Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are a unique group of materials that can absorb over a hundred times their weight in
liquids and do not easily release the absorbed fluids under pressure. US and Europe, with a combined share of 58%
in 2007, represent the largest markets for SAPs. To know more about the growing markets, applications, growth
regions, etc, read
Super absorbent polymers are poised for good growth
The size of the engineering thermoplastics (ETP) market is smaller when compared to that of commonly used polymers
such as polyolefins, vinyls and styrenics. ETP consumption in 2007 is expected to touch around 800,000 tons. It is
estimated that out of the total consumption of ETP, China alone will consume over 4.5 mln tons in the next few years.
Read in
Engineering Thermoplastics have a bright future in China
A heating system that uses electromagnetic induction is relatively new for heating barrels of plastics molding and
extrusion machines. Induction heating is an old and well-known principle used to heat large industrial furnaces,
special machines for injection moulding molten metal, thermoset molds, and some Japanese hot-runner nozzles. To
know about the advantages of this system, read
Induction heating barrel offers greater energy savings, reliability, and faster response
Polycarbonate auto glazing is being used mostly in Europe for front and rear quarter widows, fixed side windows,
rear-door fixed window sections, small transparent body panels and larger panoramic sunroof systems. This substitution
from conventional material like glass is resulting in greater styling freedom as well as weight savings of up to 50%.
Special PC grades have been developed for glazing, providing good flow and higher optical clarity than conventional
materials, as well as adhesion to a hard coat. PC delivers excellent impact resistance but poor weatherability, while
acrylic causes excellent weatherability but lower impact strength. Read Different technologies improve performance of Polycarbonate auto glazing
Polystyrene is undergoing a phase of very slow growth, leading to reorganization of the business, particularly in North America
and Europe. On the other hand, Expandable Polystyrene (EPS) has enjoyed solid demand growth on a global basis. As a result, the
restructuring in styrenics in the mature regions has generally left EPS intact. To know about the regions with growing demand,
growth sectors, etc, read
Polystyrene business is passing through difficult time
