
ARTICLES
Cost of producing ethylene and its derivatives rises with the cost of oil. Natural gas is definitely cheaper than oil, thus, making ethylene from natural gas will provide a far cheaper route to various petrochemicals, provide natural gas producers with a valuable outlet for their products as well as reduce dependence on petroleum. This is why chemical researchers have been long searching for a way to produce ethylene via anther process, although some progress has been made and no new techniques have yet proved commercially viable. Success in this process will mean lower prices for ethylene and its derivatives. A new process that will require less energy and water than current methods, and yield ethylene directly from gas has been developed. Read more in Making ethylene directly from methane
Growing environmental awareness and a drive towards sustainable solutions among consumers is driving automakers towards advancements in development of natural fiber composites. Natural fibres have instrinsic properties –mechanical strength, low weight, low cost, better thermal and acoustic insulation, lower energy consumption, etc. Several inroads have been made with bio-based, reclaimed and recycled materials, particularly for automotive interiors. These include soy-based polyurethane foams for seats, underbody systems made from post-consumer recycled resins, post industrial recycled yarns in seat fabrics, foam made with plant-based castor oil, nylon resin made from recycled carpet, coconut husks or coir as a composite reinforcement. Read details in Growing use of natural fibres by automotive manufacturers
After the recession of 2008, petrochemical profitability rebounded to peak levels by the start of 2010, and remained there through H1-2011. However, market sentiment deteriorated dramatically in Q3-2011, on waning confidence over the global economic outlook and looming fears of the “double dip” recession. Consumption of petrochemicals slowed considerably as leading regional economies faltered. Feedstock costs remained under considerable pressure as crude oil prices stayed stubbornly firm above US$110 per barrel. With markets for most petrochemicals lengthening, margins stalled. Read more in Q3-2011 petrochemical profitability impacted by faltering regional economies
Silver is well known for its antimicrobial effects. Silver ions and silver compounds show a toxic effect on some bacteria, viruses, algae and fungi but without the high toxicity to humans normally associated with other metals. With a renewed interest in silver as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, the healthcare industry has seen several developments in anti-microbial masterbatches with silver based technologies to reduce the dangers of Hospital Acquired Infections. Read more in Developments in anti-microbial masterbatches with silver based technologies
The past two decades have witnessed an increasing requirement for lightweight cars due to high oil prices and the energy crisis, leading to growth of the global market for long fiber thermoplastics (LFT) that grows in line with developments in the auto industry. Recent demand for sleek, small, lightweight vehicles has largely increased market opportunities, as LFTs are viewed as a cost-effective means of substituting metals and ETPs. Global consumption in LFT market is forecast to reach over 313400 tons by 2017. To know about the growing end use applications, the growing markets across regions, growing applications, leading consumers, etc, read Long fiber thermoplastics market forecast to cross 313400 tons by the year 2017
Aroma barrier properties are enormously important in any packaging for perishable contents, due to preference for food with a fresh appearance and free from unwanted odours. While preventing oxygen and undesirable odours from sneaking into the package, the barrier properties need to effectively maintain fragrances and lock the aromas in. This guarantees an extended shelf life for food and cosmetic products. A good packaging offers outstanding barrier against aroma loss, and protects flavor integrity by eliminating the potential for off-taste and off-odor pick-up in sensitive packaged products. Read in Developments in aroma barrier properties important in packaging of perishable contents
Global lactic acid & poly lactic acid (PLA) market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 18.7% till 2016. The PLA market is driven by increased sustainability, reduced dependence on oil-based materials, technical advancement in production capabilities, public concern regarding the environment, etc. The main obstacles to their large-scale use in packaging applications are cost, environmental legislation concerning waste disposal and composting, and consumer attitudes and behaviors. To know about the biggest markets, the growing applications, the fast growing regions, key players, factors impacting demand, etc, read Global lactic acid and PLA market to reach US$3831 mln by 2016 at a CAGR of 18.7%
Flame retardants help prevent fire or its propogation by interrupting or hindering the combustion process. The flame retardant business has emerged as a result of requirements that manufacturers of plastics and other materials meet various safety standards and government regulations by improving the flame retardant characteristics of their products. Their use is almost entirely driven by legislation and industry standards. An understanding of current regulations and an awareness of potential new ones is an important requirement. Read more in Developments in flame retardant compounds for nylon, polyester, XPS, EPS foam insulation

Please provide the market information to start an injection moulding plant to manufacture plastic crates, pallets and auto components
How to enhance credibility in the market to get cheaper funding from the bankers and to enhance our goodwill? Any Idea about the Credit Ratings for SMEs?
Which PVC processing aid and impact modifier is better, new ACVM or the traditional one?
How to enhance credibility in the market to get cheaper funding from the bankers and to enhance our goodwill? Any Idea about the Credit Ratings for SMEs?
Which PVC processing aid and impact modifier is better, new ACVM or the traditional one?


