ANALYSIS:

• US demand for natural polymers to reach $4 billion in 2012;
• PVC market shows positive, constant upward trend.

MATERIALS:

• High-heat thermoplastic PUs introduced;
• Low-emission PU offers additional processing benefits;
• PP long fibre thermoplastic for automotive industry;
• Polymer for solar cells has improved efficiency.

APPLICATIONS:

• Lexan thermoclear sheet claimed to offer superior insulation for glazing, helping reduce energy costs;
• Polyetheretherketone film meets stringent flame requirements for aircraft insulation systems;
• PC grade with superior optical properties;
• Fast molecular rearrangements hold key to plastic’s toughness;
• Valve plates made with carbon fibre-reinforced polyether etherketone reduce compressor down time;
• First plastic compressed-air tanks for truck trailers produced;
• Lightweight PS beads approved for cavity wall insulation;
• Polymer films change colour in response to tension.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES:

• Eco-friendly biopolymer used for iPhone cases;
• DSM and Valeo collaborate on innovative technologies to reduce vehicles’ environmental impact.

PROCESSING:

• Duo cooling system set to save space and money for moulders;
• ‘Gentle robots’ handle sensitive composites;
• Versatile decanter centrifuge for the polymers industry.

TECHNOLOGY UPDATE:

• Polyether etherketone replaces metal in heat exchanger;
• Solid-state microcellular expansion technology reduces cost and weight of plastic products.

COMPANY NEWS:

• BASF closer to acquiring Ciba.

This back issue is available for immediate download in PDF format. Prices: £40.83, $75.85 or €58.35