular components using chemicals or heat. The resulting monomers can then be purified and repolymerized into new PMMA, effectively closing the loop on the plastic lifecycle.

Advantages of Chemical Recycling

Chemical recycling offers several advantages over mechanical methods. It can handle a broader range of PMMA waste, including contaminated or colored material. It also has the potential to produce PMMA with properties equivalent to virgin material, which is crucial for high-value applications.

Furthermore, chemical recycling reduces the reliance on fossil fuels for new PMMA production, aligning with the principles of a circular economy. Nylon fibers

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its benefits, chemical recycling is not without challenges. It requires significant energy input and the use of potentially hazardous chemicals. The infrastructure for chemical recycling is still in development, and the process must be optimized to be cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

As the industry progresses, advancements in catalysts and process design are making chemical recycling more viable. Companies are investing in research and pilot projects to scale up this technology.

With continued innovation and support from policies that encourage recycling and sustainability, chemical recycling could play a pivotal role in managing PMMA waste and reducing the environmental impact of plastics. Nylon fibers

PE prices decreased at domestic trades in Uzbekistan

In the first quarter of 2024, Uzbekistan’s domestic polyethylene (PE) market saw a slight 1% decrease in sales volume year-on-year, with approximately 39,600 tonnes traded through the Uzbek Republican Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange (UZEX). The primary sellers were the Shurtan Gas-Chemical Complex and the UZ-KOR GAS CHEMICAL JV. Film and injection molded PE types dominated the market, holding 35% and 22% shares, respectively, followed by blown PE brands at 17% and pipe PE at 16%.

Price trends for all PE types on the stock exchange from January to March 2024 indicated a general decline. Nylon fibers

January prices started at 16.9 million soums per ton, which then fell to 16.5 million in February, and further dipped to 16 million soums per ton in March.

Geographically, Tashkent and its surrounding region accounted for nearly half of the PE purchases, with a 49% share. Notably, the Fergana region’s share rose from 11% to 18% compared to the previous year, while the Samarkand region also saw an increase from 12% to 15%. Additionally, the Namangan region contributed to 6% of the total sales. These figures reflect a shifting landscape in regional demand within the country’s PE market. Nylon fibers

Toray Industries has indeed made a significant advancement by developing a biodegradable spherical polyamide 4 fine particle

This innovation is particularly important as it addresses the environmental concerns associated with microplastics in the oceans. The company’s efforts to replace conventional non-biodegradable particles used in cosmetics with these new biodegradable particles align with global regulatory moves to limit and eventually ban microplastics.

The development of these particles also showcases Toray’s commitment to overcoming technical challenges, such as finding suitable solvents for polyamide 4 and managing its high melting point and thermal properties. Nylon fibers

Their success in producing these particles using proprietary technology is a testament to their extensive R&D efforts.

With the safety verification process completed and cosmetic ingredient labeling obtained, Toray is now collaborating with cosmetics manufacturers to assess the particles and establish a mass production structure. This step is crucial for the commercialization of the product, which is targeted by the end of March 2025.

Furthermore, Toray’s ongoing R&D into biomass-based biodegradable polymer particles reflects its dedication to sustainability and its vision for 2050, aiming to contribute to a world where resources are sustainably managed.  Nylon fibers

Sabic is downsizing its operations in Europe, particularly at the Chemelot Industrial Park in Geleen, the Netherlands

As part of a scheduled maintenance shutdown, one of the cracking units, Olefins 3, will be halted for three months. This move is part of Sabic’s strategy to optimize its operations, improve efficiency, and invest in sustainability at the Geleen site.

Olefins 3, which started in 1973 and has a production capacity of 550,000 tonnes per year of ethylene and 260,000 tonnes per year of propylene, will not be restarted after the maintenance works. Instead, it will be dismantled. Meanwhile, Olefins 4, with a nominal capacity of 675,000 tonnes per year of ethylene and 485,000 tonnes per year of propylene, will continue operating as usual.  Nylon fibers

The company’s future plans for the Geleen site involve portfolio optimization and the ongoing construction of the Sabic and Plastic Energy chemical recycling plant, aligning with its sustainability goals.

Sabic’s financial performance in 2023 saw a significant decline, with sales dropping by 23% compared to the previous year, totaling 141.5 billion riyals (approximately $37.7 billion).  Nylon fibers

Swedish Tyre Recycling, or SDAB, has inked a deal to supply tyre raw materials for the forthcoming tyre pyrolysis plant in Uddevalla, Sweden

This plant, being constructed by a joint venture between Antin Infrastructure Partners and Scandinavian Enviro Systems, will employ Enviro’s pioneering technology. This technology facilitates the production of sought-after recovered Carbon Black (rCB) and Pyrolysis Oil from sorted and processed End-of-Life Tyres (ELTs), thus establishing a fully circular supply chain. Under the strategic agreement, SDAB will deliver a substantial volume of ELTs collected annually in Sweden, with shipments starting in 2025.

Fredrik Ardefors, CEO of Swedish Tyre Recycling, expressed satisfaction in being chosen to supply this innovative plant, emphasizing their commitment to quality and reliable delivery. Nylon fibers

Stefano Madeddu, General Manager of the joint venture’s Swedish operations, highlighted their significant investment in building this flagship ELT recycling plant. He sees it as a model for future endeavors across Europe, aiming to set the highest standards for a fully circular economy in tyre recycling.

Fredrik Ardefors emphasized their ongoing quest for better tyre recycling solutions and hailed Enviro’s pyrolysis technology as a milestone. He sees the agreement as validation of their sorting and customization efforts. Nylon fibers

Kobe University engineers bacteria to manufacture green plastic

Experts at Kobe University in Japan have pioneered an innovative method to produce green plastic.

The team of bioengineers are leveraging bacteria to create a plastic modifier that yields renewably sourced, more processable, green plastic.

The novel sustainable plastic process has industrial-scale production potential, a development that could make the industry more environmentally friendly.

A paradigm shift in plastic production

Plastic, an indispensable component of modern civilisation, has long been associated with environmental degradation due to its persistence and reliance on non-renewable resources like crude oil. Nylon fibers

Seeking a sustainable plastic alternative, researchers have turned to polylactic acid (PLA) derived from plants. However, PLA’s inherent brittleness and poor degradability have hindered its widespread adoption.

To surmount these challenges, Kobe University’s bioengineers and Kaneka Corporation ventured have collaborated.

Electric cars – Introducing Winter Proof: the solution to the cold weather dilemma faced by electric car batteries 12-04-2024

Nylon fibers

Post-consumer packaging

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Graham Packaging reports recycling progress

Global plastics packaging producer, which runs its own recycling facility, also advocates for national clarity on recyclability messaging.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania-based Graham Packaging, within its 2023 environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, says the mechanical recycling plant it operates in York, Pennsylvania, reprocessed some 17,850 tons of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic scrap last year.

“Our mechanical recycling facility is one of the largest plastic recycling plants in the United States,” the company says in its recently released report.  Post-consumer packaging

The York-based Graham Recycling Co. (GRC) is focused on recycling No. 2 HDPE bottles into postconsumer resin (PCR) in an effort that has helped Graham to become a “leading supplier of bottle-grade recycled plastic containers in North America.”

“The GRC plays a critical role in our mission to create a circular economy by providing access to large volumes of recycled content for packaging production,” the company says. “It also represents Graham’s commitment to leadership in environmental responsibility—saving energy and natural resources while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions by diverting hundreds of millions of pounds of plastic from landfills.”  Post-consumer packaging

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At Techtextil Frankfurt, slated for late April 2024, Kelheim Fibres and Gebrüder Otto will jointly unveil a more sustainable and efficient concept for period underwear

Positioned at the BW-i and IVGT joint stands in Hall 12.1, these innovation partners will showcase their solution crafted from biobased materials, featuring exceptional performance metrics. The specialized viscose fibers, provided by Kelheim, are skillfully spun by Gebrüder Otto into tailored compositions.

Women typically consume around 15,000 hygiene products in a lifetime, predominantly disposables notorious for generating substantial waste. These products, laden with plastic, endure decomposition times of up to 500 years, fragmenting into increasingly smaller pieces over time. The shift towards sustainable female hygiene products, spanning biodegradable disposables and reusable alternatives like washable period panties, has gained momentum.  Post-consumer packaging

Kelheim Fibres and Gebrüder Otto intervene in this space, endeavoring to optimize the comfort, performance, and sustainability of period underwear. Crafting such garments resembles piecing together a complex puzzle, considering their multifaceted layers with distinct functions. For instance, the topsheet must swiftly absorb and redirect liquid away from the body, while the acquisition-distribution layer (ADL) ensures efficient liquid distribution within the absorbent core, which subsequently encloses the liquid to prevent potential leaks. This concerted effort aims to enhance both the sustainability and functionality of reusable products, aligning with evolving consumer preferences and ecological imperatives. Post-consumer packaging

PET, production and recycling in Europe

An extensive report on packaging applications in Europe has been released jointly by ICIS and four supply chain associations, referencing data from 2022

ICIS, in collaboration with Plastics Recyclers Europe, Petcore Europe, Unesda, and NMWE, delved into the European PET market, covering production, transformation, recovery, recycling, and reuse of recycled materials, all within the scope of 2022. The study encompasses the 27 EU Member States along with Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

Analysts report that in 2022, approximately 5 million tonnes of PET were introduced to the packaging market, with 3.1 million tonnes utilized for beverage bottles, and 2.69 million tonnes collected for recycling (30% via DRS systems), yielding roughly 1.9 million tonnes of rPET.  Post-consumer packaging

Collection rates for PET packaging from consumption sources reached 60%, a significant increase from 40% in 2020. For bottles alone, the recycling collection rate surged to 75% from 61% two years prior.

The average recycled content in PET beverage bottles across the EU stands at 24%, falling short of the 2025 target, while for trays it reaches 44%. PET recycling capacities, estimated at 3 million tonnes, exceed short-term demand triggered by the SUP Directive, which is approximately 800,000 tonnes annually. To meet the new Packaging Regulation’s target of 65% recycled content by 2040, an additional 3.5 million tonnes of recycling capacity will be necessary.  Post-consumer packaging

However, despite positive strides, the study highlights regional differences in collection rates and recycled content, emphasizing the importance of enhancing waste sorting and collection infrastructure to achieve long-term self-sufficiency in PET recycling.

Italy : Corepla and RES have joined forces in a partnership aimed at advancing the recycling of PET trays, focusing on post-consumer packaging recovery

The collaboration targets enhancing collection and recycling methods to notably elevate plastic packaging recovery rates.

RES will contribute its research center in Pozzilli (IS), featuring state-of-the-art equipment for characterizing polymeric materials and facilities for compounding and molding processes. This partnership signifies more than a mere agreement for Giovanni Bellomi, Corepla’s Director, who envisions it as a catalyst for addressing environmental challenges and promoting global waste management reform. By embracing a multifaceted approach to research and innovation, they aspire to bolster the circular economy’s principles, minimizing waste and maximizing material recycling while prioritizing environmental and social sustainability.  Post-consumer packaging

Antonio Lucio Valerio, RES’s CEO, underscores their commitment to sustainable waste management practices, emphasizing their comprehensive approach from waste selection to transformation. Through investments in advanced technologies, RES aims to valorize waste materials, converting them into valuable resources. Their dedication to sustainability and innovation positions them to effectively turn waste into assets, contributing to a more environmentally conscious future.

SIBUR is shifting its business management approach from product-oriented divisions to an industry-centric model starting April 2024

This transformation aims to bolster sectors like polypropylene, polyethylene, and synthetic rubber. Departing from its current structure, the company will introduce industry-based segments including Agribusiness, Recycling, Flexible Packaging, Rigid Packaging, Engineering and Transportation Infrastructure, Healthcare, Oil & Gas Processing and Production, Consumer Goods, Construction, Transportation, E-commerce, and Partnerships.  Post-consumer packaging

Since 2014, SIBUR has consistently expanded its capacity, with core product output more than doubling. In 2023 alone, it introduced 27 new petrochemical grades with an annual sales potential of 111,000 tons. The ongoing augmentation of the Amur Gas Chemical Complex and the forthcoming launch of the polypropylene production facility (DGP-2) in Tobolsk will further elevate Russia’s polymer consumption. These initiatives are expected to advance import substitution programs for products crafted from contemporary synthetic materials.

SIBUR envisions nurturing every petrochemical-consuming industry comprehensively, catering to escalating demands, and advocating for the utilization of cutting-edge materials.  Post-consumer packaging

Businesses in Russia see no problem with banning some types of PET bottles

Russian businesses are largely unperturbed by the Industry and Trade Ministry’s suggestion to prohibit certain varieties of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles. However, there is apprehension that this initiative might expand to target other PET packaging types, according to the food industry association Rusprodsoyuz.

Dmitry Vostrikov, executive director of Rusprodsoyuz, stated that the proposed ban isn’t causing significant concern among businesses as it’s unlikely to disrupt food production processes, given the infrequent use of the targeted packaging materials. The Ministry’s draft resolution aims to ban specific PET packaging types deemed non-recyclable or difficult to recycle from September 1, 2024.  Post-consumer packaging

The resolution, available on regulation.gov.ru, proposes banning semitransparent PET bottles of all colors except blue, green, and brown, as well as nontransparent PET bottles except white ones. Additionally, PET packaging with wrap-around PVC labels and multilayer PET bottles would be prohibited.

However, Vostrikov expressed discontent with the approach to imposing bans, warning of potential negative repercussions for the sector. He emphasized the need to enhance packaging material recycling technology rather than pursuing a ban-centric strategy.

Rusprodsoyuz, comprising over 450 stakeholders in Russia’s food industry, including farmers, processors, distributors, and technology suppliers, underscores the industry’s diverse concerns and perspectives.  Post-consumer packaging

The demand for recyclable packaging is on the rise globally, particularly in developed nations

In response, US beverage manufacturers are increasingly transitioning from traditional PET bottles to recycled PET (rPET) bottles to reduce carbon emissions and promote a circular economy, reports GlobalData.

Consumer Analyst Mani Bhushan Shukla notes the US’s commitment to a circular economy, with targets set by the Environmental Protection Agency to achieve a 50% national recycling rate by 2030. Shifting to rPET packaging is seen as the most feasible way for consumer goods companies to meet sustainability goals.  Post-consumer packaging

To meet these targets, beverage manufacturers are actively adopting rPET bottles. Major players like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Asahi have already introduced 100% rPET bottles for their popular brands, with Califia Farms joining in March 2024.

Shukla emphasizes the role of consumer interest in driving this shift, citing GlobalData’s consumer survey where 62% of US consumers considered recyclable packaging claims important in their purchasing decisions.

Looking ahead, Shukla predicts that companies will face increasing pressure from various stakeholders, including the government and environmentally conscious consumers, to further adopt rPET packaging. This adaptation will be crucial for long-term consumer attraction and retention.  Post-consumer packaging

Molecular recycling – Dow and Procter & Gamble to develop a new proprietary recycling technology targeting hard-to-recycle plastic waste 28-03-2024

Post-consumer packaging

Waste depolymerization

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An environmental organization initiated legal action against the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

The lawsuit’s objective is to compel the DOE to disclose documents detailing its interactions with the plastics industry. This request for transparency centers around a DOE research initiative aimed at enhancing chemical recycling and advancing alternative methods to manage plastic waste.

The environmental group’s legal challenge underscores the growing public concern over plastic pollution and the need for effective waste management solutions. By targeting the DOE, the group seeks to shed light on the department’s efforts to collaborate with the plastics industry in developing technologies that could mitigate the environmental impact of plastic waste. Waste depolymerization

Chemical recycling is a process that breaks down plastic polymers into their constituent monomers, which can then be repurposed to create new plastics. This technology is seen as a potential game-changer in the recycling industry, offering a way to handle plastics that are currently non-recyclable through traditional mechanical methods.

The lawsuit reflects the tension between environmental advocacy and industrial interests in the context of environmental policy and innovation. The environmental group’s action is a call for accountability and transparency, emphasizing the public’s right to know how government agencies are addressing the critical issue of plastic waste in collaboration with industry stakeholders.

The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the future of plastic waste management and environmental protection. Waste depolymerization

Side embarks on its US market journey with Side America Corp., a testament to its commitment to global expansion

This move marks a significant milestone, as the company aims to bolster its presence and cater directly to the American market’s needs. By establishing sales and service operations within the USA, Side ensures seamless interactions for its clients, emphasizing its dedication to tailored solutions and support.

The introduction of Side’s advanced linear PET blow moulding machines signifies a leap forward in efficiency, precision, and production capacity, pushing the boundaries of PET blow moulding technology. Moreover, Side prioritizes sustainability by offering eco-friendly packaging solutions, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally-conscious options among bottle makers’ clientele. Waste depolymerization

The expansion into the USA demonstrates Side’s readiness to forge enduring partnerships and thrive in the region, supported by a dedicated team proficient in navigating the complexities of the American market. With expertise in crafting intricate PET designs, Side showcases its ability to shape unique forms and structures, while maintaining operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness to deliver tangible value to clients.

At NPE, Side America Corp. will unveil cutting-edge PET preform blow moulding solutions tailored to the American market’s needs. Attendees can expect a diverse range of innovative technologies and equipment designed for efficiency, precision, and optimal packaging performance.

Our team of experts will be available to offer personalized guidance and solutions, ensuring each customer’s specific requirements are met. Waste depolymerization

Denka and Toyo Styrene have recently finalized the construction of a styrenic waste depolymerization plant in Ichihara, Japan

Situated within the Denka Chiba complex, this innovative facility utilizes cutting-edge process technology licensed from Agilyx, a US-based company, as per an agreement established in early 2022.

Upon reaching full operational capacity, the plant will have the capability to process up to 10 tons of pre- and post-consumer polystyrene waste per day.

Through a proprietary purification process developed by Toyo Styrene, the plant will yield high-quality styrene monomer, primed for reuse in the manufacture of new styrenic resins.

To ensure traceability and promote recycled content, the Japanese consortium is undergoing ISSC Plus certification for its Goi and Kimitsu plants. Waste depolymerization

This certification will enable the application of mass balance principles to allocate circular styrene in their plastic resin production.

With an annual production capacity of approximately 330,000 tonnes of polystyrene, Toyo Styrene stands as Japan’s foremost styrenic producer. Established in 1999, the company is a joint venture between Denka (50% ownership), Nippon Steel Chemical & Material (35%), and Daicel (15%).

Dow introduces new polyolefin elastomer-based leather alternative for the automotive market

Dow unveils a pioneering polyolefin elastomer-based leather substitute tailored for the automotive sector, marking a groundbreaking stride in the quest for animal-free materials. This innovative alternative, developed in partnership with HIUV Materials Technology in China, has already secured its debut in electric car seating applications.

Dow’s polyolefin elastomer (POE) leather stands out for its plush texture and enhanced color stability, offering designers greater freedom, especially with lighter hues.

Notably, it meets rigorous automotive standards with its resilience to aging and low temperatures while eschewing hazardous chemicals, plasticizers, and heavy metals. Moreover, it boasts low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and odors, and its lighter density makes it 25% to 40% lighter than PVC leather. Waste depolymerization

Bambang Candra, Asia Pacific commercial vice president of Dow Packaging and Specialty Plastics, expressed excitement about Dow’s expertise in material science delivering this high-performance, eco-conscious leather alternative. He anticipates further collaborations to explore its potential across diverse industries beyond automotive.

This versatile solution holds promise beyond automotive applications, extending its reach to sporting goods, furniture, and fashion. It caters to brand owners seeking cost-effective options without compromising on product appearance or customer experience.

For further details on Dow’s innovative solutions driving progress, visit MobilityScience™ | Dow Inc. Waste depolymerization

Chinaplas, slated for Shanghai in its 2024 edition, is set to break records once again, boasting over 4,400 exhibitors across a sprawling 380,000 square meters

With just under a month remaining until its commencement, this event has cemented its status as the premier international gathering for the plastics, rubber, and composites industries.

The sheer scale of Chinaplas is evident in the numbers: a substantial 12% increase in exhibition space compared to 2018, accommodating the expanded roster of exhibitors. Anticipating a turnout of 270,000 visitors—up from 180,000 six years prior—the event promises a comprehensive showcase, featuring over 3,800 machines and 17 specialized thematic zones. Waste depolymerization

Despite its brevity, spanning only four days, the event’s organizers attribute the packed schedule to the bustling activity in the exhibition center, particularly during the spring season.

Chinaplas also serves as a pivotal platform for the ASEAN region, reflecting its economic growth trajectory. While not reaching the heights of previous years, the region still sees an impressive annual growth rate of approximately 5%.

Meanwhile, within China, the plastics industry continues its upward trajectory, with production increasing by 3% to nearly 75 million tons last year. Waste depolymerization

This growth extends downstream, with the automotive sector witnessing an impressive 11.6% surge, producing over 30 million vehicles, 10 million of which are alternatively fueled—a staggering 30% increase.

Cars : Hydrogen vs Electric

The future of energy transportation is increasingly shaped by two contenders: hydrogen and electric cars. While both promise sustainability, they diverge significantly in operation, charging infrastructure, and costs.

Electric vehicles (EVs) rely on lithium-ion batteries to power electric motors, rechargeable at home or public stations. In contrast, hydrogen cars utilize fuel cells to convert hydrogen gas and oxygen into electricity, emitting only water.

Charging infrastructure poses a challenge for both technologies. EVs struggle with developing widespread fast charging stations, while hydrogen cars face scarcity in refueling stations. Waste depolymerization

However, efforts are underway to expand hydrogen refueling networks.

Cost plays a crucial role in choosing between EVs and hydrogen cars. EVs typically boast lower initial prices due to cheaper infrastructure, but hydrogen cars may offer lower long-term operational costs with faster charging and comparable range to traditional vehicles. Yet, hydrogen production and storage remain costly.

Currently, EVs dominate the market due to affordability and infrastructure. However, hydrogen cars could become more competitive as refueling infrastructure expands and production costs decrease. Waste depolymerization

In conclusion, both technologies contribute to sustainable mobility, with EVs currently more accessible but hydrogen cars potentially offering long-term cost advantages. The expansion of infrastructure and technological advancements will shape the future landscape of energy transportation, vital for reducing environmental impact in the transport sector.

Baystar, the polyethylene joint venture between Borealis and TotalEnergies, commenced its production operations in October 2023

Despite the initial anticipation, the venture faced financial challenges, reporting a loss of €158 million.

This figure starkly contrasts with the previous year’s loss of €58 million, indicating a significant increase in financial strain.

The Baystar facility holds the distinction of being the first in North America to implement the proprietary Borstar technology developed by Borealis.

This technology is renowned for its advanced approach to polyethylene production, offering enhanced product properties and process efficiencies. Waste depolymerization

However, the financial performance of Baystar has not mirrored the technological advancements, as evidenced by the substantial losses incurred.

The increase in losses may be attributed to various factors, including market dynamics, operational costs, and the expenses associated with the implementation of new technology.

The joint venture’s financial results have drawn attention to the challenges faced by companies in the petrochemical industry when adopting new technologies.

Despite the promise of improved production capabilities, the integration of such technologies can be fraught with financial risks. Waste depolymerization

Baystar’s experience serves as a case study for the industry, highlighting the need for careful financial planning and risk assessment when embarking on technological upgrades.

As Baystar navigates through these financial difficulties, the industry will be watching closely to see how the joint venture adapts and strategizes for future success.

The outcome will not only impact Borealis and TotalEnergies but also set a precedent for other companies considering similar technological investments. Waste depolymerization

Recyclable packaging – Electric car manufacturers are actively exploring future technologies to enhance their vehicles, contemplating whether lithium-ion batteries still hold potential for advancement 26-03-2024

Waste depolymerization

Recyclable packaging

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UNSW collaborating with FP Paradigm on new recyclable packaging technique

UNSW researchers, in collaboration with FP Paradigm, have devised a groundbreaking method for recycling plastics, offering a significant advancement in the recycling landscape. This innovative process efficiently converts various forms of plastic waste into polymer nanoparticles suspended in water, presenting a promising avenue for enhanced recycling endeavors.

The resulting nanoparticles can be extracted for reuse in manufacturing new consumer goods or utilized in applications such as asphalting and waterproof coatings, even eliminating the need for separate dye treatment. Recyclable packaging

Spearheaded by Professor Per Zetterlund and Dr. Vipul Agarwal from the School of Chemical Engineering, this collaboration targets PET recycling, a major global challenge. By licensing relevant aspects of the UNSW patent to FP Paradigm, the initiative aims to revolutionize PET recycling, potentially mitigating the significant energy and resource requirements of conventional methods.

Paco Industries, acting as FP Paradigm’s research and development subcontractor, recently secured a deal with the Arnott’s Group to explore implementing this technology across their product range. Recyclable packaging

This method, applicable to a variety of plastics including polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and PET, shows promise in reducing polymer degradation during recycling. UNSW researchers anticipate that their technique could enable multiple cycles of plastic recycling without mechanical or chemical degradation, offering a more sustainable approach. Moreover, it streamlines the recycling process by eliminating the need for extensive cleaning and separating polymers from additives like dyes. Arnott’s Group recognizes the potential of this method to isolate and reclaim PET for food-grade packaging, reflecting their commitment to innovative sustainability practices. PET, a widely used plastic, faces challenges due to contamination, hindering efficient recycling; however, this collaborative effort seeks to address these obstacles and usher in a new era of sustainable plastic reuse.  Recyclable packaging

Tomra equips Autosort sorting systems with artificial intelligence

 

Turkey’s central bank responded to worsening inflation by raising the policy rate from 45% to 50%, a 500 basis point increase

This adjustment aims to address the 67% inflation rate recorded last month, which exceeded expectations. To support this move, the bank emphasized its commitment to maintaining a tight monetary stance until a substantial and consistent decrease in monthly inflation is evident.

Additionally, the bank announced changes to its monetary policy operational framework. The overnight borrowing and lending rates will now be set 300 basis points below and above the one-week repo auction rate, respectively. Recyclable packaging

Despite resilient domestic demand, inflationary pressures persist due to factors such as services inflation stickiness, elevated inflation expectations, geopolitical risks, and food prices. The central bank’s release underscored the necessity of sustaining the tight monetary stance until inflation trends downwards and expectations align with forecasted ranges.

Looking ahead, the central bank anticipates disinflation in the latter half of the year. This forward-looking perspective suggests a cautious optimism regarding the efficacy of the rate hike in stabilizing inflationary pressures. Recyclable packaging

APR report studies pyrolysis as a complement to mechanical recycling for FFP plastic

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has released a report that models the potential of pyrolysis technologies – as a complement to mechanical recycling – to recycle FFP back into plastic resins to be remanufactured into new plastic products. Prepared by Eunomia Research & Consulting, How to Scale the Recycling of Flexible Film Packaging: Modeling Pyrolysis’ Role in Collection, Quantity and Costs of a Comprehensive Solution, details the opportunities for increased FFP recovery volumes, the logistics, and costs necessary to get materials to pyrolysis and other reprocessor markets, as well as the package design and policy necessary for change. Recyclable packaging

FFP packaging is a significant and growing segment that includes a broad array of snack packaging, pouches, bread bags, and other applications. While the challenges and potential opportunities for recycling FFP packaging have been discussed for nearly a decade, the industry is now at an inflection point for these materials. Several countries and U.S. states are setting recycling goals for FFP, and numerous brand companies have publicly committed to producing only reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging by 2030.

While over 1.1 billion pounds of polyethylene film were recovered for recycling in 2021, the vast majority of flexible film packaging is not recycled. Recyclable packaging

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Electric car manufacturers are actively exploring future technologies to enhance their vehicles, contemplating whether lithium-ion batteries still hold potential for advancement

While current dominance rests with liquid electrolyte lithium-ion batteries, research is shifting towards sodium-ion and solid electrolyte lithium-ion alternatives. However, skepticism exists regarding further enhancements to existing lithium batteries, presumed to have reached near-maximum development.

Despite doubts, scientists persist in refining liquid electrolyte lithium-ion batteries, acknowledging room for improvement in this established yet evolving technology. Safety, charging speed, and capacity retention under low temperatures remain prominent challenges. Recyclable packaging

Addressing these concerns, a team led by Chong Yan and Jia-Qi Huang from the Beijing Institute of Technology, published a breakthrough in Nature. Their research introduces a novel electrolyte solution, showcasing exceptional performance in testing.

Their findings reveal that incorporating organic solvents significantly enhances ion mobility within the electrolyte, leading to accelerated charging. Notably, these solvents mitigate capacity loss even at extreme temperatures, down to -80°C.

Fluoroacetonitrile, a specific solvent employed, features smaller molecules than conventional solvents. These molecules envelop lithium ions, facilitating their swift movement through the electrolyte. Tests demonstrate a remarkable fourfold increase in ionic conductivity compared to standard batteries, with operational capacity unaffected even in freezing conditions. Recyclable packaging

CO2 capture – Composites continue to face challenges in Europe, marked by a notable downturn last year despite global expansion 25-03-2024

Recyclable packaging