Sustainable Bottle plastic waste – Plastic Is Not Toxic, So How Can It Be a Pollutant? 15-08-2023

Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Mitsubishi Embarks on Establishing a Sustainable Bottle Supply Chain

In a groundbreaking collaborative effort, Mitsubishi has joined forces with Suntory Holdings and Eneos to spearhead the development of an innovative supply chain dedicated to producing sustainable PET bottles sourced from biomass. This strategic alliance signifies a remarkable stride towards a more environmentally conscious future.

The tripartite consortium, comprised of Mitsubishi, Suntory Holdings, and Eneos, has unveiled a visionary plan that involves the creation of a supply chain powered by renewable resources. Neste, a pioneering force in the realm of bio-based feedstock, will be the linchpin of this supply chain, furnishing it with a raw material derived from biomass. This material will act as a sustainable substitute for fossil naphtha, an oil-based solvent obtained through petroleum distillation. This revolutionary initiative targets the transformation of the PET bottle production process, aligning it with the principles of sustainability. Biomass resources like used cooking oil, harnessed by Neste, will be channeled into the manufacturing of bio-naphtha, a pivotal component in this innovative supply chain. Notably, Neste’s bio-naphtha derives exclusively from 100% renewable raw materials, namely waste and residue oils and fats. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

At the heart of this undertaking are PET bottles, also known as PET plastic, renowned for their transparent durability and recyclability. According to the American Beverage Association, these bottles can be fully recycled and repurposed, underscoring their potential in a circular economy. While Mitsubishi has garnered renown primarily as an automotive giant, its scope extends far beyond. With a diverse portfolio spanning natural gas, industrial materials, chemical solutions, mineral resources, industrial infrastructure, automotive and mobility, food industry, consumer industry, power solutions, and urban development, Mitsubishi is uniquely positioned to orchestrate and manage the multifaceted aspects of this ambitious endeavor.

Eneos, a prominent Japanese oil company, contributes a crucial component to the supply chain equation. The company undertakes the transformation of bio-naphtha into bio-paraxylene (PX) at its Mizushima Refinery located in Okayama, Japan. This transitional phase is integral to the subsequent production of bio-high purity terephthalic acid (PTA) and resin essential for crafting bio-PET bottles, all driven by bio-PX. Suntory, a distinguished Japanese packaged goods entity, assumes the mantle of utilizing this bio-PET resin to fabricate sustainable PET bottles for their extensive product range. However, it is Mitsubishi that takes on the pivotal role of orchestrating and overseeing the entire supply chain progression.

This collaborative endeavor stands as a testament to ingenuity and innovation, marking the world’s inaugural large-scale production of sustainable PET bottles utilizing bio-PX sourced from bio-naphtha. The bold proclamation by Mitsubishi highlights the anticipated production of bio-PX equivalent to a staggering 35 million PET bottles by the conclusion of 2023. These will subsequently serve as the fundamental raw materials for the crafting of Suntory’s sustainable PET bottles, set to debut in 2024. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Crucially, this newly engineered supply chain embodies a remarkable reduction in carbon emissions when juxtaposed with conventional petroleum-derived products. This dramatic shift towards PET resin produced from bio-PX translates to a significant decrease in carbon footprint and a reduced reliance on fossil fuels. Mitsubishi’s commitment extends beyond this venture, as it envisions a continuous transformation of various plastics hitherto dependent on fossil fuels into bio-based counterparts.

Notably, Mitsubishi’s involvement in pioneering sustainable solutions is not limited to this venture alone. The company has consistently demonstrated its dedication to enhancing plastics recycling. A notable instance is the collaboration between Mitsubishi’s chemical advanced materials business and Solvay, aimed at recycling medical equipment constructed from polysulfone thermoplastic. Additionally, Mitsubishi was a prominent signatory to the Low-Carbon Resources Initiative (LCRI), an ambitious $100 million research and development initiative uniting 39 companies in the pursuit of viable technologies and solutions for the deep decarbonization of the power sector.

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of Mitsubishi, Suntory Holdings, and Eneos herald a significant leap forward in sustainability within the PET bottle production domain. This groundbreaking supply chain, powered by renewable resources, represents an audacious stride towards a greener and more eco-conscious future. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Mitsubishi’s multifaceted engagement across various sectors underscores its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and a paradigm shift towards a circular economy.

In a groundbreaking study, the utilization of renewable energy to drive the depolymerization of polyoxymethylene (POM), a high-performance acetal resin widely used in industries such as automotive and electronics, has been successfully demonstrated

While the recycling of plastics through depolymerization has been effectively achieved for plastics like PET, polystyrene, and polylactic acid, the research team at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has expanded the horizons of plastic recycling by showcasing the feasibility of electrochemical depolymerization of POM.

The University’s research, recently published in Nature Communications, unveils a pioneering project that capitalizes on the integration of renewable energy into a circular plastic economy. The project, led by Yuting Zhou, a postdoctoral associate, in collaboration with chemistry professors Jeffrey Moore and Joaquín Rodríguez-López, embarks on a mission to address the longevity and non-circular nature of plastic materials like POM due to their intricate molecular structures and relatively unreactive linkages.

Conventionally, recycling plastics involves mechanical processes that often compromise the thermomechanical properties of the polymers. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

By deconstructing the POM polymer into its elemental monomers, a process achieved by dissolving small POM beads in a specialized organic solvent called hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) and subjecting them to electrocatalysis, the researchers successfully converted the plastic waste into reusable monomers.

The breakthrough lies in the role of HFIP during electrolysis. This organic solvent, under the influence of electrical current, generates acid, which in turn facilitates the breakdown of the polymer into its constituent monomers. A pivotal control experiment demonstrated that without electricity, the depolymerization process did not occur. Furthermore, attempts without HFIP, conducted at both room temperature and 60°C, also failed to trigger the desired depolymerization. These findings underscore the crucial synergy between renewable energy, specialized solvents, and electrocatalysis in the effective depolymerization of POM.

Compared to conventional chemical recycling methods, the approach adopted by the research team proves to be energy-efficient and robust. As the global energy landscape shifts towards the dominance of renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric generation, the method presents a sustainable, energy-driven solution for circular plastic economy endeavors.

Building on their success, the researchers extended their exploration to include a commercial Delrin product – keck clip sheds, commonly utilized in chemistry laboratories. The technique proved adaptable and effective, showcasing its potential applicability to real-world manufactured products. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Reflecting on the implications of their work, Zhou expresses enthusiasm regarding the possibilities unlocked by electricity-driven plastic breakdown. She acknowledges the challenges and limitations yet remains steadfast in her belief that this groundbreaking approach holds tremendous promise. The breakthrough doesn’t just break down plastics; it also dismantles preconceptions about the feasibility of utilizing electricity in plastic recycling.

As the research moves forward, the team intends to delve into more complex plastics and expand their experimentation with electrocatalysis to achieve selective upcycling of POM into formic acid. This pioneering method could be integrated into a continuous flow system, providing a pathway towards large-scale implementation.

Moreover, Zhou and her team aspire to ignite inspiration within the engineering and synthetic chemistry communities. They aim to encourage others to explore the potential of electricity in deconstructing synthetic plastics, ushering in a new era of sustainable plastic recycling. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

The study resonates as an affirmation that utilizing electricity for plastic breakdown is not a far-fetched notion; rather, it represents a challenging yet feasible endeavor with the potential to reshape the future of plastic waste management.

Danimer Scientific, Inc., a prominent producer of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), reported a series of positive developments in its second-quarter performance for 2023

The company’s Chairman and CEO, Stephen E. Croskrey, highlighted the progress achieved during this period. Notably, Danimer has advanced into the subsequent phase of the financing process in collaboration with the Department of Energy. Alongside this, it has embarked on several strategic initiatives aimed at broadening its customer base and diversifying its range of end-use applications.

Croskrey expressed his satisfaction with the successful commercialization of three new end-use applications after an intensive three-year developmental effort. These applications encompass protective films, shrink wrap, and produce bags. Additionally, Danimer played a pivotal role in the swift commercial launch of compostable coffee pods. This development is particularly significant in light of the European Union’s deliberations on mandating the use of compostable materials for such products, highlighting Danimer’s alignment with potentially transformative regulations.

The company’s ongoing endeavors include the introduction of innovative straw and cutlery programs targeting the quick-service restaurant sector. Moreover, Danimer is actively engaged in the formulation of aqueous and extruded coatings tailored for paper cups and thermoformed cup lids. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

In terms of financial performance, Danimer experienced a growth in revenues during the second quarter of 2023, reaching $12.9 million, a modest increase from $12.7 million during the same period in the preceding year. The initial quarter of 2023 had seen revenues of $11.9 million. This growth was attributed exclusively to product revenue, which amounted to $12.2 million in Q2, compared to $11.6 million during the corresponding period the previous year. This increase was primarily driven by elevated sales of PHA-based polymers, witnessing a remarkable 10% growth year-on-year and a substantial 69% sequential increase. However, this uptick was partly offset by a minor decline in sales of PLA-based resin.

The service revenue displayed a predictable decrease from $1.1 million in Q2 of the prior year to $0.7 million in Q2 of 2023. This decline stemmed from the successful transition of certain customer development projects into commercialization stages. Notably, the gross profit for the quarter was $(6.6) million, an increase from $(2.2) million during the same period in 2022. The adjusted gross profit also decreased from $(0.5) million in Q2 of 2022 to $(1.6) million, primarily due to heightened fixed production costs associated with increased capacity.

Despite the positive developments, the company reported a net loss of $(39.2) million for the second quarter, compared to $(30.4) million in the corresponding period of the previous year. However, the adjusted EBITDA for Q2 2023 showed improvement, amounting to $(10.2) million, compared to $(12.9) million in Q2 2022. This enhancement was attributed to the implementation of cost-control measures across various segments of the business. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Danimer remains optimistic about its competitive standing and prospects for growth. While the second-quarter and first-half results aligned with the company’s expectations, it acknowledged the possibility of a shift in the timing of significant program awards and associated delays in initial shipments. As a prudent measure, Danimer expressed a conservative outlook, leaning towards the lower end of the previously communicated range for the 2023 full-year Adjusted EBITDA, projected to range from $(23) million to $(31) million.

In a separate announcement, Danimer disclosed that its Part II Application had been accepted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) under the Title XVII Loan Guarantee. Title XVII empowers the Secretary of Energy to offer loan guarantees for projects that contribute to the reduction or avoidance of air pollutants, greenhouse gas emissions, and the incorporation of advanced technologies compared to prevalent commercial solutions. Consequently, Danimer has been invited to engage in the confirmatory due diligence and term sheet negotiation process, potentially leading to funding from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Federal Financing. This funding could facilitate the construction of Danimer’s greenfield manufacturing facility in Bainbridge, Georgia. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

GriffsNotes: Plastic Is Not Toxic, So How Can It Be a Pollutant?

When I was a little kid — We all were once, think of that! — August was a nothing month. No school, no major holidays. Nobody went on vacation, and nobody had cars. We did have the beach, though, where I went with Mommy every day and where I did my first engineering projects involving wet sand and clam shells. She got her needed physical rest but had to stay alert lest I get too close to — or even in — the ocean, home to the clams whose 3-x-4-inch shells I used for building walls. Now I live about the same distance from the other ocean, and visit fairly often, but nothing goes into the water except certain breeds of dogs. And we go by car. There’s no community shower, no clamshells, few little kids, but there are trees to sit under and magnificent views of high civilization and nearby green-topped hills. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

What lurks below

Across that ocean, the distance to Tokyo is over 5000 miles. All seems flat except for the waves. Down below, it’s big and bumpy but very little fun, especially for us air-breathers. PET water and soda bottles sink when they meet flowing water, and maybe never make it to the sea at all, despite the image of their polluting the fish we eat, and the need to believe that by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish.

And what’s on top is everything that floats, which includes a lot of wood and single-use PE bags and some PP fishing line and netting. Sunlight will break their polymer chains into microplastic bits, which are indigestible and far too big to circulate in the blood of fish or us.

As for plastics polluting the ocean, since plastics are not toxic, there is no pollution, right? Wrong, as the popular and chemiphobic image of toxic plastics has swept the world. Not just among the activists but almost everyone, as it’s easier to believe plastics are bad than to follow the science-based and logical understanding of polymer chains and their energies. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

More…

Teknor Apex Partners with Cyclyx to Propel Plastic Recyclability Efforts

In an important stride toward enhancing plastic recyclability, Teknor Apex, a prominent polymer manufacturer based in the United States, has joined hands with the consortium-based plastic feedstock management company Cyclyx. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the endeavor to elevate plastic recycling rates from the existing 10% to an ambitious 90%. Teknor Apex’s inclusion into the Cyclyx consortium holds the promise of synergistic advancements in sustainable practices within the polymer industry.

With its expansive repertoire encompassing vinyl, thermoplastic elastomers, nylon, and colorants, Teknor Apex contributes to a broad spectrum of industries. By becoming a part of the Cyclyx consortium, the company gains access to tailor-made takeback initiatives and cutting-edge innovations. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

This includes the incorporation of circular feedstock specifications founded on plastic waste, meticulously curated to align with the company’s unique product trajectories. Such strategic integration paves the way for Teknor Apex, an establishment with nearly a century of legacy, to steer closer to its objective of diverting a substantial 75% of its waste away from conventional landfills.

Central to Cyclyx’s pioneering approach is its utilization of over 1500 post-use plastic chemical characterizations, which meticulously evaluate the chemical compositions of diverse sources of waste plastic. Employing the capabilities of artificial intelligence and extensive data analysis, these characterizations are systematically categorized into distinct mechanical and chemical recycling pathways. This comprehensive categorization ultimately facilitates the aggregation and preliminary processing of products in accordance with the exact requirements of the clientele.

The tangible outcomes of this meticulous process encompass an array of recycled materials, including polystyrene (PS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene (PE). Notably, Cyclyx’s operational protocols are certified by ISSC PLUS, attesting to their stringent compliance with sustainability benchmarks and the seamless traceability of materials throughout the supply chain. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Michael Roberts, the Chief Innovation Officer at Teknor Apex, emphasizes the pivotal role of tailored solutions in driving the success of their collaborative ventures. Roberts affirms that such customized approaches facilitate the scalability of projects that bear tangible environmental benefits. By aligning with Cyclyx, a network that shares Teknor Apex’s commitment to accelerating the adoption of circular solutions, the conglomerate underscores the significance of core attributes such as transparency, accessibility, consistency, and confidence, all of which are integral to their sustainability pursuits.

The roots of Cyclyx trace back to its inception in 2020, a brainchild jointly fostered by Agilyx, an innovative leader in chemical recycling, and ExxonMobil Chemical, which holds a 25% stake in the venture. This partnership has spawned an eclectic membership base, boasting industry giants like Sabic, LyondellBasell, Dow, Ineos, Chevron Phillips Chemical, Americas Styrenics (AmSty), and Braskem. The cumulative strength of these industry leaders amplifies the impact of Cyclyx’s initiatives, rendering them poised to revolutionize the landscape of plastic recycling. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

In conclusion, Teknor Apex’s alliance with Cyclyx stands as a testament to the commitment of both entities toward a shared goal of catalyzing sustainable practices in plastic recycling. The amalgamation of Teknor Apex’s versatile product offerings with Cyclyx’s innovative recycling methodologies augurs well for the future of plastics recycling, inching closer to the ambitious target of achieving a 90% recyclability rate. This strategic partnership, fortified by a robust network of industry pioneers, is a harbinger of transformative change, promising a more ecologically balanced and responsible polymer industry.

Suntory PepsiCo Beverage Thailand and Mineré, a subsidiary of Nestlé in Thailand, have emerged as trailblazers within the Thai beverage market by adopting a pioneering approach to sustainability

Both brands have taken the bold step of utilizing 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) for their plastic bottles, marking a significant leap towards a more eco-friendly packaging paradigm.

Driving this remarkable transition is Envicco, a dynamic collaboration between Thai petrochemical giant PTT Global Chemical and Austrian plastics packaging frontrunner Alpla. Envicco has spearheaded the creation of 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) within Thailand, setting the stage for a transformative shift in plastic bottle production. Their manufacturing facilities, bolstered by cutting-edge technology, have paved the way for a process that recaptures the value of used plastics, effectively breathing new life into discarded materials. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Notably, this initiative has not been without its hurdles. The use of recycled materials in food-related applications had been previously barred in Thailand due to the prevailing regulations governing plastic waste. However, in a landmark turn of events in June 2022, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) of Thailand reversed its stance. This pivotal decision paved the way for the utilization of rPET, provided it originates from a secondary recycling source that has been rigorously evaluated for both safety and efficacy. This reassessment hinges on ensuring that potential contaminants are meticulously diminished or eliminated.

Envicco’s pioneering efforts have been met with resounding success. The esteemed certification from Thailand’s national Food and Drug Administration, which designates their rPET as ‘food-grade,’ stands as a testament to their commitment to quality and safety. Notably, this approval was preceded by certification from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, underlining the global significance of this achievement.

At the heart of this endeavor lies the groundbreaking Envicco recycling facility. Situated in the province of Rayong and inaugurated in September 2022, this facility has emerged as a monumental milestone in Asia’s recycling landscape. With an impressive annual production capacity of 30,000 tons of rPET alongside 15,000 tons of recycled HDPE (rHDPE), it stands as a testament to the potential of advanced recycling technology.

This mechanical recycling process meticulously aligns with the stringent criteria governing quality, safety, and efficiency, thus guaranteeing the production of impeccable food-grade PCR material. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Pepsi and Mineré, the mineral water brand under Nestlé Thailand’s umbrella, have admirably taken the lead as the first beverage brands within the Thai market to incorporate post-consumer recycled (PCR) material for their plastic bottles. This transformational step, realized through partnerships with Envicco, made its debut in April for Mineré and in July for Pepsi. Both product launches were accompanied by high-impact campaigns designed to drive collection and recycling efforts.

Mineré has strategically introduced specialized bins within the 7-Eleven supermarket chain, offering consumers a convenient means of depositing their used rPET bottles. On the other hand, Pepsi’s recycling bins have been strategically positioned in Siam Square, a bustling shopping and entertainment hub in Bangkok. By effectively integrating consumer engagement into their strategy, these brands have orchestrated an uptick in collection rates, simultaneously curbing waste and bolstering the supply of recyclable materials.

Bernd Wachter, the Alpla corporate director overseeing circular economy and recycling in Asia, aptly summarizes the essence of this transformative movement.

He emphasizes that fostering awareness about the inherent value of recyclable materials is pivotal to championing the concept of a circular economy. By forging a connection between consumers and the recycling process, the movement gains momentum, ultimately leading to increased collection rates, diminished waste, and a robust supply of materials primed for recycling. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

In essence, the collaboration between Suntory PepsiCo Beverage Thailand, Mineré from Nestlé, and the trailblazing efforts of Envicco has heralded a new era of sustainable packaging within the Thai beverage industry. Their combined commitment to innovation, safety, and environmental consciousness has set a powerful precedent, inspiring not only their peers within the industry but also consumers at large to join hands in forging a more sustainable future.

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has taken a significant step forward in its commitment to providing valuable insights and perspectives on the interplay between global economics and the plastics trade

In a recent release, PLASTICS unveiled a comprehensive analysis authored by its Chief Economist, Dr. Perc Pineda. The analysis delves into the profound implications of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) revision of the 2023 economic growth outlook on the worldwide plastics trade.

Dr. Perc Pineda’s assessment encapsulates the essence of this economic transformation. He articulates, “The IMF’s projections unveil a landscape of relative stability in the global economy during the span from 2023 to 2024, characterized by a discernible lateral movement. These prognostications, although offering prospects for growth within the plastics industry in the ongoing year of 2023, also usher in a tempered anticipation for the year 2024, accentuating potential concerns tethered to international trade dynamics.”

A confluence of multifaceted factors underpins this transformation in economic dynamics. The International Energy Agency (IEA), in a recent announcement, revealed its downward revision of the anticipated demand growth for oil in the upcoming year.

The rationale behind this downward adjustment is attributed to an amalgamation of factors, including lackluster macroeconomic conditions, a perceptible waning of post-pandemic recovery momentum, and the burgeoning prevalence of electric vehicles in the global automotive landscape. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

PLASTICS stands as an emblematic organization singularly dedicated to supporting the entire expanse of the plastics supply chain. This comprehensive representation encompasses Equipment Suppliers, Material Suppliers, Processors, and Recyclers. Across this spectrum, PLASTICS advocates for the welfare of more than a million individuals who constitute the formidable workforce of the U.S. plastics industry. Notably, this industry commands a substantial economic magnitude, contributing an impressive USD 468 billion to the nation’s economic tapestry.

The profound significance of PLASTICS’ analysis lies in its potential to serve as a compass for stakeholders in the plastics trade. The nuanced evaluation of the IMF’s economic growth revisions invites contemplation on a global stage. Dr. Pineda’s assessment alludes to the intricate interdependence between economic trajectories and the plastics industry. As the global economy steadies itself on a trajectory of stability, the plastics trade is poised to harness growth opportunities during the ongoing year, 2023.

However, the narrative takes a subtle pivot when focusing on the year 2024.

Dr. Pineda’s analysis prompts a discerning eye toward the potential challenges and complexities that may surface. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

The subdued economic outlook projected for 2024 casts a shadow of uncertainty, particularly in relation to international trade dynamics within the plastics industry. This prospect serves as an impetus for strategic reflection and preemptive measures to mitigate the potential impacts that may emanate from this economic juncture.

In summation, the Plastics Industry Association’s proactive dissemination of Dr. Perc Pineda’s analysis underscores the organization’s steadfast commitment to facilitating a profound understanding of the intricate connection between global economic dynamics and the plastics trade. The unveiling of the IMF’s economic growth revisions for the years 2023 and 2024 projects a tableau of stability with nuanced implications for the plastics industry. The year 2023 stands poised as a realm of growth possibilities, while 2024 beckons with a cautionary note, prompting stakeholders to embrace adaptability and strategic acumen. As PLASTICS advocates for the collective interests of the industry’s multifarious constituents, its analysis serves as a beacon guiding the trajectory of the plastics trade on a global scale. Sustainable Bottle plastic waste

Petrochemicals PET Bottles – Filament grade Bright chips domestic market 14-08-2023

Sustainable Bottle plastic waste