Sustainable FDCA BioPET – The Electric Car Revolution: Embracing Chinese Technology 01-08-2023
Sustainable FDCA BioPET
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The Electric Car Revolution: Embracing Chinese Technology
In the face of the formidable Chinese invasion in the electric car industry, Volkswagen has taken a bold step by embracing the trend and investing in superior Chinese technology. As the Chinese electric car market continues to surge globally, it has not only affected the German car industry but also sparked concerns among other European and American automotive giants.
Volkswagen, once a dominant player in China’s market, has seen a significant decline in sales due to the rise of local electric vehicle brands. In a strategic move to regain its footing, the German automaker has decided to invest $700 million in Xpeng, a prominent Chinese electric car brand. By acquiring a 5% stake in Xpeng through a capital increase, Volkswagen aims to collaborate with the Chinese brand in developing electric vehicles exclusively for the Chinese market. Though they will have representation on Xpeng’s board as observers, the move signifies a willingness to form alliances with the rapidly growing Chinese electric car sector. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Similarly, Stellantis, a European automotive group that includes Fiat, is facing a daunting scenario. The company’s CEO, Carlos Tavares, expressed concern about competing with Chinese rivals who benefit from 25% lower production costs. On top of that, Stellantis must bear a 40% increase in costs for electrifying its vehicle range. Tavares labeled the Chinese competition as an “extremely powerful offensive,” prompting the company to reevaluate its strategy to cope with the challenges posed by the Chinese invasion.
While many Western car brands have struggled to maintain their foothold in China, Tesla stands out as an exception.
The American electric car manufacturer continues to enjoy popularity among affluent Chinese consumers, akin to Apple’s iPhone. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
However, Tesla has been plagued by allegations of espionage, with suspicions lingering about the possibility of on-board software transmitting sensitive information to the United States. This has resulted in restrictions on Tesla vehicles, preventing government employees in China from using them and limiting their access to certain sensitive areas.
Amid the challenges faced by established car manufacturers, Chinese electric car brands have rapidly risen in popularity due to their competitive pricing and innovative offerings. Consumers in China, driven by a preference for domestic products, have increasingly turned away from traditional German and Western car brands in favor of homegrown alternatives.
As Chinese electric car manufacturers expand their market presence, international car companies are forced to rethink their strategies. For instance, Volkswagen’s luxury brand, Audi, plans to strengthen its partnership with Saic Motors to bolster their electric vehicle offerings. Renault-Nissan, another European group, is also revising its approach to remain competitive amidst the Chinese onslaught. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
In conclusion, the electric car invasion initiated by China has dramatically altered the global automotive landscape. As German and Western car brands struggle to adapt, partnerships and alliances with Chinese electric car manufacturers have become a crucial survival strategy. The revolution is far from over, and only time will tell how the industry will evolve and which companies will emerge as the ultimate victors in this electrifying race.
Retal Czech Introduces the Popular Monolayer Preform to European Markets
Retal Czech, a leading player in the packaging industry, has recently unveiled its latest offering – the 26/22 GME 30.37 monolayer preform, manufactured at its state-of-the-art facility in Melnik. This innovative preform is specifically tailored to meet the needs of the European markets, catering to both carbonated and non-carbonated beverage industries that already employ the 26/22 neck finish. With an expanding portfolio of specialized neck finishes, Retal Czech aims to provide tailor-made solutions to its customers in the food, beverage, cosmetic, household, and industrial sectors. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
A Versatile Solution for the European Beverage Industry:
The 26/22 GME 30.37 preform stands out as a versatile and widely applicable solution for the European beverage industry. It is available in a range of weights, offering flexibility to customers who require different specifications to suit their unique production requirements. The preform is crafted with precision using transparent PET monolayer or PET with additives, ensuring optimal performance based on each customer’s specific needs.
Customization and Expertise:
Retal Czech prides itself on its ability to deliver customized solutions to its clients. The company’s comprehensive portfolio already includes specialized neck finishes like the 34/29 and 28mm double-start, as well as the 17-63 mm range. The addition of the 26/22 GME 30.37 preform further expands the company’s offerings, empowering local customers and neighboring countries across Europe to find suitable packaging solutions.
Sales manager, Jiri Nydrle, highlights the expertise of Retal Czech’s skilled and experienced team. The company eagerly collaborates with customers to understand their packaging requirements comprehensively. Whether it’s for beverages, food products, cosmetics, household items, or industrial applications, Retal Czech is dedicated to creating tailor-made solutions that ensure maximum efficiency and product quality.
A Boost for European Beverage Producers:
European beverage producers can now benefit from the advanced and reliable packaging solutions offered by Retal Czech. The 26/22 GME 30.37 preform caters to a vast array of beverages, including carbonated and non-carbonated drinks, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of brands. By offering both transparent PET monolayer and PET with additives options, Retal Czech ensures that each customer can select the most suitable material for their specific beverage needs. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Sustainability and Quality Assurance:
Retal Czech is deeply committed to sustainability and takes measures to ensure the environmental impact of its products is minimized. The use of PET materials in the monolayer preform contributes to the reduction of single-use plastics, aligning with the broader global initiative to combat plastic waste.
Furthermore, the company maintains rigorous quality assurance standards throughout its production process, guaranteeing that each preform meets the highest industry standards. Beverage producers can rest assured that their products will remain fresh and secure within the precisely crafted preforms. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Conclusion:
The introduction of the 26/22 GME 30.37 monolayer preform by Retal Czech marks a significant advancement in the European packaging industry. With its versatile applications, customization options, and unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability, Retal Czech stands as a reliable partner for beverage producers seeking innovative packaging solutions. As the company’s portfolio continues to expand, it is poised to shape the future of packaging in Europe and beyond, providing cutting-edge solutions for various industries’ evolving needs.
UFlex Revolutionizes Rice Export Packaging with Monopolymer PE-MDO Solutions
Introduction
The Indian flexible packaging market faces challenges in promoting the use of monopolymer PE structures due to the extra cost of recyclable materials. However, UFlex, in collaboration with Indian consumer product exporters, has emerged as a pioneer in producing PE-MDO structures, addressing the concerns of the Indian market. This niche packaging solution not only aligns with Europe’s focus on mechanical recycling but also offers cost-saving advantages for specific product categories. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
UFlex’s Dominance in PE-MDO Structures
As the largest producer of PE-MDO structures, UFlex has achieved a remarkable output of 300 to 400 metric tons per month. The company primarily targets the European market, where PE mono-polymer pouches are preferred for mechanical recycling. While sustainable or circular PET alternatives are available, the higher cost of PE-MDO structures becomes a viable option for certain products, where the larger volume and format of the pouch significantly reduce the packaging cost compared to the product’s value.
Advantages of PE Films Processed with MDO Technology
PE films manufactured using MDO technology not only meet downstream requirements for gloss, transparency, and mechanical properties but also offer enhanced pliability and quality for producers. The PE-MDO structures produced on UFlex’s 5-layer W&H VarexII blown film line with MDO installed at its Haridwar plant are currently utilized for export products such as 5, 10, and 20-kilogram rice bags and pouches for protein powders. However, due to higher packaging costs relative to product value, this solution is unsuitable for snack pouches or smaller pouches. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Collaboration with Exxon Mobil for Certified-Circular Polymers
UFlex is joining forces with Exxon Mobil to incorporate certified-circular Exceed PE polymers into food packaging solutions. These certified-circular polymers leverage ExxonMobil’s proprietary Exxtend technology for advanced chemical recycling. The resulting product quality and performance are identical to virgin plastic, making them suitable for food-grade, contact-sensitive applications. UFlex’s collaboration marks India’s early adoption of certified-circular performance PE polymers for high-performance flexible packaging.
Packaging South Asia: A Hub for Responsible Packaging Insights
Packaging South Asia, a multi-channel B2B publication and digital platform, has been diligently tracking the impact, resilience, and growth of responsible packaging in the region. Despite ongoing challenges, the Indian and Asian packaging industries have demonstrated remarkable resilience, surpassing GDP growth even when factoring in inflation. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Promising Growth Prospects for the Packaging Industry
India’s real GDP growth is expected to reach 6.3% by the financial year ending March 2023, and the packaging industry has consistently outperformed GDP growth in the past three years. Flexible film manufacturing capacity in India has increased by 33% during this period, with an additional 33% capacity expansion projected from 2023 to 2025. Capacities in monocartons, corrugation, aseptic liquid packaging, and labels have also shown similar growth trends. Despite supply chain disruptions and raw material price fluctuations, the packaging industry in India and Asia has significant potential for further growth.
Packaging South Asia’s Comprehensive Reach
Packaging South Asia’s coverage spans the entire packaging supply chain, from concept to shelf, and even extends to waste collection and recycling. The platform effectively reaches and influences various stakeholders, including brand owners, product managers, raw material suppliers, packaging designers, converters, and recyclers. This extensive outreach ensures that the latest developments and innovations in the packaging industry are disseminated to industry professionals and decision-makers. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Conclusion
UFlex’s breakthrough in producing monopolymer PE-MDO structures has opened new avenues for responsible packaging solutions, particularly in rice exports to Europe. With the support of certified-circular Exceed PE polymers from Exxon Mobil, UFlex continues to drive sustainability in the packaging industry. Packaging South Asia remains at the forefront of providing comprehensive insights and updates, fueling growth, and inspiring responsible practices in the packaging sector in India and beyond. The promising growth prospects of the packaging industry highlight its continued relevance and significance in the dynamic economic landscape of India and Asia.
Sustainability Takes Center Stage at Labelexpo Europe 2023
In response to mounting legislative pressures and growing demands from consumers for sustainable practices, Labelexpo Europe 2023 is witnessing a surge in companies showcasing environmentally friendly products. As the labels industry strives to meet circular materials economy standards by diverting packaging from landfills and encouraging clean material separation for recycling, various initiatives and product launches are set to make a significant impact.
One notable trend is the incorporation of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials into label substrates, including face papers, films, and release liners. However, it is crucial that PCR originates from packaging discarded by consumers, collected, sorted, and reprocessed to ensure its sustainability. Thinner materials are also under research and development, maintaining their performance characteristics while reducing raw material usage, transportation costs, and press roll changes. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Furthermore, companies are shifting towards sustainable biomass sources for manufacturing papers and films, which can also incorporate PCR. Labels are playing a crucial role in the recovery and circular reuse of plastics and glass containers. Specifically, adhesives that wash off PET containers in recycling systems enable clean separation and recovery of PET and PP materials.
A key area of interest is the revival of linerless labels, primarily established in logistics and industrial sectors, but now garnering attention in the primary label market. Research and development efforts are intensifying to enhance linerless technology for widespread adoption.
Innovative Products at Labelexpo Europe 2023
The event showcases numerous pioneering products and initiatives that promote sustainability:
- Ahlstrom introduces Acti-V RF Natural glassine release paper, comprising a minimum of 15 percent post-consumer recycled cellulose fiber and unbleached cellulose fibers to enhance sustainability.
- Avery Dennison displays a full range of recycling-friendly adhesive constructions for glass and PET containers, along with new linerless products.
- Bio4Life highlights its range of certified compostable materials, particularly for fruit labels, with paper fibers sourced from agricultural waste and various bioplastics.
- Dow presents the INVISU 7007 washable adhesive for filmic labels, enabling separate recycling of PSA labels and PET bottles for cleaner recycling and higher-value applications. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
- Evonik launches the next generation of Tego RC products using recycled silicone feedstocks, curable by LED or traditional mercury lamps, while Henkel’s ECO and RE PSA adhesive portfolio for labels uses high-quality recyclate.
- Innovia Films showcases Rayofloat APO and APO-HS floatable polyolefin shrink sleeve films, improving the purity of recycled PET bottles.
- Italstick presents label papers made from 100 percent post-consumer paper waste and up to 40 percent grass fibers without added coloring agents.
- Jindal SMI unveils polyolefin base conformable PP, claimed to be 40 percent thinner than standard PE films, and PCR PP made with 30 percent post-consumer recycled content.
- Klöckner Pentaplast introduces SmartCycle Pro, a recyclable shrink sleeve label film made from 30 percent certified post-consumer recycled material.
- Leonardus SRL launches a certified recyclable holographic metalized paper with the same performance as traditional holographic film, recyclable in compliance with Aticelca501 standards.
- Lintec Europe introduces MMP Mono Material Polyester (PET) for single-use PET containers, enabling de-inking in an alkaline washing process.
- Polyart Group showcases r-Polyart, a synthetic paper made of 30 percent post-consumer recycled material, and Fiberskin, a weather-resistant synthetic paper that is recyclable, biodegradable, and printable by dry toner.
- Premier Coating & Converters displays its Premeco range of biomass-based and PCR content films, certified biodegradable or compostable.
- Sihl demonstrates films manufactured with up to 90 percent recycled content.
- Synthogra introduces SYN-BOPP transparent HB top-coated film, made with 70 percent used cooking oil, suitable for direct food contact, horizontal and vertical form fill, and seal flexible packaging machines, and overwrapping applications.
- Taghleef Industries presents biobased PP films, reLIFE films with PCR content, and Shape360 TDS, a floatable shrink sleeve label film. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
- UPM Raflatac introduces Ocean Action Labels made from ocean-bound plastic waste, PureCycle paper wash-off labels cleanly separating from PET and HDPE recycling streams, and the RAFNXT+ paper label material range certified as carbon neutral.
Linerless Developments
Linerless technology takes center stage at Labelexpo Europe 2023, with multiple companies showcasing their solutions:
- Avery Dennison displays ADLinrSave linerless system for the prime label market, a joint project with BOBST and Harland Machine systems.
- Maan Engineering presents a linerless label converting line in partnership with ABG, allowing label converters to manufacture both laminated and linerless PS label structures.
- Linerless systems targeted at VIP applications will also be shown by companies like UPM Raflatac and Herma. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Wider Sustainability Issues
Sustainability encompasses every aspect of the label converting process, from reducing set-up waste to implementing energy-efficient curing systems and handling self-adhesive production waste. Notable innovations include water-washable flexo plates and processors to eliminate solvents, LED-UV curing systems for energy reduction and mercury elimination, and coatings and adhesives evolving towards water-based systems. Matrix waste handling, foiling waste reduction, and innovative cutting and extraction systems also contribute to sustainability efforts.
With a Sustainability Masterclass running alongside the event, Labelexpo Europe 2023 is showcasing the latest advancements in sustainable label solutions and production processes. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
The event is scheduled to take place from 11 to 14 September 2023 at Brussels Expo in Belgium, promising to be a landmark event for sustainability in the labels industry.
cc, Inc. and Husky Technologies have achieved a significant milestone in the commercialization of advanced packaging materials by successfully incorporating the sustainable chemical FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid) into PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic
Origin, a leading carbon negative materials company, aims to facilitate the world’s transition to sustainable materials, while Husky is a technology provider focused on meeting global needs. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
The breakthrough involved polymerizing FDCA, a bio-based and sustainable chemical, into PET, a commonly used recyclable plastic. The resulting hybrid polymer, known as “PET/F,” exhibited promising properties that outperformed traditional 100% petroleum-derived PET plastics. The success was demonstrated on a commercial manufacturing scale, using Husky’s injection molding technologies and equipment, which proved PET/F’s seamless integration into existing PET production systems.
The development of PET/F polymers offers numerous advantages, primarily because of its “tunable” performance. By adjusting manufacturing conditions and the amount of FDCA copolymer, the properties of PET/F can be tailored to specific applications, resulting in enhanced mechanical performance, superior barrier properties, and extended shelf life.
The integration of FDCA into PET through PET/F showcases a viable pathway for cost-effective production of superior polymers derived from biomass, utilizing Origin’s patented technology platform. This platform converts carbon from sustainable wood residues into useful materials while also capturing carbon during the process. As a result, the commercial-scale production of FDCA, PEF (polyethylene furanoate), and PET/F is anticipated, further promoting sustainability in the polymer industry.
Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Origin Materials, John Bissell, expressed his excitement over the achievement, stating that the use of FDCA and PEF has the potential to revolutionize the plastic and material economy. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
The collaboration with Husky was crucial in reaching this milestone, as they are renowned for their expertise in injection molding technologies and polymer processing development.
Husky Technologies’ CEO, John Galt, emphasized their commitment to driving sustainability through innovation, highlighting their dedication to enabling the circular economy of plastics. The partnership with Origin Materials exemplifies their approach of combining material innovation with state-of-the-art polymer processing technologies.
FDCA, the chemical building block used in this breakthrough, has diverse applications across various industries, including polyesters, polyamides, polyurethanes, coating resins, and plasticizers. Additionally, it serves as the precursor for PEF, a next-generation sustainable polymer with attractive sustainability and performance benefits for packaging.
PEF, derived from FDCA, is expected to be fully bio-based and recyclable, boasting appealing unit economics and significantly reducing the carbon footprint compared to conventional petroleum-based materials. Furthermore, PEF exhibits superior strength, thermal properties, and barrier properties, making it a compelling alternative for packaging applications. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Overall, the successful incorporation of FDCA into PET and the development of the hybrid polymer PET/F mark a crucial step towards a more sustainable future in the polymer industry. By leveraging innovative technologies and collaborating with industry leaders, Origin Materials and Husky Technologies are contributing to the global effort to transition towards sustainable materials and reduce the environmental impact of plastic production and consumption.
Pledge2Recycle Plastics Launches Survey to Investigate Household Plastic Recycling Habits
Pledge2Recycle Plastics, a part of the esteemed plastics resource efficiency and recycling charity, RECOUP, has embarked on a mission to bring clarity to household plastic recycling practices. Their latest endeavor involves conducting a concise survey entitled “Cutting the Confusion: How do you recycle your household plastics (2023) Survey” via surveymonkey.co.uk. Through this survey, the team aims to uncover the main sources of confusion in recycling and gauge citizens’ commitment to recycling plastic bottles, pots, tubs, and trays. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Stuart Foster, the CEO at RECOUP, acknowledged the challenges people face when it comes to recycling plastics. Their research revealed a disheartening fact: even items that are easily recyclable often fail to find their way into recycling bins. An astounding 14 million out of the 38 million plastic bottles used daily in the UK remain uncollected for recycling. Foster expressed their determination to understand the barriers that hinder recycling, despite the availability of kerbside collection, and to explore the reasons why certain recyclable items are overlooked.
Designed to be completed in just a few minutes, the survey aims to gather comprehensive data from across the nation regarding the items that cause the most confusion in recycling practices. As an extra incentive, Pledge2Recycle Plastics will hold a monthly drawing, with each completed survey making participants eligible to win a £50 high street voucher.
The data gathered from this survey will be collated and shared with key stakeholders, including the plastics industry and Local Authorities. The ultimate goal is to pinpoint necessary changes that can bolster plastic recycling efforts. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
By shining a light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals when it comes to recycling plastics, Pledge2Recycle Plastics and RECOUP seek to drive meaningful changes that will encourage more efficient and effective recycling practices. With their determination and the active participation of citizens in the survey, they aspire to build a future where plastic recycling becomes more accessible and successful, benefitting both the environment and society at large.
Republic and Ravago roll out network of olefin plants
Republic Services is moving deeper into plastics processing, launching a $350 million joint venture with a global polymers expert to produce recycled pellet at four U.S. facilities.
Republic, North America’s second-largest publicly traded waste and recycling business, today announced the partnership with Europe-based plastics production and distribution company Ravago.
The companies’ Blue Polymers venture will be backed by a joint investment of $350 million, with that money being used to build four facilities in several regions of the U.S.
The sites, expected to be operational by 2028, will be fed entirely by Republic’s network of Polymer Center plastic sortation facilities, receiving sorted HDPE and PP and producing recycled pellet.
In most cases, the Blue Polymers plants will be co-located with the Republic Polymer Centers.
The companies say the four sites combined will have the capability to produce 300 million pounds of recycled HDPE and PP annually. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Blue Polymers “will have the ability to custom-formulate drop-in solutions for particular customers,” Pete Keller, Republic’s vice president of recycling and sustainability, said in an interview. “That’s an expertise Republic does not possess, but it’s squarely in Ravago’s wheelhouse.
Keller said that the venture is 55% backed by Ravago and 45% backed by Republic, meaning Ravago’s investment is just over $190 million and Republic’s is just shy of $160 million.
Next stage of ‘forward integration’
Republic first announced its Polymer Center concept in early 2022.
The company’s stated plan is to build four sortation plants in various pockets of the country, each with two lines: one dedicated to PET and the other to polyolefins (HDPE and PP
On the PET side, the Polymer Centers will produce plastic flake for direct sale to end users. In recent weeks, Republic leaders noted the company had lined up a long-term supply agreement with The Coca-Cola Co., its first publicly named customer.
As part of the venture announced today, Ravago will distribute a portion of the Polymer Center PET through its channels.
For olefins, the Polymer Centers are intended to engage in deeper levels of sortation than would be seen at a typical materials recovery facility. They will generate clean loads of HDPE and PP. Sustainable FDCA BioPET
It’s this material that will go to the plants being developed by Republic and Ravago.
Keller explained the Blue Polymers olefin sites will engage on another step of sortation, followed by washing, grinding, extrusion, pelletization, purification, formulation, storage and distribution.
Keller said the move into resin production is part of Republic’s strategy of “forward integration,” one being driven by several trends in the marketplace leading to greater demand for post-consumer resin (PCR).
Brands have made commitments to use high levels of PCR, for instance, and more states are beginning to mandate PCR in various plastic applications
“Minimum content is something we’ll continue to see expand to other states over time,” Keller said
He added Republic and Ravago are expecting the Blue Polymers venture’s internal rate of return to be around 20%. “This is a good investment profile,” he said.
Ravago is a privately held chemical and polymers company that has been involved in plastics recycling for decades. The company operates 19 recycling and compounding plants across the globe, supplying a wide variety of custo
“Partnering with Republic Services in the creation of Blue Polymers to provide transparency in the post-consumer recycling process is transformative,” Jim Duffy, president and CEO of Ravago Holdings America, said in a press release.
Keller said leaders at Ravago and Republic first started discussing a potential partnership at the Plastics Recycling Conference in March 2022, shortly after Republic had announced its Polymer Center pl Sustainable FDCA BioPET
Plans to co-locate operations
The first Republic Polymer Center, located in Las Vegas, is already under construction, and Keller said it will have machinery up and running by the end of the third quarter of this year, with an official opening planned for December.
Keller said a Blue Polymers facility will be paired with the Las Vegas site. The company is planning to build that production facility somewhere in the general Las Vegas region (the Polymer Center under construction does not have space for an additional plant beside it)
Republic has noted that its second Polymer Center will be located in the Midwest. At that site and each subsequent build, Polymer Centers will be built with Blue Polymers facilities co-located.
Keller said the first completed Blue Polymers olefin plant will be at the Midwest location, with the Las Vegas Blue Polymers site coming after that.
“We’re actively working out sites three and four,” Keller added. “We’re building out a regional network that will essentially cover us nationwide.” Sustainable FDCA BioPET
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