ARTICLES

  • World demand for green packaging notes that while recycled-content packaging will remain by far the largest product type, it will see the slowest increases. Above-average demand growth is expected in reusable and degradable packaging. Despite being negatively impacted by reduced margins due to pressure from higher production costs, this industry still stands firm and is likely to enhance its market share in the global packaging industry. To know about the factors that boost demand, the largest regional market, the growing green packaging applications, the challenges, etc, read Global Green (Sustainable) Packaging market to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% till 2015
  • Increasing demand from roadway construction, especially from BRIC countries, is expected to drive geotextile demand over the next five years. Special focus on the use of geotextiles in infrastructural activities coupled with favorable regulatory support is also expected to have a positive impact on global demand. However, the fluctuating cost of commonly used raw materials is expected to have an adverse impact on the market. Absence of defined standards across the countries has also emerged as a key challenge for market participants. To know the largest consumed segment, the largest application segment, the region that dominates global geotextiles demand, and region that dominates market revenue, challenges faced, etc, read Global market for geotextiles to reach US$6.4 bln in 2018, at a CAGR of 10.3% from 2012 to 2018
  • One of the key factors contributing to growth in the global bioplastics market is the increasing demand for more eco-friendly packaging materials. The market has also been witnessing increased investment in new plants and research facilities for newer developments in a cost effective manner. However, the high production costs associated with biodegradable plastics, which in turn results in the rise of finished product prices could pose a challenge to the growth of this market. Among the end-users, electronic and electrical industries are expected to have a better support over packaging industry. Read more in Global bioplastics market expected to reach US$7.7 bln by 2016 at a CAGR of 24.3%
  • Although Europe shows a strong demand for bio-based polymers, production tends to take place elsewhere, namely in Asia and America. The European Union’s relatively weak position in the production of bio-based polymers is largely the consequence of an unfavourable political framework for the industrial material use of biomass. However, new developments and investments are foreseen. Read more in New developments and investments foreseen in bio-based polymer production by 2020 in Europe
  • Bacteria, fungi, moulds and mildews are present in our every day environment. These microscopic organisms have adapted to colonise and thrive in almost all places on earth. Residual levels of many bacterial strains are of no consequence to human health. Untreated plastic articles can be attacked by microbic growth causing unsightly discoloration, unpleasant odors and polymer degradation issues. Antimicrobial additives can be incorporated with plastic resins during compounding or as a masterbatch during molding and provide a biocide treatment to control microbes. Read more in Developments in anti microbials and alternative microbials
  • A smart supercapacitor that reversibly shuts down when it gets too hot has been introduced. Super capacitors are similar to batteries, have significantly higher power densities, faster charge/discharge cycles and long cycling life spans. However, these properties also mean that super capacitors are prone to a self-propagating uncontrolled temperature increase. Read more in A smart supercapacitor that reversibly shuts down when it gets too hot