Processing:

• Laser to speed up mould polishing;
• Laser direct structuring used for steering wheel switches;
• Direct compounding technology holds potential;
• Components moulded with functional surface in one step.

Materials:

• Silicone enables cheaper light-emitting diode production;
• Flexible silicone developed for medical applications;
• Flame-retardant series of TPEs announced;
• Self-lubricating polymer developed for bearings;
• LLDPE resin for flexible packaging films;
• Non-toxic replacement for PVC developed;
• Expanded PP developed for heating applications;
• Wear-resistant PEEK launched;
• Fast curing encapsulents save on processing and energy costs;
• Range of biodegradable PEs developed.

Environmental Issues:

• Ecologically friendly and cheap method for producing polymers;
• Management system to deliver 10% energy savings.

Applications:

• Bio-filled PP to be used in Ford Flex;
• Hall of Fame Award for innovative bumper;
• PEEK used for industrial sensor housings;
• Battery-powered gearbox is made of acetal resin;
• Luxury chair made from PC.

Analysis:

• Bioplastics demand valued at $2.6 billion by 2013.

Company News:

• €50 million innovation centre completed;
• Clariant to close three production sites;
• Additives producers fined €173 million for price fixing and market sharing cartels.

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