Tag: AUTOMOTIVE

Fossil fuel peak – Electric Vehicles: A Solution for Faster Charging and Longer-Lasting Batteries 18-09-2023

Fossil fuel peak

Petrochemicals Polymers – M. Holland Unveils Mfinity Line of Sustainable Resins 

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Fossil fuel peak

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

The expansion of renewable energy sources brings the fossil fuel peak within reach

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has revealed that the era of constant growth in fossil fuels is approaching its end within this decade, marking a significant shift in the global energy landscape and the fight against climate change. In an article published in the Financial Times, IEA director Fatih Birol highlights the implications of this transition.

Despite previous discussions about peak oil and peak coal, both fossil fuels have recently reached record highs in production, making it challenging to predict their decline. However, the IEA’s upcoming World Energy Outlook report, set to be released next month, indicates that we stand at the brink of a pivotal moment in history.

Even without the implementation of new climate policies, the report suggests that each of the three major fossil fuels—oil, coal, and natural gas—is poised to reach its peak demand in the coming years. This development is a significant departure from previous expectations and is largely attributed to the remarkable growth of clean energy technologies like solar panels and electric vehicles, structural changes in China’s economy, and the consequences of the global energy crisis. Fossil fuel peak

Global coal demand, which has remained stubbornly high for the past decade, is projected to peak in the near future. Investments in coal outside of China have dwindled, with solar and wind power dominating the expansion of electricity systems. Even in China, the world’s largest coal consumer, renewable and nuclear energy growth, coupled with a slower economy, indicates a decline in coal usage.

There had been speculations that global oil demand might have already peaked during the pandemic. While the IEA was initially cautious about such claims, the latest projections suggest that the proliferation of electric vehicles worldwide, especially in China, is steering oil demand toward a peak before 2030.

The “Golden Age of Gas,” as it was termed in 2011, is also approaching its end. Demand in advanced economies is expected to diminish later in this decade as renewables increasingly outcompete gas for electricity production, heat pumps gain popularity, and Europe accelerates its transition away from gas due to geopolitical factors.

While the forthcoming peaks in demand for fossil fuels are promising, it’s essential to consider several key factors. Firstly, the projected declines in demand, based on current policy settings, are insufficient to align the world with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Achieving this target will necessitate more robust and rapid policy actions by governments.Fossil fuel peak

Additionally, the drop in fossil fuel consumption in advanced economies will be partially offset by continued growth in some emerging and developing economies, particularly for natural gas. The declines in demand won’t follow a linear trajectory, as temporary fluctuations, such as heatwaves and droughts affecting electricity generation, can lead to spikes in coal demand.

While the peaks in demand based on current policies don’t eliminate the need for investment in oil and gas supply, they underscore the economic and financial risks associated with major new projects in these sectors.

In conclusion, the IEA’s projections indicate a historic turning point in the energy sector, but they emphasize the urgent need for more substantial policy measures to combat climate change effectively.Fossil fuel peak

Fossil fuel peak

Electric Vehicles: A Solution for Faster Charging and Longer-Lasting Batteries

A team of researchers from the University of Pisa has found a way to improve the charging speed and lifespan of electric vehicle batteries. Their findings, published in the journal Nature Communications, could revolutionize the electric vehicle industry.

The main problem with current lithium-ion batteries is that they can degrade over time, leading to shorter range and slower charging speeds. This is due to a phenomenon called lithium plating, which occurs when lithium ions build up on the surface of the battery’s negative electrode.

The researchers from the University of Pisa found that lithium plating can be prevented by inserting pauses during the charging process. These pauses allow the lithium ions to redistribute themselves within the battery, preventing them from building up on the surface. Fossil fuel peak

The researchers also found that the pauses can be made very short, without significantly impacting the overall charging time. This means that electric vehicles could be charged quickly and safely, without sacrificing battery life.

The findings of this study are a major breakthrough for the electric vehicle industry. They could lead to the development of new battery technologies that are faster, safer, and more durable. This could make electric vehicles more appealing to consumers and accelerate the transition to a clean energy future.

In addition to the benefits of faster charging and longer battery life, the new technology could also help to reduce the risk of fires and explosions. Lithium plating is a major cause of these incidents, so preventing it could make electric vehicles much safer.

The research from the University of Pisa is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to revolutionize the electric vehicle industry. If the technology can be successfully commercialized, it could make electric vehicles a more viable option for consumers and businesses. Fossil fuel peak

This is a major step forward for the electric vehicle industry, and it could have a significant impact on the future of transportation. With faster charging and longer battery life, electric vehicles will become more appealing to consumers and businesses, and they could help to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.

Fossil fuel peak

Repsol launches EVA range with 100% chemically recycled content

Repsol, the Spanish petrochemical company, has launched a range of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers made with 100% chemically recycled content. This is the first product on the market to incorporate this level of circular AV from chemical recycling.

The new EVA range is part of Repsol’s Reciclex portfolio, which encompasses both polyolefins and polyols obtained through chemical recycling, using plastic waste streams that cannot be mechanically recycled. The range is certified under the ISCC Plus mass balance approach.

Repsol says that the new EVA range is especially relevant for applications that cannot use mechanical recycling due to the properties required by the final product. For example, it can be used in food contact products, cosmetics, and healthcare products.

The company is also set to soon include polyol obtained through the chemical recycling of polyurethane waste in its Reciclex range.Fossil fuel peak

Repsol is building a new polyurethane foam recovery plant in Puertollano, Spain, which is expected to be operational in 2023.

Repsol’s investment in chemical recycling is in line with recent European and Spanish regulations, which are aimed at achieving a recycled content target of 30% for plastic packaging by 2030.

In simpler words:

Repsol has launched a new type of plastic made from recycled plastic waste. This is the first plastic of its kind to use 100% recycled content. The new plastic can be used to make a variety of products, including food packaging, cosmetics, and medical devices.

Repsol’s investment in chemical recycling is helping to reduce the amount of plastic waste that goes to landfills. It is also helping to meet European and Spanish regulations on recycled content in plastic packaging.Fossil fuel peak

Repsol launches EVA range with 100% chemically recycled content

Enviro and Siemens signs MOU regarding cooperation around the European expansion plan

Munich, Germany – Scandinavian Enviro Systems and Siemens has signed a MOU, memorandum of understanding, regarding a collaboration in support of the European expansion plan that Enviro announced earlier this year together with Antin Infrastructure Partners. Through the collaboration, Enviro gets access to Siemens’ extensive experience in automation and digitalization for efficient industrial production.

The MOU was signed in connection with Siemens’ now ongoing Siemens NordX Circle seminar, focusing on sustainability and digitalization, where Enviro’s CEO Thomas Sörensson is one of the speakers. A number of international business leaders participate in the seminar, including Siemens’ sustainability manager Judith Wiese, who is the seminar’s keynote speaker. Fossil fuel peak
Together with Antin Infrastructure Partners, and with the support of Michelin, Enviro has formed the world’s first large-scale tire recycling company and with the plan to establish recycling facilities in Europe by 2030 with a total annual recycling capacity of 1 million tons of end-of-life tires. Siemens is already today a supplier of both hardware and software to the tire industry and, with its focus on sustainability and digitalization, has a great interest in supporting Enviro during the upcoming phase of broad industrialization.

“With the formation of the tire recycling joint venture company, Enviro has acquired the right industrial structure and the right partner company to be able to seriously take part in the transformation of the tire industry towards increased sustainability.

As a supplier and partner, Siemens wants to support the new tire recycling company and thereby help accelerate the important journey towards increased sustainability,” says Maria Grahm, Business Unit Manager Process Automation at Siemens Digital Industries.

Fossil fuel peak

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Enviro and Siemens signs MOU regarding cooperation around the European expansion plan

Tesla’s Quiet Breakthrough in Carmaking

Tesla has made a technological breakthrough that could transform the way it makes electric vehicles (EVs). The company has developed a new way to cast the underbody of an EV in a single piece, rather than the hundreds of parts that are typically used in a conventional car. This could help Tesla to halve the production costs of its EVs and make them more affordable.

The new casting process uses huge presses with 6,000 to 9,000 tons of clamping pressure. This allows Tesla to create a single, strong and lightweight underbody for its EVs. The company is also using 3D printing technology to create the sand molds for the casting process, which is more cost-effective and allows for rapid design iterations.

Tesla is still in the early stages of developing this new casting process, but it is expected to be used in the company’s upcoming small EV, which is aiming to have a price tag of $25,000. Fossil fuel peak

If successful, this new process could revolutionize the way EVs are made and make them more accessible to a wider range of people.

Here are some of the key benefits of Tesla’s new casting process:

  • It can reduce production costs by up to 50%.
  • It can make EVs lighter and more efficient.
  • It can shorten the design and manufacturing process.
  • It can improve the crashworthiness of EVs.

Tesla is not the only automaker that is working on new casting processes for EVs. Other companies, such as Ford and BMW, are also developing similar technologies. However, Tesla is believed to be the furthest ahead in this area.

If Tesla is able to successfully commercialize its new casting process, it could have a major impact on the EV industry.

It could help to make EVs more affordable and accessible, and it could also lead to the development of new and more efficient EV designs. Fossil fuel peak

Tesla's Quiet Breakthrough in Carmaking

Sidel Introduces EvoBLOW XL, a Cutting-Edge Blowing Machine for Large PET Containers

Introduction: Sidel, a leader in packaging and blowing solutions, proudly presents its latest innovation, the EvoBLOW XL machine. This state-of-the-art technology is designed to cater to the growing demand for large PET containers while maintaining performance and sustainability. EvoBLOW XL is set to revolutionize the packaging industry by offering versatility, efficiency, and sustainability.

Key Features and Benefits:

  1. 75% Shared Parts: EvoBLOW XL leverages Sidel’s existing EvoBLOW range by sharing 75% of its components. This demonstrates Sidel’s commitment to proven performance while expanding into new markets, including hotfill products.
  2. Versatility: EvoBLOW XL serves as both a standalone machine and an integrated combi solution, accommodating a wide range of bottle formats from 8L to 10L.
  3. It offers flexible oven configurations and various bottleneck dimensions, making it adaptable for diverse large bottle types. Fossil fuel peak
  4. Efficiency: With an impressive blowing output of 18,000 bottles per hour (bph) and an overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) of 98%, EvoBLOW XL sets a new standard for production efficiency. It boasts user-friendly features for efficient changeovers, including an ergonomic embedded mold handling tool and a mobile mold storage unit.
  5. Sustainability: EvoBLOW XL is designed to handle rPET grades, offering sustainability benefits from virgin PET to up to 100% rPET. It enables lightweighting, reduces CO2 emissions, and supports the transition from HDPE to PET large bottles. The machine’s design enhancements contribute to reduced energy consumption without compromising cost-effectiveness.
  6. Bottle Design: EvoBLOW XL enhances the blowing process, ensuring attractive and user-friendly bottle designs. It achieves perfect material distribution at speeds of 1,500 bph per mold while maintaining low blowing pressure and the highest bottle quality. Fossil fuel peak

Coverage by Packaging South Asia: Packaging South Asia, a prominent B2B publication and digital platform based in New Delhi, India, closely monitors the growth and impact of responsible packaging in the region. It highlights the packaging industry’s consistent outperformance compared to GDP growth, even amid challenges like supply chain disruptions and fluctuating raw material prices.

The publication covers the entire packaging supply chain, making it a valuable resource for brand owners, product managers, raw material suppliers, packaging designers, converters, and recyclers. With significant growth opportunities in the packaging industry in India and Asia, now is the ideal time to engage with Packaging South Asia’s influential platform for targeted business communication. Fossil fuel peak

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Sidel Introduces EvoBLOW XL, a Cutting-Edge Blowing Machine for Large PET Containers

The Nickel-Hydrogen Battery: A 30-Year Revolution in Energy Storage

Space exploration has long been a source of inspiration and innovation, leading to groundbreaking developments that have found their way into our everyday lives. One such remarkable advancement is the nickel-hydrogen battery, which not only defies the limitations of traditional batteries but also boasts an astonishing lifespan of 30 years and 30,000 charging cycles. This exceptional technology, originally designed by NASA to power space missions, is now poised to revolutionize energy storage on Earth, thanks to the pioneering efforts of American company EnerVenue.

EnerVenue, an innovative American company, is taking a giant leap forward in the battery industry by harnessing the engineering and chemistry expertise honed by NASA over four decades. The genesis of this technology traces back to its application in the power systems of the International Space Station and the Hubble Space Telescope. As EnerVenue prepares to scale up production, these nickel-hydrogen batteries are poised to replace conventional batteries, bringing with them numerous advantages that have the potential to reshape how we power our world. Fossil fuel peak

The nickel-hydrogen batteries developed by NASA for space missions have been meticulously engineered to endure the harshest conditions imaginable, from the vacuum of space to rapid temperature fluctuations. These batteries have proven their mettle as safe, durable, and recyclable energy storage solutions, while also eliminating the risks associated with fires and toxic waste. Their remarkable performance in space missions serves as a testament to their reliability and longevity.

EnerVenue’s commitment to harnessing this groundbreaking technology is evident in its recent announcement of the construction of a Gigafactory in the United States. This ambitious venture represents a pivotal moment in the energy storage industry, where space technology is set to transform the way we store and utilize power in our daily lives. Let’s delve deeper into the key attributes of nickel-hydrogen batteries and how EnerVenue’s vision could impact our future. Fossil fuel peak

The Resilience of Nickel-Hydrogen Batteries

Nickel-hydrogen batteries are engineered to thrive in the extreme conditions of outer space. Unlike traditional batteries that struggle with rapid temperature fluctuations, these batteries remain unfazed, providing a stable and reliable power source for critical space missions. The vacuum of space, with its extreme cold and intense radiation, poses significant challenges to energy storage, but nickel-hydrogen batteries have repeatedly demonstrated their ability to withstand such conditions.

Unmatched Longevity

One of the most remarkable features of nickel-hydrogen batteries is their longevity. These batteries are built to last for an astonishing 30 years, significantly outperforming conventional lithium-ion batteries, which typically have a much shorter lifespan. Moreover, they can endure a staggering 30,000 charging cycles without a significant degradation in performance. Fossil fuel peak

This exceptional durability reduces the frequency of replacements, leading to cost savings and a more sustainable approach to energy storage.

Safety and Sustainability

Safety and sustainability are paramount considerations in energy storage solutions, and nickel-hydrogen batteries excel in both areas. Unlike some conventional batteries that carry the risk of catching fire or generating toxic waste, nickel-hydrogen batteries pose minimal environmental and safety hazards. They are non-toxic, non-flammable, and fully recyclable, making them a responsible choice for a world increasingly concerned about environmental impact. Fossil fuel peak

EnerVenue’s Vision for a Battery Revolution

EnerVenue’s mission to bring the benefits of nickel-hydrogen batteries to Earth is a bold and visionary endeavor. By establishing a Gigafactory in the United States, the company is poised to accelerate the production and adoption of this transformative technology. This move signals a paradigm shift in how we approach energy storage, with space technology at the forefront of innovation.

The Gigafactory will not only boost production capacity but also create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce our reliance on traditional energy sources.

As the demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to rise, EnerVenue’s nickel-hydrogen batteries offer a compelling alternative that aligns with our commitment to a greener future.Fossil fuel peak

In conclusion, the nickel-hydrogen battery, born out of the rigors of space exploration, represents a remarkable leap forward in energy storage technology.

With its unrivaled resilience, longevity, safety, and sustainability, it has the potential to transform the way we power our world. EnerVenue’s ambitious plans to manufacture these batteries at scale in the United States mark a pivotal moment in our quest for cleaner, more reliable energy storage solutions.

As we look to the future, it is clear that space technology will continue to play a pivotal role in improving our daily lives and advancing our society towards a more sustainable and innovative future. Fossil fuel peak

The Nickel-Hydrogen Battery: A 30-Year Revolution in Energy Storage

Recycling technologies – Tesla is making waves in the automotive industry with its recent price reductions on a global scale 16-09-2023

Fossil fuel peak

Recycling Sustainable Plastic – The BRICS and the Quest for De-Dollarization: A Complex Endeavor 31-08-2023

Recycling Sustainable Plastic

Amcor and Mondelēz International, two major players in the global packaging industry, have taken a significant stride towards advancing the construction of an Australian chemical recycling plant

This groundbreaking facility harnesses the innovative Catalytic Hydrothermal Reactor (Cat-HTR) technology developed by Australia-based Licella, heralding a new era in sustainable plastic waste management.

Recycling Sustainable Plastic

Ampacet Unveils ProVitalTM+ Permstat: Advanced Medical-Grade Permanent Antistatic Masterbatch

Ampacet, a prominent global leader in masterbatch solutions, has launched ProVital+ Permstat, an innovative non-migratory antistatic masterbatch meticulously designed to confer enduring and immediate antistatic characteristics to polyolefin films utilized in pharmaceutical operations. Recycling Sustainable Plastic

Recycling Sustainable Plastic

The BRICS and the Quest for De-Dollarization: A Complex Endeavor

The recent summit of the BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – concluded with both optimism and challenges surrounding the much-discussed notion of de-dollarization in international payment transactions.

Recycling Sustainable Plastic

MBA Polymers UK, a pioneering force in plastics recycling, has unveiled an ambitious expansion plan that involves the inauguration of a state-of-the-art plastics recycling facility in Wimblington, Cambridgeshire

The strategic move aligns seamlessly with the company’s overarching growth strategy and propels it closer to realizing its ultimate aspiration: the establishment of a comprehensive nationwide plastic recycling network that caters to the surging customer demand for environmentally conscientious, low-carbon products. Recycling Sustainable Plastic

MBA Polymers UK, a pioneering force in plastics recycling, has unveiled an ambitious expansion plan that involves the inauguration of a state-of-the-art plastics recycling facility in Wimblington, Cambridgeshire

Advancing Towards Sustainable Plastic Alternatives: Navigating a Complex Landscape

In an era marked by convenience and rapid technological progress, the transformative impact of plastics on modern life cannot be understated. The sheer versatility of their applications has catalyzed industrial and economic growth.

Advancing Towards Sustainable Plastic Alternatives: Navigating a Complex Landscape

Can the fashion industry move from recycled bottles to reused threads?

  • Summary
  • Legislation in EU and U.S. states will make textile producers responsible for life cycle of products
  • Just 1% of clothing materials recycled despite 74% of post-consumer textiles suitable for recycling
  • Brands such as Patagonia, Adidas and Zara working directly with recycling companies on new lines
  • Cotton recycler Infinited Fiber to produce 30,000 tonnes of recycled fibre at first commercial plant
  • CuRe’s recycled polyester offers greater than 80% lower carbon footprint than virgin polyester

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Can the fashion industry move from recycled bottles to reused threads?

Recycling Enthusiasts Welcome EU’s Ambitious Plastic Recycling Goal for Automobiles, While Automakers Express Caution

The European Commission’s recent proposition to establish a mandatory benchmark of at least 25% recycled plastic integration in new automobiles has sparked favorable reactions from recycling advocates, while simultaneously triggering apprehension within the automotive manufacturing and plastics sectors. Recycling Sustainable Plastic

Recycling Enthusiasts Welcome EU's Ambitious Plastic Recycling Goal for Automobiles, While Automakers Express Caution

Chemical recycling biopolymers – Can the fashion industry move from recycled bottles to reused threads? 31-08-2023

Recycling Sustainable Plastic

Petrochemicals r-PET adipic-acid – Can the car help the environment with the recycling of plastic? 07-08-2023

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

  • Polymers : PET – r-PET – Filament grade semidull chips -Filament grade bright chips – Ny6 – My66 – 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  

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

Polyestertime
ITEM 31/07/2023 07/08/2023 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 7,200 yuan/ton 7,050 yuan/ton -150
Bottle grade PET chips export market 915 $/ton 905 $/ton -10
Filament grade Semidull chips domestic market 6,900 yuan/ton 6,800 yuan/ton -100
Filament grade Bright chips domestic market 6,920 yuan/ton 6,830 yuan/ton -90
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market 6,035 yuan/ton 5,810 yuan/ton -225
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA export market 800 $/ton 800 $/ton –
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,130 yuan/ton 3,995 yuan/ton -135
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 484 $/ton 467 $/ton -17
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

 1,097 $/ton 1,055 $/ton
 -42
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 1,074 $/ton 1,032 $/ton -42
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,190 $/ton 1,200 $/ton +10
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,680 yuan/ton 7,670 yuan/ton
 -10
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,250 yuan/ton 7,350 yuan/ton +100
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 9,225 yuan/ton 9,225 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

 8,800 yuan/ton 8,800 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market 8,350 yuan/ton 8,350 yuan/ton –
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,500 yuan/ton 7,350 yuan/ton -150
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 12,850 yuan/ton 13,150 yuan/ton
 +300
Caprolactam CPL overseas  market 1,550 $/ton 1,550 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,740 $/ton 1,740 $/ton –
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 13,400 yuan/ton 13,700 yuan/ton +300
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

 14,000 yuan/ton 14,500 yuan/ton +500
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market 18,000 yuan/ton 18,000 yuan/ton –
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 16,100 yuan/ton 16,600 yuan/ton +500
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 18,350 yuan/ton 18,800 yuan/ton- +450
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  16,800 yuan/ton 17,500 yuan/ton +700
Spandex 20D  domestic  market

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

 36,500 yuan/ton 36,500 yuan/ton –
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 35,000 yuan/ton 35,000 yuan/ton –
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  31,500 yuan/ton 31,500 yuan/ton –
Adipic Acid domestic market 9,500 yuan/ton 9,800 yuan/ton +300
Benzene domestic market

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

 7,465 yuan/ton 7,750 yuan/ton +285
Benzene overseas  market 873 $/ton 905 $/ton +32
Ethylene South East market 770 $/ton 810 $/ton +40
Ethylene NWE market 644 $/ton 620 $/ton -24
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

 7,900 yuan/ton 8,400 yuan/ton +500
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF  domestic market 13,600 yuan/ton 13,600 yuan/ton –
Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  domestic market 12,600 yuan/ton 12,500 yuan/ton -100
PP Powder domestic market

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

 7,100 yuan/ton 7,200 yuan/ton +100
Naphtha overseas market  639 $/ton 653 $/ton +14
Phenol domestic market 8,225 yuan/ton 8,100 yuan/ton -125

 

r-PET high end eco-friendly chips =7,950 yuan/ton  — 7,750 yuan/ton   -200

Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

Toray to move into battery separator business

Toray Advanced Materials Korea Inc., a South Korea-based producer of chemical materials and technology products, is entering the battery separator film business through the acquisition of Toray Battery Separator Film Korea (Toray BSF Korea), said Kedglobal.

The company announced on Thursday that it has reached an agreement to acquire a 70% stake of Toray BSF Korea, which is currently owned by Toray Industries of Japan.

Located in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province, Toray BSF Korea is a specialized manufacturer of separators, one of the four key materials for batteries, and a core production base for Japan’s Toray. Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

The company has a diverse product portfolio for electric vehicles, electronic devices, industrial components and energy storage, supplying separators to battery manufacturers both domestically and internationally.

Toray Advanced Materials has a range of advanced materials businesses related to electric vehicles and next-generation mobility, including specialty films for multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) in electric vehicles, aramid for motor insulation and nonwoven fabrics for electric vehicle sound absorption.

We remind, Toray Advanced Materials Korea (TAK) has announced plans to increase its annual production capacity of polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) resin by 5,000 tons. The expansion will take place at the Gunsan plant located in Saemangeum Industrial Complex and is set to be completed by 2024, bringing TAK’s total annual capacity to 13,600 tons, the largest in South Korea. TAK will also raise its capacity for sodium sulfide, the main raw material for PPS resin, to 4,800 tons per year. Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

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Toray to move into battery separator business

How the Auto Industry Is Embracing Plastic Recycling

The dual needs to reduce the consumption of new resources in creating plastic products and to reduce the eventual creation of plastic waste when products have been used drive the pursuit of recycled materials in the auto industry.

Plastics are pervasive in modern vehicles, creating the opportunity for significant reuse of plastic. We’ve seen this in the case of the Ford Bronco Sport, which employs recycled plastic from recovered fishing nets in its wiring harness clips. The aim is to expand use of the material into other applications such as engine covers. The ultimate potential is for as much as 700 lbs. of plastic per vehicle to be created from recycled materials, according to Ford technical expert Alper Kiziltas, with about 10 percent of that eligible to be made using the recycled fishing net material. Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

Reusing Wreckage

Some more visible applications of recycled plastics in new automotive parts are in the cars’ interiors, where consumers will see the materials during every drive. Audi has partnered with LyondellBasell, the world’s largest producer of polymer products, to produce plastic seat belt buckle covers for the Q8 e-tron EV using plastic recovered from parts of crashed Audis.

“As part of the PlasticLoop project, we are working with Audi to establish an innovative closed-loop process, recycling plastic automotive parts for use in new vehicles,” said Erik Licht, LyondellBasell Advanced Polymer Solutions New Business Development Director. “For the first time, we are using chemical recycling to recycle mixed automotive plastic waste into plastic granulate for automotive interior applications,” he said. “The plastic granulate is then used in the production of the seatbelt buckle covers for the Audi Q8 e-tron.”

“We want to use secondary material wherever it is technically possible, ecologically feasible, and of course, environmentally friendly,” said Philip Eder, project manager for circular economy procurement strategy at Audi.

“Recycling is not that easy, because as you can imagine, if something is mixed up, it is not that easy to separate it again.”  Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

PET Water Bottles

The polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic used in plastic bottles is a more homogenous source of post-consumer plastic that Audi is also using. The company uses that PET in combination with residual textiles, and fabric selvages recovered from manufacturing plants to create Kaskade, a new fabric material that provides the soft surface and three-dimensional texture of natural fiber materials such as wool.

Kaskade cannot be made from entirely recycled materials, but the company strives to maximize the recycled portion of the material mix, reports Christine Maier of Audi Design. “We used only as much new polyester and as many new resources as was technically necessary,” she said. “The result is a fabric that is reminiscent of wool and natural fibers, and has a very pleasant feel.”

The recovered selvage fabric comes from a plant making automotive products, so the material is already automotive-grade. Audi separates these into black and white components, using them to create an anthracite-colored blend that requires no additional dye. “We leave out another chemical process, which is better for the environment,” noted Maier. Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

Audi said that the company strives to procure well-sorted PET waste that is of high purity and then they process to avoid any minor impurities in the filament process. This could result in fiber inhomogeneity and potentially make the fabric unattractive. An advantage of using recycled PET is that it is abundant, which is an important consideration for an industry still bedeviled by supply headaches.

Finding the Right Mix

The selvage material, PET, and new polyester combine to create new yarn that is used to make the Kaskade seat cover fabric. The final product contains 15 percent selvage material, 35 percent PET, and 50 percent new polyester. “We performed a lot of tests to see how high the portion of selvages can be while ensuring the fabric still looks flawless,” Maier explained.

Audi started making seat covers using recycled materials for the fourth-generation A3. Those seat covers contain as much as 89 percent recycled material, using plastic from 45 1.5-liter PET plastic bottles. Then there are the additional 62 PET bottles that are recycled for the car’s carpet. Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

The carpeting and floor mats in the Audi e-tron GT are made of Econyl – a material that consists of 100 percent recycled nylon fibers from production waste, fabric and carpet scraps, or old fishing nets.

Audi acknowledges that one of the hurdles en route to a circular economy is that the cost of these recycled materials is higher than for virgin materials. Energy consumption in the process is about the same as for virgin materials, so efficiency is not an obstacle, according to the company.

Faurecia’s Seat for the Planet

Auto industry supplier Faurecia aims to use recycled materials throughout the entire seat and to make those same materials easier to separate at the seat’s end-of-life for future reuse and recycling. The company’s “Seat for the Planet” is a project that has created a lightweight seat that is about 15 percent lighter than a conventional seat

It is made from ten modules each made entirely of a single material, made from bio-sourced or recycled materials, or from materials that are compatible for recycling, according to project manager Marthin Frétigné. Petrochemicals r-pet adipic-acid

Conventional seats are made using between 100 and 150 separate parts. The polyurethane used in seat cushions is especially challenging to replace with something earth-friendly. “This material performs well but is very difficult to recycle” said Frétigné. “So we had to replace it with a technical solution called Auraloop, incorporating high-performance PET combined with a new transformation process”.

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How the Auto Industry Is Embracing Plastic Recycling

Petrochemicals oil output – Will Saudi Arabia’s cut in oil production take oil above $100/barrel? 07-08-2023

Petrochemicals oil output

Petrochemicals r-PET adipic-acid – Can the car help the environment with the recycling of plastic?

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Crude Oil Prices Trend 

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Oil prices experienced a significant surge in the current week due to the latest announcement from Saudi Arabia regarding yet another round of production cuts

The kingdom’s decision to reduce its oil production by one million barrels per day in September came after implementing similar cuts in both July and August. This move sent shockwaves through the oil market, leading to a 1.9% increase in U.S. crude prices, which reached a substantial $83.08 per barrel. The price of Brent crude, traded in London, also rose by 1.6% to $86.53 per barrel, marking its highest level since April.

Throughout the week, the U.S. crude benchmark experienced a notable 3% rise, while Brent crude saw an increase of almost 2%. This upward trend in oil prices brought optimism to some investors, but market analysts expressed caution, particularly regarding Russia’s pledge to cut exports by 300,000 barrels per day. Russia has a history of not fully adhering to its promised production cuts, and this skepticism influenced the outlook on oil prices. Petrochemicals oil output

Sunil Kumar Dixit, a technical chartist, shared his analysis, suggesting that the recent rally in oil prices could soon lose momentum. Dixit pointed to potential resistance levels at the 100-day simple moving average of $85.45 and the monthly middle Bollinger band of $86.90. Despite these potential hurdles, he still believed there was room for some short-term upside momentum.

As the market continued to monitor developments, some experts anticipated a correction in oil prices that might provide an opportunity for a renewed rally. Key indicators for such a correction included a drop below the 5-day exponential moving average of $81.45, signaling possible exhaustion in the upward trend.

The subsequent OPEC+ meeting, conducted via Zoom, was relatively uneventful, given that Saudi Arabia had already announced its production cut prior to the meeting. Nevertheless, the market remains closely tied to OPEC’s decisions and any potential future reductions in oil production. Petrochemicals oil output

Looking ahead, global oil prices are expected to remain volatile as they are subject to a myriad of factors, including geopolitical tensions, supply-demand dynamics, and the ongoing energy transition. Concerns over the stability of some oil-producing regions and the potential impact of unforeseen events, such as natural disasters or political crises, further contribute to the uncertainty surrounding oil prices.

Investors and industry players are keeping a close eye on OPEC’s actions, as the organization plays a significant role in influencing oil prices through its decisions on production levels. Any deviations from OPEC’s projected production targets could result in market fluctuations and price volatility.

Moreover, the global transition towards cleaner and renewable energy sources is an essential factor shaping the future of the oil market. As countries strive to reduce their carbon footprints and implement more sustainable practices, the demand for fossil fuels may gradually decrease, putting additional pressure on oil prices.

In conclusion, the recent surge in oil prices following Saudi Arabia’s production cut announcement has brought both hope and caution to the market. While some anticipate continued momentum in the short term, others remain skeptical due to potential resistance levels and concerns over Russia’s compliance with production cuts. The market’s performance in the coming weeks and months will largely depend on OPEC’s decisions and how various geopolitical and environmental factors unfold. Investors and stakeholders should brace themselves for continued volatility and closely monitor developments to make informed decisions in this ever-changing landscape of the global oil market. Petrochemicals oil output

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ADBioplastics, a Spain-based additives and bioplastics manufacturer, has made significant strides in the development of sustainable packaging solutions

Among its innovations is a bioplastic called PLA-Premium, which boasts improved processability and is 100% compostable under industrial conditions, similar to regular PLA. This achievement has been recognized and certified by TÜV Austria, affirming that the single-use product will disintegrate within a mere three months.

The rising awareness of environmental concerns, coupled with the European Union’s plastics strategy demanding that all packaging be reusable or recyclable by 2030, has spurred manufacturers to explore bio-based and compostable alternatives to conventional oil-based plastics in the packaging industry. Petrochemicals oil output

Polylactic acid (PLA) has emerged as a popular bioplastic choice, typically derived from renewable sources such as corn, sugarcane, or beets. However, PLA requires a thermal trigger of at least 50°C to initiate degradation, making it practically non-biodegradable in landfill or marine environments.

To address this limitation, ADBioplastics has introduced its industrially compostable PLA-Premium. The company achieved this breakthrough by incorporating an impact modifier called ADBio PLA+ into virgin PLA, enhancing the material’s processing properties. In a collaboration with Capricho Andaluz, a subsidiary of Borges International Group and a renowned oils and dressings producer, ADBioplastics is now manufacturing single-serve packaging for extra virgin olive oil using their new bioplastic.

In their official statement, ADBioplastics confirmed that these single-use products will be initially marketed under the Capricho Andaluz and Borges brands, with plans to introduce new references to the market in the near future. With TÜV Austria’s certification for industrial compostability, PLA-Premium can be disposed of in organic waste bins and treated at industrial composting facilities where available, ensuring a sustainable end-of-life scenario. Petrochemicals oil output

ADBioplastics offers a variety of PLA-Premium grades, catering to different industrial applications of extrusion and injection. The material demonstrates up to a 70% improvement in elongation at break compared to virgin PLA, yielding a more elastic and less brittle end product. Moreover, PLA-Premium boasts cycle times and density comparable to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) while maintaining a similar level of transparency, making it suitable for various packaging applications in the food, beverage, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and other industries.

Crucially, PLA-Premium complies with the applicable European legislation, allowing its safe use in food contact applications. This significant advantage further reinforces its viability for a wide range of packaging uses, meeting both sustainability and regulatory requirements.

As ADBioplastics forges ahead with its commitment to environmentally friendly solutions, the introduction of PLA-Premium has the potential to revolutionize the single-use packaging landscape. By offering an industrially compostable alternative to conventional plastics, the company contributes to reducing the environmental impact of packaging waste and aligns with the EU’s sustainability goals. Petrochemicals oil output

In conclusion, ADBioplastics’ development of PLA-Premium, an industrially compostable single-use packaging material for olive oil and other applications, marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future. With TÜV Austria certification and compliance with European legislation for food contact, PLA-Premium presents a promising alternative to traditional plastics, contributing to the global efforts to mitigate plastic pollution and promote eco-friendly practices in the packaging industry.

Petrochemicals oil output

Stellantis, the giant born from the merger of FCA and PSA, has envisioned a brilliant idea that could revolutionize the automotive industry – the transformation of hybrids into biofuels

In Brazil, this visionary concept has come to life through the introduction of the new Bio-Hybrid engines, featuring mild hybrid, full hybrid, and plug-in systems.

At the forefront of this groundbreaking technology is the Bio-Hybrid, a remarkable innovation that electrifies existing flex engines, which can run on petrol or ethanol, or a combination of both fuels. This cutting-edge engine technology was unveiled at the Betim automotive hub in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. The development of Bio-Hybrid technology originated in Brazil, fostered by the collaborative platform “Bio-Electro,” involving Stellantis’ Tech Center for South America, suppliers, researchers, and other partners. Petrochemicals oil output

Stellantis has introduced three distinct Bio platforms in Brazil, all supplemented by a fourth, fully electric architecture:

  1. Bio-Hybrid Technology: This platform features a multifunctional electrical device that replaces the alternator and starter motor, generating additional torque for the internal combustion engine and energy for a small 12-volt lithium-ion battery. These advancements lead to enhanced performance and reduced fuel consumption, with an impressive power output of up to 3 kW.
  2. Bio-Hybrid e-DCT: This platform integrates two electric motors – the first replaces the traditional alternator and starter motor, while the second, larger motor couples with the transmission. Together, they power a 48-volt battery, providing a higher level of electrification.
  3. Bio-Hybrid Plug-in: Equipped with an accumulator rechargeable via regenerative braking, the internal combustion engine, or an external source, this platform incorporates an electric motor that directly supplies energy to the car’s wheels.

The primary focus of Stellantis’ Bio-Hybrid concept is to address Brazil’s unique circumstances and work towards decarbonization in the country. Brazil stands out as a nation where ethanol is already used in 80% of the vehicle fleet, thanks to Flex Fuel technology. Stellantis recognizes that ethanol, when combined with electrification, can significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions. Moreover, this combination represents a competitive and cost-effective alternative for decarbonizing transportation, especially compared to full electric vehicles that can still be expensive in developing countries like Brazil and other South American states. Petrochemicals oil output

To validate the potential of this innovative technology, Stellantis conducted dynamic tests with a vehicle powered by four distinct energy sources. The results were striking, indicating that ethanol propulsion emits 18% less CO2 than a comparable electric vehicle powered by European energy sources, and it is also 60% cheaper than using petrol.

The introduction of the Bio-Hybrid engines in Brazil marks a significant milestone in Stellantis’ commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By leveraging the country’s existing ethanol infrastructure and integrating advanced electrification solutions, Stellantis is paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient future of transportation.

In conclusion, the emergence of Stellantis’ Bio-Hybrid technology in Brazil represents a game-changing step towards decarbonization and sustainable mobility. By harnessing the power of biofuels and advanced electrification, Stellantis is proving that innovation and collaboration can drive positive change in the automotive industry, benefitting both the environment and consumers alike. As this visionary concept gains traction, it has the potential to reshape the global automotive landscape and lead the way towards a greener and more sustainable future for all. Petrochemicals oil output

Stellantis, the giant born from the merger of FCA and PSA, has envisioned a brilliant idea that could revolutionize the automotive industry - the transformation of hybrids into biofuels

Driving Sustainability in India: Insights from Sulzer Chemtech Leadership at Pune Customer Engagement Evening

In an era marked by heightened environmental awareness and the urgent need to address carbon emissions and resource depletion, industries worldwide are facing increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. In India, a country with a plethora of heavy industries, the imperative to track carbon footprints and embrace sustainability has become even more critical. Recognizing this need, Sulzer Chemtech organized the Customer Engagement Evening in Pune on the 18th of July 2023, focusing on the theme of enabling a low-carbon society. The event brought together industry professionals, including Sulzer leadership and prominent figures, to discuss sustainable innovations and energy transitions within and beyond India. Petrochemicals oil output

Dr. Uwe Boltersdorf, the Division President of Sulzer Chemtech, emphasized the significance of political measures and regulations to drive holistic sustainability in India. He advocated for imposing appropriate regulations on heavy industries while incentivizing them, leading to a win-win situation for corporations, citizens, and the government. Drawing inspiration from Europe’s success, Dr. Uwe proposed that India could adopt similar measures to encourage the manufacturing of bio-based and biodegradable products, with Sulzer Chemtech’s support in implementing modern technologies.

During the event, Dr. Sander van Donk, the Global Head of Mass Transfer Components and Services at Sulzer Chemtech, shed light on how India can benefit from Sulzer’s CCUS (carbon capture, utilization, and storage) solutions. He explained the company’s equipment designed to absorb carbon dioxide from emissions, particularly in industries like cement manufacturing and power generation that contribute significantly to India’s carbon footprint. By capturing and storing carbon in a manner that facilitates the development of beneficial resources, Indian industries can reduce their reliance on precious natural resources and embrace sustainability.

Mr. Pramod Khade, Head of Sulzer India Pvt Ltd, celebrated India’s potential and talent. He proudly announced that Sulzer Chemtech India not only ranks among the largest exporters of chemicals but also boasts a wealth of talent. With the Indian workforce’s inherent eagerness to learn and their relentless dedication, training and nurturing Indian talent to become global industry leaders is a rewarding endeavor for the company.

Sulzer Chemtech’s Customer Engagement Evening served as a platform for disseminating awareness about the importance of sustainability and fostering collaborative efforts to address environmental challenges. As global corporations seek to align themselves with sustainable practices, Sulzer Chemtech’s commitment to driving positive change in India’s industrial landscape was evident throughout the event. Petrochemicals oil output

The discussions and insights presented during the evening underscored the urgent need for a collective commitment to reducing carbon footprints and implementing sustainable practices in India’s industries. The event’s emphasis on political measures and regulations echoes the sentiment that governments must play a pivotal role in steering industries towards a greener future.

The spotlight on Sulzer’s CCUS solutions demonstrated that innovation and technology can serve as powerful allies in the fight against climate change. By capturing and repurposing carbon emissions, Indian industries can make significant strides towards reducing their environmental impact.

Moreover, Mr. Pramod Khade’s acknowledgment of India’s abundant talent pool showcased the country’s potential to not only become a global player in industries but also to lead sustainable initiatives. The combination of talent and innovative solutions offered by Sulzer Chemtech holds the promise of transforming India’s industrial landscape into a beacon of sustainability.

The Sulzer Chemtech Customer Engagement Evening in Pune stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices in India and beyond. By fostering dialogue and collaboration among industry leaders, the event has undoubtedly sparked a renewed sense of purpose in driving the nation towards a greener, more sustainable future. Petrochemicals oil output

As industries worldwide grapple with the challenge of balancing growth with environmental responsibility, events like these serve as crucial stepping stones towards a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow. The exchange of ideas, expertise, and experiences at the Customer Engagement Evening undoubtedly contributed to the collective effort to create a low-carbon society for the betterment of all. Sulzer Chemtech’s leadership in organizing and participating in such initiatives demonstrates its dedication to being a catalyst for positive change in the realm of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Driving Sustainability in India: Insights from Sulzer Chemtech Leadership at Pune Customer Engagement Evening

The Future of Reusable and Refillable Packaging: Overcoming Challenges for Sustainable Growth

The push for sustainability has driven global brands to adopt strategies aimed at reducing their usage of virgin plastics. Reusable and refillable packaging is one such approach gaining attention, with companies like Nestle, PepsiCo, Mars, P&G, Coca-Cola, and Kraft Heinz leading the charge. Despite its promise, this innovative packaging concept faces challenges in meeting consumer expectations and achieving widespread adoption. Smithers, a US-based consultancy firm specializing in the packaging, paper, and print industries, sheds light on the five key strategies being deployed by these brands to achieve their plastic reduction goals and explores the future prospects of reusable and refillable packaging. Petrochemicals oil output

The Quest for Plastic Reduction

In response to mounting pressure to curb plastic waste, global brands have been exploring various strategies to achieve their plastic reduction goals. Smithers highlights five primary approaches:

  1. Switching to Fiber-Based or Biodegradable Packaging: Some companies have started transitioning from traditional plastics to more eco-friendly alternatives, such as fiber-based or biodegradable materials.
  2. Increasing Post-Consumer Recyclate (PCR) Content: Brands are incorporating higher amounts of post-consumer recycled materials into their packaging through product design and chemical recycling.
  3. Deploying Reusable and Refillable Packaging: One of the promising solutions is the implementation of reusable and refillable packaging systems, which can significantly reduce packaging waste.

Current Status and Projected Growth

The market for reusable and refillable packaging has been steadily growing, with global sales reaching $42 billion in 2022. This represents a modest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% since 2017. Smithers predicts a further acceleration in growth, with an annual CAGR of 4.9%, expected to reach $53.4 billion by 2027.

Business Models for Reusable and Refillable Packaging

Various business models are being explored to facilitate the adoption of reusable and refillable packaging. These models include refill at home, return from home, refill in-store, return in-store, and deposit return schemes. Such initiatives align with the European Commission’s proposal for revising EU legislation on packaging and packing waste, targeting a 15% reduction in packaging waste per Member State per capita by 2040 compared to 2018 levels. Petrochemicals oil output

Challenges Hindering Widespread Adoption

While the potential for reusable and refillable packaging is evident, it faces significant challenges:

  1. Consumer Convenience: Consumers have grown accustomed to the convenience of single-use packaging, making the transition to reusable and refillable systems less appealing.
  2. Supply Chain Adaptation: Implementing these new packaging systems requires substantial changes to existing supply chains, potentially increasing the carbon footprint through additional transportation.
  3. Cost: Despite performing at a similar level to virgin plastic, reusable and refillable packaging remains costlier. The cost parity with traditional packaging is not expected to be achieved by 2030.
  4. Limited Availability: The lack of commercial-scale availability is an obstacle to wider adoption, as companies may be hesitant to invest in unproven systems.
  5. Consumer Perception: Modest consumer perception of reusable and refillable packaging also presents a challenge, as awareness and education efforts are required to change attitudes.

Success Stories and Ongoing Efforts

Despite these challenges, some companies have taken steps towards adopting reusable and refillable packaging. Nestle, for instance, introduced a steel refillable container for their Nesquick powdered chocolate milk brand. However, trials have not met the company’s re-purchase and return rate goals, largely due to consumer expectations of high convenience at low costs. Petrochemicals oil output

Conclusion

The shift towards reusable and refillable packaging is a significant step in reducing plastic waste and achieving sustainable packaging solutions. While the industry faces challenges in consumer convenience, supply chain adaptation, cost, availability, and perception, the potential for positive change is evident. Moving forward, a systems-level approach that incorporates reverse logistics and reduced carbon transportation options is necessary. Additionally, a fundamental shift in consumer attitudes and behaviors is crucial to making reusable and refillable packaging a widely adopted and successful solution for a more sustainable future.

The Future of Reusable and Refillable Packaging: Overcoming Challenges for Sustainable Growth

How the Auto Industry Is Embracing Plastic Recycling

The dual needs to reduce the consumption of new resources in creating plastic products and to reduce the eventual creation of plastic waste when products have been used drive the pursuit of recycled materials in the auto industry.

Plastics are pervasive in modern vehicles, creating the opportunity for significant reuse of plastic. We’ve seen this in the case of the Ford Bronco Sport, which employs recycled plastic from recovered fishing nets in its wiring harness clips. The aim is to expand use of the material into other applications such as engine covers. The ultimate potential is for as much as 700 lbs. of plastic per vehicle to be created from recycled materials, according to Ford technical expert Alper Kiziltas, with about 10 percent of that eligible to be made using the recycled fishing net material. Petrochemicals oil output

Reusing Wreckage

Some more visible applications of recycled plastics in new automotive parts are in the cars’ interiors, where consumers will see the materials during every drive. Audi has partnered with LyondellBasell, the world’s largest producer of polymer products, to produce plastic seat belt buckle covers for the Q8 e-tron EV using plastic recovered from parts of crashed Audis.

“As part of the PlasticLoop project, we are working with Audi to establish an innovative closed-loop process, recycling plastic automotive parts for use in new vehicles,” said Erik Licht, LyondellBasell Advanced Polymer Solutions New Business Development Director. “For the first time, we are using chemical recycling to recycle mixed automotive plastic waste into plastic granulate for automotive interior applications,” he said. “The plastic granulate is then used in the production of the seatbelt buckle covers for the Audi Q8 e-tron.”

“We want to use secondary material wherever it is technically possible, ecologically feasible, and of course, environmentally friendly,” said Philip Eder, project manager for circular economy procurement strategy at Audi.

“Recycling is not that easy, because as you can imagine, if something is mixed up, it is not that easy to separate it again.” Petrochemicals oil output

PET Water Bottles

The polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic used in plastic bottles is a more homogenous source of post-consumer plastic that Audi is also using. The company uses that PET in combination with residual textiles, and fabric selvages recovered from manufacturing plants to create Kaskade, a new fabric material that provides the soft surface and three-dimensional texture of natural fiber materials such as wool.

Kaskade cannot be made from entirely recycled materials, but the company strives to maximize the recycled portion of the material mix, reports Christine Maier of Audi Design. “We used only as much new polyester and as many new resources as was technically necessary,” she said. “The result is a fabric that is reminiscent of wool and natural fibers, and has a very pleasant feel.”

The recovered selvage fabric comes from a plant making automotive products, so the material is already automotive-grade. Audi separates these into black and white components, using them to create an anthracite-colored blend that requires no additional dye. “We leave out another chemical process, which is better for the environment,” noted Maier. Petrochemicals oil output

Audi said that the company strives to procure well-sorted PET waste that is of high purity and then they process to avoid any minor impurities in the filament process. This could result in fiber inhomogeneity and potentially make the fabric unattractive. An advantage of using recycled PET is that it is abundant, which is an important consideration for an industry still bedeviled by supply headaches.

Finding the Right Mix

The selvage material, PET, and new polyester combine to create new yarn that is used to make the Kaskade seat cover fabric. The final product contains 15 percent selvage material, 35 percent PET, and 50 percent new polyester. “We performed a lot of tests to see how high the portion of selvages can be while ensuring the fabric still looks flawless,” Maier explained.

Audi started making seat covers using recycled materials for the fourth-generation A3. Those seat covers contain as much as 89 percent recycled material, using plastic from 45 1.5-liter PET plastic bottles. Then there are the additional 62 PET bottles that are recycled for the car’s carpet.

The carpeting and floor mats in the Audi e-tron GT are made of Econyl – a material that consists of 100 percent recycled nylon fibers from production waste, fabric and carpet scraps, or old fishing nets. Petrochemicals oil output

Audi acknowledges that one of the hurdles en route to a circular economy is that the cost of these recycled materials is higher than for virgin materials. Energy consumption in the process is about the same as for virgin materials, so efficiency is not an obstacle, according to the company.

Faurecia’s Seat for the Planet

Auto industry supplier Faurecia aims to use recycled materials throughout the entire seat and to make those same materials easier to separate at the seat’s end-of-life for future reuse and recycling. The company’s “Seat for the Planet” is a project that has created a lightweight seat that is about 15 percent lighter than a conventional seat

It is made from ten modules each made entirely of a single material, made from bio-sourced or recycled materials, or from materials that are compatible for recycling, according to project manager Marthin Frétigné. Conventional seats are made using between 100 and 150 separate parts. The polyurethane used in seat cushions is especially challenging to replace with something earth-friendly. “This material performs well but is very difficult to recycle” said Frétigné. “So we had to replace it with a technical solution called Auraloop, incorporating high-performance PET combined with a new transformation process”. Petrochemicals oil output

How the Auto Industry Is Embracing Plastic Recycling

Plastics Recycling Smart Textiles – Polyamide Recycling : A Sustainable Solution for a Circular Economy 05-08-2023

Petrochemicals oil output

PET Bottle Chip – Will both polymer and raw materials increase strongly? 31-07-2023

PET Bottle Chip

Petrochemicals Recycled Polyester – Will both polymer and raw materials increase strongly? 

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Crude Oil Prices Trend 

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What is the duration of the waste tire pyrolysis process?

The time required for the waste tire pyrolysis process varies depending on the capacity and configuration of the pyrolysis machines. Let’s discuss the processing times for two common models: the 100/500KG and 10/12TPD waste tire pyrolysis machines.

  • 100/500KG waste tire pyrolysis machine: These machines have smaller processing capacities and simpler configurations, resulting in shorter pyrolysis times. For the 100KG waste tire pyrolysis machine, one batch takes approximately 3-4 hours, while the 500KG waste tire pyrolysis machine requires about 7-8 hours for a single batch.
  • 10/12TPD waste tire pyrolysis machine: The 10/12TPD waste tire pyrolysis machine takes around 22 hours for the pyrolysis process. The processing time is mainly influenced by the equipment’s configurations:
  • Feeding: There are two methods for feeding tires into the machine: a) Manual feeding requires 3-4 workers and takes about 3 hours. This option is suitable for areas with low labor costs. b) Auto-feeder with a grab machine requires only two workers and completes the feeding process in about 1-1.5 hours, saving time and labor.
  • Heating Stage: The pyrolysis oil and oil burner are used to heat the machine to around 160 degrees Celsius, after which stable tail gas is produced. The machine is then mainly heated by the tail gas, maintaining a temperature of about 280-320 degrees Celsius. This stage takes approximately 8-10 hours.
  • Cooling Time of Reactor: The cooling process involves two steps: a) Using a vacuum device to pump out residual oil gas from the reactor, which takes about 1 hour before discharging the carbon black. b) The traditional pyrolysis machine design requires about 7 hours for cooling, but DOING waste tire pyrolysis machines are equipped with a fast cooling system, reducing the cooling time to about 4 hours. PET Bottle Chip
  • Discharging Carbon Black: After cooling, the carbon black is discharged, and this step takes around 1.5-2 hours.

Several other factors can also affect the tire pyrolysis time, including weather conditions, worker efficiency, and the condition of the tires.

Henan DOING Company has been researching waste tire pyrolysis machines for over 13 years, offering various types with different capacities. They have also developed a continuous waste tire pyrolysis machine, which has higher efficiency and larger processing capacity, capable of continuous operation for nearly two months. This type is recommended for those with abundant waste tires to process, as it enhances efficiency and generates higher profits.

If you are interested in waste tire pyrolysis, please feel free to contact us. Our sales manager will provide more detailed information about the various waste tire pyrolysis machines available.

PET Bottle Chip

NEXT GENERATION GROUP Expands Presence in Plastic Recycling Market with Investment in HydroDyn

NEXT GENERATION GROUP, a prominent provider of innovative plastic life solutions, has made a significant investment in HydroDyn, a renowned technology company specializing in the cleaning and purification of plastic waste. This strategic collaboration underscores the group’s dedication to offering comprehensive plastic recycling solutions, with a particular focus on post-consumer recycling.

As part of the agreement, HydroDyn will retain its operational independence while benefiting from a close partnership with NEXT GENERATION GROUP, leveraging their high synergy potential. This joint effort will enable both companies to pool their expertise and resources, providing efficient end-to-end plastic recycling solutions to meet the evolving demands of customers in the recycling machinery market. Their shared objective is to prioritize the attainment of specific polymer characteristics essential for various commodity applications, effectively substituting virgin plastics. PET Bottle Chip

Josef Hochreiter, CEO of Next Generation Holding GmbH, expressed the significance of this collaboration: “Through our partnership with HydroDyn, NEXT GENERATION GROUP is exceptionally well-positioned to meet the growing demand for integrated plastic recycling solutions. HydroDyn’s proven track record and innovative technology make them an ideal partner as we continue to lead the charge in driving sustainable recycling practices.”

The acquisition grants HydroDyn access to NEXT GENERATION GROUP’s extensive global network, creating new opportunities for growth and expansion. Michael Hofmann, CEO of HydroDyn, enthusiastically welcomed the partnership, stating, “Joining the group not only provides us with access to a world-class network but also offers the financial support and stability needed to realize our ambitious growth plans. Together, we can make a more significant impact on reducing plastic waste.”

With this strategic alliance, NEXT GENERATION GROUP and HydroDyn are set to make substantial strides in the plastic recycling market, paving the way for a more sustainable future. PET Bottle Chip

PET Bottle Chip

Consortium Drives Chemical Recycling of Plastic Waste in Asia

JGC Corporation, Ebara Environmental Plant, Ube Industries, and Showa Denko announced that they started a study of collaboration for an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) business for plastic waste gasification facilities utilizing the Ebara Ube Process (EUP).

Osaka/Japan — Promotion of plastic waste recycling has become a global issue, as seen in the ocean microplastic problem. While Japan’s plastic recycling ratio is 86 %, only 13.5 % of the plastics waste are recycled as resources and the rest is exported to other countries or thermally recycled (fiscal 2017). Furthermore, establishment of resource recycling systems is urgently needed in Japan and other countries amid tightening regulations for solid waste import in China and Southeast Asian countries. PET Bottle Chip

Gasification as a chemical recycling process of plastic waste is capable of decomposing a mixture of various kinds of plastics and impurities, which presents difficulties for other recycling methods, into the molecular level and regenerating various chemical materials. It should contribute to substantial improvement of the recycling ratio.

The EUP, which was developed by Ebara (transferred this business to Ebara Environmental Plant in 2009) and Ube Industries in 2000, is a process that gasifies plastic waste using partial oxidation with oxygen and steam, and produces synthesis gases that can be utilized in synthesis of ammonia, olefins, and other chemicals. A gasification facility steadily operating at Showa Denko’s Kawasaki Plant (annual plastic waste processing capability: approximately 70,000 tons) since 2003 applies EUP. This is the only technology for gasification chemical recycling in the world with a long-term track record of commercial operation. PET Bottle Chip

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Consortium Drives Chemical Recycling of Plastic Waste in Asia

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have made a groundbreaking discovery: a new type of infinitely recyclable plastic that could hold the key to solving the world’s pollution crisis

This innovative plastic offers a sustainable alternative to the 90% of plastics that are currently non-recyclable and rely on finite, polluting petrochemicals as their primary components.

The researchers achieved this feat by engineering microbes to produce the essential building blocks for the plastic, known as poly(diketoenamine) or PDK. What sets PDK apart from traditional plastics is its unique ability to be deconstructed into pristine building blocks and then remolded into new products without any loss in quality. This recycling process can be repeated indefinitely, making PDK a truly eco-friendly solution.

Initially, PDKs were created using petrochemical-derived building blocks. However, the research team successfully redesigned and produced these components using microbes instead. After extensive effort over four years, they managed to manipulate E. coli to convert plant sugars into the starting materials for PDK, achieving an impressive 80 percent bio-content in the final product. PET Bottle Chip

Moreover, the researchers believe that reaching 100 percent bio-content is entirely feasible in the future.

PDKs hold great promise for various applications, such as adhesives, flexible items (computer cables, watch bands), and even construction materials. One surprising finding was that incorporating the bioTAL (the bio-based starting material) into the plastic significantly expanded its working temperature range, making it suitable for use in sports gear, automotive parts like bumpers and dashboards, and other items requiring specific temperature resistance.

Professor Jay Keasling, senior faculty scientist in Berkeley Lab’s Biosciences Area, emphasized the importance of reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and promoting the use of biorenewable and circular materials. By encouraging companies to adopt PDKs, they hope to mitigate the plastic waste problem while ensuring that products can be continuously repurposed, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have made a groundbreaking discovery: a new type of infinitely recyclable plastic that could hold the key to solving the world's pollution crisis

Borouge, a prominent petrochemical company specializing in innovative polyolefin solutions, has reported robust financial results for the first half of the year, posting total revenues of $2.8 billion and an adjusted EBITDA of $978 million

The company attributes a considerable portion of these gains to its ambitious Value Enhancement Programme, which has resulted in a $253 million impact through improved efficiencies and optimized revenue streams. This program has played a crucial role in mitigating external market pressures.

Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi, the CEO of Borouge, expressed satisfaction with the company’s strong financial position and cash conversion. As a testament to their success, the board has approved an interim dividend of $650 million, with a commitment to pay $1.3 billion in dividends for the year 2023. Al Suwaidi reaffirmed Borouge’s dedication to creating value for shareholders and emphasized their ongoing focus on innovation and delivering top-quality solutions in the market. PET Bottle Chip

In the second quarter of 2023, Borouge’s revenue increased by 2.5% compared to the previous quarter, reaching $1.4 billion. However, there was a decline in year-on-year revenue. Net income for Q2 2023 amounted to $231 million, representing a 16% increase from the first quarter, supported by a 4% rise in sales. Nonetheless, net income decreased when compared to Q2 2022 figures.

While Borouge faced pricing challenges in Q2, they managed to maintain a healthy EBITDA margin of 37%, a 10% improvement from the previous quarter, thanks to enhanced operational efficiencies. Additionally, the company achieved a remarkable cash conversion rate of 96%, with a healthy adjusted operating free cash flow of $496 million, indicating strong financial management and liquidity.

The company’s sales volumes for polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) witnessed substantial growth, with 40% of total sales directed towards the value-added infrastructure segment. This strategic focus on high premia end markets contributed to Borouge’s success. Furthermore, Borouge successfully resumed production at a high rate after completing the planned turnaround of the Borouge 2 facility in Q1.

Despite a challenging market environment, Borouge managed to maintain pricing premia above management guidance for both PE ($249/t) and PP ($150/t). This achievement is noteworthy given the softening benchmark prices and some compression experienced during this period. PET Bottle Chip

The decline in net profit for the first half of 2023 can be attributed to a significant 22% drop in average selling prices compared to the peak levels seen in Q2 2022. During that time, high product benchmark rates and exceptional premia for PE and PP contributed to the elevated prices.

Borouge’s Olefins Conversion Unit (OCU) operates at high capacity, offering cost advantages through propylene substitution and margin support. The company’s competitive feedstock contracts, economies of scale, and modern asset base have positioned Borouge in the first quartile of the global cost curve, enhancing its competitive edge.

Maintaining a conservative leverage profile and a robust balance sheet, Borouge retains substantial dividend capacity and lays the groundwork for future growth. An important milestone was reached with Borouge 4, a project funded by major shareholders Adnoc and Borealis, which comprises equity, shareholder loans, and long-term external financing.

Looking ahead, Borouge continues to explore international expansion opportunities, focusing on geographies and markets aligned with its strategic roadmap. As part of its dedication to innovation, the company recently introduced a new polypropylene infrastructure product, designed to facilitate the manufacturing of durable, corrosion-free plumbing and heating pipe systems. The product’s extended lifetime and easy installation process align with sustainability standards and differentiates Borouge’s overall PP product portfolio, aiming to capture a segment market share of over 20%.

In conclusion, Borouge’s performance in the first half of 2023 reflects its resilience in the face of market challenges, driven by strategic initiatives and commitment to innovation. As it continues to grow and evolve, the company remains dedicated to delivering value for shareholders while setting high standards for product quality and sustainability in the industry. PET Bottle Chip

Borouge, a prominent petrochemical company specializing in innovative polyolefin solutions, has reported robust financial results for the first half of the year, posting total revenues of $2.8 billion and an adjusted EBITDA of $978 million

PET Bottle Chip Industry Facing Challenges Amidst Market Dynamics

The PET bottle chip industry has been experiencing a continuous decline in processing spread, leading to concerns about its overall performance. Recent fluctuations in PET bottle chip prices have not alleviated the issue, with the processing spread being further compressed to less than 700 yuan/mt. In certain cases, the spot processing spread has even plummeted to 500 yuan/mt for large orders. This situation raises questions about the reasons behind this problem and whether it indicates a poor performance in the PET bottle chip industry.

To understand the current state of the industry, we must first examine the inventory levels of PET bottle chip factories. Recent data from CCFGroup indicates that overall inventory has not been exceptionally high, remaining within the normal range of 10-15 days over the past six months. As the consumption of summer beverages and edible oils has increased, factory delivery volumes have risen, and physical inventory levels have slightly dropped to just above 10 days. Despite this, there is a perception in the market that PET bottle chip inventory is increasing. This discrepancy can be attributed to market speculation and rumors, which tend to overgeneralize the situation of individual factories to represent the entire industry. PET Bottle Chip

One crucial aspect impacting the processing spread is the pre-selling of PET bottle chip orders, which prioritizes the delivery from factories and the speed of pick-up by downstream end-users and traders over the actual inventory levels at the factories. As the summer season typically witnesses high shipping volumes, the factories do not accumulate significant inventory. However, a recent shift in inventory pressure from factories to downstream end-users and trading channels, coupled with mediocre demand due to the elevated prices of upstream raw materials, has suppressed the processing spread to low levels.

Concerning export orders, while there has been a transition from the frenzy of previous years to a more stable state, the orders are still within an acceptable range. Export volumes during the second quarter have maintained a monthly average of approximately 340,000 tons, accounting for around 31% of total production. However, due to the changing consumption patterns in Europe and the United States, demand for replenishment has declined, making it challenging for Chinese PET bottle chip companies to sustain export orders above 300,000 tons. PET Bottle Chip

On the domestic front, downstream end-user enterprises have ramped up their operations, particularly in the water and edible oil industries. High temperatures in certain regions have spurred additional demand, leading to an increase in PET replenishment to meet summer needs. Nevertheless, overall market sentiment remains cautious due to the addition of nearly 5 million tons of new capacity this year, which has weakened the supply-demand dynamics. The expectation of more new capacity entering the market makes it unrealistic for PET bottle chip factories to maintain price increases.

Considering the current market conditions, some cash flows for PX downstream products are continuously in a loss-making state. To foresee a gradual upward price movement in the future, several conditions need to be met. These include an expansion of PTA unit maintenance due to loss-making processing spread, macroeconomic changes driving a resurgence in crude oil prices, and an improvement in end-user confidence and replenishment willingness. PET Bottle Chip

In conclusion, the PET bottle chip industry faces challenges driven by factors like inventory perception, export demand, and the addition of new capacity. While recent fluctuations in PET bottle chip prices have not significantly improved the processing spread, the industry remains cautious about potential upward price movements. Addressing these challenges will require a combination of market dynamics and improvements in end-user confidence to stabilize and improve the industry’s performance.

PET Bottle Chip Industry Facing Challenges Amidst Market Dynamics

Textiles sector petrochemical – Is the Internet of Things the solution? 29-07-2023

PET Bottle Chip

Textiles sector petrochemical – Is the Internet of Things the solution? 29-07-2023

Textiles sector petrochemical

Versalis, the chemical company of the ENI group, faced another challenging quarter in the petrochemical industry as demand weakness and increased imports continued to impact their sales and operating margins

The second quarter proved to be equally difficult as the first, painting a bleak financial picture for the company.

During the second quarter, Versalis reported an adjusted operating loss of 70 million euros, a stark contrast to the 125 million euros profit achieved in the same period last year. The cumulative loss for the first six months of the year reached a staggering 179 million euros, in stark contrast to the operating margin of 10 million euros recorded in the first half of 2022. These disappointing results reflect the considerable decline in demand across all sectors and the uncertainties that plague the market, which have significantly slowed down purchasing decisions made by retailers. Moreover, the company faced continuous competitive pressure from imported products.

One of the significant indicators of this downturn is the decline in sales volume. Between April and June, Versalis sold only 820,000 tonnes of petrochemical products, down by 24% compared to the 1.07 million tonnes sold during the same period in 2022. This substantial drop in sales volume is indicative of the challenges the company encountered in this quarter. In addition to that, the plant utilization rate plummeted from 69% to 55%, signaling the severity of the situation. Textiles sector petrochemical

The cracker margin, a crucial metric for the company’s profitability, also witnessed a decline in the second quarter compared to the previous year. Margins on polyethylene and styrenics also took a hit, primarily due to the decrease in commodity prices. These margin contractions further exacerbated Versalis’ financial struggles.

The petrochemical industry as a whole experienced a complex and challenging landscape during this period, grappling with various issues related to demand, supply, and competitive pressures. Versalis’ financial woes are emblematic of the broader challenges faced by companies in this sector.

Looking ahead, Versalis will need to adopt a strategic approach to navigate through these turbulent times successfully. The company must analyze the ever-changing market dynamics and identify opportunities to optimize its operations and reduce costs. Moreover, investing in research and development to create innovative and high-value products could help them differentiate themselves in the market and gain a competitive edge.

Collaboration with key stakeholders, such as suppliers and customers, will be crucial to adapting to shifting market demands effectively. This partnership can help in streamlining the supply chain and ensuring a steady flow of products to the market when demand starts to recover. Textiles sector petrochemical

Furthermore, Versalis should explore avenues to enhance their product portfolio and focus on developing sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. With growing environmental awareness and regulations, there is an increasing demand for greener products in the petrochemical sector. By aligning their offerings with these emerging trends, the company can open new markets and strengthen their position in the industry.

In conclusion, Versalis faced another challenging quarter with significant losses, primarily driven by weakened demand and competitive pressure from imports. The uncertainties in the market and subdued purchasing decisions by retailers further compounded their financial woes. To overcome these challenges, Versalis must proactively adapt its strategies, foster collaborations, and invest in innovation to steer the company towards a more resilient and profitable future.

Textiles sector petrochemical

Smart Carpets: Revolutionizing the World of Knotted Textile Floor Coverings with IoT and Technology

The realm of interior design is undergoing a revolutionary transformation with the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced technology. Among the innovations gaining traction are smart carpets – knotted textile floor coverings embedded with sensors and connected to the internet, offering functionalities that go beyond aesthetics and comfort.

Smart carpets epitomize how IoT and technology are driving innovation in interior design. By interacting with the environment and the people within it, they provide valuable data that can enhance safety, health, and overall living experience.

At the core of smart carpets lies sensor technology. Textiles sector petrochemical

These sensors detect pressure, temperature, and moisture, providing real-time data with a myriad of applications. For instance, pressure sensors can monitor foot traffic, helping businesses optimize their spaces and homeowners understand their living habits better.

Safety is a paramount concern, and smart carpets address this by detecting unusual movements and acting as early warning systems for falls. This feature proves especially beneficial for the elderly and those with mobility issues. In the event of a fall, the carpet can send alerts to designated contacts or emergency services, ensuring timely assistance.

Health and wellness are also areas where smart carpets can make a significant impact. Some models can monitor vital signs, such as heart rate and breathing patterns, providing valuable data for individuals with chronic conditions and informing medical interventions.

Moreover, smart carpets contribute to energy efficiency by detecting the presence or absence of people in a room. They can communicate with other smart devices to adjust lighting, heating, or cooling systems accordingly, reducing unnecessary energy consumption. Textiles sector petrochemical

Though the concept of smart carpets may seem futuristic, several companies have already made strides in this field. Sensing Tex, a Spanish tech company, has developed a smart carpet that can detect falls and monitor foot traffic. Similarly, the German company Future-Shape has created a smart floor covering that recognizes gestures and movements, enabling interaction with other smart devices.

However, like any emerging technology, smart carpets face challenges. Privacy concerns loom large due to the potential collection of personal data by these devices. Additionally, the current high cost of smart carpets makes them inaccessible to many, hindering their widespread adoption.

Despite these challenges, the potential of smart carpets is undeniable. As IoT and technology continue to evolve, we can expect more innovative applications of these knotted textile floor coverings. They represent a significant step towards creating smarter, safer, and more efficient living spaces, redefining the future of interior design.

In conclusion, smart carpets are a fascinating example of how IoT and technology are transforming the world of knotted textile floor coverings. They offer a glimpse into a future where our homes and workplaces are intelligent environments that adapt to our needs, enhancing our quality of life. With further development and accessibility, smart carpets are poised to revolutionize the way we perceive and interact with our living spaces, making them not just visually appealing but also technologically advanced hubs of safety, health, and efficiency. Textiles sector petrochemical

Textiles sector petrochemical

Braskem, the Brazilian petrochemical producer, reported a significant decline in resin sales volume during the second quarter in Brazil

According to Reuters, the company experienced a 10% year-on-year drop, primarily attributed to lower demand in the market.

During this quarter, Braskem’s ethylene plants in Brazil faced challenges, with their average utilization rate reaching 72%. This was two percentage points lower than the previous year and five percentage points below the utilization rate recorded in the first quarter.

On the other hand, the company witnessed a positive trend in its polyethylene sales in Mexico, which saw a remarkable 13% increase compared to the previous year. This surge was accompanied by a significant rise in the utilization rate for polyethylene plants in Mexico, reaching 86%.

The increase in polyethylene sales and utilization rate in Mexico can be credited to a larger supply of ethane provided by the Mexican state oil company, Pemex. Braskem stated that Pemex supplied an average of 36,000 barrels of ethane per day, surpassing the contractual volume. Textiles sector petrochemical

Braskem’s performance in the first quarter was not much better, as it also experienced challenges in its main chemicals sales in Brazil. The company reported a 15% year-on-year decrease in sales volume for main chemicals during Q1. However, resin sales remained stable during this period.

Under the umbrella of main chemicals, Braskem includes several products such as ethylene, propylene, butadiene, cumene, gasoline, benzene, toluene, and paraxylene. The sales volume for these main chemicals in Q1 2022 decreased significantly due to lower demand, which had a direct impact on the utilization rate of petrochemical crackers.

Looking at both quarters together, Braskem faced headwinds in its Brazilian operations due to weakened demand in the market. This, in turn, affected the utilization rates of their ethylene plants and petrochemical crackers.

In contrast, the positive growth in polyethylene sales in Mexico can be seen as a bright spot for the company during this challenging period. The increase was fueled by the surplus supply of ethane from Pemex, enabling Braskem to meet the rising demand in the Mexican market.

As the company continues to navigate through market fluctuations and challenges, it will be essential for Braskem to remain vigilant and adaptable. By monitoring demand trends and optimizing production capabilities, Braskem can position itself for recovery and growth in the petrochemical industry. Textiles sector petrochemical

Textiles sector petrochemical

SK Capital Partners, a private equity firm, has taken over the majority stake in Ecopol, a leading Tuscan company specializing in the production of water-soluble and biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based films

These films are widely used in packaging single-dose detergents, agricultural chemicals, and water treatment applications across Europe.

As a result of this acquisition, the ownership structure of Ecopol will undergo significant changes. However, Mauro Carbone, the current CEO and previous controlling shareholder of the company, will retain a substantial stake and continue to hold the position of CEO. This move ensures continuity and stability in the leadership of the company. Additionally, Tikehau Capital, an existing investor, will maintain its presence in Ecopol as a minority stakeholder, having previously held 38% of the company.

The completion of this acquisition is subject to the fulfillment of standard regulatory requirements and approvals, ensuring a smooth transition of ownership and operations. Both Ecopol and SK Capital are committed to finalizing the deal promptly.

Ecopol has been on a growth trajectory since 2019, investing over 70 million euros in expanding its production capacity and product range. A new production line in Chiesina Uzzanese, Pistoia, was established to manufacture polyvinyl alcohol cast films (PVOH) for detergency applications. Textiles sector petrochemical

Simultaneously, a new manufacturing facility was set up in Griffin, Georgia, USA, to cater to the North American market.

Mauro Carbone expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with SK Capital, describing them as the perfect fit due to their expertise in the sector, extensive experience in the North American market, and successful track record of collaborating with entrepreneur-led companies. The shared vision of creating a more sustainable future and adherence to the values that have contributed to Ecopol’s success so far make this collaboration a strategic move for both parties.

Daniele Ferrari, Senior Director of SK Capital, sees immense potential for Ecopol to expand its presence within existing target markets and capitalize on its expertise in biodegradable films to explore new applications. As sustainability becomes an increasingly significant focus for brands and consumers alike, Ecopol’s environmentally friendly solutions are expected to gain even more traction.

Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Chiesina Uzzanese, Ecopol operates through three manufacturing facilities, two in Italy and one in the United States.

The company employs over 130 people and generates an annual turnover of approximately 45 million euros. With SK Capital’s financial backing and strategic guidance, Ecopol is well-positioned to scale its operations and further solidify its position as a prominent player in the market. Textiles sector petrochemical

The partnership with SK Capital represents an exciting chapter for Ecopol, offering access to new opportunities and resources that will drive the company’s growth and innovation. Together, they aim to continue providing sustainable packaging solutions to various industries, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

As the deal awaits regulatory approvals, both parties are optimistic about a successful outcome. The combination of Ecopol’s industry leadership and SK Capital’s expertise and support is poised to pave the way for a prosperous and sustainable future for the company. By advancing their shared commitment to environmental responsibility, Ecopol and SK Capital are set to make a positive impact on the packaging and chemical industries while contributing to a greener and more sustainable world.

More….

Textiles sector petrochemical

Zero Waste Europe: EU failed to rein in emissions in textiles sector

A recent paper highlights the emissions gap that apparel industry giants will face if no urgent action is taken to prevent overproduction by governments.

Published by Zero Waste Europe, the paper notes that despite being the top buyer of clothes globally, the EU has yet to set concrete measures on textile waste prevention, thereby cancelling any progress towards a sustainable fashion industry.

Theresa Mörsen, Waste & Resources Policy Officer at Zero Waste Europe, states: “Evidence shows that even with the foreseen interventions in the textile production chain, there is still a gap of almost 40% of necessary emissions reductions to meet the 1.5 degrees target. This suggests that the only way forward is to reduce overproduction”

Entitled “T(h)reading a path: Towards textiles waste prevention targets”, the paper emphasised that the most significant global warming impact of the textiles industry lies in the production phase, and urges a radical remodelling of the industry.

The EU’s Waste Hierarchy laid down by the Waste Framework Directive prioritises waste prevention over other methods like reuse, recycling, and recovery. While the Waste Framework Directive obligates countries to take measures against waste, the proposed revision of the Directive fails to include prevention targets for textiles, undermining the Waste Hierarchy’s core principle. Textiles sector petrochemical

Experience from the past decade has shown that voluntary measures such as awareness-raising campaigns always fall short of their aims and instead, Zero Waste Europe advocates for real textile waste reduction targets at EU level, a measure previously backed by the European Parliament and the European Environmental Agency.

Theresa Mörsen, Waste & Resources Policy Officer at Zero Waste Europe goes on to say, “Since member states’ waste prevention programmes have not delivered any tangible waste reduction over the past 10 years, we suggest setting concrete targets, starting with textile waste in the current revision of the Waste Framework Directive. We propose an overall reduction target for textile waste of at least one third by 2040 in comparison to 2020. It is essential to set policy on the right trajectory for substantial waste reduction as soon as possible.”

One feasible indicator for waste prevention would be to measure the weight of new textile products put on the market per capita per year.

According to the paper, the average European consumes a staggering 26 kg of textiles annually, while generating 11 kg of textile waste. The environmental consequences extend beyond the EU’s borders, as material extraction and production mostly take place outside the EU and exports of textile waste are commonplace, polluting soil and water in recipient countries in the Global South. Textiles sector petrochemical

Zero Waste Europe: EU failed to rein in emissions in textiles sector

Volvo Embraces Sustainability: Reducing the Environmental Impact of the EX30 SUV

Volvo, a renowned name in the automotive industry, has long been committed to sustainability and environmental consciousness. With the upcoming release of the all-electric EX30 small SUV, Volvo has taken significant strides to reduce its carbon footprint and minimize environmental impact. Through innovative engineering and a thoughtful selection of materials, the company has set an exemplary standard for eco-friendly automobile production. Textiles sector petrochemical

One of the most remarkable achievements in the development of the EX30 is the reduction of its total carbon footprint over a distance of 200,000 kilometers of driving. Comparatively, the EX30 boasts a footprint that is 25% lower than its counterparts, the fully electric C40 and XC40 models. This achievement is a testament to Volvo’s dedication to sustainable practices throughout the vehicle’s life cycle.

One aspect that has contributed to the EX30’s environmentally-friendly design is the use of an electric drivetrain. By opting for an all-electric powertrain, Volvo eliminates tailpipe emissions, which are a significant source of greenhouse gases. The decision to go fully electric aligns with Volvo’s ambitious goal of reducing overall CO2 emissions per car by 40% from 2018 levels by 2025.

However, the reduction in carbon footprint is not solely attributed to the electric drivetrain. The smaller size of the EX30 SUV requires less steel and aluminum in its construction. Additionally, Volvo has been conscious about incorporating recycled materials into the manufacturing process. Approximately 25% of the aluminum and 17% of the steel used in the chassis construction are derived from recycled sources, further lowering the vehicle’s environmental impact. Textiles sector petrochemical

The interior of the EX30 is a testament to Volvo’s commitment to sustainable materials. Upholstering the seats, dashboard, and doors with recycled and renewable materials has been a priority. Denim, flax, and a wool blend, which contains around 70% recycled polyester, are cleverly utilized to create a stylish and environmentally-conscious interior. Volvo has ingeniously utilized fibers that would have otherwise become waste products during the denim recycling process, giving new life to discarded materials.

Moreover, the company has integrated recycled plastics into 17% of the interior components, including the exterior bumpers. This thoughtful approach to material selection ensures that Volvo not only reduces its reliance on virgin materials but also diverts waste from landfills, thereby contributing to a circular economy.

The culmination of Volvo’s sustainable efforts results in the EX30 achieving a commendable cradle-to-gate CO2 impact of approximately 18 tons. Furthermore, the company’s commitment to recycling and sustainability extends beyond the vehicle’s initial life cycle. At the end of its service life, an impressive 95% of the EX30 can be recovered through efficient recycling of its materials, making it a truly eco-friendly choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.

Anders Kärrberg, Volvo’s head of global sustainability, emphasized the significance of the EX30 in realizing their sustainability ambitions. He stated, “Our new EX30 is a big step in the right direction for our sustainability ambitions. By 2025 we aim to reduce our overall CO2 emissions per car by 40% from 2018 levels through a 50% reduction in overall tailpipe emissions and a 25% reduction in emissions from our operations, raw material sourcing and supply chain – all on the way toward our ambition of being a climate-neutral company by 2040.” Textiles sector petrochemical

Volvo’s dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility is a shining example of how automakers can contribute positively to the planet’s well-being. By adopting renewable and recycled materials, embracing electric drivetrains, and setting ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions, Volvo paves the way for a greener automotive industry. The EX30 small SUV stands as a symbol of Volvo’s commitment to shaping a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Volvo Embraces Sustainability: Reducing the Environmental Impact of the EX30 SUV

Asia to lead global polyethylene terephthalate capacity additions by 2027, says GlobalData

Asia is set to lead the global polyethylene terephthalate (PET) industry capacity additions with a share of 61.8% by 2027, by gaining capacities from new-build and expansion projects between 2023 and 2027, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s latest report, ‘Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Industry Installed Capacity and Capital Expenditure (CapEx) Forecasts by Region and Countries including details of All Active Plants, Planned and Announced Projects, 2023-2027’ reveals that the total PET capacity of new-build and expansion projects in Asia is expected to be 5.21 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) by 2027. Increased usage of plastic in end use industry segments such as food and beverages, FMCG and pharmaceuticals are the key factors for PET industry growth in Asia. Textiles sector petrochemical

Nivedita Roy, Oil and Gas Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “For the upcoming new build projects, the region is expected to add a capacity of 5.13 mtpa from six planned and announced projects, whereas, for the expansion of the existing PET projects, the region is expected to add a capacity of 0.08 mtpa from two announced and planned projects.”

China and India are the key countries in Asia in terms of PET capacity additions. The main capacity addition in China will be from an announced project, Zhejiang Petrochemical Daishan Polyethylene Terephthalate Plant 2, with a capacity of 2 mtpa. It is expected to commence production of PET in 2026.

Asia to lead global polyethylene terephthalate capacity additions by 2027, says GlobalData

Renewable Hydrogen Bottling – Repreve closes the PET bottles circuit 28-07-2023

Automotive industry PA-Recycling – Every day a new idea for EV-cars 22-07-2023

Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Aquafil’s ECONYL® project is revolutionizing the textile industry by producing nylon with an almost infinite life while respecting the environment

Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Mr. Giulio Bonazzi President and CEO at Aqufil

This innovative vision of product design from a green perspective is setting new standards for sustainability.

Aquafil, an Italian company, manufactures ECONYL® yarn entirely from nylon waste, boasting exceptional ductility and durability. The yarn meets the needs of various industries, including fashion, clothing, textile flooring, and automotive sectors. Maria Giovanna Sandrini, the Brand and Corporate Communication Director, envisions a broader horizon for this product, emphasizing its regenerative potential and versatility.

The ECONYL® yarn is a voluminized continuous filament, known as BCF, which ensures strength and resilience. Its production process is unique, as it relies on chemical recycling of discarded carpets, fishing nets, fabric scraps, and pre-consumer nylon waste, closing the virtuous circle between sustainability and creativity. The yarn can be regenerated indefinitely while retaining the same characteristics as nylon sourced from fossil fuels, making it highly durable compared to other fibers.

Adopting Life Cycle Thinking, Aquafil evaluates the overall environmental impact of their products, from design to disposal. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Identifying the extraction of raw materials, particularly caprolactam production, as the process with the greatest impact, the company has taken a forward-looking approach to reduce its environmental footprint significantly. ECONYL®’s environmental contribution is substantial, reducing global warming potential by 90% compared to conventional petroleum-based nylon.

Aquafil’s ambition goes beyond eco-friendly production; they aim to consolidate existing sustainable supply chains and create new ones, with the goal of generating 60% of ECONYL® branded and/or regenerated products as part of their total fiber turnover. Additionally, the company seeks to collect 35,000 tons of post-consumer waste for the creation of new recycled materials by 2025. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

A fundamental aspect of Aquafil’s approach is promoting eco-design practices. They believe that products should be designed with their end-of-life in mind, ensuring they are fully recyclable. In line with this philosophy, Aquafil launched the Born Regenerated to be Regenerable (Born R2R) program, engaging company partners to co-design future carpets that are easily removable and compatible with the ECONYL® regeneration system. This intelligent approach highlights that profitability should not come at the expense of environmental concerns.

Sandrini emphasizes the need for a synergistic system between companies and customers, rethinking product design to prioritize recyclability and regeneration. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Aquafil's ECONYL® project is revolutionizing the textile industry by producing nylon with an almost infinite life while respecting the environment

Mrs. Maria Giovanna Sandrini, Aquafil Brand & Communication Manager

Many products currently lack consideration for their life cycle, hindering effective recycling and regeneration efforts. Aquafil seeks to transform the industrial production landscape by embracing a truly sustainable and circular value chain.

Aquafil’s ECONYL® project stands as a beacon of hope for the future of eco-design, challenging the notion of waste as an inevitable outcome. Instead, they view waste as a design flaw and advocate for a paradigm shift towards products that are fully recyclable at the end of their life. By driving innovation and sustainability, Aquafil proves that profitability and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand, setting an inspiring example for the industry and beyond. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Aquafil's ECONYL® project is revolutionizing the textile industry by producing nylon with an almost infinite life while respecting the environment

Aisin, a renowned Japanese company specializing in vehicle components, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking electric car engine that promises to revolutionize the automotive industry

Developed in collaboration with the Tohoku Magnet Institute, an entity in which Aisin made strategic investments, this cutting-edge engine is powered by an innovative magnetic alloy known as Nanomet.

Offering unparalleled efficiency and environmental benefits, the Nanomet technology has the potential to reshape the future of transportation. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

At the heart of this groundbreaking engine lies the Nanomet, a nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy that exhibits extraordinary flux density at high saturation and incredibly low iron loss.

Unlike traditional motors for electric vehicles that rely on electromagnetic steel plates, Nanomet slashes energy losses by a staggering 50%. This substantial reduction in energy loss translates to a remarkable 3% overall improvement in efficiency. More significantly, the lower power loss directly contributes to a staggering 72% decrease in CO2 emissions, making it a game-changer in the fight against climate change.

The development of Nanomet was spearheaded by the Materials Research Institute of the Tohoku Magnet Institute and is manufactured by TMI, a company born within the renowned Tohoku University in Sendai. This groundbreaking alloy is utilized in both the motor core and the stator, ensuring that its efficiency gains are effectively integrated throughout the engine’s design. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

With such remarkable advancements, Aisin swiftly embarked on the task of designing engines that could be efficiently manufactured and eventually brought to market. Their ambitious timeline targets the introduction of these revolutionary engines by the year 2029, which will find applications not only in fully electric vehicles but also in plug-in hybrid models. The widespread adoption of Nanomet-powered engines holds the potential to drive substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions across the automotive industry, thereby contributing significantly to global efforts to combat climate change.

However, the potential of Nanomet technology extends beyond the realm of transportation. Aisin envisions its application in various other sectors that require enhanced energy efficiency. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Beyond zero-emission mobility, Nanomet could revolutionize energy consumption across diverse industries, contributing to a more sustainable and greener future.

The seamless collaboration between Aisin and Tohoku Magnet Institute indicates the possibility of future partnerships with prominent automakers, like Toyota, known for their strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Aisin’s history of supplying high-performance engines to electric Lexus models, such as the RX, suggests a possible integration of Nanomet-powered engines in Toyota’s upcoming electric vehicles.

As the world becomes increasingly focused on transitioning to cleaner energy solutions, Nanomet emerges as a transformative force in the quest for sustainable transportation. Its potential to significantly enhance efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions has sparked excitement and anticipation within the automotive industry and environmental circles alike. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

In conclusion, Aisin’s innovative electric car engine featuring the revolutionary Nanomet magnetic alloy showcases a remarkable breakthrough in energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. With its ability to slash energy losses by 50% and improve overall efficiency by 3%, Nanomet holds the promise of significantly reducing CO2 emissions by a staggering 72%. Aisin’s ambitious plans to introduce these engines into the market by 2029 signal a paradigm shift in the automotive industry towards greener and more sustainable mobility solutions. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Moreover, the potential applications of Nanomet technology in diverse industries highlight its importance as a critical step towards a more energy-efficient and environmentally conscious future. With the potential collaboration of major automakers like Toyota, the widespread adoption of Nanomet-powered engines could pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable transportation landscape.

Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Stellantis, in collaboration with French Saft, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking battery technology named Ibis (Intelligent battery integrated system)

This innovative battery promises to revolutionize the world of electric cars by reducing costs, increasing efficiency, and boosting driving range.

At the heart of Ibis is its unique integration of an inverter and charger directly into the Li-ion battery components. By mounting the inverting boards as close as possible to the battery, the control system can now produce alternating current directly, which powers the electric motor. This significant change in design not only reduces the space required inside the vehicle but also leads to a substantial reduction in weight. As a result, production costs are lowered, which ultimately translates to more affordable prices for electric cars in the dealership. Moreover, the increased efficiency and reduced weight also contribute to improved reliability and extended driving autonomy. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

The team at Stellantis is currently focused on developing a prototype electric car equipped with the Ibis battery technology for rigorous testing on their group’s test tracks. Their ambitious goal is to bring these cutting-edge innovations to the market by the end of the decade. This demonstrates their commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and providing consumers with enhanced driving experiences.

However, the potential of Ibis does not stop at electric cars.

The battery system is also being considered for use in stationary energy storage systems. Saft plans to offer energy storage solutions that optimize the use of installed energy, minimizing environmental impact. The architecture of the Ibis battery makes maintenance more manageable and significantly increases the power output of these stationary systems while simultaneously reducing their environmental footprint. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Ned Curic, the Chief Engineering & Technology Officer of Stellantis, emphasized their commitment to innovation and research that caters to the real needs of electric vehicle buyers. The primary focus is on enhancing driving range, habitability, and accessibility while simultaneously reducing the environmental impact through greater efficiency.

By harnessing the power of the Ibis battery system, Stellantis envisions a decisive leap in their efforts to provide advanced, user-friendly technologies accessible to all. The integration of an inverter and charger into the battery represents a substantial leap forward in electric vehicle technology, marking a significant milestone for the entire industry. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

The future implications of this battery system are vast and promising. As electric vehicles become more accessible to a broader range of consumers due to lowered production costs, there will likely be an accelerated shift away from traditional internal combustion engines, leading to a more sustainable transportation landscape. The increased driving range and reduced environmental impact of Ibis-equipped electric vehicles will further cement the transition towards eco-friendly transportation.

Furthermore, the potential application of Ibis in stationary energy storage opens up opportunities for more efficient and sustainable energy management systems. This could play a crucial role in supporting the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into the power grid, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and advancing the global pursuit of a greener energy future. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

In conclusion, the Ibis battery system developed by Stellantis and Saft stands as a beacon of hope for the electric vehicle industry and the sustainable energy sector as a whole. With its integrated inverter and charger, the Ibis battery paves the way for more efficient, reliable, and affordable electric cars, while also offering significant benefits to stationary energy storage solutions. As Stellantis continues to refine and commercialize this revolutionary technology, the world edges closer to a greener and more sustainable future for transportation and energy consumption.

Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Advancing the Circular Economy: Universal Recycling Quality Specifications Urged by Eunomia

Introduction

In a recently published report, Eunomia, in collaboration with the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, has stressed the urgent need for the plastics industry to develop and adopt universal quality specifications for mechanical recyclates. The report identifies the industry’s significant challenge in meeting recycling targets, primarily due to the insufficient supply of recycled plastic that meets the required quality standards for essential packaging applications. With the European Commission proposing to raise recycled content targets in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, the demand for improved recyclate quality becomes even more critical. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

To accelerate the circular economy and increase the availability of high-quality recyclates, the report puts forth essential recommendations for industry players to adopt.

Recommendations for Promoting Adoption of Quality Specifications

  1. Engaging Stakeholders: To ensure industry-aligned quality guidelines for packaging applications, the report recommends engaging brand owners, retailers, and other stakeholders throughout the value chain. By collaborating with various parties, the technical work on target quality guidelines can be finalized, fostering mutual understanding and support. Automotive industry PA-Recycling
  2. Conducting Industrial Trials: The report suggests conducting industrial trials for key applications to validate the appropriate recyclate quality required for specific packaging types. These trials will aid in defining accurate quality standards, ensuring that recyclates meet industry requirements and adhere to design guidelines for sorting and recycling facilities.
  3. Contributing to Certification Initiatives: Industry players are encouraged to actively participate in ongoing certification initiatives, such as forthcoming standards from CEN and CENELEC. Leveraging collective knowledge from these initiatives will expedite industry acceptance and adoption of quality standards.
  4. Providing Implementation Guidelines: Clear and systematic guidelines should be offered to facilitate the implementation of quality specifications. This will support industry players in their efforts to work towards aligned global standards, thus enhancing overall recycling efficiency. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Benefits of Implementing the Measures

By following these recommendations, the plastics industry can address the pressing challenges of insufficient high-quality recyclates. This, in turn, will significantly increase the utilization of recycled content in plastic products, making substantial progress towards achieving sustainability goals and reducing the environmental impact of plastic waste.

Addressing Industry Challenges

Andy Grant, the technical director at Eunomia Research & Consulting, highlighted that a significant barrier to advancing the plastics circular economy lies in achieving a clear agreement on the specifications of materials that recyclers can produce and the industry can use. The report’s approach aims to bridge this gap by fostering collaboration and establishing universal quality guidelines for plastic recyclates.

Optimizing Recycling Infrastructure

The report emphasizes the need to optimize sorting and recycling infrastructure to ensure that recyclates meet brand owner requirements and align with design guidelines for various facilities. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

This will not only increase the availability of high-quality recyclates but also contribute to the rapid development of sorting infrastructure and complementary recycling technologies.

The Alliance’s Contribution

Martyn Tickner, chief advisor of the Technical Solutions Centre at the Alliance, expressed the plastics industry’s ambitious recycling targets, necessitating swift development of sorting infrastructure and the deployment of complementary recycling technologies.

The Alliance is committed to supporting this transition and believes that the rapid adoption of quality standards throughout the value chain is a crucial step in this process.

Conclusion

Eunomia’s report serves as a call to action for the plastics industry to embrace universal recycling quality specifications. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

By aligning industry players on standardised quality guidelines for mechanical recyclates, the circular economy can be accelerated, promoting the use of high-quality recycled content in plastic products. Collaborative efforts and implementation of the report’s recommendations will pave the way for a sustainable future, reducing plastic waste’s impact on the environment. With the industry’s commitment and cooperation, the vision of a circular economy can become a reality, benefitting both businesses and the planet.

Advancing the Circular Economy: Universal Recycling Quality Specifications Urged by Eunomia

US Electric Vehicle Battery Recycling Promoted by Inflation Reduction Act

In a surprising twist, the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is revolutionizing electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling efforts in North America and posing a formidable challenge to China’s dominant position in the field. Within the IRA lies a little-known clause that states any EV battery materials recycled within the US will automatically qualify as American-made for subsidies, irrespective of their origin.

This qualification has far-reaching implications for automakers, as it opens the door to lucrative EV production incentives when they opt for recycled battery materials sourced domestically. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Experts and industry officials, interviewed by Reuters, have pointed out that this clause is fueling an unprecedented boom in US factory construction, spurring automakers to explore more recyclable battery alternatives, and possibly complicating matters for buyers in developing countries seeking to purchase used EVs.

Currently, China reigns supreme as the global hub for EV battery recycling, with the market projected to reach a staggering $18 billion by 2028. The valuable minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, extracted from these batteries, are worth approximately 1,000 to 2,000 euros per car. With the increasing production of EVs, the demand for these minerals is likely to outstrip supply. However, the good news is that these minerals can be recycled multiple times without losing their potency.

Capitalizing on the incentives provided by the IRA, numerous US recycling plants are already under construction. For instance, Li-Cycle, a Canadian battery recycling firm, secured a $375 million US government loan to build a plant in New York, set to open later this year. According to the company, this funding played a pivotal role in accelerating their investment decision. Similarly, Redwood Materials, the recipient of a $2 billion US government loan, is planning to establish a battery material recycling and remanufacturing complex in Nevada. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

The IRA treats recycled battery materials as “urban mined” or locally sourced, rather than acquired through conventional mining methods. This approach has prompted US companies to prioritize recycling efforts over their European counterparts, who have predominantly focused on mandating minimum percentages of recycled materials in future EV batteries. However, recycling firms like Ascend Elements and Li-Cycle are planning to build plants in Europe within the next few years and will rely on funding and incentives available in the region.

Many companies are striving to create “closed-loop supply chains,” where recycled minerals are utilized to produce new batteries locally.

This strategy aims to reduce dependence on Chinese imports and maintain control over the entire supply chain. Despite this ambition, China is still ahead in the battery recycling race. The country has recently introduced more stringent standards and increased research support for recyclers, criticizing the IRA as “anti-globalization” and accusing the US of “unilateral bullying.” Automotive industry PA-Recycling

On a global scale, over 80 companies are actively engaged in EV recycling, with more than 50 startups securing at least $2.7 billion in corporate investments over the past six years. The volume of EV batteries available for recycling is expected to increase over tenfold by 2030. Considering the average lifespan of electric vehicle batteries to be around 10 years or more, it is estimated that by 2040, 40% of battery materials used in new EVs could originate from recycled stocks.

At present, the US and Europe have limited recycling capacity, but concerted efforts to improve recycling processes and enhance recovery yields are already underway. Companies like Ecobat in Texas have developed methods to recover approximately 70% of battery-cell lithium during the recycling process. As technology advances, yield levels are expected to improve to an impressive 90% to 100%. The EU is also planning to mandate minimum amounts of recycled lithium, cobalt, and nickel in EV batteries within eight years, which will further bolster recycling efforts within the region. Automotive industry PA-Recyclingv

However, one major challenge facing the industry is sourcing old EVs for recycling. Many of Europe’s older fossil-fuel-powered cars are either sold overseas or scrapped, making it difficult to track and recycle their EV batteries. Some automakers are exploring strategies like leasing EVs to retain control over the batteries. Nonetheless, keeping valuable battery minerals in Europe could potentially limit the availability of affordable transportation options for developing countries.

In conclusion, the US Inflation Reduction Act is sparking a surge in EV battery recycling efforts in North America, challenging China’s longstanding dominance in this domain.

The automatic qualification of US-recycled battery materials as American-made for subsidies serves as a powerful incentive for automakers to explore recyclable battery options and support local recycling initiatives. While China currently maintains its lead, the global market for EV battery recycling is projected to experience significant growth, with Europe also gearing up to bolster its recycling capacity. Efforts to establish closed-loop supply chains and improve recycling processes are vital in meeting the escalating demand for EV batteries while reducing reliance on imports. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Graphene Makes PE Stretch Film Ultrathin and Strong

Graphene Makes PE Stretch Film Ultrathin and Strong

Film manufacturer Packseven is rolling out a recyclable polyethylene stretch film made with Gerdau’s graphene masterbatch that reduces virgin resin use by 15% to 30%.

Graphene technology is to thank for the commercialization of a new type of stretch film that is significantly thinner and more durable than conventional alternatives. The new graphene-enhanced stretch film, from film manufacturer Packseven, incorporates the Poly-G graphene masterbatch from Gerdau Graphene. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

The companies, both based in Brazil, claim Packseven’s new product is the world’s first commercial stretch film enhanced with graphene, an exceptionally strong material featuring an atomic monolayer of carbon atoms arranged hexagonally in a honeycomb-like structure.

When blended with plastics, graphene lends its strength to the polymer matrix and greatly strengthens the blended plastic. Graphene improves physical and mechanical properties like puncture-resistance and increases barrier properties against liquids and gasses. It also protects against weather, oxidation, and ultraviolet light, and boosts electrical and thermal conductivity. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Packseven’s graphene-enhanced stretch film is expected to be available for sale in the third quarter of 2023, launching in Brazil.

Additionally, “The Poly-G masterbatch used to create Packseven’s product is currently available in Brazil and Japan. In Japan, Gerdau Graphene has a strong partnership with Sumitomo to commercialize the product,” Alex Correa, CEO of Gerdau Graphene, tells us.

Poly-G can be exported to US plastics manufacturers, he adds.

Advantages of graphene masterbatch enhancement.

Incorporating graphene into plastic films offers plastics companies and their customers transportation, storage, and packaging benefits vs. conventional films.

Initial testing of Packseven’s ultra-thin stretch film shows that the film can pack 120% more material without breaking, vs. other stretch films.

Graphene-enhanced stretch films are more resistant to being punctured by sharp objects, as well. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

The graphene-enhanced film’s durability translates into reduced consumption of stretch film per pallet and safer packing and loading. Its improved strength and durability also make it possible to significantly reduce the thickness of the film.

Thus virgin plastic use is reduced, resulting in a higher-performance, more sustainable low-weight film. Furthermore, the virgin resin reduction drives down post-consumer polyethylene waste.

The enhanced film is recyclable, too. “The re cyclability of the final polymer product is unaffected by the addition of graphene to the polymer mix,” Correa says.

Graphene masterbatch’s ROI cost benefits. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Gerdau piloted the Poly-G masterbatch in a series of industrial applications in its own factories prior to commercializing the additive. In one pilot, a graphene-enhanced film for construction-nail packaging was tested.

More…

Graphene Makes PE Stretch Film Ultrathin and Strong

Introducing Pirelli P Zero E: The Revolutionary Tires Engineered for Electric Vehicles

Pirelli, renowned for its dominance in the world of motorsport, has once again raised the bar in tire technology with its latest innovation – the P Zero E. Unveiled at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed alongside its counterparts, the P Zero R and P Zero Trofeo RS, the P Zero E is specifically designed to cater to the growing market of electric cars. Pirelli boldly claims that this tire is a “champion of performance and sustainability,” proving that eco-conscious driving doesn’t have to compromise on safety or excitement.

One of the most remarkable features of the P Zero E tires is their composition, consisting of an impressive 55% natural and recycled materials Automotive industry PA-Recycling

This groundbreaking achievement showcases Pirelli’s commitment to minimizing the environmental impact while still delivering exceptional driving dynamics. For environmentally conscious drivers who seek exhilarating performance without harming the planet, the P Zero E tires are the perfect match.

With Pirelli being the exclusive tire partner at the Goodwood event, the P Zero E shares the stage with the P Zero Rs, tailored for supercars, and the P Zero Trofeo RS, designed for hypercars. Pirelli’s illustrious history in motorsport spanning almost four decades demonstrates the brand’s expertise and dedication to tire innovation, continuously pushing the boundaries of automotive performance. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Pirelli’s foresight in anticipating the forthcoming Euro 7 anti-pollution regulations led them to address tire emissions as well. Consequently, the development of the P Zero E took into account not only its performance but also its environmental impact. Bureau Veritas, a global leader in certification and compliance verification, has meticulously verified and certified the tires’ composition, confirming the use of 55% natural and recycled materials. Moreover, Pirelli’s extensive study of the tire’s lifecycle revealed a remarkable 24% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the previous generation of tires, further corroborated by Bureau Veritas. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Pirelli’s commitment to sustainability is undoubtedly commendable. While other tire manufacturers are also striving to produce eco-friendlier compounds, Pirelli’s P Zero E represents a significant leap forward in the industry. The findings from this groundbreaking endeavor are expected to pave the way for even higher percentages of recycled and natural materials in future tire models. Drivers seeking greener alternatives can easily identify these eco-conscious tires through the distinctive “Elect” marking on the sidewall.

The Pirelli P Zero E stands as a testament to the company’s dedication to innovation, performance, and sustainability. As the automotive landscape embraces electric mobility and stricter environmental regulations loom, Pirelli has set a precedent for the tire industry. Their pioneering efforts in creating high-performance eco-friendly tires not only cater to the needs of the present but also leave a lasting impact on the future of mobility.

In conclusion, the P Zero E tires exemplify a remarkable synergy between sustainability and driving excellence. Pirelli’s vision of a cleaner, greener automotive world has materialized in these groundbreaking tires, setting new benchmarks for the industry and inspiring a generation of drivers committed to both performance and preserving the planet. Automotive industry PA-Recycling

PET-to-PET EV-Car – Are plastic bale prices nearing bottom? 21-07-2023

Automotive industry PA-Recycling

Plastic recycling Automotive – Composites growth 17-07-2023

Plastic recycling Automotive   electric vehicle

Petrochemicals -PET Bottle – Polymers – Feedstocks – Textiles

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Plastic recycling Automotive electric vehicle

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by PolyestertimeCrude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by PolyestertimeCrude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

 

Freudenberg, a leading global supplier of high-performance technical textiles, has recently launched a geosynthetics production line in Changzhou, China

This strategic move allows Freudenberg to cater to customers in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region by offering Enka Solutions manufactured in China for various applications in building, industrial, and civil engineering. Furthermore, the company can now extend its services to diverse technical markets, providing finished and semi-finished products.

By investing in this new facility in China, Freudenberg significantly enhances the production capacity of Enka Solutions and strengthens its business development in the APAC region. Plastic recycling Automotive

The inauguration of the Changzhou production line took place during an opening ceremony on July 13, marking an important milestone for the company.

electric vehicle

The addition of the Changzhou production line complements Freudenberg’s existing manufacturing operations in Obernburg, Germany, and Asheville, NC. With manufacturing facilities spanning across Europe, Asia, and America, Freudenberg is now capable of serving local markets and delivering Enka Solutions products more efficiently. This localized approach not only enables the company to better meet customer requirements but also contributes to a reduced environmental impact by minimizing the need for long-distance transportation. Plastic recycling Automotive

Plastic recycling Automotive

Plastic Composites in Automotive

Plastic composites are a type of material that is made up of a polymer matrix and a reinforcing material. The polymer matrix is a resin that holds the reinforcing material together, and the reinforcing material can be made of glass fibers, carbon fibers, or other materials.

Plastic composites are used in a wide variety of automotive applications, including:

  • Body panels: Plastic composites are often used for body panels because they are lightweight and strong. They can also be molded into complex shapes, which makes them ideal for use in automotive applications.
  • Engine components: Plastic composites are also used for engine components, such as intake manifolds and exhaust manifolds. They are lightweight and can withstand high temperatures, which makes them ideal for use in these applications. Plastic recycling Automotive
  • Interior components: Plastic composites are also used for interior components, such as dashboards, door panels, and seats. They are lightweight and can be molded into complex shapes, which makes them ideal for use in these applications.
  • Under-the-hood components: Plastic composites are also used for under-the-hood components, such as air intakes and oil pans. They are lightweight and can withstand high temperatures, which makes them ideal for use in these applications.

    electric vehicle 

The use of plastic composites in automotive applications is growing rapidly. This is due to the many advantages that plastic composites offer over traditional materials, such as steel and aluminum.

Some of the advantages of plastic composites include:

  • Lightweight: Plastic composites are much lighter than steel and aluminum, which can lead to significant weight savings in vehicles.
  • Strength: Plastic composites are very strong, and they can often withstand more stress than traditional materials.
  • Durability: Plastic composites are very durable, and they can withstand the harsh environments that vehicles are exposed to.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Plastic composites are often more cost-effective than traditional materials, especially when considering the weight savings that they can offer.

As the demand for lighter, stronger, and more durable materials in automotive applications continues to grow, the use of plastic composites is expected to continue to grow as well.

In addition to the advantages listed above, plastic composites also offer a number of other benefits, including:

  • Corrosion resistance: Plastic composites are resistant to corrosion, which can save money on maintenance costs. Plastic recycling Automotive
  • Low maintenance: Plastic composites require very little maintenance, which can save time and money.
  • Environmentally friendly: Plastic composites can be recycled, which makes them a more sustainable choice than traditional materials.

Overall, plastic composites offer a number of advantages over traditional materials in automotive applications. These advantages are driving the growth of the use of plastic composites in the automotive industry.

Future Trends

The use of plastic composites in automotive applications is expected to continue to grow in the future. This is due to the many advantages that plastic composites offer over traditional materials, as well as the increasing demand for lighter, stronger, and more durable materials in vehicles.

Some of the future trends in the use of plastic composites in automotive applications include:

  • The use of advanced composites: Advanced composites, such as carbon fiber composites, are becoming more affordable and are being used in a wider range of automotive applications. Plastic recycling Automotive
  • The use of 3D printing: 3D printing is being used to create complex plastic composite parts that would be difficult or impossible to manufacture using traditional methods.

    electric vehicle

  • The use of recycled materials: The use of recycled materials in plastic composites is increasing, as automakers look for ways to reduce their environmental impact.

The use of plastic composites in automotive applications is a growing trend that is being driven by the need for lighter, stronger, and more durable materials in vehicles. As this trend continues, plastic composites are expected to play an increasingly important role in the automotive industry. Plastic recycling Automotive

Plastic recycling Automotive

Enhancing the Design and Lifecycle Management of Cars: Promoting Circular Economy in the Automotive Sector

The European Commission has put forth a set of measures aimed at bolstering the circularity of the automotive industry, encompassing the design, production, and end-of-life treatment of vehicles.

This initiative seeks to improve resource accessibility for the EU economy, align with environmental and climate objectives, strengthen the single market, and address challenges arising from the ongoing transformation of the automotive sector.

The proposed actions are anticipated to generate a net revenue of €1.8 billion by 2035. Additionally, they will lead to job creation and enhanced revenue streams within the waste management and recycling industry. Plastic recycling Automotive

Moreover, these measures will contribute to enhancing road safety in third countries by preventing the export of vehicles that are not roadworthy, while mitigating harmful pollution and health risks associated with importing used vehicles from the EU.

Replacing the existing Directives on end-of-life vehicles and on reusability, recyclability, and recoverability, the proposed regulation is expected to yield significant environmental benefits. This includes an annual reduction of 12.3 million tons of CO2 emissions by 2035, improved valorization of 5.4 million tons of materials, and increased recovery of critical raw materials. Implementation of this regulation will result in long-term energy savings during the manufacturing stage, decreased reliance on imported raw materials, and the promotion of sustainable and circular business models. Plastic recycling Automotive

Projections indicate that the automotive sector will become the largest consumer of critical raw materials used in permanent magnets for e-drive motors in Europe. Strengthening the EU’s resilience against supply chain disruptions and reducing dependence on imports of critical raw materials is crucial for transitioning to zero-emission vehicles. To facilitate this transition, the Commission has revised existing legislation and proposed a single regulation focusing on several key elements to improve quality in design, collection, and recycling while simplifying reporting obligations:

  1. ‘Design Circular’: Emphasizing circularity in vehicle design and production to facilitate easy dismantling. Carmakers will be required to provide comprehensive instructions to dismantlers regarding part and component replacement during the vehicle’s use and end-of-life stages. Plastic recycling Automotive
  2. ‘Use Recycled Content’: Mandating that 25% of the plastic used in new vehicles must come from recycling, with 25% sourced from end-of-life vehicles.
  3. ‘Treat Better’: Measures aimed at recovering more and higher-quality raw materials, including critical raw materials, plastics, steel, and aluminum. The target is to recycle 30% of plastics from end-of-life vehicles. Additional measures will support the market for parts reuse, remanufacturing, and refurbishment. Member States are encouraged to incentivize garages and repair shops to promote the sale of spare parts.
  4. ‘Improve Governance’: The new rules will strengthen producer responsibility by establishing national Extended Producer Responsibility schemes with uniform requirements. These schemes will ensure proper financing for mandatory waste treatment operations and incentivize recyclers to improve the quality of recycled materials from end-of-life vehicles, fostering enhanced cooperation between treatment operators and manufacturers. Plastic recycling Automotive
  5. ‘Collect More and Smarter’: To curb the disappearance of vehicles, the proposal includes stricter enforcement of existing rules, enhanced transparency, increased inspections, digital tracking of end-of-life vehicles throughout the EU, improved separation of old cars from end-of-life vehicles, higher fines for violations, and a ban on exporting used vehicles that are not roadworthy.
  6. ‘Cover More Vehicles’: The scope of these measures will gradually expand to include additional categories such as motorcycles, lorries, and buses, ensuring more comprehensive coverage. Plastic recycling Automotive

The European Parliament and the Council will now evaluate the Commission’s proposal for a regulation on circularity requirements for vehicle design and end-of-life vehicle management through the ordinary legislative procedure.

Source: European Commission

Enhancing the Design and Lifecycle Management of Cars: Promoting Circular Economy in the Automotive Sector

PureCycle Technologies: Revolutionizing Recycling Technology for Sustainable Expansion

PureCycle Technologies  has received a significant boost as Oppenheimer research analysts increased the stock’s price target from $10.00 to $14.00, suggesting a potential upside of 27.50% from its current price. This development has sparked considerable interest and excitement within the investment community.

Renowned for its innovative recycling technology, PureCycle Technologies has been making waves in the market by adopting a groundbreaking approach to plastic waste management. Through its advanced purification process, the company effectively eliminates color, odor, and contaminants from polypropylene plastic, transforming it into high-quality resin suitable for various applications. Plastic recycling Automotive

As sustainability takes center stage across industries, PureCycle is well-positioned to capitalize on this burgeoning trend by offering an environmentally responsible solution to plastic waste. By converting discarded plastics into valuable resources, the company not only aids in reducing landfill waste but also contributes to the circular economy.

PureCycle’s outstanding performance is evident in its stock prices, which opened at $10.98 on Friday. The firm’s 50-day moving average currently stands at $8.45, while its two-hundred day moving average sits at $7.33. These figures indicate a positive upward trajectory for the company. Plastic recycling Automotive

With a market capitalization of an impressive $1.80 billion, PureCycle Technologies reflects investors’ confidence and trust in its future prospects. Despite a negative price-to-earnings ratio of -21.53, resulting from substantial investments in research and development, the company remains an attractive choice for long-term investors seeking growth within the sustainable technology sector.

PureCycle Technologies: Revolutionizing Recycling Technology for Sustainable Expansion

China’s efforts to promote fuel cell vehicles have hit a roadblock amidst the booming electric vehicle (EV) market

As passenger car sales struggle, manufacturers, including Beijing SinoHytec, China’s largest fuel cell maker, are shifting their focus to commercial trucks and buses.

The fuel cell vehicle jointly developed by SinoHytec and Chinese automaker Changan Automobile has experienced abysmal sales since its launch a year ago. Changan dealerships in Shanghai confirmed that the vehicle was primarily developed to showcase technical capabilities rather than for commercial sales. Plastic recycling Automotive

The Changan Deep Blue SL03, touted as China’s first mass-produced fuel cell sedan, relies on a hydrogen-powered fuel cell to drive an electric motor. However, its steep price tag of 699,900 yuan ($98,000) coupled with the scarcity of hydrogen refueling stations has made it a tough sell in the market. Notably, not a single fuel cell passenger car was sold in China for six consecutive months until May, whereas monthly EV sales have surpassed 600,000 units.

SinoHytec reported a net loss of 166 million yuan for the fiscal year ending in December 2022, exceeding the previous year’s loss of 162 million yuan. Dai Wei, the president of SinoHytec subsidiary Shanghai SinoFuelCell, acknowledged that their initial approach of promoting fuel cell vehicles as clean energy with only water emissions was a misstep.

To navigate these challenges, SinoHytec aims to leverage the advantages of fuel cell vehicles over conventional EVs, such as shorter charging times, longer ranges, and better performance in low temperatures. Their focus now lies in selling fuel cells for commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses, which are lighter and offer more cargo capacity compared to EVs. Plastic recycling Automotive

In 2022, SinoHytec emerged as China’s top fuel cell supplier, accounting for 20% of the market. The company collaborated with Toyota Motor and China’s state-owned BAIC Group to provide fuel cell buses for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Meanwhile, China’s Refire, the second-largest player in the domestic market, delivered fuel cell trucks to IKEA and 49-tonne fuel cell trucks to Caterpillar, a U.S. construction machinery manufacturer.

Commercial vehicles present a significant growth opportunity. In 2022, approximately 300,000 commercial EVs were sold, accounting for 9.2% of all commercial vehicles, while fuel cell vehicle sales only amounted to 0.1% of the total with 3,681 units. Analysts at Sinolink Securities project that by 2025, 7.5% of heavy-duty trucks will be replaced by alternative fuel vehicles, with 25% of that share being fuel cell vehicles.

Fuel cell trucks offer greater cost efficiency compared to other EVs. The operating cost for a 49-tonne truck covering 1 million kilometers is 2.94 million yuan, lower than the 3.23 million yuan for a standard electric truck, according to Sinolink analysts.

Fuel cell vehicles cost 0.07 yuan per tonne per kilometer, while other EVs incur a cost of 0.08 yuan. Plastic recycling Automotive

Generous government subsidies significantly contribute to the lower total cost. A 49-tonne truck priced at 1.3 million yuan receives subsidies of 924,000 yuan from the central and local governments, reducing the purchase price to just 376,000 yuan. In contrast, an EV truck of the same size is estimated to cost 989,000 yuan.

The Chinese government is actively promoting the adoption of fuel cells as part of its carbon neutrality goals by 2060. It has set a target of 50,000 fuel cell vehicles in the country by 2025, with the aim of reducing annual carbon dioxide emissions by 1 million to 2 million tonnes.

SinoHytec’s current customer base primarily consists of publicly-owned bus companies controlled by local governments, indicating the strong influence of national policy on the company’s management. Plastic recycling Automotive

Dai from Shanghai SinoFuelCell highlights that the main raw material for fuel cells, graphite, is inexpensive. Additionally, more expensive platinum can be recycled, and mass production of fuel cells would significantly reduce costs.

China's efforts to promote fuel cell vehicles have hit a roadblock amidst the booming electric vehicle (EV) market

Sprite’s iconic green bottles go clear in Australia, making them easier to recycle in local PET recycling plants

Coca-Cola Australia announced that after nearly 60 years, Sprite’s iconic green plastic bottles will switch to clear plastic, making them easier to recycle into new bottles locally.

The switch from green to clear Sprite bottles will increase the likelihood of these bottles being remade into new bottles, meaning that they can have more than one life.

Kate Miller, Marketing Director at Coca-Cola Australia said: “At Coca-Cola, we want our bottles to have more than one life. Plastic recycling Automotive

All our Sprite bottles under 1 litre are already made from 100 per cent recycled PET plastic (excluding caps and labels).  This initiative helps to support recycling systems and gives our bottles the best chance of being recycled and processed into new bottles locally. While Australians have known and loved Sprite in its iconic green bottle for nearly 60 years, we know this is the right thing to do, as we support the transition to circularity for our packaging.”

Planet Ark Environmental Foundation, Australia’s leading environmental behaviour change organisation, welcomed today’s announcement and its potential impact on plastics recycling in Australia. Plastic recycling Automotive

Planet Ark CEO, Rebecca Gilling said: “We all have a role to play in driving our transition to a circular economy in Australia and this is a significant move by Coca-Cola Australia.  It’s critical that companies like Coca-Cola continue to invest in making sure their products have the best chance of being recycled. If bottles are collected and recycled and then turned into new bottles locally – this ultimately means less demand for new plastic, as well as reduced carbon emissions.”

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Sprite's iconic green bottles go clear in Australia, making them easier to recycle in local PET recycling plants

The exchange of Iranian natural gas for Iraqi oil, as recently mentioned by the Iraqi prime minister, is likely to breach U.S. sanctions on Tehran, according to three former U.S. officials

Unless the U.S. grants a waiver permitting such transactions, this barter arrangement would violate the sanctions. On Tuesday, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani stated that Iraq intended to trade crude oil for Iranian gas to resolve ongoing payment delays caused by the need for U.S. approval.

As of July 1, Iran had reduced gas exports to Iraq by over half due to Baghdad’s failure to obtain U.S. consent for disbursing owed funds. However, Tehran has now agreed to resume gas exports in exchange for crude oil. Plastic recycling Automotive

Although specific details about the potential barter remain limited, it could help alleviate a political issue for Sudani, as power outages are unpopular in scorching Iraqi summers where temperatures can surpass 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).

Nevertheless, three former U.S. officials have expressed that this barter arrangement would likely violate U.S. sanctions.

Richard Goldberg from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies think tank explained that conducting such a transaction with Iran without a U.S. national security waiver would be a breach of U.S. sanctions.

Goldberg, who previously served on the Trump administration national security council staff, added that the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act prohibits any energy-related transactions with Iran. Plastic recycling Automotive

The Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, issued a 120-day waiver on March 21, allowing Iraq to solely make payments to Iran for electricity imports, excluding natural gas for domestic power generation in Iraq.

However, the possibility of amending the waiver to permit barter remains uncertain, as the State Department declined to address the issue. The Treasury Department, responsible for overseeing most U.S. sanctions against Iran, defines the term “transaction” broadly enough to include a barter exchange, according to former U.S. officials.

While this provides some flexibility for the U.S. to turn a blind eye, it ultimately becomes a political decision rather than a legal question. From a strictly legal standpoint, this barter arrangement unquestionably violates U.S. sanctions. Plastic recycling Automotive

The exchange of Iranian natural gas for Iraqi oil, as recently mentioned by the Iraqi prime minister, is likely to breach U.S. sanctions on Tehran, according to three former U.S. officials

Carbon fiber Recycling – How save ocean 15-07-2023

rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle – is rPET the answer to sustainability? Will biofuel damage fossil oil market? 13-07-2023

rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Thyssenkrupp Nucera, a hydrogen company, experienced a significant boost in its market capitalization during its initial public offering (IPO) in Frankfurt, Germany

The IPO, which is the largest in Germany this year, raised 445 million euros (USD 487 million) and showcased a positive outlook for Europe’s capital markets. The shares of Thyssenkrupp Nucera surged by as much as 23.4% from their original price of 20 euros and closed at 23.52 euros, resulting in a market value of 2.98 billion euros. The IPO marked a new phase for the joint venture between Thyssenkrupp and De Nora, with Thyssenkrupp retaining a 50.2% stake and De Nora holding 25.9%, down from their previous ownership percentages. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

During the opening ceremony at the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Nucera’s CEO, Werner Ponikwar, expressed enthusiasm about the IPO and highlighted the company’s commitment to accelerating the adoption of green hydrogen. Unlike other recent European IPOs, Nucera’s shares demonstrated resilience in secondary trading, suggesting a revived investor interest in new offerings after the market volatility of the previous year. The energy transition theme has been prominent in recent European IPOs, exemplified by companies like EuroGroup Laminations in Italy and Hidroelectrica in Romania.

rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Enrique Ackermann, Vice President of Technical and Innovation at Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, recently discussed how Coca-Cola India is taking a leadership role by introducing Kinley bottles made entirely from 100% recycled PET (rPET) plastic

This innovative step represents a significant milestone in India, as it is the first time a food and beverage bottle has been produced using 100% rPET. The new rPET bottles are now available for Coca-Cola’s packaged drinking water brand, Kinley, in 1-liter size.

These bottles proudly feature a label that states, “100% made from recycled food-grade plastic,” highlighting Coca-Cola India’s achievement in advancing its circular economy initiatives. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

The rPET bottles are created using food-grade recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET), adhering to recycling technologies approved by the US FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for food-grade recycled material. By using rPET bottles, Coca-Cola India is conserving precious natural resources and reducing the amount of plastic waste in the environment.

Enrique Ackermann explained in an exclusive interview with Manufacturing Today that Coca-Cola India’s decision to prioritize the use of 100% rPET bottles for its Kinley brand is in line with the company’s sustainability goals and commitment to creating a “World Without Waste.” The company aims to achieve at least 50% recycled content in its packaging by 2030. This effort aligns with consumer preferences for environmentally friendly packaging solutions and contributes to a more sustainable future.

The process of manufacturing rPET bottles involves recycling PET bottles using approved technologies by the US FDA and EFSA. The recycled PET is transformed into rPET resin, which is then used to manufacture the bottles. The launch of rPET bottles in India only took place after receiving approval from the Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), ensuring compliance with food safety guidelines. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Compared to traditional PET bottles, rPET bottles offer several environmental benefits. They contribute to conserving natural resources by reducing the demand for virgin plastic. Additionally, rPET bottles help reduce plastic waste by incorporating recycled material into the production process, aligning with the Government of India’s “Swachh Bharat Mission” and waste reduction initiatives.

To ensure a reliable supply of rPET for its bottling operations, Coca-Cola India has established partnerships with manufacturing partners. Srichakra Polyplast Pvt. Ltd. supplies food-grade rPET resin, and ALPLA India converts the resin into preforms, the essential raw material for manufacturing rPET bottles. Srichakra Polyplast has developed a robust collection system for used PET bottles, ensuring a consistent and abundant supply of rPET.

Coca-Cola India maintains strict quality control measures to ensure the quality and consistency of the rPET material used in its bottles. Partners undergo thorough technical due diligence, including assessments, audits, and sample testing conducted by third parties and in accordance with FSSAI guidelines and internal standards.

The new Kinley bottles feature a unique label that emphasizes the use of 100% recycled food-grade plastic, serving as a communication tool to convey Coca-Cola India’s sustainability efforts to consumers. The company aims not only to provide sustainable packaging solutions but also to educate and inspire consumers about the importance of recycling and environmental stewardship. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Regarding future plans, Coca-Cola India is committed to expanding the use of 100% rPET bottles beyond the Kinley brand. The company aims to make all its packaging globally recyclable by 2025 and use at least 50% recyclable materials in its packaging by 2030. Coca-Cola already offers 100% rPET bottles in over 40 markets worldwide.

Coca-Cola India collaborates with recycling and waste management stakeholders to support the circular economy and improve recycling infrastructure in India. Through initiatives like the ‘Return and Recycle’ project with Zepto, the company integrates the circular economy concept into its sustainability commitments and establishes collection systems for recycling empty PET bottles. Additionally, Coca-Cola India works with waste management organizations to enhance the value chain for garbage collection in the country.

rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IndianOil) and Praj Industries Limited (Praj) have signed a term sheet to establish a joint venture (JV) aimed at bolstering biofuels production capacities in India, as reported by Hydrocarbonprocessing

This collaboration signifies a significant milestone in IndianOil’s transition towards green energy and underscores their commitment to achieving net-zero operational emissions by 2046. By forming a 50:50 JV, both companies aim to strengthen India’s biofuels sector, focusing on various biofuels such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Ethanol, Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG), Biodiesel, and Bio-bitumen.

The availability of abundant feedstock in India’s agrarian economy presents an advantageous opportunity for developing indigenous biofuels, which will not only reduce reliance on crude imports but also contribute to rural economic growth and provide sustainable, cleaner mobility options. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Praj Industries, a key player in the Indian biofuels industry, emphasizes that biofuels have a positive impact on socio-economic and environmental aspects, enabling sustainable development. The partnership between IndianOil and Praj has previously yielded successful outcomes, including the establishment of India’s first advanced biofuels refinery at IndianOil’s Panipat complex, employing Praj’s proprietary 2 G technology. Furthermore, in May of this year, IndianOil and Praj collaborated with AirAsia India to operate India’s inaugural commercial passenger flight powered by a blend of indigenous Sustainable Aviation Fuel, thereby promoting a greener future and contributing to India’s bioeconomy as a tool for sustainable climate action.

rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Prices drop 40% for two key recycled plastic grades

Market graph iconPET and HDPE prices have taken a sudden crash this month, dropping by double-digit percentages. Luckily for MRFs, most everything else in the curbside mix is holding steady.

The national average price of post-consumer PET beverage bottles and jars is down 44% this month. Bales of PET are now averaging 7.06 cents per pound, compared with 12.63 cents per pound this time last month.

Some regional PET bale contracts are still yielding as high as 10.00 to 11.00 cents per pound, but the open market is yielding only 2.00 to 4.00 cents per pound. This grade was trading at 37.50 cents one year ago. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Natural high-density polyethylene (HDPE) from curbside collection programs is down 40%, now at an average 40.94 cents per pound. This compares with 68.75 cents last month and 45.5 cents this time last year.

Following natural’s downward trend, color HDPE dropped 28% this month. This grade is trading for an average 9.31 cents per pound, compared with 12.88 cents last month and 22.03 cents one year ago.

PET, natural HDPE and color HDPE have all been dropping since May, when they hit recent highs. But this month’s decline was much steeper than the May-to-June drop.

Pretty much everything else in the curbside mix is holding steady this month, providing some stability for MRFs’ commodity sales revenue streams.

That being said, pricing lags last year significantly, especially on the fiber side of the equation.

The national average price for corrugated containers (PS 11) is up marginally, now at an average of $49 per ton. That’s $1 more than last month. However, the current price compares with $135 per ton this time last year.

Likewise, mixed paper (PS 54) remains steady at about $14 per ton. This compares with $70 per ton this time last year. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Sorted residential papers (PS 56) also remain flat this month, at around $25 per ton. This compares with $107 per ton one year ago.

Lastly for fiber, sorted office papers (PS 37) are down again, from $158 in June to $144 per ton this month. This compares with an average $230 one year ago.

The metals are also largely unchanged. The national average price for aluminum cans remains firm at 66.25 cents per pound. It was 74.38 cents per pound this time last year.

Sorted, baled steel cans remain steady at a current average of $226 per ton. The price was $193 per ton one year ago.

Finally, other plastics have been stronger going into summer. Polypropylene (PP) is now trading at 7.56 cents per pound, compared to 7.69 cents last month. PP was 24.94 cents one year ago.

Grade A film remains steady at 17.13 cents per pound. It traded at 22.56 cents one year ago.

Grade B film is also steady at 7.13 cents, compared to 8.19 cents 12 months ago.

Grade C film remains at a nominal 0.19 cents per pound. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

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Prices drop 40% for two key recycled plastic grades

Teijin Frontier Presents Innovative Nonwoven Microcarriers for Rapid and Large-Scale Cell Culture

Teijin Frontier, the fibers and products converting company of the Teijin Group, has unveiled a groundbreaking advancement in the form of nonwoven microcarriers that facilitate speedy, high-capacity, and superior quality cell culture. These microcarriers serve as scaffolding material, providing a conducive environment for a wide range of cell types to adhere and grow in three dimensions. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

The development of these innovative microcarriers combines Teijin Frontier’s proprietary fiber process, nonwoven design technology, and the expertise of Professor Satoshi Fujita from the Department of Frontier Fiber Technology and Science at the University of Fukui in Japan, specialized in fiber-related bio-medical research.

Starting in July, Teijin Frontier will distribute sample shipments of the nonwoven microcarriers to research institutes, universities, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and cosmetics manufacturers. In 2024, the company plans to expand the global marketing of these microcarriers, with a target of achieving JPY 100 million in sales by fiscal year 2026. The unique structure of the nonwoven microcarriers closely resembles the physical environment in which cells naturally proliferate, allowing cells to grow along the fibers in three dimensions. Moreover, the microcarriers facilitate the circulation of essential culture medium and oxygen required for optimal cell growth.rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

They are highly versatile and can be effectively utilized for various cell lines, including the cultivation of mesenchymal stem cells, which possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities. These cells hold significant potential for regenerative medicine, as they can be directed to differentiate into human functional tissues, such as nerves, muscles, and bones.

Cell culture technology plays a pivotal role in the field of regenerative medicine. Conventional cell culture techniques predominantly employ two-dimensional planar technologies, such as culture dishes and T-flasks. However, these methods offer limited cell adhesion areas, requiring numerous dishes to cultivate a small amount of tissue. This results in substantial equipment, personnel, and time investments.

By utilizing cell culture bioreactors capable of culturing a large quantity of cells, efficiency can be significantly improved. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Microcarriers serve as scaffolding materials in bioreactors, facilitating cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation through their mixing capabilities during biochemical reactions. With the diversification of cell lines and culture methods, there is a growing need for new microcarrier types that enable higher-volume and higher-quality cultures, surpassing the conventional bead-shaped microcarriers.

The newly introduced nonwoven microcarriers can be employed in cell culture methods involving fixed bed bioreactors or agitation bioreactors. They exhibit remarkable effectiveness, particularly in bioreactors lacking agitating blades. By combining gentle shaking of the culture with mild shear force, these microcarriers enable the collection of a significant number of cells within a week, without the need to change the culture medium.

One notable advantage of the nonwoven microcarriers lies in their high-porosity structure, offering a substantial surface area for cell culture. This larger surface area allows for the cultivation of more cells compared to traditional scaffolding materials.

Teijin Frontier’s research has demonstrated that these nonwoven microcarriers can increase the number of cells by 30% within a four-day culture period, outperforming conventional bead-type microcarriers. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Teijin Frontier Presents Innovative Nonwoven Microcarriers for Rapid and Large-Scale Cell Culture

Li-Cycle Holdings Corp., a Toronto-based lithium-ion battery recycler, and EVE Energy Co., a China-based LIB technology company, have entered into a partnership to explore battery recycling solutions

The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on the recycling of lithium-ion batteries, specifically focusing on EVE battery materials.

Under the MOU, Li-Cycle and EVE Energy will work together to develop sustainable recycling solutions for EVE LIB materials in the North American market. They will also explore the recycling of battery manufacturing scrap generated at EVE’s planned LIB cell manufacturing facilities in Malaysia and Hungary. The partnership aims to support EVE’s environmental objectives by establishing a closed-loop supply solution and contributing to the global movement towards electrification. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

EVE Energy, a prominent LIB cell manufacturer with global facilities and customers that include major automakers, views expanding its presence in global markets as a key priority. The company plans to construct environmentally friendly battery factories in Europe and Southeast Asia. EVE Energy’s co-founder and CEO, Jianhua Liu, expressed the importance of strategic initiatives such as industry chain integration and international operational models. The partnership with Li-Cycle will facilitate discussions on establishing a high environmental standard battery recycling system to promote sustainable development.

Li-Cycle, recognized as a leading recycling partner, is thrilled to collaborate with EVE Energy. The company’s Executive Chair, Tim Johnston, acknowledges EVE’s status as a proven global leader in LIB cell manufacturing. Li-Cycle’s expertise lies in delivering world-class lithium-ion battery recycling solutions with efficiency, low emissions, and minimal waste generation, contributing to a sustainable battery ecosystem. As Li-Cycle continues to expand its global customer base, the partnership with EVE Energy aligns with its strategic growth plans. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

EVE Energy has not only established a manufacturing presence in Asia but also announced its intention to build its first European battery manufacturing facility in Hungary. This facility aims to supply a major global automaker in the production of electric vehicles. Additionally, EVE Energy plans to construct a LIB cell manufacturing facility in Malaysia.

Li-Cycle’s proprietary “Spoke & Hub” technologies enable safe and environmentally friendly recycling of lithium-ion batteries and battery manufacturing scrap. The process allows for the recovery of crucial battery-grade materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt. Li-Cycle’s recycling approach boasts an efficient environmental footprint, minimal direct greenhouse gas emissions, and minimal wastewater discharge. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

Li-Cycle Holdings Corp., a Toronto-based lithium-ion battery recycler, and EVE Energy Co., a China-based LIB technology company, have entered into a partnership to explore battery recycling solutions

Hybrid prepreg maximizes performance of carbon fiber structures

CAMX 2023: Special Specialty Materials is a supplier of high-quality boron and silicon carbide fiber products, advanced composite materials and high-purity boron nanopowder. The company is a certified, woman-owned small business and won the 2020 National Subcontractor of the Year award from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Specialty Materials will feature enhancements to its Hy-Bor portfolio of prepregs containing boron and carbon fibers. Hy-Bor is used as selective reinforcement in carbon fiber composite structures to decrease weight and increase compression performance for aerospace, space, sporting goods and other applications requiring high-performance materials. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

The company’s most recent additions to the Hy-Bor portfolio pair monofilament boron fiber with Toray (Tokyo, Japan) Torayca T800 and T1100 intermediate modulus (IM) carbon fibers and state-of-the-art Toray toughened epoxy, cyanate ester, bismaleimide and polyimide resin systems for terrestrial and celestial applications. Specific properties are highly tunable, including boron fiber areal density, for targeted utilization of composites that can feature greater than 475 ksi compression strength and 32 msi modulus.

Hy-Bor provides favorable dampening properties and impact strength, increased stiffness and high compression strength for improvement in ultra lightweight composites (golf clubs, hockey sticks and club heads). For example, Hy-Bor’s distinctive properties recently enabled the sports equipment company, Bauer Hockey (Exeter, N.H., U.S.) to launch its lightweight AG5NT hockey stick.

In aerospace, boron fiber is said to significantly improve open hole compression strength, bearing strength and compression-after-impact strength for wing spars, ailerons, longerons and more. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

For space and fission/fusion applications, the monofilament boron fiber with a tungsten core in composites provides high stiffness with coefficient of thermal expansion tunability while providing neutron reflection and adsorption capability. Application examples include telescopes, optical benches kinematic mounts and structural shielding.

In addition to boron fiber, Specialty Materials offers a series of silicon carbide monofilament fibers for metal and ceramic matrix composite applications that are manufactured in the U.S.ty Materials enhances its Hy-Bor portfolio of prepregs containing boron and carbon fibers, which are used to selectively reinforce aerospace, space and sport goods applications. rPET Hydrogen Li-Cycle

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Hybrid prepreg maximizes performance of carbon fiber structures

Chemical recycling cost – AI new frontier for PET preforms 12-07-2023

Bioplastics carbon fibre – Is ammonia a new car fuel? 11-07-2023

Bioplastics carbon fibre

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Automotive : Battery vs Hydrogen

As a battery manufacturer, I have watched the advancement of technologies in the automotive industry with great interest and attention. One development that has attracted some debate is the use of hydrogen as a form of energy for automobiles. While hydrogen may seem like a promising solution to reduce pollution and dependence on fossil fuels, I strongly believe there are many reasons to view the use of hydrogen in cars negatively.

First, hydrogen requires a large amount of energy to produce. Currently, the production of hydrogen occurs mainly through the process of electrolysis of water, which requires the use of electricity. If this energy comes from fossil sources, the entire hydrogen production process becomes polluting. Even if the energy comes from renewable sources, such as solar or wind energy, converting electrical energy into hydrogen and then into mechanical energy to power a car is inefficient compared to using electrical energy directly to power a drums.Bioplastics carbon fibre

Secondly, hydrogen is a highly flammable gas and requires very stringent safety measures. Its handling, storage and replenishment require specialized and expensive infrastructure. Hydrogen cars must be equipped with high-pressure tanks, which add weight and reduce the vehicle’s efficiency. Additionally, hydrogen leaks can pose a significant risk, as it is an invisible and highly flammable gas. The hydrogen refueling infrastructure is still very limited and expensive to deploy on a large scale.

Bioplastics carbon fibre

Thirdly, lithium-ion batteries are demonstrating rapid improvement in terms of capacity, life and cost. Battery-powered electric cars are already widely adopted and gaining popularity around the world. Lithium-ion batteries have proven to be reliable and safe, with charging infrastructure becoming more widespread. Focusing efforts on lithium-ion battery research and development can lead to further improvements and increased adoption of electric cars, thus reducing pollution and dependence on fossil fuels more efficiently and cost-effectively. Bioplastics carbon fibre

Furthermore, hydrogen also has energy efficiency issues. Converting hydrogen to electricity in a fuel cell has a lower yield than simply recharging and discharging a battery. This means that more energy is lost during the conversion, resulting in a lower overall efficiency. Furthermore, the use of hydrogen requires more space for the installation of tanks, reducing the transport capacity of cars.

Finally, the infrastructure needed for the widespread use of hydrogen would require huge investments and considerable time to roll out on a massive scale. Meanwhile, the adoption of battery-based electric cars could be accelerated by using existing electric charging infrastructure. Bioplastics carbon fibre

In conclusion, although hydrogen may appear to be an attractive solution for fueling cars, there are many reasons to consider its use negatively. From polluting production, to safety, energy efficiency and infrastructure costs, the use of hydrogen for cars presents significant challenges. On the other hand, Li-ion batteries have proven to be a more efficient and cost-effective solution for vehicle electrification. Focusing efforts on battery research and development could lead to even greater improvements and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future in the automotive industry. Bioplastics carbon fibre

Bioplastics carbon fibre

Oil dips $1 on interest rate fears, but OPEC+ cuts limit fall

Oil prices eased by $1 a barrel on Monday on the increasing likelihood of more U.S. interest rate hikes, but crude supply cuts from top oil exporters Saudi Arabia and Russia limited the losses.

Brent crude futures were down 79 cents, or 1%, at $77.66 a barrel at 1:24 p.m. EDT (1724 GMT). They touched their highest level in more than two months earlier in the session. Bioplastics carbon fibre

U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was down 94 cents, or 1.3%, at $72.90.

“Traders are very nervous about higher interest rates, which could kill demand very quickly,” said Dennis Kissler, senior vice president of trading at BOK Financial, adding that some investors were also engaging in profit-taking after last week’s gains.

Both benchmarks rose more than 4.5% last week after Saudi Arabia and Russia announced fresh output cuts bringing total reductions by the OPEC+ group to around 5 million barrels per day (bpd), or about 5% of global oil demand.

San Francisco Federal Reserve President Mary Daly on Monday repeated that she believes two more rate hikes this year will likely be needed to bring down inflation that is still too high, while Cleveland Fed President Loretta Mester also signaled more rate rises.

Higher interest rates could slow economic growth and reduce oil demand.

The U.S. Labor Department reported last Friday the smallest monthly job gain in two-and-a-half years along with strong wage growth. The data strengthened the likelihood that the Fed would raise interest rates at its meeting later this month.

Meanwhile, China’s factory gate prices fell at the fastest pace in more than seven years in June, according to government data, indicating a slowdown in the recovery in the world’s second-largest economy. Bioplastics carbon fibre

However, oil demand from China and developing countries, combined with OPEC+ supply cuts, is likely to keep the market tight in the second half of the year despite a sluggish global economy, the head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) said.

Markets are also focusing on the release of U.S. Consumer Price Index data and a slew of economic reports from China later this week to ascertain demand.

More…

Bioplastics carbon fibre

The evolution of the nylon 6 thread production sector and its shift towards Asian countries

Introduction:
In recent decades, the nylon 6 thread production sector has undergone significant changes, with an evident trend towards a reduction of productions in the western regions in favor of Asian countries. This transformation has been driven by several factors, including increased global competitiveness, accessibility of resources and labor costs. In this article, we will explore the evolution of this sector and the reasons that have led to a significant change in the geography of production.Bioplastics carbon fibre

Background:
Nylon 6 thread is a widely used material in a variety of industrial applications, including textiles, packaging, footwear and automotive. Its popularity comes from its strength, durability and versatility. However, in recent years, manufacturers have faced increasing pressure to reduce production costs in order to remain competitive in the global market.

Global competitiveness:
The global nylon 6 thread market has become increasingly competitive, with an increasing number of companies seeking to gain a competitive advantage through lower manufacturing costs. Asian countries, in particular, have been shown to have a significant advantage in terms of lower labor costs and accessible resources. Emerging economies such as China, India and Vietnam have developed manufacturing infrastructure and expertise that have made them attractive for investment by companies in the sector.

Accessibility to resources:
The production of nylon 6 thread requires access to a number of resources, including petroleum, chemical intermediates and energy. Asian countries often have greater availability of these resources, allowing companies to reduce procurement costs and increase their competitiveness. Bioplastics carbon fibre

Additionally, many Western companies have moved their manufacturing facilities to Asia to take advantage of proximity to sources of supply.

Labor costs:
One of the most significant factors that prompted nylon 6 thread manufacturing companies to move their production to Asian countries is lower labor costs. Lower wages in Asian countries allow companies to significantly reduce their production costs, thereby increasing their profitability. This competitive advantage has been instrumental in the decision of many companies to move their production to Asia. Bioplastics carbon fibre

The reduction in nylon 6 yarn production in the western regions has had a significant impact on local economies. Many workers lost their jobs, and communities that depended on nylon 6 thread production faced economic and social challenges. However, this shift has also created opportunities for the development of new industries and sectors in Asian economies, promoting economic growth in those regions. Bioplastics carbon fibre

Conclusions:
The strong reduction in the production of nylon 6 yarn in favor of Asian countries was determined by the need of companies to remain competitive on the global market. Global competitiveness, accessibility to resources and lower labor costs have been the main factors driving this transformation. While this has had negative impacts on Western economies, it has also created opportunities for growth and development in Asian economies. The evolution of the nylon 6 thread production sector represents an example of the dynamics taking place in economic globalization and the constant search for efficiency and competitiveness. Bioplastics carbon fibre

The evolution of the nylon 6 thread production sector and its shift towards Asian countries

Compostable Plastics: Unlocking the Potential in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation

Plastic packaging waste has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. In the recently published European Commission’s Early Warning Report, 18 Member States are at risk of missing the 55% target on municipal waste reuse and recycling preparation. Regarding packaging waste, EU regulators are currently reviewing the EU legislation and are on track to give the block a new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). However, 10 Member States are at risk of missing the target of 65% recycling of packaging waste by 2025. Bioplastics carbon fibre

The overall objectives of the Regulations are:

  1. To prevent the generation of packaging waste: reduce it in quantity, restrict unnecessary packaging, and promote reusable and refillable packaging solutions.
  2. To make all packaging on the EU market recyclable in an economically viable way by 2030.
  3. To increase the use of recycled plastics in packaging through mandatory targets.

At TotalEnergies Corbion we believe that compostable plastics contribute to the objectives of the PPWR. Compostable plastics, like Luminy® PLA, are a type of biodegradable material designed to break down into natural elements when subjected to composting conditions. Compostable packaging has a clear advantage when plastic items are contaminated with food waste, as is often the case with food packaging and food service ware.Bioplastics carbon fibre

When plastics are contaminated with food, mechanical recycling of waste (food or packaging) is not viable. Conversely, when using compostable plastics, we can organically recycle both packaging and food waste. Many existing examples of plastic packaging cannot be redesigned to make them reusable. In contrast, the same design can be made with compostable plastics that can be efficiently composted.

To fully unlock the potential of compostable plastics, the PPWR needs to include specific enabling conditions:

  1. Allow compostable plastics in all food-related packaging. At TotalEnergies Corbion, we think that compostable plastics should be used for specific applications (i.e. tea bags, coffee capsules, fruit labels, contaminated food service ware, and bags which can be reused for biowaste collection). The PPWR should guarantee a level playing field with other packaging materials and allow the use of compostable plastics in all food-related packaging. Bioplastics carbon fibre
  2. Standardization and Certification. For over 20 years, the EN 13432 standard has ensured that compostable plastics are compatible with the composting process in facilities. While we are open to periodic revisions of the standard, our priority is to maintain its assurance of producing mature and stable compost as the final output.
  3. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). The PPWR should guarantee that the EPR fee paid by compostable packaging producers are then used for the collection, sorting and organic recycling of such material. A best practice has been implemented in Italy, where an EPR scheme for compostable plastic packaging (Biorepack) has been created.Bioplastics carbon fibre

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Compostable Plastics: Unlocking the Potential in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation

Introducing the Ammonia Engine: China’s Latest Emission Reduction Revolution

China is at the forefront of finding innovative solutions to reduce CO2 emissions, and the latest breakthrough comes in the form of the ammonia engine. Not only does this engine promise to emit 90% less carbon dioxide than traditional petrol and diesel engines, but it also brings additional benefits to the table. Bioplastics carbon fibre

The revolutionary ammonia engine is the brainchild of Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), one of China’s leading car manufacturers. Ammonia, composed of nitrogen and hydrogen, can be produced from renewable sources such as wind and solar energy. This fuel has the potential to surpass traditional options, according to researchers working on the project.

Consider this practical example: a vehicle equipped with an ammonia engine undergoes combustion without emitting CO2; instead, it releases only water vapor and nitrogen. Moreover, ammonia boasts a higher energy density than hydrogen, making it easier to transport and store. This fuel choice would result in a significant 90% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Bioplastics carbon fibre

However, while the concept is clear, there are some less straightforward aspects to address. If cars were to run on ammonia in the future, the large-scale production process raises environmental concerns. It currently relies on substantial quantities of hydrocarbons and emits at least two tons of CO2 for every ton of ammonia produced. Additionally, ammonia possesses toxicity and contributes to the generation of fine dust and smog when released into the atmosphere, alongside other substances.

Moreover, the establishment of dedicated and well-sealed refueling stations, similar to hydrogen infrastructure, would be necessary. It’s worth noting that ammonia lacks carbon, an essential element for CO2 emissions, but it contains nitrogen oxides (NOx), which necessitate specific catalysts, as in the case of diesel engines. Bioplastics carbon fibre

GAC’s Ammonia Engine: Engineering Details

GAC’s ammonia engine was developed based on a two-liter engine, which underwent necessary modifications to adapt to the new power source. This engine has a power output of 120 kW, equivalent to 163 HP, and a maximum torque of 250 Nm. Notably, the engine can also run on a blend of ammonia and petrol when required.

Regarding the choice of ammonia as a fuel, GAC asserts that it represents the future due to its safety, cleanliness, and ecological superiority over biofuels and hydrogen. Additionally, GAC highlights the advantage of localized production, reducing dependency on imported oil. Bioplastics carbon fibre

The introduction of the ammonia engine by GAC showcases China’s commitment to revolutionizing emission reduction technologies. While challenges and considerations remain, this groundbreaking innovation holds promise for a greener future in the automotive industry.

Introducing the Ammonia Engine: China's Latest Emission Reduction Revolution

ORLEN Invests in Bioplastics

ORLEN is steadfastly executing the largest petrochemical project in Europe in the last 20 years. The company has decided to scale up the expansion of the Olefins Complex at the Production Plant in Płock. This move is in response to the growing market demand for petrochemical products, which serve as the foundation for manufacturing everyday items, such as car parts and home appliances. The expansion of the Olefins Complex will result in approximately 650 new jobs. Importantly, the project will enable a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions per tonne of product and will position ORLEN as a leader in the European petrochemical industryBioplastics carbon fibre

‘Global trends suggest that the demand for high-margin petrochemical products will grow dynamically. By 2050, the value of the petrochemicals and base plastics market has the potential to double. Meanwhile, within the next decade, the refining of crude oil into traditional fuels will gradually decrease. We are carefully analysing these changes and intensifying our actions to secure the largest possible share in the petrochemical business and quickly increase revenue generated by this segment. Hence, we are broadening the scope of work on the expansion of the Olefins Complex.

We will modernize the entire existing infrastructure, making our complex the most advanced and eco-friendly in Europe. This approach will undoubtedly reinforce our position as a regional leader in petrochemical production, bolstering the competitiveness of our Group and the Polish economy,’ says Daniel Obajtek, CEO and President of the PKN ORLEN Management Board. Bioplastics carbon fibre

ORLEN plans to invest PLN 25 billion in the expansion of the Olefins Complex, with Polish subcontractors also taking part in the project. This amount is almost on par with the profit earned by the ORLEN Group in 2022.

Petrochemical products manufactured in the Olefins Complex will serve as the basis for more advanced plastics, used in the production of everyday items such as cleaning and hygiene products, medical items, as well as synthetic fibres for clothing or protective masks. They will also be used in car parts, home appliances, and electronic devices.

The expansion of the Olefins Complex and the increase in petrochemical production capacity will have a positive impact not only on the Group’s business but also on job creation and the financial situation of local authorities. Bioplastics carbon fibre

The project is estimated to increase employment within the Group by about 650 full-time positions. Additionally, ORLEN’s local tax payments to municipal budgets are expected to rise by an additional PLN 160 million annually. Furthermore, the increased availability of base petrochemicals will lay the groundwork for the development of the chemical industry in Poland and amplify positive effects on the economy.

The expanded scope of work will involve a thorough modernization of the existing infrastructure at the Production Plant in Płock. After modernization, it will be used for the manufacturing of olefins and for future development projects. The investment is a crucial element of the energy transition and will enable a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions per tonne of product. The construction of a modern Olefins Complex will extend the lifespan of the refining installations, for which petrochemical production will provide opportunities in the coming years.Bioplastics carbon fibre

The project will also capitalize on synergies from the merger between ORLEN and Grupa LOTOS The Gdansk plant will supply a significant volume of naphtha for olefin production. In turn, olefins will be one of the raw materials necessary for the production of LDPE polyethylene, which is used to manufacture films, bags, canisters, and food packaging. Last year, ORLEN took over part of the business associated with the production and sale of LDPE polyethylene, owned by Basell Orlen Polyolefins, in which it is a shareholder.

According to current plans, the implementation of the Olefins Complex will make a substantial contribution to enhancing the petrochemical potential of the ORLEN Group. The project will boost the production of base petrochemicals in Płock by more than 60 per cent and by over 30 per cent in the entire ORLEN Group, including the company’s operations in the Czech Republic and Lithuania. Upon its completion in 2027, ORLEN will boast one of the most advanced and efficient petrochemical plants in Europe, enabling the company to build a competitive advantage and strengthen its position as a regional leader in the petrochemical segment. Bioplastics carbon fibre

More….

ORLEN Invests in Bioplastics

Teijin has achieved the ISCC+ certification for its Tenax carbon fibre and the precursor fibre, polyacrylonitrile (PAN), produced at its Mishima plant in Japan

This dual certification signifies Teijin’s ongoing commitment to the circular economy.

The PAN precursor fibre is created from sustainable acrylonitrile (AN), utilizing waste and byproducts from biomass sources or recycled materials. The production process follows the mass balance approach, which allows the blending of biomass-derived and petroleum-derived raw materials to form the end products.

Through verifiable tracking in the value chain, the materials are attributed proportionately to the final product.Bioplastics carbon fibre

The acrylonitrile produced sustainably retains the same molecular structure and physical properties as its petroleum-derived counterpart. Consequently, both the PAN precursor fibre and the Tenax carbon fibre made from it serve as drop-in alternatives, providing identical physical characteristics to fossil-based equivalents. Teijin anticipates commencing commercial production of these mass-balanced products in the first half of 2024.

Teijin also plans to pursue ISCC+ certification for its carbon fibre and related products manufactured in Europe, the United States, and Asia. This endeavor aims to expand the availability of these environmentally sustainable offerings.Bioplastics carbon fibre

Carbon fibre, renowned for its strength and lightweight nature, contributes to energy consumption reduction across various industries. In response to the demand for lower environmental impact products, Teijin has taken measures to decrease greenhouse gas emissions throughout its supply chains. The company now utilizes natural gas to power its manufacturing facilities and employs a lifecycle assessment (LCA) approach to calculate the environmental footprint of its carbon fibre and intermediate materials.

Teijin has achieved the ISCC+ certification for its Tenax carbon fibre and the precursor fibre, polyacrylonitrile (PAN), produced at its Mishima plant in Japan

Bioplastics carbon fibre

AA Scavenger Sustainability – Recycle Revolution in Global PET Bottle 10-07-2023

BGPET Hydrogen Batteries but recycling batteries is convenient and environmentally friendly? Artificial turf recycling outstanding results Is hydrogen becoming less important? 03-07-2023

BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

-BGPET Nylon still low prices 

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BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

-RadiciGroup overcomes difficulties and strengthens its position in 2022 and beyond

Bergamo, 30 June 2023 – RadiciGroup, global leader in the chemical and textile sector, today announced positive results for its 2022 financial statements despite a complex geopolitical and economic context. The Group confirms its investment strategy, allocating 70 million euros for 2023, in order to improve competitiveness and enhance human capital. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

During 2022, RadiciGroup recorded a slight growth compared to the previous year, reaching a turnover of 1,543 million euros. This result was achieved thanks to the activities of its more than 30 production and commercial sites distributed in Europe, Asia and America. EBITDA reached 157 million euros, while the net profit for the year was 80 million euros. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

RadiciGroup overcomes difficulties and strengthens its position in 2022 and beyond

Mr. Angelo Radici Charman of RadiciGroup

Angelo Radici, Chairman of RadiciGroup, commented on the results, stating: “We are moderately satisfied with the results achieved in 2022. Despite the unforeseen and management difficulties we faced during the year, we managed to achieve positive results. The increase in costs of energy and raw materials, combined with the outbreak of war in Ukraine and the unavailability of some raw materials, has created an extremely challenging situation, especially in the chemical sector.However, thanks to our internationalization strategy and the presence in the High Performance Polymers area, we managed to balance these difficulties and maintain a strong position.”

RadiciGroup overcomes difficulties and strengthens its position in 2022 and beyond

Mr. Maurizio Radici, Vicepresident of RadiciGroup

Maurizio Radici, Vice President of RadiciGroup, underlined the importance of investments in the current context: “Despite the uncertainties that characterize the global economy in 2023, we have decided to continue investing to strengthen our global presence and increase competitiveness in markets in growth. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

We recently inaugurated a new production site in China, which will allow us to double production capacity to meet market growth expectations. Furthermore, we continue to invest in environmental sustainability, reducing CO2 emissions and adopting sustainable processes and solutions. ”

BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Mr. Alessandro Manzoni, CFO of RadiciGroup

Alessandro Manzoni, CFO of RadiciGroup, underlined the solid financial management of the Group: “Our careful asset management has allowed us to maintain a stable net financial position despite the significant investments and the increase in raw material costs. This financial solidity gives us allows us to face the challenges of the global markets in which we operate.”  BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Despite the difficulties and uncertainty of the international context, RadiciGroup is committed to continuing along the path of innovation, competitiveness and sustainability, confirming its leadership in the chemical and textile sector. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

RadiciGroup overcomes difficulties and strengthens its position in 2022 and beyond

Mr. Paolo Radici shareholder of RadiciGroup with his brothers Mr. Angelo and Mr. Maurizio

-Hydrogen paused to contemplate its position. It was deemed too costly and lacked environmental friendliness

Hydrogen reflected on its disadvantages, acknowledging its high price tag and its failure to meet green standards. It seemed to be one of the biggest infatuations in the world of sustainable energy, as highlighted by the International Energy Agency (IEA) in 2019. This infatuation, often observed during critical energy transitions, is characterized by soaring expectations followed by disappointment with the technology.

According to a recent study by Ambrosetti, the numbers speak for themselves: by 2050, hydrogen has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by 28%, generate a value of production between 890 and 1,500 billion euros, and create 320,000 to 540,000 new jobs. Despite these promising prospects, only 13 hydrogen projects have been implemented in Italy. So, what are the reasons behind this limited progress? BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

The costs involved, particularly electrolysis expenses, and the complexity of establishing a supply chain, including the creation of specialized infrastructure and uncertainty regarding blending with existing natural gas infrastructure, are significant challenges. Moreover, when hydrogen production claims to be green by utilizing renewable sources with virtual markets (guarantees of origin), it doesn’t necessarily mean it is carbon-free. Francesco Gulli, associate professor of energy economics and environmental economics at Bocconi University and deputy director of the Institute of Energy and Environmental Economics and Policy, explains this complex aspect. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Gulli emphasizes that drawing energy from the centralized electricity grid to produce hydrogen, when the electricity generation park is not yet fully decarbonized, renders hydrogen not clean, even with guarantees of origin from carbon-free renewable sources. Therefore, until the electricity generation park becomes completely decarbonized, hydrogen supply cannot be considered truly green. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

The exception to this rule lies in hydrogen valleys, where renewable plants exclusively dedicated to hydrogen production are established without direct connection to the centralized electricity grid. However, doubts remain about the viability and justification of such projects.

This explains the significant delay in the development of hydrogen technology, which was anticipated to be one of the most ambitious experiments under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (Pnrr) but has only received 35 proposals, accounting for half of the allocated funds. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Nonetheless, companies like Iren, Eni, Enel, Hera, and Snam are actively exploring hydrogen technology. However, the industry is still in the testing phase, with Snam, led by Stefano Venier, introducing hydrogen into Italian gas pipelines and storage facilities. Their aim is to blend 20% hydrogen with natural gas in a “hybrid” mix. This project progresses in stages to ensure all technical requirements are met. It’s important to note that Snam acts as a transporter rather than a producer of hydrogen. Through projects like the South2 Corridor, Snam is facilitating the development of a strategic hydrogen corridor involving more than 20 companies and targeting Italy, Germany, and Austria. This project has recently been a topic of discussion between Prime Minister Meloni and Chancellor Scholz and is expected to have future advancements. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Despite the goodwill of involved parties, the sector is still largely in a testing phase, and establishing a complete value chain remains challenging, as desired by the Ambrosetti think tank. Valerio De Molli, Managing Partner & CEO of The European House Ambrosetti, emphasizes the need for a long-term policy vision that combines industrial objectives with sustainability goals, based on the principle of technological neutrality. Effective governance, collaborating with Italian institutions, is crucial for implementing, monitoring, and updating the national hydrogen strategy. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

-Avantium, a leading renewable chemistry company headquartered in Amsterdam, has partnered with SCG Chemicals, an integrated petrochemical innovations company based in Thailand, to advance the development of CO2-based polymers

The primary objective of this collaboration is to bring these innovative polymers to the pilot phase.

The partnership will leverage Avantium’s groundbreaking Volta Technology platform, which utilizes electrochemistry to convert CO2 into valuable products and chemical building blocks, including glycolic acid. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

By combining glycolic acid with lactic acid, Avantium has successfully produced a carbon-negative polyester called polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA). This remarkable material boasts exceptional oxygen and moisture barrier properties, as well as impressive mechanical strength. Furthermore, PLGA is recyclable, home compostable, and marine degradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Avantium, a leading renewable chemistry company headquartered in Amsterdam, has partnered with SCG Chemicals, an integrated petrochemical innovations company based in Thailand, to advance the development of CO2-based polymers

Since the beginning of 2023, Avantium and SCGC have been collaborating on the development of PLGA. Avantium has created various samples of PLGA, which were evaluated at SCGC’s Norner AS facility. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

The positive results from this evaluation led to the establishment of a Joint Development Agreement between the two companies. The agreement aims to further explore the potential of PLGA and subsequently scale up the production of glycolic acid monomer and PLGA polyester over the next two years. The goal is to establish a pilot plant with a capacity of approximately 10 tonnes per annum.

Dr. Suracha Udomsak, Chief Innovation Officer and Executive Vice President at SCGC, expressed their admiration for the sustainability and performance characteristics of PLGA after assessing the samples. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

He stated, “We look forward to working together with Avantium in the years to come.” Tom van Aken, CEO at Avantium, added that this partnership would enable them to advance PLGA, a highly promising carbon-negative plastic, towards commercialization. He also expressed openness to welcoming other strategic and complementary partners to participate in this collaboration.

Overall, the Avantium and SCGC partnership signifies a significant step forward in the development and application of CO2-based polymers, particularly PLGA. Their joint efforts will not only contribute to the advancement of sustainable materials but also pave the way for the next phase of commercialization.

Avantium, a leading renewable chemistry company headquartered in Amsterdam, has partnered with SCG Chemicals, an integrated petrochemical innovations company based in Thailand, to advance the development of CO2-based polymers

-FormaTurf opens first artificial turf recycling plant in Germany

Two years ago, Sport Group, a leading global supplier of sport surfaces, and its subsidiary Polytan, the leading installer of artificial grass in Germany, announced plans to build a recycling plant that would be able to recycle almost all the different types of artificial turf systems installed to date, instead of only pitches installed by Polytan.

The plant would be operated by FormaTurf, a new company established by Sport Group for this purpose. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Now, after two years of construction, FormaTurf announced last week that the new plant has been officially opened.  The festive opening event took place in Essen and was attended by among others, the mayor of Essen, Thomas Kufen, and the head of the department for the Circular Economy, Cornelius Laaser. Sport Group Holding was represented by Christoph von Nitzsch (CEO) and Dr. Klaus Hauschulte (COO).

The new plant spans an area of 20,000 square meters In terms of capacity, FormaTurf plans to process 200 large pitches per year. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

The technology used by FormaTurf enables almost 100 percent of a discarded artificial turf pitch  – turf carpet, sand and rubber granulate – to be separated and recycled. Mechanical and chemical recycling is used to process the waste materials into secondary raw materials. Sand accounts for around 70% of the weight of an artificial surface, so as much sand and infill as possible needs to be separated from the turf backing and filaments during the initial stage. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

The turf backing, including filaments, is shredded into millimetre-sized pieces and mixed with the separated infill material, a patented process called ‘aptrusion’ that allows for a sand content of up to 75%.

The FormaTurf facility is the first recycling plant dedicated to recycling artificial pitches in Germany, the company emphasised. And with FormaTurf now in operation, Sport Group is the only company in the industry to cover the entire artificial turf value chain – from research, development and production to installation, maintenance and recycling by FormaTurf, thus effectively closing the loop. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

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FormaTurf opens first artificial turf recycling plant in Germany

-NOVA Chemicals and Plastic Energy Launch Feasibility Study on Advanced Recycling Plant to Further Canadian Circularity Aspirations

  • Facility would be constructed in the Sarnia, Ontario, region
  • If constructed, would be largest facility of its kind in Canada to date
  • Investment would build on already CAD 2 billion injected into Province of Ontario

NOVA Chemicals Corporation (“NOVA Chemicals”) and Plastic Energy have entered into an agreement to explore the feasibility of developing a pyrolysis-driven advanced recycling facility in the Sarnia, Ontario, region. If constructed, the facility would be the largest of its kind in Canada with a potential initial capacity of 66kt per annum.

“Post-use plastics offer tremendous value to furthering the circular economy, and our teams at NOVA Chemicals work daily to innovate new and collaborative ways to extend the lifecycle of our products and plastic packaging,” said Greg DeKunder, VP, NOVA Circular Solutions. “This agreement with Plastic Energy is a prime example of two companies working together to create timely, effective, and sustainable solutions that will help us make progress towards our 2030 recycled plastics ambitions, while diverting hard-to-recycle segments of plastic waste away from landfills.” BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Plastic Energy is one of the world’s leading advanced recycling technology companies through use of its patented TAC™ process to treat post-consumer plastic waste. Recycled polyethylene manufactured using Plastic Energy-produced feedstock, called TACOIL™, has identical properties to virgin polyethylene and can be used in food contact and high-performance applications, helping manufacturers and packagers achieve their recycled content goals. Plastic Energy has two commercial recycling plants in Spain that have been in operation for seven years, alongside new projects in Europe and Asia.

“We are pleased to sign this agreement with NOVA Chemicals to explore the scope for our first advanced recycling project in Canada,” said Carlos Monreal, Founder and CEO of Plastic Energy. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

“Advanced recycling will continue to be important for the North American market by providing a solution for incorporating recycled content into food-grade packaging. Together with NOVA Chemicals, we aim to reduce the amount of plastic waste ending up in landfills, incineration, or as leakage into the environment, which is important for the circular economy in Canada.”  BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

NOVA Chemicals recently announced its aspiration to reach 30 per cent recycled content as a share of its total polyethylene sales by 2030 in its Roadmap to Sustainability Leadership, including its commitment to build a state of the art mechanical recycling business and continue exploring world-leading and proven advanced recycling technologies. If built, this new facility would see NOVA Chemicals build on its already CAD 2 billion investment into Ontario to inject additional new technology, jobs, and long-term viability into the local and Canadian economies. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

NOVA Chemicals and Plastic Energy Launch Feasibility Study on Advanced Recycling Plant to Further Canadian Circularity Aspirations

-BASF to establish a co-located battery materials and recycling center

BASF celebrated the opening of Europe’s first co-located center of battery material production and battery recycling in Schwarzheide, Germany, said the company.

The inauguration of a state-of-the-art production facility for high-performance cathode active materials and the unveiling ceremony for a battery recycling plant for the production of black mass represent important steps toward closing the loop for the European battery value chain – from the collection of used batteries and the recovery of mineral raw materials to their use in the production of new battery materials. Major step in Europe to participate in the rapidly growing global battery market. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

Battery materials are at the heart of lithium-ion batteries as they significantly determine their performance and therefore play a crucial role in the transformation of mobility.

“Despite all challenges we are currently facing in Europe, is a reason for all of us to be optimistic. BGPET Hydrogen Batteries

The state-of the art cathode active materials plant and the recycling plant for black mass production underline that we at BASF believe in the future of the chemical industry in Europe and in Germany and invest in innovative products and services for our customers in our home market,” said Dr. Martin Brudermuller, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE. “With our two investments we significantly contribute to the reduction of the CO2 footprint of batteries and close the loop for sustainable mobility.”

BASF to establish a co-located battery materials and recycling center

 BGPET Nylon still low prices   03-07-2023

 BGPET Nylon

 BGPET Nylon

Polyestertime
ITEM 26/06/2023 01/07/2023 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 6,825 yuan/ton 6,850 yuan/ton +25
Bottle grade PET chips export market 905 $/ton 895 $/ton -10
Filament grade Semidull chips domestic market 6,720 yuan/ton 6,670 yuan/ton -50
Filament grade Bright chips domestic market 6,700 yuan/ton 6,690 yuan/ton -10
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market 5,630 yuan/ton 5,665 yuan/ton +35
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA export market 810 $/ton 790 $/ton -20
Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 3,950 yuan/ton 3,890 yuan/ton -60
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 467 $/ton 455 $/ton -12
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market

 BGPET Nylon

 995 $/ton 977 $/ton
 -18
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 972 $/ton 954 $/ton -18
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,116 $/ton 1,075 $/ton -41
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,510 yuan/ton 7,350 yuan/ton
 -160
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,200 yuan/ton 7,200 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 8,900 yuan/ton 8,850 yuan/ton –
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F

 BGPET Nylon

 8,550 yuan/ton 8,450 yuan/ton -100
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market 8,150 yuan/ton 7,980 yuan/ton -170
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,200 yuan/ton 7,250 yuan/ton +50
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 12,100 yuan/ton 11,775 yuan/ton
 -325
Caprolactam CPL overseas  market 1,600 $/ton 1,500 $/ton -100
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,780 $/ton 1,720 $/ton -60
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 12,700 yuan/ton 12,600 yuan/ton -100
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market 13,300 yuan/ton 13,150 yuan/ton -150
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market 19,000 yuan/ton 19,000 yuan/ton –
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 15,600 yuan/ton 15,450 yuan/ton -150
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 17,900 yuan/ton 17,750 yuan/ton- -150
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  16,400 yuan/ton 16,350 yuan/ton -50
Spandex 20D  domestic  market 36,000 yuan/ton 36,000 yuan/ton –
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 34.500 yuan/ton 34,500 yuan/ton –
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  31,000 yuan/ton 31,200 yuan/ton +200
Adipic Acid domestic market 8,800 yuan/ton 8,550 yuan/ton -250
Benzene domestic market 6,180 yuan/ton 6,220 yuan/ton +40
Benzene overseas  market 788 $/ton 746 $/ton -42
Ethylene South East market 730 $/ton 750 $/ton +20
Ethylene NWE market 728 $/ton 672 $/ton -56
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market 7,500 yuan/ton 7,750 yuan/ton +250
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,250 $/ton 1,250 $/ton –
Acrylic staple fiber ASF  domestic market 13,600 yuan/ton 13,600 yuan/ton –
Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  domestic market 13,000 yuan/ton 12,850 yuan/ton -150
PP Powder domestic market 6,750 yuan/ton 6,850 yuan/ton +100
Naphtha overseas market  540 $/ton 534 $/ton -6
Phenol domestic market 6,562 yuan/ton 6,595 yuan/ton +33

 BGPET Nylon

r-PET high end eco-friendly chips = 8,000 yuan/ton  — 7,950 yuan/ton  – 50

 

Nonwovens Bioethanol Incredible Enzymatic Biomaterials 01-07-2023

Nonwovens Bioethanol

-China’s plastic products output in May 2023 was approximately 6.3 million tonnes, marking a 3.3% decrease compared to the previous year

This information is based on data provided by the National Bureau of Statistics of China. From January to May 2023, the total output reached 29.35 million tonnes, representing a 2% decline compared to the same period last year. In 2022, China’s plastic products production amounted to approximately 77.72 million tonnes, showing a 4.3% decrease from 2021. The reduced output in 2022 was influenced by lower downstream run rates in certain regions due to COVID-related lockdowns. Furthermore, the decline in overseas orders, triggered by economic recessions abroad, also contributed to the year-on-year drop in plastic products output.

The year-on-year decline has become less significant in January-May this year, primarily due to the recovery of social and economic activities as China entered a new stage of COVID-19 response. Nonwovens Bioethanol

It is worth noting that China’s Kingfa Science & Technology is planning to increase investments in the recycling business. The company aims to expand its production capacity of recycled plastics to 1 million tonnes per year by 2025, up from 400,000 tonnes per year in 2021. This expansion will involve adding 400,000 tonnes per year of capacity to existing sites in China and an additional 200,000 tonnes per year through grassroots projects in Europe and Southeast Asia.

Nonwovens Bioethanol

-Why we must invest in processing to meet recycling goals

Most waste management schemes rely on mechanical recycling — a method that Greenpeace argues“will always fail” for plastics because they are “virtually impossible to sort.” Here, Stephen Harding, managing director of Gough Engineering, argues companies must invest in processing equipment to recover and gain value from their recycled products, such as plastics masterbatch.

The EC has ruled that EU states must reduce packaging waste by five per cent by 2030. These rules cover both packaging design and waste management. Greenpeace is right to address the shortcomings of current mechanical recycling when dealing with plastics. The organisation’s Circular Claims Fall Flat Again report also highlights that plastic recycling rates declined to about 5 per cent in 2021, down from 8.7 per cent in 2018.

The report suggests that a lack of recycling infrastructure has impeded how companies deal with plastic waste. Frankly, we agree.  Nonwovens Bioethanol

Today’s recycling processing centres are not equipped to deal with the influx of recycling they receive — let alone the ability to meet ambitious new targets.What’s more, these centres must resize inconsistent shapes of various materials into a consistently-shaped final product. The answer to these challenges is to invest in shredding/granulation, sieving and sorting equipment.

Sorting products

Industrial sieves are used across almost all sectors to classify and sort products. Vibratory sieves are often used to sort raw materials such as powders and ingredients through different mesh aperture sizes, ensuring the end-product is of a uniform size. For recycling, sieves are used in a multitude of ways. A common method is to sort polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles. Nonwovens Bioethanol

Collected post-consumer PET bottles are delivered to recycling centres to be mechanically separated from other materials and sorted by colour for specific applications or pricing. In addition to this application, industrial sieves and screens can be used to separate everything from scarcemetals in electronics, right through to elements of household and construction waste. In fact, greaterinvestment in this kind of equipment could solve a plethora of recycling challenges — as well as reducing, or avoiding altogether, land fill charges for certain products.

A case study

Let’s look at the example of a recycling company in Norfolk, UK, that required a screening operation to separate quality classifications of glass fibres. In this instance, Gough Engineering recommended using the Vibrecon GVC5 separator.

The system is designed to order and is used to remove fine particles, separating oversize and agglomerates and conveying between processes. Multiple screening decks can be also included in a single system to separate product into two, three or four decks. For the recycling company, the system was supplied with two decks constructed in the stainless steel grade 304.

The Vibrecon classified glass fibres at 750 kgs per hour. The top deck discharges any oversized particles, and the bottom deck is designed for easy discharge of particles that are fine or undersized, which leaves the middle deck for ejecting good material. Using this method, the recycling centre could ensure that all particles are separated effectively. As well as recycling glass fibres, The Vibrecon circulatory vibratory separator is widely used to recycle a variety of other materials. Nonwovens Bioethanol

This includes several decades of use in plastics, polymer, chemicals, powders and ingredients separation.

Nonwovens Bioethanol

-Pertamina, the Indonesian state energy company, has announced its plans to commence the production of bioethanol from sugarcane and cassava this year

Additionally, they have already initiated the production of green hydrogen using geothermal energy, according to Hydrocarbonprocessing.

Indonesia, the largest consumer of palm oil biodiesel in the world, has been actively working to implement bioethanol mandates for gasoline in order to reduce fuel imports and carbon emissions. However, one of the challenges faced is ensuring an adequate supply of feedstock. Pertamina CEO Nicke Widyawati shared during a conference, “This year, we will introduce our new products: bioethanol made from sugarcane and cassava. There are plentiful feedstock options available.

Palm oil is used for biodiesel, while sugarcane and cassava are suitable for ethanol production.”  Nonwovens Bioethanol

The introduction of biodiesel mandates in the Southeast Asian country has resulted in significant savings in diesel import costs. Last year, Pertamina announced its intention to commence a trial for hydrogen production in 2023 at a geothermal plant located in Ulubelu, Sumatra. The goal is to produce 100 kg (220 lb) of hydrogen per day.

Widyawati highlighted Indonesia’s substantial geothermal potential, estimated at around 27 gigawatts (GW), with less than 10% currently utilized for electricity generation. She expressed an ambitious target to double or triple the geothermal capacity within the next five to seven years. This expansion aims not only to generate electricity but also to produce green hydrogen. Furthermore, hydrogen production has already begun, according to her statements at the conference.

In addition, Widyawati reiterated Pertamina’s previous denial of purchasing crude oil from Russia, which has been subjected to Western sanctions.

Although ship-tracking data has indicated Russian oil being discharged in Indonesia, it is common for such cargoes to be transferred to other vessels for delivery to different locations. Nonwovens Bioethanol

It is worth noting that ExxonMobil and Pertamina are collaborating on a regional carbon capture and storage project in Indonesia. The recently signed Heads of Agreement builds upon a joint study and memorandum of understanding established during COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland. The project’s purpose is to assess carbon capture and storage technologies, low-carbon hydrogen, and geologic data.

Nonwovens Bioethanol

-AJ Nonwovens officially opens new plant

AstenJohnson, a global nonwovens and textile manufacturer, has opened its new needlepunch plant in Waco, Texas, the company’s eight facility in North America.

AstenJohnson is a manufacturer of pulp & paper machine clothing, advanced technical fabrics, filaments, and nonwoven fabrics for filtration, automotive, cured-in-place piping and composites. The company has manufacturing facilities in Europe, Asia and North America, with corporate headquarters in Charleston, South Carolina.

The event was marked with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by AstenJohnson business leaders, government representatives and members of the local community.

Strategically located in Waco, the plant will focus on supplying nonwovens fabrics for the Group’s Eagle Nonwovens and Foss Performance Materials business units and in particular, growth markets including auto light-weighting and composite manufacturing.

In addition to the latest needlepunch nonwovens technology, the plant will be clean, air-conditioned, and will have a strong focus on sustainable business practices. Described as a model of sustainability and energy efficiency, with environmental initiatives integrated into its design, AstenJohnson said it was committed to minimizing its impact on the environment while delivering superior quality products, in keeping with its Sustainability initiatives. Nonwovens Bioethanol

More…

AJ Nonwovens officially opens new plant

–Origin Materials has made a groundbreaking announcement regarding the commencement of operations at Origin 1, the world’s inaugural commercial CMF plant

This milestone achievement marks the availability of a fundamental chemical building block, CMF, on a commercial scale for the first time.

Situated in Sarnia, Ontario, the plant will serve as an innovation center dedicated to scaling up and deploying the company’s core technology platform. Emphasis will be placed on funded joint development programs and the qualification of materials for higher-value applications.  Nonwovens Bioethanol

Origin Materials, Inc. (referred to as “Origin,” “Origin Materials,” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: ORGN, ORGNW), the foremost provider of carbon-negative materials, is committed to facilitating the global transition to sustainable materials. In accordance with prior projections, the company has initiated the startup process at Origin 1.

John Bissell, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Origin Materials, expressed his excitement about the initiation of operations at Origin 1, describing it as a momentous accomplishment in their mission to decarbonize materials worldwide. Bissell stated, “This plant significantly scales up our revolutionary core technology platform. We anticipate that the impact of our platform intermediates, CMF and HTC, will be transformative for the chemical industry and manufacturing processes worldwide.” Nonwovens Bioethanol

The newly established plant will supply various industries with intermediate chemicals and materials, applicable to a wide array of end markets such as clothing, textiles, plastics, packaging, automotive parts, tires, carpeting, toys, fuels, and more. This market has a value of approximately $1 trillion. The facility represents a substantial upscaling of Origin’s technology platform, enabling the conversion of sustainable wood residues into versatile intermediate chemicals.

CMF (chloromethyl furfural), a versatile chemical building block, holds the potential to produce numerous downstream products. One such product is para-xylene, a precursor to PET plastic, while FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid) can be utilized in various sustainable products and materials, including the next-generation polymer PEF (polyethylene furanoate). Additionally, the plant will generate HTC (hydrothermal carbon), which finds application in the production of sustainable carbon black for automotive tires.

Bissell expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to offer our intermediates to industries on an unprecedented scale. The commercialization of CMF is a historic milestone, comparable to that of ethylene. After over a decade of pilot-scale work with CMF, we are thrilled to commence commercial production in Sarnia.”

Origin 1 will operate with the goal of meeting customer demand for qualification and sampling. Furthermore, the plant is expected to play a vital role in developing higher-value products and applications for CMF, HTC, and other co-products. These premium offerings are projected to be manufactured and distributed on a global scale from future plants, including Origin 2, Origin 3, and potentially licensed facilities.

Bissell acknowledged the resilience of the team in overcoming challenges posed by the pandemic and supply chain disruptions, highlighting the startup of Origin 1 as evidence of their strength. Nonwovens Bioethanol

He affirmed the company’s readiness to meet substantial customer demand for their renewable and carbon-negative products, as they continue their mission to drive the world’s transition to sustainable materials.

Plastic Recycling automotive 30-06-2023