Ethylene demand clocked a 4.6% global growth in 2007 reaching 114 million tons. This robust growth can be attributed primarily to strong demand from its derivatives like Polyethylene and Ethylene Oxide/Glycols. Growing at 23.5%, supply augmented at the healthiest pace in the Middle East . To know more about global capacity additions, operating rates, global demand-supply, shift in global ethylene capacity base, changing feedstock mixes and the impact of changing age profile of crackers, read Global Ethylene Scenario in 2007
Implantable-grade PEEK polymer is being investigated for a wide range of medical devices for both long-term implantation and short-term body contact. It possesses a unique combination of biocompatibility, x-ray and computed tomography translucency, and MRI compatibility. Furthermore, its adjustable mechanical performance, chemical resistance, sterilization options, and ability to be thermally processed easily make this thermoplastic an increasingly popular choice for implantable devices. Read in Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) can provide better performance for long-term implantable devices
Shells, bones, and tooth enamel all consist of stiff ceramic platelets arranged in a polymer matrix like bricks in mortar. In their efforts to create strong yet light materials, chemists and materials scientists have long tried to mimic nanostructures found in nature. A nano composite of aluminum oxide and a polymer is as tough as metals but lighter, and is suitable for dental material and transparent electronic circuits. Read in Nano composite of aluminum oxide and polymer is strong, light and stretchy
HDPE pipes deliver safe and clean water. These pipes offer numerous advantages such as chemical resistance, corrosion resistance, non-toxicity, longer life cycle, better impact strength, light weight, lower installation costs, energy savings etc. New products, new applications, new end uses of HDPE pipes makes it possible for the entrepreneurs to achieve a higher product mix and higher net profitability. Versatility of the extruder capable of producing products either using the same polymer or different polymers brings in a higher growth of the pipe industry and could lead to more new units in the country. Read in HDPE Pipes : Beyond Water Supply
Driven by strong growth in EPS shape molding, especially large parts like fish boxes and insulated concrete forms (ICFs) for construction has kept EPS molding machine makers busy in R&D. Newer technologies includenew rotating tools for EPS and EPP designed for faster cycles and more complex parts, making single panels for cast concrete walls, floor, and ceiling of a 10 x 10 ft shelter built in 4 hours, double-sided glazing of EPP sheet, etc. Read more in New developments in EPS molding
The foam industry is expected to witness steady growth since cellular materials offer unique advantages over traditional materials. High-density cellular plastics are widely used in furniture, transportation, and building products while low-density foams find use in shock absorption, insulation, and rigid packaging. The global polymeric foams market is projected to reach 20.5 million metric tons by 2010, at an average annual growth rate of more than 3.5% during 2000-2010. To know about the growth regions, growing applications, new developments, technologies, etc, read Global polymeric foam consumption to reach 20 million tons by 2010
