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Category: Biodegradable packing

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

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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
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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

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

“The right choice for your production”

“Plastic that makes the difference”

PET Bottles

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

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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”

Textile Industry

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

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.

More…

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 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

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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

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

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

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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

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

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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

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.

More…

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

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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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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.

More… Ferrarelle Società Benefit relies on Sidel’s aseptic technology for its new range of functional water and teas

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

Automotive recycling – Exceptional : Hyundai develops new technology that reduces the size of its electric motors 30-11-2023

Automotive recycling

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Recycling of automotive shredder residues

In the past, when recycling electronic waste, cars and many other “end-of-life products”, it was important to recover the valuable metal fractions as completely as possible.

This has changed due to the European Commission’s binding target of using at least 25% recycled plastics in new vehicles. To meet this target, additional recycling processes will be necessary in the future.

One of the main targets is that 25% of the plastics used in new cars should come from recycled materials, a quarter of which should come from End-of-life vehicles.

In total, 30% of plastics from scrapped vehicles are to be recycled, compared to only 19% today.  Automotive recycling

The regulation requires car manufacturers to provide dismantling facilities with detailed instructions for the replacement and removal of components at the End of a vehicle’s useful life.

The average car contains between 150 and 200 kg of plastic. The measures would reduce carbon emissions by ~12.3 million tons annually by 2035, according to the Commission. It estimates that the scheme will lead to net revenues of 1.8 billion euros by 2035.

Hamos is a manufacturer of recycling and separation systems for the unmixed processing of various hard plastics from automotive shredder residue. Automotive recycling

When vehicles are shredded, a valuable metal fraction consisting of ferrous and non-ferrous metals is produced on the one hand. On the other hand, the so-called “shredder light fraction” is obtained, in which all other materials such as plastic bumpers, seat upholstery, dashboards, headliners and much more are present in shredded form. In addition to these products, there is also a considerable proportion of rubber, which comes from the car tires that are sometimes shredded together with the car body. The hard plastic fractions produced after separation of the “light fraction” still contain the unwanted rubber pieces from shredded tires. Some of these rubber pieces are in the same density range as the thermoplastics and therefore cannot be separated using density separation processes.

More… Automotive recycling

German, Danish companies ink green hydrogen offtake pact

 The signing of the German-Danish green hydrogen offtake declaration in Copenhagen. Photo credit: German-Danish Changer of Commerce

Thirty-two stakeholders, including Danish producers and suppliers of green hydrogen as well as German offtakers, have jointly signed an Offtake Declaration, highlighting the pressing demand for advancing hydrogen offtake and infrastructure to support the growth of the emerging industry.

The declaration was signed during the German-Danish Green Hydrogen Summit in Copenhagen hosted by Dansk Industri.  Automotive recycling

Recognising the potential for green hydrogen production in Denmark and demand in Germany, the companies are calling on the two governments to accelerate the planned hydrogen infrastructure and establish a link between the supply and demand in the two nations by 2028. To ensure the deployment of the announced hydrogen infrastructure capacity between Germany and Denmark by 2028, the final investment decision for the cross-border infrastructure must be made by mid-2024, the declaration reads.

The current industrial hydrogen demand in Germany is the highest among European nations, reaching 55 TWh annually, with a substantial projected increase in the long term towards 2050. To meet it, Germany anticipates to need 45 TWh- 90 TWh of hydrogen imports by 2030.

Simultaneously, Denmark’s export potential for Germany alone is projected to be 16 TWh in 2030, equivalent to around 4.5 GW of electrolysis capacity. Automotive recycling

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Automotive recycling

HKRITA unveils G2G, an innovative garment recycling system

The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) has unveiled a groundbreaking garment recycling system known as Garment to Garment (G2G). Climate activist and sustainability content creator Sam Bentley recently shared details of this innovative system, emphasizing its eco-friendly, closed-loop approach that eliminates the need for water or chemicals, as highlighted on the official G2G website.

In a comprehensive video presentation, Sam Bentley elaborates on the G2G process, which involves the transformation of old garments into a fibrous web through a cleaning procedure. This web is then skillfully spun into durable twisted yarns, which, in turn, are mechanically knitted into entirely new clothing items. A noteworthy feature of the G2G machine is its incorporation of a 3-D body scanner, allowing the creation of tailor-fit garments on-site.  Automotive recycling

Although the G2G machine was initially established in 2018 as a mini-scale production line within a retail setting, where it recycled post-consumer garments into new apparel, it has recently gained renewed attention due to Sam Bentley’s social media endorsement. The fashion industry’s staggering annual production of 100 billion garments contributes significantly to global carbon air pollution (2 to 8 per cent) and generates a substantial 20 per cent of global wastewater. Additionally, more than 100 million tonnes of textile waste find their way into landfills each year. The deployment of G2G technology emerges as a promising solution with the potential to significantly reduce this immense waste.

The G2G system stands out as a breakthrough in sustainable textile practices, offering an efficient and environmentally friendly process for transforming old clothes into new ones. Its potential impact on alleviating textile waste aligns with the escalating concerns surrounding the environmental footprint of the fashion industry. Automotive recycling

Automotive recycling

Pakistan, China forge textile ties

Delegation explores silk hub, paves way for collaboration

A Pakistani delegation, led by Hussain Haider, Pakistan’s Consul General in Shanghai, visited Shengze Oriental Textile City in Suzhou, China, and met with representatives from local textile enterprises.

During the meeting, Haider introduced the trade and investment environment of Pakistan and China, with a particular focus on the preferential policies available to Chinese investors in Pakistan. “Currently, Pakistan’s textile exports to China mainly consist of cotton yarn, apparel, cotton fabrics, and home textiles, with cotton yarn accounting for 73% of the total,” he stated.  Automotive recycling

Expressing a strong desire for deep cooperation with Shengze’s silk and textile industry cluster, he extended an invitation to Shengze’s enterprises to visit Pakistan and gain first-hand knowledge of the trade and investment policies.

Shengze is renowned for its robust silk and textile industry with a rich history. To gain insights into the dynamics of the textile sector and explore potential collaborations, the delegation toured several textile enterprises in Shengze Oriental Textile City and reached preliminary cooperation intentions. Haider said, “We hope to further communicate and connect with Shengze Oriental Textile City.  Automotive recycling

We sincerely invite Shengze’s enterprises to invest and establish factories in Pakistan, aiming to achieve mutual benefits and contribute to the deepening of China-Pakistan cooperation.”

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Pakistan, China forge textile ties

Hyundai develops new technology that reduces the size of its electric motors

Hyundai has recently unveiled a groundbreaking technology, named “Uni Wheel,” poised to revolutionize electric mobility by significantly shrinking the size of electric motors. This innovation not only enhances the efficiency and performance of electric vehicles but also creates more space within the vehicle for passengers and their belongings.

Functioning akin to a hub motor, the Uni Wheel incorporates a universal drive system that relocates essential drive components into the wheel, a distinctive departure from conventional designs. Notably, the motor itself remains positioned outside the wheel, maintaining a streamlined and compact form factor.  Automotive recycling

The key breakthrough lies in the Uni Wheel’s strategic relocation of the gearbox into the wheel hub, leading to a substantial reduction in motor size. This ingenious design allows Hyundai to adopt a small motor for each wheel, a departure from the reliance on a single large drive unit for an entire axle. In essence, it represents a universal traction system that integrates transmission components inside the wheel, leaving the electric motor external.

By employing this technology, Hyundai achieves advantages in terms of overall efficiency, performance, and handling. The Uni Wheel system’s unique configuration enhances the overall driving experience while contributing to a more spacious and versatile interior for occupants.  Automotive recycling

Park Jong-sul, a senior researcher at Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Advanced Technology Institute, emphasized the company’s commitment to redefining the mobility experience for customers. He stated, “We are developing technology so that customers can experience mobility in a completely different and new way than before.” Hyundai has rigorously tested the durability of the Uni Wheel, affirming its functionality and reliability.

Despite this significant leap forward, Hyundai has not yet revealed plans for the commercial release of the Uni Wheel system, indicating that further development and testing may be underway.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Hyundai’s innovative approach to electric motor design showcases a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of sustainable and efficient transportation. Automotive recycling

Hyundai develops new technology that reduces the size of its electric motors

Luxury on the body and underfoot too 

As was amply illustrated at ITMA 2023 this June, tradition and innovation go hand in hand for members of UCMTF, the French Textile Equipment Manufacturers, including NSC Fibre to Yarn, Superba and Spoolex.

NSC Fibre to Yarn has a history dating back to 1812 – at a time when the British blockade of France during the Naploeonic Wars obliged French companies to start developing their own textile machinery and components.

Thirty years later, in the 1840s, its patents established the basic principles for the combing, recombing and spinning preparation of short fibres such as wool, silk and flax.

Long fibres

Move forward roughly 110 years to 1950, and NSC Fibre to Yarn had also started to specialise in the machines for combing and spinning long fibres such as Egyptian and Pima cottons. Such fibres have been prized for many years for their strength and durability, smoothness and lustre, and reduced pilling.  Automotive recycling

A series of acquistions over the past 20 years has subsequently consolidated the company’s position as a leader in textile lines for luxury long-staple fibres, as well as wool and technical fibres.

The company’s latest ERA50 comber is an evolution of the well-known ERA40 and benefits from the latest advances in mechatronics and a complete Industry 4.0 data collection system.

Heat setting

In addition to apparel, wool is associated with the most luxurious of carpets, and machinery for the heat-setting of carpet yarns – whether from natural fibres like wool or synthetics – is a speciality of Superba, which was founded in 1950.

The heat setting process is crucial in enabling such yarns to be more successfully woven or tufted into wall-to-wall carpets, increasing their thickness, enabling different yarns to be combined and graduated dyeing affinities to be accommodated.

The important twist of the yarns is set at a high temperature in a continuous process to ensure it remains permanent.  Automotive recycling

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Luxury on the body and underfoot too 

Rock Tech and Electra sign North American lithium supply agreement

Rock Tech Lithium will partner with Electra Battery Materials Corporation to supply recycled lithium from Electra’s Ontario battery recycling operations for upgrading to battery-grade lithium chemicals in Rock Tech’s lithium refineries. The partnership agreement took the form of a memorandum of understanding. Both companies will use their experience to develop a closed-loop service for the recycling of lithium-ion battery manufacturing scrap, end-of-life batteries, and black mass. Automotive recycling

“Partnering with Rock Tech . . . complements our recycling strategy by allowing us to further upgrade recycled lithium into a battery-grade product,” said Trent Mell, Electra’s CEO. “Collaboration is crucial to create a closed loop for all critical minerals we recover in our black mass refining operation. Jointly with Rock Tech, we are excited to offer an end-to-end battery recycling solution specifically for the lithium market. The partnership is expected to generate an additional revenue stream for Electra, improve our service offering for our clients, and facilitate future growth.”

“At Rock Tech, we are thinking long-term,” emphasized Klaus Schmitz, Rock Tech’s COO. “Developing localized circular lithium value chains is key for this. Electra is an important partner to realize this vision in Ontario and North America. Our collaboration unlocks an important lithium sourcing option and ensures continuous long-term supply for our plants. Our collaboration ensures that lithium recovered from the recycling of end-of-life batteries or battery manufacturing scrap is recovered, refined, and returned to the battery value chain as battery-grade lithium product.”  Automotive recycling

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Electra Battery Materials Corporation

Avantium PEF – Dieffenbacher highlights Fibercut system for increased productivity 29-11-2023

Automotive recycling

Avantium PEF – Dieffenbacher highlights Fibercut system for increased productivity 29-11-2023

Avantium PEF

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Avantium to offer PEF solution for Heijn’s own-brand packaging

Avantium has embarked on a strategic partnership with Albert Heijn, a prominent Dutch supermarket chain, with the aim of facilitating a shift towards more sustainable packaging solutions for Heijn’s proprietary products. Avantium, recognized for its expertise in sustainable chemistry, is offering its innovative polyethylene furanoate (PEF) solution as a pivotal element in the creation of diverse packaging options for the retailer.

PEF, characterized by its 100% plant-based composition and circular polymer structure, stands out as a fully recyclable material.  Avantium PEF

Its remarkable barrier properties empower brands and businesses to extend the shelf life of both beverages and food items. The versatility of PEF makes it suitable for a broad spectrum of applications, including the manufacturing of bottles and various types of packaging.

At present, Avantium is in the final stages of initiating operations at its commercial PEF plant. The operationalization of this plant will mark the commencement of utilizing the PEF solution for the production of a new fruit juice bottle for Heijn. The manufacturing of this PEF-made bottle will be executed by Refresco, a global beverage solutions provider catering to diverse brands and retailers.  Avantium PEF

Avantium proudly asserts that this initiative will result in the introduction of the first PEF-made product within a supermarket chain’s own-brand product line. Tom van Aken, the CEO of Avantium, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “With Albert Heijn as a partner, Avantium can further scale up and expand the PEF value chain to meet the growing global demand for circular and renewable material solutions.”

The commercial PEF plant, situated in Delfzijl, the Netherlands, is designed to have a production capacity of five kilotons of furandicarboxylic acid. This acid serves as a fundamental building block for chemicals and plastics, including PEF. The anticipated timeline for the commencement of commercial production at the Delfzijl site is the second half of 2024.  Avantium PEF

Marit van Egmond, the CEO of Heijn, expressed the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating, “With the use of PEF, we are giving substance to our goal of making packaging more sustainable, besides reduction, recyclability, and reuse, fossil-free materials are high on our wish list.” This collaboration follows a notable offtake agreement signed in August 2022, where Brazil’s Ambev committed to purchasing Avantium’s recyclable PEF material for producing soft drink bottles.

Avantium PEF

PPWR – European Parliament discriminates plastics packaging

“Packaging neutrality objectives and similar material circularity targets will create the level playing field that Europe really needs.” stated EuPC managing director Bernard Merkx in his first reaction to the vote.  Avantium PEF

Last week, the European Parliament adopted its negotiating position on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) proposed last year by the European Commission. Unfortunately, many amendments from the Environmental Committee initial Report that single out plastic packaging have passed the consensus of the Plenary session.

European Plastics Converters are disappointed by the unfounded tailored measures against plastics, which seem to be based predominantly on emotional motives. Some examples of such emotional motived voting are special reduction targets for certain plastic packaging, exemptions for composite packaging from the recyclate use quotas, and bans on single-use stretch films and more.

The lack of rational support to a plastics converting and recycling industry that has been working for improved sustainability, recyclability, circularity as well as on improved performances of its packaging offer is a missed opportunity.  Avantium PEF

In our perspective, topics like additional food waste as a direct consequence should have been addressed, whereas plastic packaging reuse quotas and others have not been very well assessed either. In our view the voted amendments will therefore not bring the expected environmental goals the Parliament desires.

Moreover, the lack of consideration for how to reach the ambitious recycled content targets adds perplexity to their feasibility in coming years. The proposed targets are based on the assumption of a given consistent availability of high-quality recycled raw materials, that has proven to be already lacking today. Linear waste management systems in many Member States with still open landfills and subsidized incineration have for years been blocking required additional investments in high-quality infrastructure and high-tech systems for collection, sorting and recycling.  Avantium PEF

Practical solutions such as credit-based systems and clear exemptions must be included in a final version of the PPWR to allow the plastics converting and recycling industry, mostly composed of SMEs, and their customers, to effectively comply and support the market of high-quality recycled materials to naturally grow.

Further concerns come from the ban of packaging falling in recyclability grade D or below, which may negatively affect future innovation and will have unforeseeable impacts on many, widely recycled packaging formats. The possibility for Member States to adopt more stringent national measures ultimately undermines the harmonisation spirit of the regulation and risks creating the patchwork effect that we witness today in the sustainability arena.  Avantium PEF

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Avantium PEF

Paques Biomaterials and Looop are set to join forces in a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at producing Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) from residual agri-food streams

With over a decade of experience, Paques Biomaterials specializes in a technology that utilizes bacteria within organic waste to generate the biopolymer PHA. Looop, on the other hand, acts as an independent knowledge partner and supplier, providing the agri-food sector’s residual flows, commonly known as by-products. Avantium PEF

The synergy between these two entities is evident as they pool their expertise to create a natural alternative to conventional plastics. René Rozendal, co-founder of Paques Biomaterials, emphasizes the significance of this collaboration, stating, “For us, the collaboration with Looop means a reliable supply of residual flows to produce PHA.” He highlights Looop’s proficiency in valuing residual flows and the ability to combine diverse agri-food by-products, ensuring the optimal raw material for PHA production.

PHA, often hailed as the most promising biopolymer, is noteworthy for being biodegradable in both land and sea environments without the need for specific conditions or equipment. This makes PHA a crucial solution in combating plastic pollution and microplastics.

Expressing their commitment to exploring PHA production further, Looop and Paques Biomaterials are dedicated to maximizing the value of organic residual flows. Kelly Vermeer, Procurement & Development Manager at Looop, asserts, “Producing PHA provides higher valorization of various by-products, ensuring lower CO2 emissions and aligning with our mission and vision.”  Avantium PEF

Looop, specializing in reintegrating organic residual flows into the food chain, operates with a strong focus on Responsible Consumption (Goal 12) and Partnership for the Goals (Goal 17) as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. Paul Slits, a shareholder of Looop, emphasizes the importance of partnerships in their circular business model and expresses confidence in the collaboration with Paques Biomaterials, describing it as a partnership that simply “feels good.”

Paques Biomaterials has an array of collaborations underway, including partnerships with Dutch organizations dealing with industrial wastewater, a consortium with various water boards for municipal wastewater, and an international collaboration with a multinational entity in South Korea.  Avantium PEF

The coming months will witness the tangible realization of the collaboration between Looop and Paques Biomaterials, spanning both business and technology development in their shared pursuit of a harmonious world in balance with nature.

Avantium PEF

China faces yet another economic setback as the shadow banking sector takes a hit with the collapse of Zhongzhi Enterprise Group (ZEG)

Following the crises of Evergrande and Country Garden, ZEG, one of the country’s major shadow banks and a significant asset manager, has declared liabilities of up to $64 billion, intensifying concerns that the real estate debt crisis is extending its grip into the financial domain. Avantium PEF

In a letter of apology to investors, ZEG, which holds substantial exposure to the Chinese real estate market, disclosed total liabilities ranging from 420 billion yuan ($58 billion) to 460 billion yuan ($64 billion). The company’s asset management arm, at its zenith, reportedly managed $139 billion. Authorities in China initiated an investigation into “suspected illegal crimes” against the company shortly after its admission of insolvency. “Criminal coercive measures” have been taken against numerous suspects, although the identities and roles of these individuals within the company remain unclear. The founder, Xie Zhikun, passed away in 2021 due to a heart attack. Tensions surrounding Zhongzhi first surfaced in July when a major subsidiary trust company, Zhongrong International Trust Co, failed to meet payments on numerous investment products, exposing the high default risks associated with the underlying real estate assets of the Zhongrong Trust Fund.  Avantium PEF

The escalating issues at Zhongzhi, a key player in China’s $3 trillion shadow banking sector, have rekindled concerns about contagion risks. China’s heavily indebted real estate sector, grappling with a liquidity crisis since 2020, has witnessed developer defaults since late 2021, with Evergrande being among the initial giants to succumb.

Andrew Collier, a shadow banking expert at Orient Capital Research, notes the historical pursuit of a real estate bubble in China, driven by capital influx. As the real estate sector experiences a downturn amid economic slowdown, Collier suggests that ZEG’s problems might only mark the onset of a more extensive issue, potentially spreading to other forms of shadow banking and even traditional banks in the country. Avantium PEF

The unfolding situation raises apprehensions about the broader stability of China’s financial landscape.

China faces yet another economic setback as the shadow banking sector takes a hit with the collapse of Zhongzhi Enterprise Group (ZEG)

Dieffenbacher highlights Fibercut system for increased productivity

Dieffenbacher’s fully automated cutting and stacking system enables automated SMC processing applications.

Automotive suppliers and others who manufacture composite parts can increase production as much as 7% with Dieffenbacher’s (Eppingen, Germany) fully automated Fibercut cutting and stacking system featuring a quick-change unit. The Fibercut system enables automated processing of sheet molding compound (SMC) materials. While many SMC applications use error-prone and time-consuming manual processes, Dieffenbacher’s fully automated Fibercut SMC cutting and stacking system provides increased productivity and plant efficiency.  Avantium PEF

Fibercut consists of a cutting unit with a cutting belt, a stacking table and a quick-change unit for SMC on coil or in festoons to further increase productivity. The cutting unit communicates with the stacking gantry or robot and is able to implement complex laying patterns automatically.

“Different cutting patterns can be realized at the same time with maximum flexibility,” says Marco Hahn, director sales of the forming business unit at Dieffenbacher. “Using an active compensation cut, deviations in the weight of the material stack will be actively corrected. This ensures compliance with weight tolerances and maximum reproducibility even with the geometric complexity of the SMC layer structure.”  Avantium PEF

The quick-change unit increases the system’s availability by enabling a complete SMC coil or festoon changeover within a few minutes. Including gripper change stations, the production line can be rapidly switched over to another component. Additionally, the Fibercut monitors when the SMC material nears its end and notifies the operator. The operator can prepare to change the material without an unplanned stop of the machine. The quick-change unit is equipped with an automated foil removal system to reduce the “on-air time” of the SMC to preserve the styrene for optimal part quality.

Because the material can be prepared offline and the material change process runs fully automatically, the quick-change unit can save 10-15 minutes per change.

Assuming annual production of 80,000 pieces, SMC consumption of 2 million lbs per year and 600 related coil changes, output can be increased by 3,000-4,500 parts or 3-5% per year.  Avantium PEF

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Dieffenbacher highlights Fibercut system for increased productivity

AkzoNobel Invests in a New Manufacturing Facility to Produce Bisphenol-Free Coatings

AkzoNobel is investing €32 million in a new plant at Vilafranca del Penedès in Spain to manufacture bisphenol-free coatings for the metal packaging industry in Europe, Middle East and Africa.

The Minister of Employment in Catalonia, Roger Torrent attends the breaking ground ceremony for AkzoNobel’s new production centre for bisphenol-free coatings, which will support stringent bisphenol regulations in force in Europe.  Avantium PEF

This content was written and submitted by the supplier. It has only been modified to comply with this publication’s space and style.

The new facility, which is expected to be operational by mid-2025, will create around 40 new jobs and has been designed according to the best possible eco-efficiency standards.

Jim Kavanagh, Director of AkzoNobel’s Industrial Coatings business, says the new facility will help the company respond to a strong need from the packaging industry. “The Vilafranca plant will allow us to offer leading-edge products to any customer and country in EMEA, responding to the most stringent bisphenol regulations in force in Europe. The investment is in line with our view that bisphenols of any kind are no longer required to create safe coatings.”  Avantium PEF

The announcement follows the recent launch of next generation coatings technology including the first two products in its new Accelstyle range. This further illustrates the company’s commitment to giving customers the tangible support they need to transition to a new future: “Both new products – Accelstyle 100 and 200 – can be seamlessly introduced into existing production processes, allowing can makers to transition to coatings that are free from materials of concern, while remaining as commercially viable as possible,” Kavanagh continues.

AkzoNobel Invests in a New Manufacturing Facility to Produce Bisphenol-Free Coatings

EPA studies costs of recycling programs, awards grants

The U.S. EPA is sponsoring a study of the costs and benefits of municipal recycling programs, and at the same time the agency is directing more funding toward the sector. 

“Despite numerous reported benefits of recycling, many areas lack a dedicated program for various reasons, including economic challenges, and many materials that could be recycled are not,” a press release from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine noted.  Avantium PEF

“Recognizing a need to better understand the costs and benefits of administering MSW recycling programs,” the release continued, “Congress called on the National Academies to conduct a study on the programmatic and economic costs of these programs and to produce recommendations to facilitate their effective implementation.”

Accordingly, a committee will review current cost information of recycling programs in municipal, county, state and tribal governments, then provide several options, including policy approaches, to help facilitate effective implementation of more and better programs.

The analysis will include environmental justice considerations such as different population sizes and demographics, different geographical locations, different economies, the type of recycling program and its capabilities, infrastructure needs, end market opportunities and various mandates such as single-stream vs. dual-stream or curbside food and yard material pickup services.  Avantium PEF

In-scope materials are paper, metals, glass, PET and HDPE, food scraps and yard material that are “converted into raw materials and used in the production of new products.” Textiles, e-scrap, construction and demolition debris, household hazardous waste, auto bodies, municipal sludge, combustion ash and industrial process wastes are specifically out of scope for the study, the press release noted.

Grant awards

In addition, the EPA recently announced its plans to reclassify solar panels as universal waste instead of hazardous waste and to create a universal waste category specifically for lithium-ion batteries in order to streamline and increase recycling of the materials.

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EPA studies costs of recycling programs, awards grants

Sand Battery – The Role of Chemical Engineering in Waste Management Strategies 28-11-2023

Avantium PEF

Sand Battery – The Role of Chemical Engineering in Waste Management Strategies 28-11-2023

Sand Battery

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Toray Obtains ISCC Certification for European Carbon-Fiber Plants

Article-Toray Obtains ISCC Certification for European Carbon-Fiber Plants

Toray Industries’ French subsidiary, Toray Carbon Fibers Europe S.A., has obtained ISCC Plus certification for its Lacq and Abidos production plants in southwest France. This certification allows Toray Carbon Fibers Europe to allocate and use biomass or recycled materials through the mass balance approach to produce and supply carbon fiber. Thus, Toray Carbon Fibers Europe now has the ability to reduce the life cycle inventory (LCI) of its carbon fiber, prepreg, and other offerings and help its customers to enhance product life cycle assessments (LCAs) while contributing to building a circular economy.  Sand Battery

The International Sustainability & Carbon Certification’s (ISCC) voluntary certification program guarantees that the raw materials used are sourced from biomass or recycled materials. It also ensures full traceability at all stages of a product’s manufacturing process. The mass balance approach tracks the amount and sustainability characteristics of circular and bio-based materials used in the value chain based on verifiable records. This scheme is open to several sectors such as the food, feed, chemicals, plastics,

Toray Carbon Fibers Europe will start manufacturing carbon fiber derived from biomass and recycled raw materials by the end of 2023. In addition, Toray’s Ehime Plant in Japan aims to obtain ISCC Plus certification by March 2024 and begin producing fiber by the close of that year. Sand Battery

In the United States, the carbon-fiber facility of Toray Composite Materials America Inc. in Decatur, AL, also plans to obtain this certification in 2024. With these three locations, the Toray Group intends to manufacture carbon fiber using biomass or recycled raw materials at plants in Japan, the United States, and Europe, ensuring a stable supply to customers around the globe.

Toray has already received requests from customers similarly committed to carbon neutrality. From the end of 2023, Toray will offer this carbon fiber for industrial applications such as automobiles and handheld devices, where demand for materials to create sustainable products is particularly high. At a later date, other applications, such as aviation and sports, will also be targeted. Sand Battery

Toray aims to build a new materials ecosystem that harnesses natural raw materials and returns them to nature in an eco-friendly state. For carbon fiber, the ecosystem will be built using biomass and recycled raw materials to manufacture carbon fiber. This fiber will be made into a composite material and, finally, an end product.

Sand Battery

Sun and sand to decarbonize: Magaldi Stem technology

Magaldi Group’s STEM-CST (Solar Thermo Electric Magaldi) technology emerges as a groundbreaking solution in the quest to diminish reliance on fossil fuels and transition towards sustainable energy sources. With heat production constituting nearly half of energy-related emissions and over 50% of global energy consumption, the need for innovative alternatives is paramount. Industrial applications, responsible for 40% of total heat demand, predominantly lean on fossil fuels, contributing to approximately 70% of this demand.  Sand Battery

Addressing the imperative for industrial decarbonization, Magaldi’s STEM-CST integrates advanced solar radiation conversion systems with energy storage solutions, ensuring a continuous energy supply even in the absence of sunlight.

This technology serves as a reliable, environmentally compliant alternative for clean energy generation, particularly tailored to the stringent requirements of energy-intensive industries such as paper, food & beverage, chemical, and plastic. Unlike conventional technologies, Magaldi’s system consolidates the solar receiver, heat exchanger, and thermal storage within a single device, optimizing efficiency and ease of integration.

The mechanism employs a field of primary mirrors (heliostats) and a secondary reflector (beam-down) positioned above a solar receiver on the ground, acting as a thermal storage battery. The mirror field captures solar energy, directing it through the secondary mirror into the solar receiver—comprising a fluidized bed of sand particles for thermal accumulation.  Sand Battery

This sand bed exhibits exceptional energy absorption capabilities, achieving uniform heating up to 600°C and releasing steam at variable temperature and pressure levels (250-500°C and 10-40 bar) through embedded exchangers. This steam proves highly versatile in diverse industrial processes, enabling energy-intensive sectors to transition away from fossil fuels, aligning with “Net-Zero” objectives.

Magaldi’s innovation distinguishes itself by employing solid granular particles, specifically sand, for thermal accumulation instead of molten salts commonly used in concentrated solar technologies. This decision offers economic advantages, as sand is readily available and avoids issues related to freezing associated with molten salts. Moreover, the higher temperature tolerance of sand, with a melting point exceeding 1200°C, enhances its applicability in the industrial sector.  Sand Battery

The first experimental module of the STEM®-CST system, initiated in June 2016 at A2A Energie Future’s integrated energy hub in Sicily, marked a significant milestone. Recent results from experimental tests, unveiled at “SolarPaces 2023” in Sydney, Australia, showcase the technology’s potential to revolutionize the concentrated solar energy sector, paving the way for a cleaner, sustainable future.

Sand Battery

BST India’s focus on consistent quality in flexible packaging 

BST India at Food Packaging and Innovations India Summit 2023

BST India, a leading manufacturer of quality assurance systems for printing, flexible packaging, and the web-based processing industry, showcased its potential in changing the future of food packaging at the recently concluded Food Packaging and Innovations India Summit 2023 in Mumbai. BST India supported the summit as a gold partner for the event.  Hydrogen vehicles

A presentation by Khushal Patel, director of sales and marketing, on ‘BST’s role in delivering consistent quality in flexible packaging’, delved into the company’s role in ensuring a standard of quality paramount in the flexible packaging industry.

The presentation explored how BST, integrated into the manufacturing process, can streamline operations, and enhance the overall quality of flexible packaging. It emphasized the importance of consistency in meeting industry standards, addressing challenges, and ultimately providing customers with products that surpass expectations.

“Our Gold Partnership and presentation at the Food Packaging & Innovations India Summit 2023 reflect our ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in food packaging technology. By sharing our insights and experiences, we aim to contribute not only to our industry’s growth but also to the success of our valued partners and clients,” Patel said.  Hydrogen vehicles

The two-day summit from 1 November in Mumbai saw the active participation of companies such as Emami, Wagh Bakari Tea, Marico, Britannia, and many more. Their presence added depth to the discussions, fostering an environment of collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The multi-channel B2B in print and digital 17-year-old platform matches the industry’s growth trajectory. The Indian, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Middle East packaging industries are looking beyond the resilience of the past three years. They are resuming capacity expansion and diversification, with high technology and automation in new plants and projects.  Hydrogen vehicles

As we present our 2024 publishing plan, India’s real GDP growth for the financial year ending 31 March 2024 will exceed 6%. The packaging industry growth will match the GDP growth in volume terms and surpass it by at least 3% in terms of nominal growth allowing for price inflation in energy, raw materials, consumables, and capital equipment.

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Sand Battery

BASF, in collaboration with Siemens Energy, has secured approval for a groundbreaking project, marking a significant stride toward sustainable energy production

The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, along with the State of Rhineland-Palatinate, has granted funding of up to €124.3 million for the construction of a cutting-edge proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer at the Ludwigshafen site, known as the Hy4Chem-EI project.  Sand Battery

This proton exchange membrane electrolyzer, boasting a substantial 54-megawatt output and an annual capacity of up to 8,000 metric tons of hydrogen, is slated to be one of Germany’s largest when operational. The PEM electrolyzer, powered exclusively by renewable energy sources, is expected to produce CO2-free hydrogen, leading to an annual reduction of up to 72,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions at the site.

The collaboration between BASF and Siemens Energy aims to commence operations at the water electrolysis plant in 2025. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, in conjunction with the State of Rhineland-Palatinate, is contributing €124.3 million to the project, with €37.3 million from the regional government.

The hydrogen produced will serve as a crucial raw material for BASF’s manufacturing processes, aligning with the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Moreover, BASF plans to supply hydrogen for mobility in the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region, contributing to the establishment of a hydrogen economy in the area.

Dr. Melanie Maas-Brunner, a member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and Site Director Ludwigshafen, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact on the chemical industry. She emphasized the dual role of hydrogen as both a raw material and an energy vector, highlighting the importance of political and business collaboration in driving the energy transition.  Sand Battery

Dr. Franziska Brantner, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, commended the project as a pioneering effort in decarbonizing the chemical industry, setting an example for achieving climate targets. Malu Dreyer, Minister-President of Rhineland-Palatinate, underscored the project’s significance in advancing the hydrogen economy in the region, Europe, and beyond.

BASF’s commitment to various hydrogen production technologies, including water electrolysis and methane pyrolysis, aligns with its overarching goal of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. The Ludwigshafen site serves as a crucial testing ground for innovative technologies aimed at replacing fossil fuels and embracing renewable energy sources, reinforcing BASF’s position as a pioneer in the chemical industry’s energy transformation.  Sand Battery

BASF, in collaboration with Siemens Energy, has secured approval for a groundbreaking project, marking a significant stride toward sustainable energy production

The Importance of Adopting Sustainable Solutions in the Recycling of Electric Vehicle Batteries

As societies worldwide strive to adopt more sustainable approaches, the mobility industry has witnessed significant changes in recent years. Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a promising solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. However, the emergence of batteries has posed new environmental challenges, especially regarding their recycling and disposal.  Sand Battery

The Environmental Impacts of EV Battery Disposal
Improper disposal of EV batteries in landfills can have severe environmental consequences. These batteries contain hazardous substances such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which can poison the land and groundwater, as well as harm plant and animal life. To mitigate these risks, strict regulations are needed to ensure safe recycling and ethical disposal of EV batteries, thus protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for electric mobility.

Resource Depletion and Sustainable Alternatives
The increasing demand for batteries for electric vehicles has raised concerns about resource depletion. The extraction of materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel can deplete natural resources and disrupt ecosystems through deforestation, habitat loss, and pollution.  Sand Battery

To address this problem, alternative solutions such as recycling and the development of eco-friendly battery chemistries must be explored. These approaches will not only reduce environmental impact but also ensure a responsible and environmentally respectful method of obtaining raw materials for EV batteries.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Circular Economy
While electric vehicles help reduce greenhouse gas emissions during their use, the extraction of raw materials and improper battery disposal can lead to an increase in emissions. To truly benefit the environment, it is crucial to adopt sustainable battery recycling processes, invest in low-carbon technologies, and advocate for a circular economy that maximizes resource efficiency.  Sand Battery

These initiatives will minimize the carbon footprint associated with the manufacturing and disposal of electric vehicle batteries.

Sustainable Solutions for EV Battery Recycling
Reusing EV batteries in second-life applications is a sustainable way to reduce the negative effects of their disposal. Many batteries still have usable capacity even after being used in vehicles, which can be incorporated into energy storage systems. This approach prolongs their lifespan and reduces the demand for new battery production, thus minimizing waste and increasing overall sustainability.

Additionally, designing electric vehicle batteries with recycling in mind is crucial. Standardizing battery chemistries and improving dismantling processes can streamline recycling, making it more economically viable and environmentally friendly. Simplifying component separation allows for efficient recovery of essential elements such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of raw material extraction.  Sand Battery

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The Importance of Adopting Sustainable Solutions in the Recycling of Electric Vehicle Batteries

The Role of Chemical Engineering in Waste Management Strategies

As the world population continues to grow and consumerism intensifies, the issue of waste management has become a significant global challenge. Traditional waste management methods, such as landfilling and incineration, are detrimental to the environment and fail to extract any value from discarded materials.  Sand Battery

Transforming Waste into Valuable Resources: Chemical Engineering Solutions

Chemical engineering, however, offers innovative solutions to transform waste into valuable resources. This article explores the various ways chemical engineering is revolutionizing waste management and creating a sustainable future.

1. Waste-to-Energy: Generating Clean Power

The concept of waste-to-energy involves converting waste materials into heat or electricity. Chemical engineers lead the way in developing advanced technologies to harness energy from waste, reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. Some key solutions include:

  • Pyrolysis: This thermochemical process uses high temperatures and controlled conditions to convert plastic and rubber waste into valuable fuel oil and gas. With this technology, waste materials that were previously discarded can now be used to generate electricity and heat.  Sand Battery
  • Anaerobic Digestion: By breaking down organic waste in the absence of oxygen, anaerobic digestion produces biogas, a combustible gas rich in methane. This renewable energy source can be used to generate electricity, heat, and even fuel for vehicles.

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The Role of Chemical Engineering in Waste Management Strategies

EV Battery Recycling and Disposal: Environmental Impacts and Solutions

EV Battery Recycling and Disposal

Ever since environmental challenges have impacted our planet, societies worldwide have been striving to adopt more sustainable approaches in various sectors.

The mobility industry, being no exception, has witnessed significant changes in recent years. To address the escalating environmental concerns, the automobile industry has prominently embraced electric vehicles (EVs), predicting a transformative shift towards greener transportation.  Sand Battery

According to Allied Market Research, the global market for electric vehicles, which was valued at $163.01 billion in 2020, will grow by 18.2% between 2021 and 2030 to reach $823.75 billion. The lithium-ion batteries that power these emission-free vehicles are key to the emergence of EVs. While EVs present a promising solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, the emergence of batteries in the scenario has brought forth new environmental challenges, particularly concerning recycling and disposal.

Here’s a look at the environmental effects of recycling and disposing electric vehicle batteries, and investigate sustainable alternatives to guarantee an eco-friendly and responsible future for the ecosystem supporting electric mobility-

Environmental Impacts of EV Battery Disposal

 Landfill Waste

Batteries for electric vehicles should never be disposed of improperly in landfills. These batteries contain hazardous substances including lithium, cobalt, and nickel that can poison the land and groundwater and damage both plant and animal life.

As a result, strict regulations are required to guarantee the secure recycling and ethical disposal of EV batteries, protect the environment from potential risks, and advance a sustainable method of handling electric vehicle battery waste. Sand Battery

Resource Depletion

Concerns regarding resource depletion have been highlighted by the rise in demand for electric vehicle batteries. These batteries require lithium, cobalt, and nickel, three materials whose mining can deplete natural resources and disturb ecosystems. Some effects of mining practices include deforestation, habitat loss, and air and water pollution. Thus, to solve this problem, it is essential to look into alternatives like recycling and creating more ecologically friendly battery chemistries, ensuring a more responsible and eco-friendly method of obtaining raw materials for EV batteries.

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EV Battery Recycling and Disposal: Environmental Impacts and Solutions

Hydrogen vehicles – Recycled plastic reduces carbon consumption by up to 87 per cent 27-11-2023

Sand Battery

Hydrogen vehicles – Recycled plastic reduces carbon consumption by up to 87 per cent 27-11-2023

Hydrogen vehicles

Petrochemicals Ny66 – Polymers : PET – r-PET – Filament grade semidull chips -Filament grade bright chips – Ny6 – Ny66 – PP 

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Hydrogen vehicles

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Recycled plastic reduces carbon consumption by up to 87 per cent

Recycling works: plastic packaging specialist ALPLA operates state-of-the-art plants worldwide under the brand ALPLArecycling for the production of rPET (recycled PET) and rHDPE (recycled HDPE). Calculation of the product carbon footprint by the independent consultancy c7-consult now provides new data for a total of four plants in Mexico and Germany. Carbon reductions of up to 87 per cent compared to virgin materials confirm the climate protection effect of recycled plastics and the ecological importance of regional bottle-to-bottle loops. Hydrogen vehicles

ALPLA processes used plastic packaging into recyclate. The recycled material produced in Mexico and Germany causes up to 87 percent less CO2 emissions than virgin material.

ALPLA is focusing on the circular economy: the global packaging specialist invests more than 50 million euros annually in recycling and uses state-of-the-art technologies to produce recycled material. With an installed and projected output capacity of 350,000 tonnes per year, the company is one of the world’s leading plastics recyclers. Analyses performed by the life cycle assessment specialist c7-consult now confirm efficient production at a total of four additional sites in Mexico and Germany. There, ALPLArecycling produces rPET and rHDPE, which produces up to 87 per cent fewer carbon emissions than virgin materials.

‘The figures confirm our path. We produce climate-friendly recycling solutions with a regional focus and convert the material into new packaging, thereby promoting the bottle-to-bottle loop. In this way, we ensure there are safe, affordable and sustainable packaging solutions all over the world,’ emphasises Georg Lässer, Director of Business Development, Procurement and Sales, Recycling, at ALPLA.  Hydrogen vehicles

Circular economy pioneers in Mexico

ALPLArecycling produces 30,000 tonnes of rHDPE per year at its Toluca recycling plant in Mexico. Production in Toluca causes 0.69 kg of CO2e per kilogram. This is 70 per cent fewer emissions than with HDPE virgin material (2.32 kg of CO2e per kilogram[1]). ALPLA has been operating what was the first PET recycling plant in Latin America at the time in Toluca since 2005 within the joint venture IMER (Industria Mexicana de Reciclaje S.A. de C.V.) together with Coca-Cola FEMSA and The Coca-Cola Company. It has an annual production capacity of 16,000 tonnes of rPET. According to the analysis, production causes only 0.38 kg of CO2e per kilogram, which is 87 per cent less than virgin PET (2.90 kg of CO2e per kilogram[2]).  Hydrogen vehicles

The rPET production capacity in Mexico will be increased to 51,000 tonnes next year. The PLANETA plant (Planta Nueva Ecología de Tabasco) in Cunduacán is currently being built in cooperation with Coca-Cola FEMSA. The joint venture partners are setting new collection priorities with the model of paying for the receipt of used PET bottles and with social cooperations. ‘Recycling is a key element in packaging solutions of the future. We want to convince people of the benefits and are drawing on substantiated data to do so. Exact analysis of our plants also enables us to improve our ecological footprint in a targeted manner,’ explains Carlos Torres Ballesteros, ALPLA Managing Director, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.  Hydrogen vehicles

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Hydrogen vehicles

China in red, lithium in free fall. Here because

This financial turbulence unfolded against the backdrop of Beijing’s concerted efforts to rescue the beleaguered real estate sector, strained under the weight of mounting debt. Compounding the unease were anxieties surrounding China’s October PMI figures, slated for release the following week, following September readings that signaled a contraction in manufacturing and a deceleration in service activities.

Amidst these concerns, skepticism swirled regarding the efficacy of Beijing’s various real estate stimulus measures, including the decision to allow banks to extend unsecured short-term loans to sector companies.  Hydrogen vehicles

Despite the day’s downturn, the Hang Seng index was on course for its second consecutive weekly gain, rising by approximately 1.0%.

This optimism stemmed from the hope that the Federal Reserve’s tightening trajectory might be nearing its conclusion, with the first rate cut anticipated in March 2024.

Meanwhile, Japan grappled with a surge in inflation, reaching 3.3% in October 2023, up from the previous month’s 3.0%.

This marked the highest level since July, with core inflation also climbing to 2.9%, just below the consensus of 3.0%.  Hydrogen vehicles

Notably, the Bank of Japan’s 2% inflation target remained elusive for the 19th consecutive month.

In a starkly different economic arena, the price of Chinese lithium carbonate, denominated in yuan, continued its month-long descent, plummeting by 75% for the year.

An oversupply in the market exerted downward pressure on prices, prompting electric vehicle manufacturers to reevaluate their strategies.

Chinese lithium carbonate prices dipped by 2.3% on Thursday and a staggering 20% thus far in November, with the last recorded daily gain occurring on October 25th.

The spodumene, a lithium-bearing rock extracted in Australia, witnessed more than a 50% decrease in value in 2023.  Hydrogen vehicles

Shifting the focus to geopolitics, Argentina’s newly elected president, Javier Milei, adopted a more tempered tone compared to his previous sharp rhetoric.

Following his victory, Milei extended well-wishes to the Chinese people, a notable departure from his earlier characterization of the Chinese government as an “assassin” during an August interview.

Milei’s gesture included responding to a congratulatory letter from Xi Jinping and hinting at the potential inclusion of former central bank president Luis Caputo in a significant economic role.  Hydrogen vehicles

Hydrogen vehicles

Hydrogen, often hailed as a beacon of eco-friendly transportation,  particularly in the context of fuel cell technology

While electric cars dominate green conversations, fuel cell-powered vehicles, like the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo, are making their mark in the Italian automotive landscape. These models leverage hydrogen-oxygen reactions to generate electrical energy, offering the notable advantage of rapid refueling, with the Mirai boasting a mere five minutes for a substantial range exceeding 600 km. However, this green innovation comes at a price—both the Mirai and Nexo command high price tags of 66,000 and approximately 80,000 euros respectively.  Hydrogen vehicles

Beyond these initial offerings, car manufacturers like Toyota and BMW are exploring hydrogen’s potential in different vehicle types. Toyota showcased the GR Yaris H2, integrating hydrogen as fuel while maintaining a modified turbocharged internal combustion engine. On the other hand, BMW, an early advocate for hydrogen engines since 2000, remains in the experimental phase, producing small series for testing purposes, as seen in the iX5 Hydrogen.

Despite promising strides in vehicle technology, a critical hurdle to widespread adoption is the lack of infrastructure. With only two operational hydrogen refueling stations—located in Bolzano and Mestre—accessing fuel remains a challenge for Italian motorists. Hydrogen, currently perceived as more suitable for heavy transport, is reflected in logistical decisions favoring areas like the Brenner road axis and the Trieste-to-Turin corridor. The Ministry of Transport’s 2023 ranking of 36 new projects earmarks public funding for expanding the hydrogen refueling network by 2026, encompassing regions from Valcamonica and Umbria to Puglia and Calabria.  Hydrogen vehicles

Territorial imbalances compound the issue, as private mobility needs are not met uniformly across regions. Of the 36 proposed projects, only six are slated for implementation in southern regions, with Veneto leading the charge with nine refueling stations. Comparatively, Germany, a hydrogen pioneer, already boasts 92 supply points, revealing the substantial gap in Italy’s hydrogen infrastructure development. As European nations race toward hydrogen expansion goals, Italy aims for 70 stations by 2030, falling behind Germany, the United Kingdom, and France in this ambitious pursuit.

The journey toward making hydrogen a viable solution in Italy’s transportation landscape is underway, but substantial challenges must be surmounted for it to become a mainstream reality.  Hydrogen vehicles

Hydrogen, often hailed as a beacon of eco-friendly transportation, is gaining attention in Italy, particularly in the context of fuel cell technology

Hydrogen vehicles represent a promising yet underutilized facet of the automotive landscape, offering a unique alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars and electric vehicles

Although their popularity has been eclipsed by the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, understanding how hydrogen vehicle engines work sheds light on their potential and the challenges they face.

At the heart of hydrogen vehicles is the fuel cell, a device that enables the conversion of hydrogen into electricity through an electrochemical process. Unlike conventional internal combustion engines, hydrogen vehicles employ electric motors for propulsion. This distinction positions them as electric vehicles (EVs), despite the divergent energy source.

In a hydrogen vehicle, the journey from hydrogen gas to electrical power begins with the storage of hydrogen in a high-pressure tank.  Hydrogen vehicles

This gaseous fuel is then directed to a fuel cell stack, a crucial component housing a catalyst, often platinum. As hydrogen molecules interact with the catalyst in a controlled electrochemical reaction, electrons are released, generating electrical energy.

This process is known as the proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell technology, one of the most common designs in hydrogen vehicles.

The produced electricity is subsequently harnessed to power the electric motor, propelling the vehicle forward. Remarkably, the sole byproduct of this energy conversion is water vapor, positioning hydrogen vehicles as exceptionally clean and environmentally friendly transportation options.

However, despite their potential ecological advantages, hydrogen vehicles face significant challenges hindering their widespread adoption.  Hydrogen vehicles

The dearth of hydrogen refueling infrastructure poses a substantial hurdle, limiting the practicality of these vehicles for everyday consumers. Additionally, concerns regarding the flammability of hydrogen gas have contributed to apprehension surrounding its use as a fuel source.

As of now, the disparity in adoption rates between electric vehicles and hydrogen vehicles is stark. The United States, for instance, boasts over 2 million electric vehicles on its roads, dwarfing the approximately 15,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles in operation. Nevertheless, ongoing advancements in technology, coupled with efforts to expand hydrogen infrastructure, may yet breathe new life into the hydrogen vehicle revolution, offering a compelling alternative in the quest for sustainable transportation.

Hydrogen vehicles represent a promising yet underutilized facet of the automotive landscape, offering a unique alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars and electric vehicles

Coperion recycling innovation centre starts operations in Germany

The high-tech test centre for plastics recycling applications is located in Niederbiegen near Weingarten, Germany

Machinery producer Coperion has started operations at its plastics recycling innovation centre in Niederbiegen near Weingarten, southern Germany.  Hydrogen vehicles

The Recycling Innovation Centre is situated in the immediate vicinity of Coperion’s existing test centre for Bulk Solids Handling, expanding the company’s test lab capacities in Germany alone up to 5,000 square meters.

The high-tech centre allows Coperion’s customers to test every recycling process step, from material handling and feeding to extrusion, compounding, pelletising, material postprocessing, and deodorisation. Extensively equipped recycling systems are available that can be modified in myriad ways, depending upon the specific requirements of the recyclate to be produced.  Hydrogen vehicles

Machinery available include the Fluidlift ecodry for material flash drying during conveying; the Mix-a-Lot bulk solid mixer for creating pre-mixes including flakes or powders; and a ZS-B MEGAfeed side feeder, especially for extruding and compounding plastic recyclates with bulk densities starting as low as 20 kg/m³ at high throughputs.

“With this new Recycling Innovation Centre, we’re in a position where we can simulate the entire plastics recycling process,” said Massimo Serapioni, general manager of Coperion’s Recycling Business Unit. “Our customers can test the complete process, from mechanical pre-treatment of plastics in Herbold Meckesheim’s Test Centre up to compounding and pelletizing, prior to making the investment.

As a supplier of entire recycling systems, we are very proud to be able to offer our customers this enormous added value.”  Hydrogen vehicles

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Coperion recycling innovation centre starts operations in Germany

Here is the extraordinary news: BYD, the Chinese giant, has started construction of the largest salt battery factory in the world, located in Xuzhou, between Beijing and Shanghai, with a monumental investment of 1.2 billion euros

This mammoth facility, known as the Gigafactory, represents a milestone in the evolution of battery technology, as it will be entirely dedicated to the production of sodium ion batteries.
The BYD Gigafactory, with a production capacity of 30 GWh per year, will be the largest factory in the world specializing in this type of technology, which is gradually emerging on the market.
Sodium ion batteries, commonly called “salt” batteries, are gaining ground and are already available for some energy storage systems, as well as used in the first electric cars. In the future, these batteries will represent a valid alternative to the more common lithium-ion batteries, offering slightly lower performance but at lower costs. Hydrogen vehicles
The construction of this new factory is the result of collaboration between BYD, its subsidiary Findreams Battery and the electric tricycle company Huaihai. Initially, the sodium ion batteries produced will be intended for scooters and light quadricycles, but the future goal is to extend their use to cars too.
BYD is not the only player to focus on this innovative technology; other Chinese companies such as Jiangsu Zoolnasm and Hina are also investing in Gigafactory to produce sodium batteries.
CATL, the world’s leading battery manufacturer, together with Northvolt, a leading European company, are preparing to launch their versions of sodium-ion batteries on the market.  Hydrogen vehicles
A clear signal that the salt battery sector is destined to become a focal point in the race for sustainability and energy efficiency.
Here is the extraordinary news: BYD, the Chinese giant, has started construction of the largest salt battery factory in the world, located in Xuzhou, between Beijing and Shanghai, with a monumental investment of 1.2 billion euros

BST India’s focus on consistent quality in flexible packaging 

BST India at Food Packaging and Innovations India Summit 2023

BST India, a leading manufacturer of quality assurance systems for printing, flexible packaging, and the web-based processing industry, showcased its potential in changing the future of food packaging at the recently concluded Food Packaging and Innovations India Summit 2023 in Mumbai. BST India supported the summit as a gold partner for the event.  Hydrogen vehicles

A presentation by Khushal Patel, director of sales and marketing, on ‘BST’s role in delivering consistent quality in flexible packaging’, delved into the company’s role in ensuring a standard of quality paramount in the flexible packaging industry.

The presentation explored how BST, integrated into the manufacturing process, can streamline operations, and enhance the overall quality of flexible packaging. It emphasized the importance of consistency in meeting industry standards, addressing challenges, and ultimately providing customers with products that surpass expectations.

“Our Gold Partnership and presentation at the Food Packaging & Innovations India Summit 2023 reflect our ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in food packaging technology. By sharing our insights and experiences, we aim to contribute not only to our industry’s growth but also to the success of our valued partners and clients,” Patel said.  Hydrogen vehicles

The two-day summit from 1 November in Mumbai saw the active participation of companies such as Emami, Wagh Bakari Tea, Marico, Britannia, and many more. Their presence added depth to the discussions, fostering an environment of collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The multi-channel B2B in print and digital 17-year-old platform matches the industry’s growth trajectory. The Indian, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Middle East packaging industries are looking beyond the resilience of the past three years. They are resuming capacity expansion and diversification, with high technology and automation in new plants and projects.  Hydrogen vehicles

As we present our 2024 publishing plan, India’s real GDP growth for the financial year ending 31 March 2024 will exceed 6%. The packaging industry growth will match the GDP growth in volume terms and surpass it by at least 3% in terms of nominal growth allowing for price inflation in energy, raw materials, consumables, and capital equipment.

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BST India’s focus on consistent quality in flexible packaging 

Plastic waste – Svensk Plaståtervinning opens state-of-the-art facility for plastic recycling 25-11-2023

Hydrogen vehicles

Plastic waste – Svensk Plaståtervinning opens state-of-the-art facility for plastic recycling 25-11-2023

Plastic waste

Research at the University of Edinburgh could lead the charge toward UK rare element sustainability

A groundbreaking research initiative at the University of Edinburgh, spearheaded by Professor Louise Horsfall and her research group, holds the promise of revolutionizing the sustainability of rare elements in the UK. Focused on bio-based recycling, the project is centered around the utilization of engineered bacteria as a key component in recovering critical metals from end-of-life electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

In this innovative approach, bacteria are employed to extract metallic compounds, including cobalt, manganese, nickel, and lithium, from lithium-ion batteries. The goal is to establish a novel UK-based supply chain for rechargeable vehicle batteries by processing and repurposing these valuable elements. Professor Horsfall’s team is collaborating with the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) to advance the project to an industrial scale. Plastic waste

The FlexBio center within IBioIC facilitates the refinement of the process in a larger bioreactor, marking a significant step toward practical implementation.

To ensure the effectiveness of the engineered bacteria at scale, the Edinburgh Genome Foundry, situated at the University of Edinburgh, has been instrumental in the selection and modification of bacteria. The process involves introducing bacteria into battery leachate, the liquid remaining after initial processing, within a fermenter to simulate a natural biological reaction. During this reaction, the bacteria generate nano-sized particles of metallic compounds, resulting in a sediment that can be separated and filtered from the residual liquid. Tests are currently underway using material recovered from an EV battery previously employed in a Nissan Leaf.

This cutting-edge research is part of the broader Reuse and Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries (ReLiB) initiative, led by the University of Birmingham and financially supported by the Faraday Institution—the UK’s independent institute for electrochemical energy storage science. Plastic waste

With battery electric vehicles comprising 16.1% of total new car sales in the UK from January to June 2023, there is an escalating demand for initiatives that address supply chain pressures and manage waste batteries at the end of their lifespan. As reserves of metals used in batteries diminish, the approach of repurposing existing batteries becomes increasingly vital, especially given that a significant portion of metals in EV batteries is currently imported.

Professor Horsfall, who holds the position of Chair of Sustainable Biotechnology at the University of Edinburgh, emphasizes the importance of considering the fate of technology post-use, stating, “This project is about using cutting-edge sustainable biotechnology to find ways of tackling that challenge and, in turn, extract some of the most valuable metals that can go back into the sector at the early stages of vehicle production.”

Liz Fletcher, the Director of Business Engagement at IBioIC, underscores the dual value of the method being developed, stating, “No one wants to see lithium-ion batteries ending up in landfill, so it is important to explore different ways to repurpose and recycle them.”

She adds that the project could not only provide a petrochemical-free solution to waste but also contribute to reshoring the supply chain for rare metals and future battery manufacturing. Plastic waste

This multidimensional approach aligns with the imperative to make everyday products and services, such as cars and transport, more sustainable through the application of biotechnology.

Plastic waste

Svensk Plaståtervinning opens state-of-the-art facility for plastic recycling

Svensk Plaståtervinning, a Swedish a non-profit company co-owned by Swedish plastics, food and trade industry groups, inaugurated Site Zero, a sorting plant in Motala, Sweden. The plant features Tomra and Sutco equipment and aims to realise a circular economy for plastics by sorting Swedish plastic packaging waste into 12 fractions.

The plant is expected to process 42 metric tons of materials per hour and to recover 12 different types of plastics from mixed plastic packaging waste. This includes a variety of polyolefins, PET, PS, EPS, PVC, and more. The technology allows for purity levels of up to 98%. As of now the clean material fractions are then sent to recyclers in the EU. However, Site Zero is also planning to add recycling capacity to further process the main fractions locally in the future. Plastic waste

With Site Zero the three partners – Svensk Plaståtervinning, Tomra and Sutco – aim to close the loop on plastics and to enable zero waste, zero downcycling and zero emissions. “The plant we are seeing here today is the result of three partners working towards a common goal: closing the loop on plastic packaging.”, Oliver Lambertz, VP and Head of Operations and Feedstock Sourcing at Tomra Feedstock, concludes.

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Plastic waste

Plastic waste management: Working towards a sustainable future

The European Commission is determined to address the challenge of plastic waste, with a comprehensive strategy and targets that will transform Europe’s plastic waste management and help the transition to a circular economy.

The exponential growth of plastic use is of global environmental concern. It has led to a surge in plastic waste that our current waste management systems are struggling to manage. Plastic waste

Effective plastic waste management has emerged as a significant challenge and opportunity for innovation that requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach. The European Commission told The Innovation Platform about its plans to manage and mitigate plastic waste, the associated challenges and its progress towards ambitious policies and targets

What is the European Commission currently doing to manage plastic waste? What are key policies and how are they being implemented?

Plastics are an important material in our economy and daily lives. However, they can have serious negative effects on the environment and human health. The EU is taking action to tackle plastic pollution and marine litter to accelerate the transition to a circular and resource-efficient plastics economy.  Plastic waste

The EU Plastics Strategy was adopted in January 2018 to transform the way plastic products are designed, produced, used, and recycled in the EU. We want to improve plastic waste recycling through better design, curbing plastic waste and littering, and driving investments and innovation in the value chain.

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Plastic waste

From Northvolt comes the sodium ion battery

The intuition of a start up could soon mark a fundamental turning point in the world of electric cars. Northvolt, a Swedish company specializing in the production of batteries, has in fact developed a sodium ion battery, which does not contain lithium, cobalt or nickel, three metals that are not always so easily available and have unstable prices.
The use of sodium would have another fundamental advantage for the West, as it would minimize dependence on China for the purchase of the three elements, lithium in particular. Northvolt’s product is based on a hard carbon anode and a high-sodium “Prussian white” cathode. Due to the increased safety at high temperatures, the company would find it particularly interesting for energy storage in markets such as India, the Middle East and Africa. Plastic waste
This new sodium ion technology is less expensive and safer than the already known electric batteries; however, the amount of energy it produces is currently lower than that of lithium batteries, making it impossible, for the moment, to exploit sodium ion cells to power electric vehicles. The energy density achieved by Northvolt batteries currently reaches 160 watt hours per kilogram, while that of lithium batteries used in electric cars reaches 250/300 watt hours per kilogram. The first generation of sodium ion cells produced by Northvolt is in fact designed mainly for energy storage, while subsequent productions will offer opportunities for greater energy density to be used in electric vehicles.
Peter Carlsson, CEO and co-founder of Northvolt, said this new technology could be worth tens of billions of dollars as demand for electric batteries is set to increase over the next decade. Northvolt is currently the West’s safest hope against China, Korea and Japan, the three giants that hold a monopoly in the production of electric batteries.
However, sodium ion batteries are not an invention of the Swedish start-up; but the novelty is the lack of heavy metals. Plastic waste
In fact, even the Chinese Catl, the world’s largest battery manufacturer, has developed a similar technology, which however also incorporates nickel, cobalt and manganese, making the product much more expensive and less safe, as it could catch fire even at low temperatures .
Carlsson also added: «The world has placed great hopes in sodium ions and I am very pleased to say that we have developed a technology that will serve to accelerate the energy transition.
This is an important milestone for Northvolt’s market proposition, but technology like this is also critical to achieving global sustainability goals, making electrification more affordable, sustainable and accessible around the world.” Plastic waste
Plastic waste

Nanshan Fashion enters nylon field with Oerlikon

Partners committed to building the business and moving towards brand internationalisation.
At ITMA ASIA + CITME currently underway in Shanghai, Oerlikon Barmag has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Shandong Nanshan Fashion Technology for a nylon POY+DTY project in Longkou, Shandong, China.The cooperation will see Oerlikon Barmag provide a completely integrated solution for nylon filament from chip drying and spinning to winding and texturing.Both parties will engage in cooperation based on mutual trust and long-term development considerations, with the target of high-end and sustainable nylon production.
Oerlikon Barmag will provide highly-differentiated nylon filament production solutions, integrate the advantages of Nanshan Fashion’s scientific and technological R&D resources and promote a joint brand for the nylon filament industry. Plastic waste
“For Oerlikon, this is the first time we have had the opportunity to work with an integrated textile manufacturer with a well-known brand in Dellma,” said Georg Stausberg, Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions CEO. “This should help us better understand  ongoing developments in the consumer market and the demands that they place on the manmade fibre industry. Nanshan Fashion is entering the field of manmade fibre production for the first time and we’ll support the venture with all our experience.”
Nanshan Fashion enters nylon field with Oerlikon

Hyosung, Tefron and Santoni partner to introduce sustainable activewear and seamless apparel

The world is witnessing a growing demand for sustainable and innovative solutions within the textile and fashion industry. To meet the evolving needs of consumers and the environment, Hyosung is collaborating with two of the leading global seamless companies, Tefron and Santoni, to introduce a new generation of sustainable sportswear and seamless apparel made with its certified and multi-functional yarns.

Hyosung, Tefron, and Santoni will unveil its collaborative product, which aims to set new standards in sustainable activewear and seamless clothing, at ISPO Munich this November 28-30 in Hall A1, Booth 335. Plastic waste

“The collaboration between Tefron, Hyosung, and Santoni presents a winning combination of certified eco-friendly raw materials and innovative production techniques,” said Susie Barak, Business Director, Tefron. “By integrating Tefron’s global one-stop shop expertise in seamless knitting with Hyosung’s creora® Bio-Based yarn, the partnership paves the way for innovative designs and styles that were previously challenging to achieve with traditional materials and manufacturing techniques.”

“We are delighted to team-up with two of the most powerful players in the seamless apparel market,” said Simon Whitmarsh-Knight, Hyosung Global Marketing Director -Textiles.

“The benefits of our collaboration are numerous and range from traceable, certified fibres, comfort, and performance to innovative design and versatility.” Plastic waste

To inspire seamless mills and fashion brands, Santoni will introduce its first-ever capsule collection of seamless materials made with Hyosung USDA, SGS-certified creora® Bio-Based elastane, RCS-certified 100% recycled creora® regen elastane, and soft-stretch creora® EasyFlex made on its world-class seamless knitting machines.

At the Santoni ISPO booth, the company will introduce its new SANTONI SM8-TOP2ST machine, a variant of its best-selling SANTONI SM8-TOP2V that allows for the creation of sculptured terry patterns and upgraded seamless designs. Santoni and Hyosung have partnered to create an environmentally friendly and innovative “capsule collection” made with Hyosung USDA, SGS-certified creora® Bio-Based elastane, which will be presented in the Hyosung booth.

The collection features terry knitting solutions to produce different padding effects based on higher protection and comfort. Plastic waste

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Breaking Down Waste – Plastic Granulators and Recycling Machines Drive Sustainability Efforts

As awareness grows around the world about the environmental impact of plastic waste, companies and municipalities are ramping up sustainability efforts and looking for solutions.

As awareness grows around the world about the environmental impact of plastic waste, companies and municipalities are ramping up sustainability efforts and looking for solutions. Key to these efforts are technologies like plastic granulators and recycling machines that allow for the efficient breaking down and repurposing of plastic waste.

Plastic granulators are powerful machines that fragment and grind plastic scraps into smaller, uniform pieces called regrinds or granules. The resulting plastic granules provide the feedstock for recycling and can be remade into new plastic products. Common plastic resins that are recycled include PET, PP, HDPE and LDPE.  Plastic waste

“Plastic granulators are an essential first step in the recycling process,” said John Smith, president of ABC Recycling Machinery. “They enable us to take in scrap plastic that would otherwise be destined for landfills and grind it into a raw material that can be reborn as new plastic products. It’s a closed-loop system that creates less waste and uses fewer virgin resources.”

There are numerous types of plastic granulators available that are tailored to different plastic scrap streams and volumes. The granulation process reduces the size of plastic feeds such as bottles, containers, film, engineering plastic and other leftovers from manufacturing or post-consumer use.  Plastic waste

The granulator uses a cutting chamber and rotating knives to continuously slice the plastic until it is small enough to fall through a sized screen. The screen size and knife design can be configured based on the type of plastic stream input as well as the desired particle output size.

ABC Recycling Machinery offers heavy-duty granulators for large volume recycling as well as smaller bench-top granulators for converting scrap in a lab or small manufacturing setting. The granulators have safety mechanisms to prevent operator injury or contact with internal cutting components. Proper feeding rate, screen configuration, blade sharpness maintenance and stable ground anchoring are also critical to safe and efficient operation. Plastic waste

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Breaking Down Waste - Plastic Granulators and Recycling Machines Drive Sustainability Efforts

Plastic waste

Biodegradable Polymers – LyondellBasell to Build Industrial-scale Advanced Recycling Plant in Germany 22-11-2023

Biodegradable Polymers

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

LyondellBasell to Build Industrial-scale Advanced Recycling Plant in Germany

LyondellBasell (LYB) today announced it has made the final investment decision to build the company’s first industrial-scale catalytic advanced recycling demonstration plant at its Wesseling, Germany, site. Using LyondellBasell’s proprietary MoReTec technology, this plant will be the first commercial scale, single-train advanced recycling plant to convert post-consumer plastic waste into feedstock for production of new plastic materials that can be ran at net zero GHG emissions. The new plant is expected to have an annual capacity of 50,000 tonnes per year and is designed to recycle the amount of plastic packaging waste generated by over 1.2 million German citizens per year. Construction is planned to be completed by the end of 2025.  Biodegradable Polymers

“We are committed to addressing the global challenge of plastic waste and advancing a circular economy, and today’s announcement is another meaningful step in that direction,” says Peter Vanacker, LYB CEO. “Scaling up our catalytic advanced recycling technology will allow us to return larger volumes of plastic waste back into the value chain. By doing this, we will have the ability to produce more materials for high-quality applications, retaining value of plastics for as long as possible.”

The LYB MoReTec demonstration plant will close the gap for difficult to recycle plastics, such as mixed or flexible materials that are currently sent to landfill or incineration. Source One Plastics, a joint venture of LYB and 23 Oaks Investments formed in October 2022, will supply the majority of the sorted processed feedstock. The advanced recycled feedstock produced by the MoReTec facility will be used for the production of polymers sold by LYB under the  CirculenRevive product line for use in a wide range of applications, including medical and food packaging.

The MoReTec difference

The MoReTec technology produces pyrolysis oil and pyrolysis gas. Pyrolysis oil is a substitute for fossil-based materials used in polymer production.  Typically, pyrolysis gas streams are consumed as a fuel, however, the MoReTec technology enables the pyrolysis gas to be recovered as well, contributing to the production of polymer and displacing fossil-based feedstocks, which lowers direct CO2 emissions. Biodegradable Polymers

In addition, the proprietary catalyst technology lowers the process temperature, reduces energy consumption and improves yield.  With lower energy consumption, the process can be powered by electricity, including electricity from renewable sources at net zero GHG emissions.

These differentiating advantages provide a carbon footprint advantage as well. The recovery of pyrolysis gas as feedstock, lower energy demand, electrical heating design, displacement of fossil-feedstocks, and recovery of waste plastic from incineration or landfill result in a significantly lower carbon footprint compared with fossil-based processes. This makes MoReTec a unique value proposition. Biodegradable Polymers

Biodegradable Polymers

Polestar has officially confirmed the integration of super-fast-charging XFC batteries in its electric cars, solidifying a partnership with StoreDot

Scheduled for availability in 2027, the collaboration promises groundbreaking charging capabilities. While previous speculations hinted at this development, Polestar has now formalized the agreement.

In an unprecedented move, Polestar has entered into an exclusive agreement with StoreDot, an Israeli firm renowned for its expertise in rapid battery charging.

StoreDot recently completed the production of initial XFC (Extreme Fast Charging) battery prototypes and distributed them to 15 automakers for testing.

Polestar, as the pioneering adopter, is set to receive XFC batteries capable of recharging its electric vehicles in just 10 minutes.  Biodegradable Polymers

This revolutionary battery technology is anticipated to debut in Polestar models by 2027, marking a significant advancement in electric vehicle charging efficiency.

Polestar’s CEO, Thomas Ingenlath, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating that StoreDot’s technology will enable rapid recharging of their electric cars within minutes.

Echoing this sentiment, StoreDot’s CEO emphasized the shifting concern from range anxiety to charging anxiety, emphasizing the growing demand for electric vehicles with swift recharge capabilities.

To validate the real-world performance of XFC batteries, StoreDot is actively collaborating with Polestar to integrate the systems into production vehicles and ensure optimal functionality beyond the confines of the laboratory.  Biodegradable Polymers

The remarkable endurance of XFC batteries, demonstrated by consistent 10% to 80% charging in just 10 minutes for over 1,000 cycles without significant performance degradation, underscores the potential of this innovative technology.

Biodegradable Polymers

SANTONI Finalizes Acquisition Of Terrot, A Pivotal Realignment Of The Circular Knitting Machine Industry

Santoni Shanghai Knitting Machinery Co., Ltd., made an appearance at the ITMA Asia + CITME, and is honored to announce that it has received regulatory approval from Chinese authorities for its proposed acquisition of Terrot GmbH, a manufacturer of circular knitting machines in Germany.

The acquisition represents a pivotal step in Santoni’s strategy to advance the circular knitting machine industry. The integration of Terrot into the Santoni ecosystem is projected to increase Santoni’s production capacity and boost its market share, and in conjunction with other strategic objectives, firmly solidify Santoni’s position as the leading manufacturer in the industry, with unrivaled scale, depth of innovation and expertise.

Seeking to meet rising demand for high-end circular knitting products, Santoni has pursued an Ecosystem Strategy in recent years, aiming to unify a highly fragmented industry and enhance innovation, sustainability and digitalization to more effectively meet market needs.  Biodegradable Polymers

The deployment of both parties’ latest innovation practices, textile automation offerings, integrated enterprise services, C2M solutions, and a platform for designers “Materialliance”, will allow Santoni Shanghai and Terrot to connect and bridge demand and offer of circular knitted products, delivering substantial added value to clients.

By incorporating Terrot’s offerings, particularly in the double jersey and jacquard sector, Santoni stands to gain a competitive edge in offering high-efficiency machines known for their superior performance, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. Highlighting this shift, Terrot’s patented UCC 572-T will be showcased during ITMA Asia + CITME in the Santoni’s Shanghai premises. This state of the art high-feeder transfer jacquard machine for sports and leisurewear in fine gauges will offer a glimpse into the potential of future collaboration.  Biodegradable Polymers

“I am very excited about today’s announcement,” said Gianpietro Belotti, CEO of Santoni Shanghai. The acquisition of Terrot, including the reputable Pilotelli brand, will allow us to deliver on our commitment to building a stronger, more consolidated global ecosystem capable of yielding a sustained competitive advantage in the circular knitting machine industry. Looking ahead, we aim to cultivate an even more extensive talent pool and solutions portfolio, creating synergies that empower us to deliver a superior knitting experience to our customers.”

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Biodegradable Polymers

Aloxe inaugurates its new recycled PET plastic manufacturing plant in Messein, France

On November 16th, 2023, Aloxe inaugurated its new recycled PET plastic manufacturing plant in Messein. 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.  Biodegradable Polymers

On November 16th, 2023, 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.

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.  Biodegradable Polymers

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Aloxe inaugurates its new recycled PET plastic manufacturing plant in Messein, France

New Method Converts Mixed Plastics Into Biodegradable Polymers

In a groundbreaking development, researchers have introduced a novel method for converting mixed plastics, comprising both traditional and bio-based polymers, into biodegradable alternatives. Traditional recycling processes face challenges when dealing with bio-based plastics like polylactic acid (PLA), as their visual and textural similarity to conventional petroleum-based plastics often leads well-intentioned recyclers to place them in the wrong streams, hindering proper decomposition in composters.

Addressing this issue, a collaborative effort between Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab), the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI), and X—the moonshot incubator under Alphabet—has resulted in a “one-pot” technique. This innovative approach utilizes naturally sourced salt solutions and specific microbes within a single container to catalyze the disintegration of mixed plastics into individual molecules called monomers. Subsequently, microbes ferment these monomers, yielding a new form of biodegradable polymer suitable for crafting various products.  Biodegradable Polymers

The simplicity of this method not only sidesteps the intricate separation process but also promises to enhance the environmental impact of the final product. This breakthrough could revolutionize recycling practices, allowing consumers to mix plastic waste without concern. Beyond simplifying recycling, the team envisions a future where bacteria metabolizing plastic monomers can be harnessed for the bio-based production of valuable goods, such as biofuels or pharmaceuticals.

While the researchers, including the recognized engineer Dou, are currently experimenting with different organic salt catalysts to optimize their method’s efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the ultimate goal is to scale up the process for real-world applications in recycling facilities. Biodegradable Polymers

Their recent paper demonstrated the viability of the approach through bench-scale experiments involving common plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and PLA, showcasing the potential for transforming the approximately 8.3 billion tons of plastic waste in landfills into valuable and sustainable products.

New Method Converts Mixed Plastics Into Biodegradable Polymers

Clariant inaugurates flame retardants plant in China

Clariant formally launched its state-of-the-art manufacturing site for halogen-free flame retardants in Daya Bay, Huizhou, China, said the company.

The USD67 M investment into the site’s first manufacturing line will offer domestic customers with access to new and sustainable Exolit OP flame retardants and associated technical knowhow to back the significant increase of engineering plastics uses in the electrical & electronics and e-mobility segments.

A second line is being constructed and predicted to come online in 2024, representing another investment worth USD44 M.  Biodegradable Polymers

The new facility will manufacture the company’s international series of patent-protected organo-phosphorus flame retardants and supports the capacity of the firm’s two Exolit OP sites in Knapsack, Germany. The team at the One Clariant Campus in Shanghai will back customers in co-development and in-application evaluation.

The site is run by 100 workers and is situated within the Huizhou Daya Bay Economic and Technological Development Zone (Daya Bay Chem Park) in Guangdong Province. The Daya Bay site of Clariant uses green electricity, allowing a significant decrease in Scope 2 (CO2) emissions.

Clariant inaugurates flame retardants plant in China

DOE to award up to $3.5B more to support domestic battery manufacturing

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced up to $3.5 billion from the Infrastructure Law to boost domestic production of advanced batteries and battery materials nationwide.

The high-capacity battery supply chain consists of five main steps including: (1) raw material production; (2) materials processing including material refinement and processing; (3) battery material /component manufacturing and cell fabrication; (4) battery pack and end use product manufacturing, and (5) battery end-of-life and recycling. This FOA aims to reach across both the midstream and downstream segments of the battery supply chain, supporting both midstream battery materials and component manufacturing, as well as subsequent cell manufacturing and end of life recycling.

This investment, which includes a focus on retaining and creating good-paying union jobs in the manufacturing workforce, is administered by DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC).  Biodegradable Polymers

With the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and stationary storage alone projected to increase the size of the lithium battery market by five- to ten-fold by the end of the decade, it is essential that the United States invests in the capacity to accelerate the development of a resilient supply chain for high-capacity batteries, including non-lithium batteries, the DOE said.

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DOE to award up to $3.5B more to support domestic battery manufacturing

Plastic recycled – Judge says Ottawa listing plastic items as toxic was ‘unreasonable and unconstitutional’ 21-11-2023

Biodegradable Polymers

Recycled car interiors – New technique can capture or reuse CO2 as a chemical source for the production of sustainable plastic 16-11-2023

Recycled car interiors

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Recycled car interiors are the new chic luxury

Carmakers are lining their electric vehicles with trash — literally — and hoping sparse, eco-friendly cabins will redefine luxury for a new generation of buyers.

Why it matters: Turning recycled denim, fishing nets and plastic bottles — or even mushroom roots — into automotive cockpits may help the industry reduce its carbon footprint.

  • Plus, it’s what today’s premium customers prefer in place of plush leather or polished wood, carmakers say.
  • “Sustainability is luxury,” says Anders Karrberg, head of global sustainability at Volvo Cars. “It speaks to a younger generation.”

Driving the news: Volvo’s newest electric vehicle (EV), the compact EX30 SUV, will test that theory.  Recycled car interiors

  • The Swedish luxury brand is known for its clean and simple Scandinavian design, with light oak interiors that are functional yet beautiful.
  • The EX30, starting at $34,950, puts a whole different spin on that theme, blending an array of recycled and renewable materials into an austere cabin.
  • The bare-bones interior features seat fabric sewn from denim scraps, a dashboard woven with thread from flax and linseed plants, and speckled door accents made from ground-up vinyl window frames.
  • The EX30 has the smallest carbon footprint of any Volvo, the company says.

The big picture: Some automakers have used products like soy or sugar cane fibers in inconspicuous areas for years, like in wiring harnesses under the hood or in the headliner fabric on the inside roof of the car.  Recycled car interiors

  • But there’s a new urgency to use more recyclable and renewable materials as automakers face looming targets to be “carbon neutral” by 2050 or sooner.
  • They won’t hit those goals simply by adding more EVs to their lineups, since evidence shows EVs aren’t driven as much as gasoline-powered cars.
  • To dramatically reduce their carbon footprint, automakers need to decrease greenhouse gas emissions across their operations, including in manufacturing and logistics.

Meanwhile: Like Volvo, Kia is integrating a lot more recycled or plant-based components into its lineup — starting with the EV9, a family-friendly SUV hitting dealerships by the end of the year.  Recycled car interiors

  • The EV9 uses 10 “must-have sustainable materials,” including bio-paint made from rapeseed oil on the door switches, recycled polyethylene terephthalate plastic (PET) in the seats and other surfaces, and recycled fishing nets in the carpet.
  • The South Korean carmaker is taking the trend even further with newly revealed concept cars like the EV3, EV4 and EV5.
  • For example, it’s replacing plastic molding with soft-but-strong plant-based parts “grown” from mycelium, the white hairlike fiber from mushroom roots.

What’s next: Kia eventually wants to develop grown materials using a process called bio-fabrication.

  • “Using mycelium enables us to mimic the processes we see in nature and leverage it to design more sustainable solutions — the material can be grown in any shape you want using a mold,” Marília Biill, who heads up color, materials and fabric design at Kia, notes in a press release.  Recycled car interiors

What to watch: Will these recycled components and biomaterials hold up during the wear and tear of daily driving?

  • Complaints have been rolling in about the durability of a new recycled fabric Apple is using in place of leather for its iPhones and watches.

What they’re saying: “The industry’s been making interiors out of plastic for 70 years, so the supply chain is pretty good at it,” says Stephen Kosowski, manager of long-range strategy and planning for Kia America.

  • “To engineer new parts that are as durable, and have the same look and feel and that will last as long as plastic, is not easy.”
  • “I think we’ve cracked the code on durability,” he said, but the cost of developing sustainable materials remains a challenge.  Recycled car interiors

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Recycled car interiors

Technip Energies Creates Reju – An Innovative Polyester Textile Regeneration Company

Building on its technology partnership with IBM and Under Armour, Technip Energies announces the launch of Reju, an innovative company focused on creating new solutions at scale for the vast amount of plastic fiber in textiles that goes unrecycled and ends up as waste. Former Under Armour CEO and apparel industry veteran Patrik Frisk is heading the new company along with Alain Poincheval, COO, a senior executive with Technip Energies.

Technip Energies (PARIS: TE) (ISIN:NL0014559478) announces the creation of Reju, a new company focused on PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) recycling (rPET) of textiles that will leverage the innovative technology co-developed in joint-venture with IBM and Under Armour as well as Technip Energies’ global engineering and technology integration expertise.  Recycled car interiors

Reju will address the fast-growing market of global rPET whose demand from the textile market is expected to grow up to 20 Mtpa by 2033, driven by industry pledges and targets on recycling, regulation and consumer awareness of the need to reduce plastic waste.

Technip Energies, IBM and Under Armour have been working together since 2021 in a joint venture to bring VolCat, an IBM technology for rejuvenating waste PET packaging and polyester, to an industrial scale. VolCat allows the selective breakdown of polymers which IBM first applied to technologies like semiconductor lithography and microelectronics packaging. Reju intends to use this technology to address hard-to-recycle polyester garments and PET packaging lost to the waste stream today. With this technology, acting as a molecular sorter, PET could be regenerated infinitely.

The groundbreaking ceremony for Reju’s demonstration plant took place in September in Technip Energies Frankfurt Research Center with the facility expected to come on stream in 2024.  Recycled car interiors

Arnaud Pieton, CEO of Technip Energies , commented: “Globally, l ess than 1% of PET textiles waste is recycled today . This means that most textiles end up as waste in landfills when they could be repeatedly reused in new clothes. What has been holding the world back in textile circularity is not a lack of demand for textile recycling but the lack of a solution that makes recycling of textiles economical on an industrial scale. For the first time in this domain, a unique scalable technology is directly associated with a scalability expert like Technip Energies. Reju will deliver the promise of economical textile recycling, and we are proud to extend our role as an active agent of circularity.”

Arvind Krishna, CEO of IBM , said: “The health of our planet has never been more pressing, and the amount of fashion apparel and textiles that end up in landfills today is enormous. Recycled car interiors

The good news is that technology can help solve this challenge. IBM is proud to provide its VolCat technology to support Reju in advancing sustainable textile recycling.

We look forward to collaborating with Technip Energies and Reju to champion initiatives like these that place sustainability at the heart of the global textile industry.”

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Recycled car interiors

The LYCRA Company launches new LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber

The LYCRA Company, a global leader in developing innovative and sustainable fiber and technology solutions for the apparel and personal care industries, announced today the launch of new LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber for knits.

The company’s latest EcoMade offering is a unique bicomponent fiber engineered to optimize the performance and comfort of knits. It delivers a durable soft hand-feel, low shrinkage and high uniformity to fabrics. LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber is made from 60% recycled PET and 14.4% from bio-derived resources and is GRS certified.

The fiber includes two different polyester polymers, which together create a helical crimp, providing permanent stretch and recovery properties, as well as breathability, cooling comfort and chlorine resistance to fabrics.  Recycled car interiors

LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber helps set the stage for circularity, a key priority for The LYCRA Company. In controlled tests under specific conditions, this fiber was recycled back into new polyester fibers, thereby demonstrating the technical feasibility of this process.*

“We developed LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber to deliver in-demand performance benefits and an enhanced soft hand to the knit fabric category,” said Steve Stewart, chief brand and innovation officer at The LYCRA Company. “This innovation also meets customer and consumer expectations for more sustainable solutions since it is made with recycled and bio-derived materials.”

LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber will be advertised to the trade. The “It’s Time for Better” campaign aims to disrupt the activewear, athleisure and swimwear categories with the message that consumers and the planet deserve better—better-functioning garments offering reduced environmental impact. Recycled car interiors

Fabrics and garments powered by LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber are eligible for LYCRA® XTRA LIFE™ or COOLMAX® EcoMade brand hangtags if they meet specific brand quality standards. Both brands enjoy high levels of consumer brand awareness worldwide.

To learn more about LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber for knits, visit lycra.com.

*LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber is compatible with established polyester chemical recycling processes.

In multiple tests, LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber components were blended with standard polyester components and recycled back into new polyester fibers with comparable performance as standard recycled polyester fibers.  Recycled car interiors

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Recycled car interiors

TOMRA to invest €36 million in new infrastructure for Quebec DRS

TOMRA has entered into a long-term agreement to provide ‘reverse vending machines’ for a new deposit return scheme in Quebec starting in 2024.

Following on from the November 1st expansion of Quebec’s deposit return system (DRS), the agreement with the local producer responsibility organization, the Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association (QBCRA), will see the installation of approximately 1350 TOMRA machines.

The roll-out of automated collection equipment in Quebec will begin in the first quarter of 2024 and continue over three years, during which time TOMRA will make an investment of approximately €36 million in the new infrastructure. Recycled car interiors

“Today, eleven out of 13 Canadian provinces and territories offer deposit return systems, to combat litter, increase recycling, and drive a circular economy,” explained Alain Nault, SVP, General Manager of TOMRA Canada.

“It is inspiring that Quebec is making huge new strides with the modernization of their drink container recycling program, promising to become one of the most efficient systems in the world. TOMRA is excited to be on board as the major provider of automated collection technology for that expansion.”

The Quebec redemption centers will be equipped with TOMRA T9 and T70 reverse vending machines, as well as installations of TOMRA’s Expert Line bulk collection technology for industrial facilities, configured for consumer interaction. Recycled car interiors

The return centers automated by TOMRA include smaller centers that will purchase the reverse vending infrastructure and subscribe to a service agreement, and larger centers that will operate on a throughput model.

The building of new containers’ return centers follows on from the expansion and modernization of Quebec’s deposit return system on November 1st.

Prior to November 1st, the DRS included only beer/soft drink cans, PET and a small portion of one-way glass. Now it will expand to all drinkable beverages between 100ml and 2L, including all cans, plastic and glass bottles, and cartons. The deposit/refund value has also increased from 5 cents to 10 cents, except for glass, which has increased to 25 cents.

The DRS expansion also includes a change to the types of locations where consumers can return their drink containers for recycling. Quebec was until now a return-to-retail model (meaning that supermarkets where drinks are purchased also served as return points), but the province will now move to a “hybrid” return model, with the introduction of return centers, starting from 2024.  Recycled car interiors

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TOMRA to invest €36 million in new infrastructure for Quebec DRS

New technique can capture or reuse CO2 as a chemical source for the production of sustainable plastic

To obtain their new compound, the researchers put a raw material into a pressurized reactor filled with CO2. The transformed CO2-based compound is then purified and used to produce monomers to make polymers. When the material is obtained, it is hot-pressed in molds and can be cut into various shapes. Credit: University of Liège / Th.Habets

A team led by chemists at the University of Liège has developed a new polyurethane production technique using CO2 to create new types of easily recyclable plastics. The study, published in the Journal of the American Chemistry Society, could provide a solution for the development of truly sustainable plastics.  Recycled car interiors

Commodity plastics have transformed global industry. Whether in construction, clothing, vehicles or food packaging, these plastics are everywhere in our daily lives, so much so that their global use has been estimated at around 460 million tons in 2019.

“This number is staggering, but not surprising, because plastics, also known as synthetic polymers, have met a large success thanks to their irreplaceable characteristics: they are light, cheap and incredibly versatile,” explains Christophe Detrembleur, chemist at the Center for Education and Research on Macromolecules (CERM) of the University of Liège. “However, the fact that they are difficult to recycle, or even impossible to recycle in the case of thermosets, has serious consequences.”  Recycled car interiors

This impossibility of recycling not only leads to the depletion of the fossil resources used to manufacture them, but also to their very long-term accumulation in nature and the oceans. It is therefore imperative for our society to quickly design and manufacture plastics that can be easily recycled at the end of their life.

In this context, a study led by researchers at the University of Liège and carried out in collaboration with the University of Mons and the University of the Basque Country, reports on a new technique for producing easily recyclable polyurethane plastics.

“The special feature of this approach is the use of carbon dioxide (CO2 )—a major emblematic waste of our society—as a raw material for the production of the building blocks, or monomers, needed to manufacture these new products,” explains Thomas Habets, a doctoral student at CERM and first author of the article. “The structure of the monomers can be easily modified, making it possible to produce plastics with a wide range of properties, from highly malleable elastomers such as silicones to more rigid materials such as polystyrene.”  Recycled car interiors

These plastics have a chemical structure that resembles a three-dimensional network rather than long linear chains. This structure, which is generally associated with thermosets that are very difficult to recycle, makes them more resistant than plastics made from long molecular chains. The polyurethanes created here have new “dynamic” chemical bonds, which means that despite their thermoset structure, they can be reshaped by exchanges of chemical bonds under relatively mild reaction conditions.

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New technique can capture or reuse CO2 as a chemical source for the production of sustainable plastic

Duo and Plastix launch shrink film made from waste fishing gear

Duo will manufacture shrink film for food and beverage outer packaging using Plastix’s Oceanix recycled plastic, which is made from 98% maritime waste like fishing nets and ropes.

Fishing gear is one of the deadliest forms of marine waste, reportedly threatening 66% of marine animals and 50% of seabirds. Plastix says that its technology enables the maritime industry to minimise waste fishing gear pollution, which could otherwise end up in the oceans.  Recycled car interiors

According to the companies, Oceanix has undergone a life-cycle assessment and is confirmed to provide up to 94% CO2e savings, when compared with virgin plastics.

Hans Axel Kristensen, CEO at Plastix, says: “Our independent LCA study on Oceanix not only shows world-class CO2 reductions, but at the same time highlights that it is 11 times more climate efficient on freshwater use, five times more on ocean acidification and 43 times more on fossil resource use, compared to virgin plastics.

“It is our mission here at Plastix to reduce maritime plastic pollution and offer the most sustainable recycled plastics as an immediate solution to the world’s climate emergency.

“Duo represents everything we look for in a partner; they demonstrate a shared motivation and drive to make the plastics economy circular to help solve the climate crisis. We’re delighted to partner with them as they step into new packaging territory with exciting products in shrink film.”  Recycled car interiors

Zoe Brimelow, Brand Director at Duo, adds: “Duo remains unwavering in its mission to bring waste full-circle, so this partnership with Plastix was an easy choice; their recycled plastic ticks so many boxes for us as a business. Not only is it an innovative solution to a big environmental problem, but the quality of the green recycled pellet makes for a standout end product too.

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Duo and Plastix launch shrink film made from waste fishing gear

NFW and Sage Automotive Interiors Partner to Revolutionise Cars with Biodegradable Plant-Based Leather

Plant-based material company Natural Fiber Welding (NFW) and automotive interior solutions supplier Sage Automotive Interiors (Sage) have partnered to develop animal and plastic-free materials for car interiors.  Recycled car interiors

The strategic partnership aims to manufacture NFW’s plant-based leather MIRUM at scale, offering the automotive industry a recyclable and biodegradable alternative while supporting a circular economy.

“Asahi Kasei, Sage & NFW take a leading role in revolutionizing the market”

Sage, an affiliate of the Japanese company Asahi Kasei, is among the leading global suppliers of seat materials, door panel surfaces, and automobile headliners. With a strong presence in the US, China, and Europe, Sage has been expanding its lineup of growth-potential materials, including leather alternatives.

Dirk Pieper, chairman of the Sage Automotive Interiors board of directors, commented: “By jointly introducing MIRUM®, a plastic-free, plant-based, and fully circular leather alternative, Asahi Kasei, Sage & NFW take a leading role in revolutionizing the market for interior mobility materials.”  Recycled car interiors

Asahi Kasei’s partnership with NFW is part of its “Care for Earth” investment framework, announced in April 2023. Over the next five years, the company will invest $100 million in startups addressing environmental issues. The car interior material industry is among Asahi Kasei’s future growth areas.

The most sustainable option

Based in Peoria, Illinois, NFW was founded in 2015 to develop and manufacture sustainable products using naturally circular, biobased ingredients to replace animal and petrochemical-based materials. Today, NFW has become a platform for plastic-free performance materials spanning sheet goods (plywood and other composite materials), textiles, molded composites, and foams.

The company’s patented leather alternative, MIRUM, is made from natural rubber, fibers, pigments, plant oils, and minerals.  Recycled car interiors

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NFW and Sage Automotive Interiors Partner to Revolutionise Cars with Biodegradable Plant-Based Leather

Chemical recycling – Pyrowave introduces nanopurification technology for plastics 15-11-2023

Recycled car interiors

Chemical recycling – Pyrowave introduces nanopurification technology for plastics 15-11-2023

Chemical recycling

The Chinese brick is crumbling

As of the first 10 months of 2023, the foundations of China’s real estate sector are visibly cracking, with a 6.8% year-on-year decline in property sales, adding to the preceding 7.5% downturn observed from January to September. This data, emanating from the National Statistics Office, serves as a glaring indicator of the deep-seated crisis gripping the Chinese real estate market. Concurrently, investments in the construction sector have hit the brakes, experiencing a notable 9.3% decrease following the 9.1% contraction in the preceding January-September period. Chemical recycling

A closer look at specific metrics reveals a concerning trend. New construction initiations, measured in square footage, have plummeted by 23.2% on an annual basis, mirroring the 23.4% slump witnessed in the first nine months of the year. Additionally, the funds amassed by real estate developers have seen a precipitous 11% decline, building upon the 13.5% contraction recorded in the initial nine months of the year.

These alarming figures find resonance within the broader context of investments in fixed assets, which, contrary to expectations, have only grown by a modest 2.9% in the first 10 months of the year.  Chemical recycling

The total, amounting to 41,940 billion yuan (equivalent to nearly 5,830 billion dollars), falls short of anticipated growth, which was pegged at 3.1%. This downturn in real estate activity is emblematic of the economic turbulence faced by China, exacerbated by the crises befalling major players in the industry such as Evergrande and Country Garden. These industry giants, grappling with insurmountable debt and teetering on the brink of collapse, are contributing significantly to the erosion of the dragon’s economic prowess. The reverberations of this downturn extend beyond the realm of real estate, casting a shadow on China’s overall economic landscape.

The Chinese brick is crumbling

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Pyrowave introduces nanopurification technology for plastics

A short-loop chemical recycling process to remove toxic additives and contaminants in plastics

At the 2nd ICIS Recycled Polymers conference held last week in Chicago, Pyrowave introduced a new nanopurification technology that specifically addresses the problem of contaminants in plastic waste and in pyrolysis oil. Contamination is an issue that has held back efforts to scale plastic recycling, precisely because of  the inability to secure feedstock compatible with level of purity required in end applications. In fact, a United Nations report recently highlighted the challenges of handling hazardous chemicals present in plastics – additives and contaminants that represent major concerns to human health and the environment.  Chemical recycling

According to Pyrowave, its nanopurification technology operates at the molecular level to remove contaminants from polymers with perfect control on purified resins, offering a plastic waste pre-treatment to purify the resins that can be used in advanced recycling methods, or directly into final applications. The technology  debottlenecks the access to plastic feedstock, by standardising the material upstream to be compliant with most advanced recycling process, including its own microwave depolymerization process.

Pyrowave has successfully demonstrated the technology by decontaminating polymers and supplying high-quality recycled plastics to industries requiring strict compliance, including food-contact applications.

For advanced recyclers, the ability to pre-treat the feedstock results in a higher quality pyrolysis oil, which in turn, means that the threshold of recycled oil added into steam crackers can be raised.  Chemical recycling

The company was inspired by the purification technologies applied in the pharmaceutical industry. The methodology takes advantage of the large difference in size and solubility disparity between polymers and most additives found in the compounds, using advanced nanofiltration membranes to separate the contaminants out. The patent-pending technology enables simultaneous removal of various contaminants – something not possible when using conventional dissolution methods –  all while maintaining meticulous control over the endpoint.

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Chemical recycling

Cosmo First results expect worst to be behind

Cosmo First declared its financial results for the quarter ended June 2023 on 10 August. The results for the quarter would have been better by Rs 20-crore but for the non-repetitive inventory loss arising from the sharp drop in prices of raw materials towards the quarter end.  Chemical recycling

During the quarter, the BOPP demand has started picking up and the demand-supply balance should get restored in the coming quarter(s). In the case of BOPET, where the supply is far in excess of demand, it will take many more quarters for the supply-demand gap to bridge. Margins are therefore likely to remain under pressure with little downside risk.

The export markets showed signs of improvement with better specialty sales. Cosmo with over two third of its revenue coming from BOPP speciality films could withstand the margin pressure better than the industry.  Chemical recycling

“We continue to build our specialty films portfolio by adding speciality polyester films, including shrink labels and sun shield films which would further strengthen our overall margins and also the ability to withstand margin pressures if any in the future,” the company said.

The company’s Petcare vertical Zigly continues to grow rapidly and clocked monthly revenue (GMV) with a run rate revenue of Rs 3-crore on the back of expanding retail footprints, innovative sales promotion, and increasing online presence. The acquisition of Petsy, an online venture in the Petcare space, is complete and would further accelerate the growth of the Petcare vertical.  Chemical recycling

The speciality chemical subsidiary is set to launch newer adhesives in H2, FY24.

Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo First, said “The company is working on multiple growth drivers including speciality BOPET films, sun shield film, rigid packaging, specialty chemicals, petcare, etc.

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Chemical recycling

The joint ventures intend to issue a final investment decision in 2023, with construction beginning that year

Production is production to commence in late 2025 or early 2026. Between the two facilities, over 125 new jobs would be created if the project moves forward.

“With the establishment of this JV, LG Chem will not only procure production capacities for highly pure lactic acid needed for commercial-scale PLA production, but will also be able to apply biomaterials in the development of various high-value-added products. Based on eco-friendly materials, which is an axis for new growth engines, we will respond to the rapidly changing market and customers, while becoming a market leader, ” said Hak Cheol Shin, CEO of LG Chem, in a statement.  Chemical recycling

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The joint ventures intend to issue a final investment decision in 2023, with construction beginning that year

In China, even finance is communist: Xi is the central banker (but the crisis does not pass)

In China, the once-unchallenged trajectory of economic prosperity is now met with unprecedented challenges, sending shockwaves through all levels of society

Unlike the West, which has grown accustomed to periodic crises, China has been relatively immune for several decades. However, the current state of Beijing’s economy is causing widespread concern, marked by a significant slowdown in economic growth, a looming real estate bubble, and the staggering youth unemployment exacerbated by Xi Jinping’s stringent measures on the hi-tech sector.  Chemical recycling

The severity of the situation is not lost on the Communist Party, whose social legitimacy historically hinged on meeting the needs of the people. For decades, a tacit agreement existed: citizens traded some freedoms for steadily improving living conditions. Now, this implicit contract is unraveling, and the Party, under mounting pressure from its populace, is grappling with how to regain control.

The recent Central Financial Work Conference, held every five years to outline financial objectives, provided a glimpse into Xi’s vision. In his central speech, Xi unveiled a new economic model emphasizing the “rejuvenation” of the country through “socialism with Chinese characteristics for the new era.” A central tenet of this vision involves the Communist Party reclaiming a pivotal role in the entire economy.

Market forces, once allowed a degree of freedom, are now to be tightly controlled, if not outright impeded.  Chemical recycling

This shift had already manifested in various measures, such as the drastic downsizing of Alibaba’s Jack Ma, the crackdown on internet giants, dismantling of online higher education sectors, and restrictions imposed on private businesses, which constitute 80% of the nation’s employment. The presence of party cells in companies, even foreign ones, reflects the growing intrusion of political influence. Foreign consultancy firms have faced ostracism and repression, while security and anti-espionage laws grant unprecedented powers to Chinese authorities.

In a departure from the previous focus on economic development, the central theme now is security – both geopolitical and domestic.

The goal is to create an economy and technology that are less reliant on international relations and foreign exchanges.  Chemical recycling

Against this backdrop, the latest move is a profound transformation of the financial sector. The establishment of a Central Financial Commission, announced during the Conference, consolidates significant powers directly under the Communist Party’s purview.

This Commission will oversee the central bank, the regulatory commission for financial activities, and stock exchange authorities, essentially placing the entire Chinese financial sector, valued at over 60 trillion dollars, under the direct control of the Chinese Communist Party. As the economic landscape undergoes this tectonic shift, the world watches with anticipation, wondering whether these measures will steer China towards stability or introduce a new chapter of uncertainties.  Chemical recycling

Chemical recycling

Hyundai, the electric revolution of the world’s largest car factory

Hyundai, at the forefront of the global automotive industry, is gearing up for an electric revolution that promises to reshape the landscape of the world’s largest car factory

The visionary words of Ju-yung Chung, Hyundai’s founder, echoing the conviction that “Korean cars will conquer the world,” laid the foundation for a remarkable journey.

Now, Hyundai Motor Group, currently holding the esteemed third place among car manufacturers globally, is poised to dominate the electric vehicle (EV) market by expanding the production capacity of its colossal Ulsan plant.

The Ulsan plant, already a colossus in the automotive realm, assembled a staggering 1.4 million cars in 2022 alone, dwarfing even Volkswagen’s facility in Wolfsburg, Germany, which can manage a maximum of 800,000 cars annually. Chemical recycling

In an ambitious move, Hyundai plans to carve out a dedicated production line within this automotive behemoth, earmarking a substantial 548 thousand square meters for the construction of a cutting-edge electric car plant.

The symbolic laying of the first stone on November 13 marked the initiation of this transformative endeavor, attended by key figures such as Euisun Chung, executive president of Hyundai Motor Group, Jaehoon Chang, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, along with local officials.

The emphasis of this new facility extends beyond mere production capacity augmentation. Hyundai is actively seeking to integrate revolutionary production technologies to redefine the manufacturing process for electric vehicles.

While details remain undisclosed, there are tantalizing speculations about the adoption of the Hyundai Hyper Casting method.  Chemical recycling

When queried about this groundbreaking technique, the response was elusive yet suggestive, hinting at an innovative manufacturing platform developed by the Hyundai Motor Group Singapore Innovation Center (HMGICS). This platform incorporates intelligent control systems driven by artificial intelligence, prioritizing employee safety, convenience, and operational efficiency.

Additionally, it employs eco-friendly, low-carbon construction methods, aligning with sustainability goals such as carbon neutrality and RE100 certification.

The investment allocated for the Ulsan expansion amounts to a formidable $1.53 billion, a strategic move in line with Hyundai’s broader vision.  Chemical recycling

The Korean conglomerate aims to bolster domestic production of electric cars from the current 330 thousand units to a staggering 1.51 million by 2030. This surge in production will contribute to a global output of 3 million cars, emanating from 10 factories strategically positioned worldwide.

In this ambitious pursuit, Hyundai plans to unleash approximately thirty electric models under both the Hyundai and Kia brands.

This multifaceted approach positions Hyundai to contend for a spot among the top three electric car manufacturers globally, an echelon currently dominated by Tesla and BYD.

The challenge for electric domination is not only a strategic business move for Hyundai; it is a revival of ambition echoing the spirit of 1963, when Hyundai embarked on its journey. As the electric revolution unfolds, the Korean giant aims to rewrite history and reclaim its position at the forefront of automotive innovation.  Chemical recycling

Hyundai, the electric revolution of the world's largest car factory

Xi Jinping’s upcoming trip to San Francisco from November 14 to 17 holds critical significance, especially in light of the recent economic turbulence between the USA and China

The central focus of this diplomatic journey is a dinner engagement with American captains of industry. The primary objective for the Chinese leader is to reestablish trust and confidence among US investors, given the substantial withdrawal of funds by foreign companies from the Chinese market over the last six quarters.  Chemical recycling

An astonishing $160 billion has been pulled out by foreign companies during this period. Even more concerning is the fact that the Chinese State Administration of Foreign Exchange (Safe) reported a deficit in foreign direct investments for the first time in a quarter of a century, amounting to $11.8 billion in the third quarter of 2023. This financial setback prompted Chinese authorities to diligently prepare for the summit in San Francisco.

Simultaneously occurring with the Apec summit dominated by Biden and Xi, the meeting in San Francisco gathers hundreds of American business executives, including CEOs of major multinational corporations such as Microsoft, Pfizer, and ExxonMobil. The gala evening invitation hints at the participation of a “senior Chinese official and his ministerial delegation.” While the name remains undisclosed, the ticket price is hefty, requiring $40,000 for a table reservation accommodating eight executives. This investment promises a close encounter with the mysterious Chinese official expected to deliver a significant speech.  Chemical recycling

The anticipation surrounding this event stems from the urgent need for Xi Jinping to address the concerns and reservations of American business leaders. The invitation card emphasizes the importance of the speech, raising expectations for a persuasive and reassuring message from the communist general secretary.

Xi’s recent diplomatic efforts include a letter read by his ambassador at the National Committee on US-China Relations gala in New York.

The letter stressed the need for “mutual respect,” “peaceful coexistence,” and “double win-win cooperation,” highlighting the crucial role of amicable relations between the two superpowers for global stability. However, the reality contradicts these diplomatic aspirations.  Chemical recycling

A survey conducted by the US-China Business Council reveals that 34 percent of its members have either halted or reduced planned investments for the year 2023.

The hesitancy among American businesses stems from the Chinese Communist Party’s increased intervention in the market and the intimidating effects of recent anti-espionage legislation. Incidents such as the arrests of employees from Mintz Group and the searches at the offices of Bain & Company in Shanghai have further deterred US businesses.

Beijing TV, in a report on these incidents, has framed them as attempts by Americans to steal intelligence on crucial sectors of the Chinese production system, financial data, energy, and even healthcare. This narrative suggests a purported “well-known plan to contain and suffocate the rise of China.”  Chemical recycling

As of November, Gallup, renowned for its opinion polls, has also withdrawn from China. The question remains: can a $40,000 dinner and an eloquent speech truly alter the perspectives of the skeptical American business community? Xi Jinping’s words during this high-stakes summit will play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of US-China economic relations.

Xi Jinping's upcoming trip to San Francisco from November 14 to 17 holds critical significance, especially in light of the recent economic turbulence between the USA and China

Global negotiations for plastic treaty commences in Kenya

The third session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3), tasked with developing a legally binding global treaty to address plastic pollution, opened in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi on Monday.Over 2,000 representatives from governments, civil society, industry and academia are attending the seven-day meeting. They will discuss the Zero draft text, which forms the basis for establishing a global treaty to enhance action against plastic litter that is causing harm to terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

In his opening remarks, Kenyan President William Ruto said that plastic pollution remains an existential threat to a just transition as well as human and planetary health, noting that a legally binding treaty could offer some relief.  Chemical recycling

Ruto said ending plastic pollution from the source to the end users will ensure a just and green transition for humanity, promote ecological health and revitalize the growth of the circular economy.

The Kenya meeting follows previous sessions held in Uruguay in 2022, and Paris earlier this year.

The negotiations for a global plastic treaty stem from the adoption of a landmark resolution at the fifth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly held in Nairobi in February 2022.  Chemical recycling

Discussions on the contents of the Zero draft, which was agreed upon at INC-2, will dominate this week’s meeting, aiming to expedite the process of establishing a legally binding global treaty to combat plastic pollution by 2024.

Gustavo Adolfo Meza-Cuadra Velasquez, the INC chairperson, said that the transnational nature of plastic pollution necessitates the creation of an international legally binding instrument to address the challenge. He highlighted the need for legal interventions to support efforts to eliminate plastic pollution that harms wildlife sanctuaries, oceans and freshwater bodies.  Chemical recycling

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Global negotiations for plastic treaty commences in Kenya

Sulzer Technology To Enable A Carbon Capture Plant In Austria

Sulzer’s mass transfer technologies are being leveraged by Messer, the world’s largest privately owned industrial gas specialist, in collaboration with a manufacturer of inorganic chemicals to enable innovative carbon capture and utilization (CCU) at a plant in Landeck, Austria.

The CO2 capture unit will rely on Sulzer Chemtech’s carbon capture technology to capture more than 50,000 tons of CO2 per year, which will be re-used in the food & beverage industry and by other companies from nearby regions.  Chemical recycling

Messer and its business partner are collaborating to convert carbon emissions resulting from calcium carbide production into valuable feedstock for food & beverages, greenhouse fertilizers and fire extinguishers. The selected carbon capture technology for flue gas and post-combustion CO2 capture, OASE® blue from BASF, utilizes Sulzer Chemtech’s carbon capture products, which are designed to address the specific needs of carbon capture applications while offering maximum CO2 capture rates in combination with low energy demand.

Sulzer Chemtech Division President Uwe Boltersdorf says: “We appreciate our customers’ needs to remain competitive as they strive to deliver sustainable products and processes – which is why we work to maximize efficiency, performance, and productivity by default. This is how we ensure our range of mass transfer components enable businesses worldwide to adopt more sustainable practices.”  Chemical recycling

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Sulzer Technology To Enable A Carbon Capture Plant In Austria

Solid-state batteries – Bio-based Leather Alternative for Auto Interiors Attracts Investment 14-11-2023

Chemical recycling

Hydrogen Cars – Recover™ And Valdese Weavers Partner For Circularity In The Home Textiles Industry 11-11-2023

Hydrogen Cars

Do Hydrogen Cars Waste Water?

In recent years, hydrogen-powered cars have gained attention as a potential solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. These vehicles use hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, emitting only water vapor as a byproduct. However, a common question arises: do hydrogen cars waste water? Let’s explore this topic and shed light on the matter.

Hydrogen Cars and Water Consumption

Contrary to popular belief, hydrogen cars do not waste water. The water vapor emitted from the tailpipe of a hydrogen car is a byproduct of the chemical reaction that occurs within the fuel cell. This reaction combines hydrogen fuel with oxygen from the air, resulting in the production of electricity and water vapor. Therefore, the water vapor released is simply a natural consequence of the car’s operation and does not contribute to water waste.  Hydrogen Cars

Water Recycling in Hydrogen Cars

It is important to note that hydrogen cars have a water recycling system in place. This system collects and recycles the water vapor produced during the vehicle’s operation. The collected water is then reused within the fuel cell, ensuring a closed-loop system that minimizes water consumption. This recycling process further emphasizes the efficiency and sustainability of hydrogen cars.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the water emitted by hydrogen cars be used for other purposes?
A: The water vapor emitted by hydrogen cars is generally in small quantities and not suitable for use in other applications. It is primarily released into the atmosphere as harmless water vapor.  Hydrogen Cars

Q: How does the water recycling system in hydrogen cars work?
A: The water recycling system in hydrogen cars collects the water vapor emitted during operation, purifies it, and reintroduces it into the fuel cell. This closed-loop system ensures minimal water consumption.

Q: Are hydrogen cars more water-efficient than traditional combustion engine cars?
A: Yes, hydrogen cars are more water-efficient than traditional combustion engine cars. While traditional cars emit pollutants and do not generate water as a byproduct, hydrogen cars produce only water vapor, making them environmentally friendly.

In conclusion, hydrogen cars do not waste water.  Hydrogen Cars

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Hydrogen Cars

Recover™ And Valdese Weavers Partner For Circularity In The Home Textiles Industry

November 9, 2023Valdese Weavers, a producer of decorative textiles in the United States for residential and contract markets, has partnered with global recycled cotton fiber producer, Recover™, to transform the home textile industry. The two innovative textile leaders, both at different stages of the supply chain, intend to capitalize on their combined expertise to drive the use of sustainable materials in the industry.

Valdese Weavers has more than 100 years of textile experience and works with a full range of furniture manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to deliver unparalleled design through their vertical manufacturing facilities. The company understands the importance of choosing responsible raw materials, and already offers a collection of environmentally conscious products. By partnering with Recover™, they can offer the highest quality decorative fabrics made with RCS/GRS verified Recover™ recycled fiber and help brands and retailers to reduce their environmental impact caused by virgin raw material production.  Hydrogen Cars

Blake Millinor, President and CEO of Valdese Weavers, commented: “We are proud to partner with Recover™ as a natural fiber platform for our customers searching for sustainable fabrics. Recover™ compliments our sustainable product offering by helping create a more circular material solution. We are excited to be working with the Recover™ team to tell this unique story and develop more responsible textile solutions for our customers”.

Recover™ has perfected the art and science of scaled production of recycled cotton fiber over more than 75 years, and today, the company is supported by leading institutional investors including STORY3 Capital, Goldman Sachs, Fortress Investment Group and Eldridge Industries.  Hydrogen Cars

Its recycled cotton fiber is fundamentally transforming the textile industry, making significant environmental savings compared to virgin and organic cotton, and it is one of the most sought-after fibers in the recycled materials space. The integration of Recover™ fiber into Valdese Weaver’s product lines, enables the textile mill to remain frontrunners in delivering sustainable and innovative fabrics, and accelerate the production of low-impact products such as sofas, cushions, and curtains.

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Hydrogen Cars

Amcor to source mechanically recycled polyethylene from NOVA Chemicals

The multiyear collaboration will focus on the incorporation of mechanically recycled polyethylene resin in flexible packaging films.

Amcor has unveiled a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with sustainable polyethene producer Nova Chemicals Corporati  Hydrogen Cars

This multiyear collaboration focuses on Amcor’s commitment to circular content, emphasising the incorporation of mechanically recycled polyethene resin (rPE) in flexible packaging films.

Fuelling circular content with SYNDIGO rPE resin

The heart of this collaboration lies in the supply agreement that positions Amcor to procure SYNDIGO rPE resin.  Hydrogen Cars

This resin, scheduled to be produced at NOVA Chemicals’ mechanical recycling facility in Connersville, Indiana, is anticipated to commence operations as early as 2025.

Amcor flexibles North America president Fred Stephan expressed enthusiasm, stating: “This is an exciting opportunity for us to supplement our rPE supply as we strive to achieve a 30% recycled material usage across our global portfolio by 2030.”

Driving sustainable practices

Amcor’s strategic move aligns with its global vision to foster sustainability and packaging circularity.  Hydrogen Cars

By integrating rPE into flexible packaging films, the company aims to assist brand owners in meeting recycled content targets, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and actively contributing to the preservation of the environment.

NOVA circular solutions vice-president Greg DeKunder shared the sentiment, stating: “Reshaping plastics for a better future will take collaboration within our industry, and we share Amcor’s commitment to further global packaging circularity.”

NOVA Chemicals’ expansion to propel circular solutions

In parallel, NOVA Chemicals unveiled plans to expand its recycling footprint across North America in the coming years.  Hydrogen Cars

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Hydrogen Cars

Honda, Mitsubishi Chemical Develop Colored Acrylic Resin for Car Bodies

Article-Honda, Mitsubishi Chemical Develop Colored Acrylic Resin for Car Bodies

Mitsubishi Chemical and Honda Motor are jointly developing a PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate acrylic) acrylic compound for automotive body components such as doors and front fenders. Two concept models — the Sustaina-C and Pocket concept cars — using these materials are exhibited at the Honda booth in the Japan Mobility Show 2023 which concludes on Nov. 5, 2023, in Tokyo.  Hydrogen Cars

Painted steel is the most commonly used material for automobile bodies, but Mitsubishi Chemical and Honda aim to transform the status quo by developing a new acrylic resin material that can be adopted for doors, hoods, fenders, and other automotive body parts. The compound is composed of acrylic resin and rubber particles to improve the impact resistance required for automobile bodies.

Acrylic resins are highly transparent and can be toned to a variety of colors, enabling manufacturers to create glossy surfaces simply by adding colorants. It also helps reduce CO2 emissions generated in the painting process.  Hydrogen Cars

Furthermore, acrylic resin is suitable for recycling because it can be decomposed into acrylic raw materials at high yields by heating. With a view to starting operation of a recycling plant in fiscal 2025, Mitsubishi Chemical aims to commercialize an acrylic resin molecular recycling business. Closed-loop recycling trials conducted in collaboration with Honda and Microwave Chemical Co. Ltd. have yielded recycled products comparable in quality to conventional products. Mitsubishi Chemical expects to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through this technology over the entire product life cycle by about 50% compared with current practices.  Hydrogen Cars

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Honda, Mitsubishi Chemical Develop Colored Acrylic Resin for Car Bodies

The tech to recycle clothes is only just being invented

The vast waste and pollution caused by the fashion industry has made recycling clothes a top priority, but only now are simple tasks like pulling the sole off a shoe being done by machines.

CETIA, a company in the southwest of France is finally offering some mechanical solutions to the challenges of recycling clothes.

Its research team has invented a machine that uses artificial intelligence to scan garments, identify hard elements like zippers and buttons, and use a laser to cut them out.  Hydrogen Cars

It has also built a machine that grabs shoes in a large mechanical arm and yanks off the soles.

In a world of space travel and vaccines, that may seem a relatively rudimentary piece of technology, but it had simply never been done before.

“It was a chicken and egg question. No one was recycling soles because we couldn’t separate them from the shoe, and no one was separating them because there was no recycling,” said Chloe Salmon Legagneur, director of CETIA.

Previously, recyclers had to bake the shoes for many hours to melt the glue and then pull the sole off by hand.  Hydrogen Cars

“There’s nothing spectacular in what we’ve done,” Legagneur said. “But we’ve done it.”

For now, barely one percent of textiles in Europe are turned back into new clothes. Most end up as housing insulation, padding or asphalt for paving roads.

That is because clothes are usually a complex mix of materials that must be separated carefully to keep the fibers in good condition if there is any hope of respinning them into new garments.

Usually done by hand, CETIA says its AI-laser machine can do this at a much faster rate that is rapidly evolving as it perfects the technology.

It also has machines that can sort clothes by color and composition at a rate of one per second.

The reason these inventions are finally emerging is that tough new European rules are imminent that will force clothing companies to use a set amount of recycled fibers in their garments.  Hydrogen Cars

CETIA’s work is backed by big retailers like Decathlon and Zalando who are urgently looking for industrial-scale solutions.

There are also political incentives. The French government sees the potential for new manufacturing jobs if recycling technology allows it to deal with some of the 200,000 tonnes of textile waste currently being shipped abroad each year.

CETIA’s focus is on preparing textiles for reuse. Other companies must now start melting down the separated soles and turning them into new ones.

But it is an important first step.  Hydrogen Cars

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The tech to recycle clothes is only just being invented

Is Piovan Using Too Much Debt?

The external fund manager backed by Berkshire Hathaway’s Charlie Munger, Li Lu, makes no bones about it when he says ‘The biggest investment risk is not the volatility of prices, but whether you will suffer a permanent loss of capital.’ So it might be obvious that you need to consider debt, when you think about how risky any given stock is, because too much debt can sink a company. We can see that Piovan S.p.A.  does use debt in its business. But should shareholders be worried about its use of debt?

What Risk Does Debt Bring?

Debt is a tool to help businesses grow, but if a business is incapable of paying off its lenders, then it exists at their mercy.  Hydrogen Cars

Ultimately, if the company can’t fulfill its legal obligations to repay debt, shareholders could walk away with nothing. While that is not too common, we often do see indebted companies permanently diluting shareholders because lenders force them to raise capital at a distressed price. Having said that, the most common situation is where a company manages its debt reasonably well – and to its own advantage. The first step when considering a company’s debt levels is to consider its cash and debt together.

How Much Debt Does Piovan Carry?

As you can see below, Piovan had €174.0m of debt, at June 2023, which is about the same as the year before. You can click the chart for greater detail. However, because it has a cash reserve of €73.8m, its net debt is less, at about €100.3m.  Hydrogen Cars

A Look At Piovan’s Liabilities

According to the last reported balance sheet, Piovan had liabilities of €207.6m due within 12 months, and liabilities of €140.0m due beyond 12 months. Offsetting this, it had €73.8m in cash and €106.4m in receivables that were due within 12 months. So its liabilities total €167.4m more than the combination of its cash and short-term receivables.

While this might seem like a lot, it is not so bad since Piovan has a market capitalization of €469.5m, and so it could probably strengthen its balance sheet by raising capital if it needed to. But it’s clear that we should definitely closely examine whether it can manage its debt without dilution.  Hydrogen Cars

In order to size up a company’s debt relative to its earnings, we calculate its net debt divided by its earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) and its earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) divided by its interest expense (its interest cover). Thus we consider debt relative to earnings both with and without depreciation and amortization expenses.

Piovan has a low net debt to EBITDA ratio of only 1.5. And its EBIT covers its interest expense a whopping 30.6 times over. So you could argue it is no more threatened by its debt than an elephant is by a mouse. On top of that, Piovan grew its EBIT by 69% over the last twelve months, and that growth will make it easier to handle its debt. There’s no doubt that we learn most about debt from the balance sheet. But it is Piovan’s earnings that will influence how the balance sheet holds up in the future. So when considering debt, it’s definitely worth looking at the earnings trend.  Hydrogen Cars

Finally, while the tax-man may adore accounting profits, lenders only accept cold hard cash. So we clearly need to look at whether that EBIT is leading to corresponding free cash flow. Over the most recent three years, Piovan recorded free cash flow worth 76% of its EBIT, which is around normal, given free cash flow excludes interest and tax. This cold hard cash means it can reduce its debt when it wants to.

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Is Piovan Using Too Much Debt?

Chlorophyll Water launches 100% rPET bottles with Clean Flake technology

Chlorophyll Water has transitioned to bottles made from 100% rPET with Clean Flake technology. These rPET bottles are manufactured from food-grade PET which is recycled as per the technologies approved by the US FDA and European Food Safety Authority (Efsa) for food-grade recycled material and repurposed into new PET bottles.

“As a brand, Chlorophyll Water is committed to sustainability and implementation of new ideas and technology which can improve the impact that packaging has on our environment,” explains founder Matt Levine, “in utilising bottles made from 100% recycled plastic, our intention is to make a meaningful environmental impact – addressing the plastic waste challenge, minimising our use of virgin, fossil-fuel based packaging.”

To accompany their bottle made from 100% recycled plastic, Chlorophyll Water selected Avery Dennison’s Clean Flake label technology as their label to help improve the yield of high-quality, food grade PET in the recycling process.  Hydrogen Cars

The technology is built on a water-based adhesive technology that is claimed to separate cleanly from PET during the caustic wash stage of the recycling process.

Chlorophyll Water is a plant-powered purified water enhanced by nature with the addition of Chlorophyll, a key ingredient and the distinct green pigment in plant life. It is carbon-filtered using triple filtration and is UV-treated for a high level of purity.

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Chlorophyll Water launches 100% rPET bottles with Clean Flake technology

Circular Textiles – One million tonnes of plastic additives pollute the world’s oceans each year 10-11-2023

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