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ClikTech Replaces Metal with Solvay's Radel® PPSU to Develop Novel Litening Rods™ for Medical Use

2012-02-23T04:06:00.000-08:00

ClikTech Inc., Buffalo Grove, Ill., one of the leading manufacturers of dental sensor and x-ray film holders, has launched the industry's first thermoplastic rod for dental x-ray holder systems. The company's new Litening Rods™ , made of Radel® polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) resin from Solvay Specialty Polymers USA, LLC, replace metal rods which are labor intensive and more costly. The new product made of Radel® PPSU is light, autoclavable, reusable, and less costly. ClikTech will make the product introduction at the Chicago Dental Society's 2012 Mid-Winter Meeting Feb. 23-25 at McCormick Place in Chicago.

Metal rods have been used for decades in dental offices. Although effective, they are costly and prone to breakage, according to Thomas Gillen, president of ClikTech Inc. Metal rods require labor-intensive manufacturing steps including steel forming, bending, and pin insertion. "We have reached a time when we can combine both new and old technologies to produce the best available products at the most reasonable cost to the dental profession," explained Gillen. "These innovative rods serve as the bridge to make the transition from older to the newest technologies significantly easier for the dental office; they provide enhanced performance at a lower cost."

ClikTech developed Litening Rods™ in a close collaboration with XDR Radiology, Los Angeles, and its co-owner Dr. Adam Chen, DDS. Thermoplastic rods made of PPSU are stiff like metal but are 75% lighter, according to Gillen. The rods also offer easier handling due to an integrated handle grip design. They have the added benefit of incorporating a wire clip to accommodate the latest in digital sensors and work with any standard anterior, posterior, or bitewing ring. The rod attaches to a bite block receptacle which in turn holds the digital sensor.

Radel® PPSU is a super-tough thermoplastic with high heat resistance, exceptional hydrolytic stability and excellent chemical resistance. It can withstand over 1000 cycles of steam sterilization without significant loss of properties. It is inherently flame retardant and is resistant to bases and other chemicals. Radel® PPSU is also compliant with ISO 10993-1 for limited exposure, non-implantable applications. Litening Rods are 1/8-in square and five inches long and meet ISO 10993 and FDA requirements for intraoral use. They are commercially available through national dental distribution dealers.

Ajinomoto and Toray Sign Agreement to Conduct Joint Research on Biobased Nylon

2012-02-17T02:35:00.000-08:00

Ajinomoto Co., Inc. ("Ajinomoto") and Toray Industries, Inc. ("Toray") have entered into an agreement to begin joint research for manufacturing the nylon raw material 1,5-pentanediamine (1,5-PD) from the amino acid lysine produced from plant materials by Ajinomoto using fermentation technology, and commercializing a biobased nylon made from this substance.

Biobased nylon is a type of nylon manufactured by polymerizing chemicals produced from plant materials. The biobased nylon that Ajinomoto and Toray will research and develop is produced from plant materials by decarbonating the amino acid lysine through an enzyme reaction to make 1,5-PD, which Toray then polymerizes with dicarboxylic acid. The amino acid lysine is a core product of the Ajinomoto Group produced using fermentation technology. This biobased nylon fiber made from 1,5-PD is not only sustainable because it is plant-based, but also shows promise for development into highly comfortable clothing. For example, nylon 56 fiber manufactured using 1,5-PD is pleasing to the touch, yet has the same strength and heat resistance as conventional nylon fiber made from the petrochemical derivative hexamethylenediamine. It also absorbs and desorbs moisture nearly as well as cotton.

The two companies have already carried out successful test production of 1,5-PD using Ajinomoto's feed-use lysine, as well as test production of biobased nylon made by polymerizing 1,5-PD. They plan to further expand the scope of their collaboration to include development of production processes and evaluation of use in textile and plastics applications.

This partnership between Ajinomoto, a leading manufacturer of amino acids, and Toray, a leading manufacturer of nylon, will enable the creation of biobased nylon products that are competitive in terms of quality, environmental protection and cost. Moreover, the companies will deepen their collaboration with a view toward using the membrane-integrated bioprocess being developed by Toray in the production technology for lysine, the raw material for 1,5-PD.

Through its businesses, Ajinomoto is working to contribute to solutions to the challenges facing humanity in the 21st century, namely global sustainability, food resources and human health. In its bioscience and fine chemicals business, Ajinomoto is leveraging core Bio-Fine (bioscience and fine chemicals) technologies to add biomaterials as a new business area in which it will work toward the realization of a low-carbon, sustainable, recycling-oriented society. To accelerate development of new businesses and products, Ajinomoto will continue to actively pursue open innovation through partnerships with other companies and organizations around the world.

Toray's management policy states that all business strategies must place priority on the global environment in an effort to help realize a sustainable low-carbon society. Under this policy, Toray is expanding its biomass-derived materials business centered on research and development of biomass-derived polymers, including biobased nylon and polylactic acid (PLA). Expanding the biobased polymer business is also an important initiative central to the Green Innovation Business Expansion (GR) Project, which is part of Toray's new medium-term management program "Project AP-G 2013" launched in April 2011.

Definition of Terms

Lysine: One of the nine essential amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from food or other sources. Ajinomoto produces lysine with plant materials through fermentation, mainly for use as an additive in livestock feed. Adding lysine efficiently compensates for nutrients that tend to be lacking in feed while contributing to the environment by reducing the excretion of nitrogen, which causes soil and water pollution and generates greenhouse gases.

1,5-pentanediamine (1,5-PD): A monomer (diamine) with five carbon atoms. In this joint research, 1,5-PD is produced from Ajinomoto's amino acid L-lysine through a decarbonation reaction and used as a raw material for biobased nylon.

Membrane-integrated bioprocess: The membrane-integrated bioprocess that Toray is currently developing consists of three processes: a membrane separation process for cellulosic sugars, a membrane-integrated fermentation reactor, and a purification system using a membrane.

The membrane separation process for cellulosic sugars is a technology to remove impurities such as fermentation inhibitors generated as by-products during the hydrolysis of cellulosic biomass. The process enables the recycling of the saccharification enzyme and the efficient concentration of target sugars for production of low-cost, high-quality celluolosic sugars. The membrane-integrated fermentation reactor is a cell-recycling, continuous fermentation reactor based on a highly chemically stable membrane that enables continuous production for longer periods at faster rates than conventional batch fermentation. The purification system using a membrane is an energy-saving technology for removing impurities from fermentation broth and removing water to concentrate fermentative chemical products.

EPA Finalizes Air Toxic Emission Standards for PVC Production Facilities to Reduce Emissions

2012-02-17T02:33:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued strong final standards requiring facilities that produce polyvinyl chloride and copolymers (PVC) to reduce harmful air emissions, which will improve air quality and protect people's health in communities where facilities are located. Exposure to toxic air pollutants, like those emitted from PVC facilities, can cause respiratory problems and other serious health issues, and can increase the risk of developing cancer. In particular, children are known to be more sensitive to the cancer risks posed by inhaling vinyl chloride, one of the known carcinogens emitted from PVC facilities.

The final standards are based on currently available technologies and will reduce emissions of air toxics, such as dioxin and vinyl chloride. Facilities will have the flexibility to choose the most practical and cost-effective control technology or technique to reduce the emissions. Facilities will be required to monitor emissions at certain points in the PVC production process to ensure that the standards are met.

Currently, there are 17 PVC production facilities throughout the United States, with a majority of these facilities located in Louisiana and Texas. All existing and any new PVC production facilities are covered by the final rule.

PVC production facilities manufacture PVC resins that are used to make a large number of commercial and industrial products at other manufacturing facilities. These products include latex paints, coatings, adhesives, clear plastics, rigid plastics, and flooring.

Boeing's 787 Dreamliner Passenger Plane Uses Lighter & Fuel-efficient High-tech Plastic Composites

2012-02-15T05:01:00.000-08:00

The launch of Boeing's new 787 Dreamliner passenger plane marks another step forward in aviation technology, the latest in a century-long history of dramatic advancements.

Over the last half-century, many of these advancements have resulted from innovations in plastics technology-and today plastics are helping create state-of-the-art airplanes that offer unparalleled durability, comfort, and fuel-efficiency.

The use of plastics in aircraft began in World War II. Remember in the film It's a Wonderful Life when Sam Wainwright offers George Bailey a "chance of a lifetime" making plastics from soybeans-and the angel Joseph later says that Sam "made a fortune in plastic hoods for planes" during World War II? Plastics also were used to construct the housing for radar equipment (since they don't impede the radar waves), they replaced rubber in airplane wheels, and they even were sprayed on fighter planes to protect against corrosion from salty seawater. Over the years, aviation technicians have found that the attributes of various plastics-favourable strength-to-weight ratios, heat resistance, flexibility, durability-make them useful in all sorts of aircraft. They can withstand the vibrations of helicopters, they help take astronauts into space, and they even make military aircraft less visible to radar.

New, high-tech plastics-such as carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP)-are helping make passenger aircraft lighter, more durable, and more fuel-efficient. CFRP are made of one or more plastics combined with fibers made from carbon, resulting in lightweight, extremely strong materials. State-of-the-art airplanes, including the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner, rely on composites such as CFRP. Boeing states that 50 percent of the primary structure of the 787 is made with composites (up from about 12 percent in most aircraft) in place of traditional materials such as aluminum sheeting. These composites help reduce the weight of the aircraft and contribute to a 20 percent reduction in fuel consumption. Better fuel efficiency also translates into lower carbon and other emissions during the lifetime of the aircraft. And the planes can fly longer without refueling, potentially resulting in longer non-stop flights. In addition, the use of plastic composites reduces the scrap and waste produced from working with traditional materials. And plastic composites also are less susceptible to fatigue and corrosion, so Boeing expects the aircraft to last longer and require fewer repairs.

The use of composite materials might even make for more comfortable travel. Why? The composite materials can sustain lower cabin pressure at high altitudes and higher humidity levels than traditional aluminum-bodied planes, so it's expected that passengers will fly more comfortably and arrive at their destinations feeling more rested.

What is next for plastic composites in flight? The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is researching the use of large composite structures for elements of its space flight programs. The high strength-to-weight ratio and overall lower mass of composite structures could make it easier for NASA to transport larger payloads to and from space. An integral part of aviation for more than half a century, plastics continue to inspire innovation in all sorts of aircraft.

Toray to Build a Plant at TMQ to Produce Artificial Kidneys Made of Polysulfone

2012-02-07T22:33:00.000-08:00

Toray Industries, Inc. and Toray Medical Co., Ltd. (head office: Urayasu-shi, Chiba; President: Motonaga Tanaka; hereinafter referred to as "TMC") announced recently that they have decided to build a new plant to manufacture artificial kidneys at Toray Medical (Qingdao) Co., Ltd. (TMQ), which was established in Jimo City, Qingdao, Shandong Province, in July 2011.

TMQ was established by Toray and TMC as joint venture with Qingdao Jifa Group Co., Ltd. (head office: Jimo Qingdao, China; President: Chen Yulan, General Manager: Yang Weidong (General Manager); hereinafter referred to as "Jifa") for manufacture and sales of dialysis machines. The plant for manufacturing of the dialysis machines is currently under construction and is expected to begin operations in the first half of 2012. The company expects to start selling the products at about the same time.

Toray and TMC are planning to build a plant for manufacturing artificial kidneys at a site adjacent to the dialysis machine plant by investing about 6 billion yen, aiming to start sales in the latter half of 2014. The plant will manufacture TORAYLIGHT™ NV, a polysulfone membrane artificial kidney(generic name: hollow-membrane dialyzer; authorization number: 22200BZX00871000), which was launched in Japan in April 2011. This will double Toray Group's production capacity for TORAYLIGHT™ products. Demand in the global dialysis market is expected to expand led by Asia and other developing nations. In particular, demand is expected to increase significantly in China boosted by factors including state policies on establishment of medical insurance systems. By enhancing this artificial kidney plant, Toray plans to expand its business to meet the growing demand in the future.

More than half of the demand for dialysis machines and artificial kidneys in the Chinese market is currently met through imports. Toray, by building a supply system with these two products, will swiftly respond to this current market requirement. At the same time, Toray expects to contribute to the improvement of dialysis treatment by bringing in the Group's entire dialysis technology to China. Toray and TMC position TMQ as the beachhead for the pharmaceutical and medical product business in China, and plan to strengthen the customer service in China and expand from the existing dialysis machine and artificial kidney business into other fields. With TMQ, the Toray Group aims to drive its business growth in the life science field, which is one of the Intensively Developing and Expanding Businesses to spearhead the next-generation business expansion under the medium-term management program Project "AP-G 2013".

Braj Binani Group Acquires Europe's 3B - The Fiberglass Company for a Total Outlay of € 275 Mn

2012-02-07T22:30:00.000-08:00

Binani Industries Limited, the holding company of USD 1.6 billion Braj Binani Group, recently announced the acquisition of 3B - The Fibreglass Company ('3B'), a Europe-based major in fiberglass products and technologies. Binani Industries Limited is one of India's leading global diversified business houses, with interests in cement, zinc, glass fiber, composites and ready-mix concrete.

The Braj Binani Group has acquired a 100% equity interest in 3B from Platinum Equity. This acquisition is part of Braj Binani Group's strategy to expand its footprint in the global fiberglassmarket. It further augments the Group's technological and marketing capabilities in the fiberglass business.

Mr. Braj Binani, Chairman, Binani Industries Limited, said, "The acquisition, costing us €275 million, will strengthen our group's core operations at a global level. The group is present in fast-growth business segments, of which fiberglass is one. We are among one of the few groups globally that has a robust presence in this niche segment and we are working to accelerate our fiberglass operations further over the coming years. 3B is therefore a perfect match. We look forward to leveraging its expertise, strong R&D and excellent customer network."

This acquisition gives Binani Industries full ownership of 3B's global operating capacity of 1,50,000 tones per annum (tpa). It also provides access to its established customers, world-class technologies, marketing network, vast marketing geographies and skilled manpower. 3B has an extensive portfolio of products including chopped strands, direct rovings and continuous filament mats. Goa Glass Fiber Limited, a subsidiary of Binani Industries based in Goa, India with a manufacturing capacity of 20,000 tpa, has state-of-the-art operations in similar product categories and exports its products to over 15 countries across five continents.

The acquisition allows Binani Industries to consolidate its position in the global fiberglass market by increasing its product and customer base. The company will become a prominent supplier to industries such as automotive, wind energy, electrical, electronics, marine, infrastructure and transportation, primarily in Europe, where approximately 90 per cent of 3B's customers are based. Furthermore, the manufacturing plants that Binani Industries will own in Battice (Belgium) and Birkeland (Norway) will help it serve blue-chip customers in northern and central Europe. 45 per cent of 3B's customers are in Germany followed by the Netherlands and Belgium (14% each).

With regards to technology, Binani Industries will benefit from 3B's continuous product innovation and product development undertaken at its in-house R&D unit at Battice. This technology expertise will place Binani Industries in a premium position in the global fiberglass market.

Rhodia to Use Avantium’s YXY Technology to Develop Renewable Polyamides

2012-01-26T04:26:00.001-08:00

Rhodia, member of the Solvay Group, and Avantium recently announced that they have entered into a partnership to jointly develop a range of new bio-based polyamides targeting a variety of applications.

This partnership expands and completes the previously announced development agreement in the field of bio-based engineering plastics between Solvay and Avantium. Building on the newly combined forces of Rhodia and Solvay, the extended relationship offers the partners a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of compositions and applications based on Avantium's YXY technology in the larger Polyamidefield. In the frame of this joint development, the companies will explore the market potential of polyamide compositions on the basis of YXY building blocks. Produced from renewable and bio-based feedstock, these compositions are expected to exhibit superior environmental profile and at the same time to deliver applicative performances at a competitive cost. Rhodia will test these new polyamides for fibers and engineering applications in various areas such as consumer goods, automotive and electronic materials. Rhodia and Avantium have entered into a multi-year, exclusive collaboration towards commercialization of these new polyamides.

"This collaboration perfectly fits with our strategy to deliver new sustainable products to our markets, and will combine our know-how in polyamides with Avantium's YXY technology to produce building blocks for green materials. This open innovation partnership is inspiring for our teams and we are confident that it will deliver breakthrough in the development of bio-based competitive polyamides", explained Louis Neltner, R&D Vice-President at Rhodia. Tom van Aken, CEO of Avantium, about the new collaboration: "Rhodia is a world leading player in the development, manufacturing and supply of polyamides. We are very pleased to work with Rhodia on developing performing, sustainable and competitive solutions for a broad range of customers. Together with our existing partnerships in polyamides, we are now completely covering all application areas for polyamides on basis of our green building blocks."

* YXY (pronounced icksy) is Avantium's brand name of a family of green building blocks for making materials and fuels that can compete on both price and performance with oil based alternatives, and which have a superior environmental footprint. Based on Avantium's patented catalytic technology to convert biomass into furanic building blocks, YXY can be implemented in existing chemical production assets.

RadiciGroup to Display Yarns Made from Post-consumer Recycled Polymer at Heimtextil 2012

2012-01-07T07:19:00.001-08:00

At the Heimtextil trade fair from 11 to 14 January 2012, RadiciGroup is exhibiting its product range for the home and contract textile markets. Yarn lines that were developed to meet any request, requirement and application need: yarn produced from post-consumer recycled polymer or made from polylactic acid biopolymer; microstructured yarn; yarn with flame-retardant, anti-UV and bacteriostatic/antimicrobial properties; and two-component yarn. Thanks to its superior quality level, production know-how and expertise in innovative production and processing technologies, the Group can provide its customers with state-of-the-art, high value-added products.

RadiciGroup customers are demanding ever more innovative products. They want high-quality, high-performance customized yarn that enables them to make technologically advanced fabrics. That is why, in the yarn design stage, RadiciGroup allows customers to choose the count, lustre, quantity and type of yarn they need. Colour can also be totally customized. Furthermore, customers can select any combination of additional features. RadiciGroup can supply multi-functional yarn produced with a mix of additives to give the yarn various performance characteristics, such as flame, UV ray and/or bacterial-resistance, as well as with solution dyeing. During the design stage, the customer has no limits. Innovation, quality and sustainability: these are the distinctive traits of RadiciGroup.

During the event RadiciGroup companies Noyfil SA and Noyfil SpA leading European manufacturers of a wide range of polyester yarns are exhibiting their product portfolios.

RadiciGroup is also showcasing the following lines at the fair: Starlight® feel yarn incorporating a silver nanocompound to provide bacteriostatic properties, CornLeaf solution-dyed yarn with antimicrobial functionality made from Ingeo™ polylactic acid (PLA) biopolymer, RADYARN® FR flame-retardant yarn, STARLIGHT® UV-GUARD anti-UV yarn, MICRALON® PES/PA two-component yarn, and MICRELL® microfiber.

Cool Polymers' Thermally Conductive Thermoplastic Finds Use in LED Applications

2012-01-04T03:09:00.001-08:00

More than 80 million LED lights are running cooler, thanks to CoolPoly® thermally conductive plastics, notes Cool Polymers®, Inc., currently celebrating ten years of successful thermal management of high power LEDs. This equates to annual energy savings for users of as much as $115 million.

Cool Polymers, Inc. of North Kingstown, is the original manufacturer of thermally conductive thermoplastics for injection molding. The firm first targeted heat problems in laptops computers and quickly realized that thermally conductive plastics were a flexible and low cost solution for managing excess heat from the tiny LED chips. Due to ongoing accelerated sales in the LED marketplace as well as other markets, the firm recently moved to expansive new facilities in North Kingstown, just south of Providence and Boston.

General Manager, Kevin McCullough, recounts that "In initial LED applications, customers benefited from high brightness and low power consumption, but experienced significant corrosion problems with metallic heat sinks. The marine industry was one example. They wanted the benefits of LEDs and the thermally conductivity of our CoolPoly product line eliminated all corrosion and environmental concerns while managing the heat the same as aluminum."

The Cool Polymers General Manager continues, "Early adopters were excited about using LEDs in their applications and the design freedom of plastics. Many users also had captive injection molding and found they could manufacture parts in-house which they previously had to purchase from outside vendors. This helped them reduce the risk of uncontrolled costs and uncertain supply. Ten years of manufacturing plastics for successful LED applications has enabled Cool Polymers to rapidly and efficiently support existing and new customers in all lighting segments. We help optimize part, tooling and heat transfer designs as well as provide support that only comes from a decade of experience."

Today, the applications are growing rapidly and CoolPoly thermally conductive plastics are used for LEDs in automotive, transportation, architectural, medical, aerospace, and general illumination. As the industry grows, "We're seeing a consistent movement towards plastic thermal solutions" states Jessica Weimar, Operations Manager at Cool Polymers. "Thermally conductive plastics provide light weight and design flexible heat sinks and housings that can be injection molded on the same equipment used to manufacture LED optics. This is a tremendous benefit to the integrated manufacturing concept," she continues, "thus enabling manufacturers to reduce total cost and eliminate margin stack-up."

Looking forward, McCullough points out that, "We're highly pleased with the first ten years and our ability to contribute to an estimated $115 million/year in energy savings to users. We anticipate that the next ten years will bring unprecedented demand worldwide for thermally conductive plastics to manage the heat and enclosure challenges in LED lighting."

Gevo Gets USDA Grant to Develop Biojet Fuel from Woody Biomass & Forest Residues

2012-01-04T03:08:00.000-08:00

Gevo, Inc., one of the leading renewable chemicals and advanced biofuels companies, received a $5 million grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the development of biojet fuel from woody biomass and forest product residues. The award is a portion of a $40 million grant presented to the Northwest Advanced Renewables Alliance (NARA), a consortium led by Washington State University (WSU).

"This is an opportunity to create thousands of new jobs and drive economic development in rural communities across America by building the framework for a competitively-priced, American-made biofuels industry," said U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "Public-private partnerships like these will drive our nation to develop a national biofuels economy that continues to help us grow and out-compete the rest of the world while moving our nation toward a clean energy economy."

NARA includes a broad consortium of scientists from universities, government laboratories and private industry. The WSU-led grant aims to address the urgent national need for a domestic biofuel alternative for U.S. commercial and military air fleets. The NARA project envisions developing a new, viable, aviation fuel industry using wood and wood waste in the Pacific Northwest, where forests cover almost half of the region. The project also will focus on increasing the profitability of wood-based fuels through development of high-value, biobased co-products to replace petrochemicals that are used in products such as plastics.

Gevo, the only product development company in this consortium, believes that woody biomass can be used as a cellulosic feedstock to create petroleum replacements such as isobutanol. This project is a critical next step in proving its effectiveness. Gevo intends to use its portion of the award to optimize its cellulosic yeast and fermentation process.

"The airline industry and the United States Department of Defense are eagerly looking for near-term alternatives to petroleum-based jet fuel," said Patrick Gruber, Ph.D., CEO of Gevo. "Woody biomass has the potential to be a cost-effective and sustainable option for biorefineries. This project should help accelerate the commercial deployment of cellulosic biorefineries, grow the economy in rural America and contribute to home grown energy independence."

Gevo previously announced its progress to airline engine testing using starch derived isobutanol to jet fuel. Gevo expects to receive full fuel certification by 2013 from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) for its biojet fuel. Gevo also recently announced a toll-manufacturing alliance with Texas-based South Hampton Resources for the construction of a demonstration plant to make biojet fuel and other hydrocarbons from Gevo's renewable isobutanol.

"This project is a great fit for the plant we are building near Houston with South Hampton Resources," commented Christopher Ryan, Ph.D., president and COO of Gevo. "The aviation industry understands our plans to use cellulosic feedstocks, such as woody biomass, as soon as practical. They will see this project as real progress toward achieving this goal."

Other NARA members include Weyerhaeuser, Catchlight Energy, Oregon State University, Pennsylvania State University, and the University of Minnesota.

MMATech Develops Polyimide-based Hip Replacement Implant for Medical Industry

2012-01-02T07:19:00.001-08:00

Due to constant increase in human life expectancy, more and more people require total hip replacement surgeries; a field generating billions of US$ per year. One of the major problems with current materials used for hip implants is the extremely high friction and wear created between the different articulating implant components. Thus, the big players in the field are constantly striving to find improved materials. The Johnson and Johnson unit DePuy Orthopaedics issued a global recall of two hip aid systems after finding that more people than expected suffered pain which required additional surgery.

The friction and wear may cause mechanical failure of the implant resulting in its breakage and dislocation. This friction and wear creates sub-micron particles which and may activate the inflammatory system leading to local inflammation. This could lead to more significant complications including loosening of the implant, fracture of the hip bone and dislocation of the implant which requires a revision surgery. In the case of metal implants metal ions can be absorbed by tissue or enter the bloodstream resulting in allergy development and kidney and/or nerve system effects. In rare cases it might cause carcinogenic and poisoning effects.

Resolving the described problems was the main goal of the scientists and engineers at MMATech, Naharyya Israel. MMATech Ltd., develops components made of a revolutionary material of the Polyimide family, MP1™, originally developed at NASA USA for the aviation and space industry.

The material, being highly thermosetic, combines unusual strength, self-lubrication, and excellent friction and wear durability together with resistance to fatigue, creep, impact and chemicals.

MMATech manufactures acetabular liners made of its novel MP1™ material. Pre clinical and clinical studies indicated that the liner characteristics prevent, almost totally, wear debris formation, and the debris formed did not penetrate the bloodstream nor caused inflammation (inert particles).

Pilot clinical studies were conducted in New Zealand, with excellent five (5) years follow-up clinical results. MMATech plans to initiate large scale clinical studies with strategic partners in the beginning of 2012. Following extensive mechanical, pre-clinical and clinical tests, MMATech was accredited in October 2011 to the CE Mark certification for its MP1™ acetabular liner. The CE certificate enables MMATech to market its liner throughout Europe.

Braskem Launches Sugarcane-based Polyethylene Packaging for Sun Care Product

2011-12-21T00:42:00.000-08:00

The new bottles made from renewable raw material are already available at drug stores and supermarkets. The SUNDOWN® regular line of products, which uses groundbreaking technology for the sun care market, is now available at stores in more sustainable packaging. It is one of the few brands around the world to use sugarcane-based polyethylene in its packaging, which contains 60% green plastic and 40% recycled material, thus helping to avoid unnecessary disposal of solid waste. To find out whether the SUNDOWN® product is manufactured using this material, consumers must look for the "I'm Green" logo on the front and back of the packaging.

The green plastic developed by Braskem is produced from sugarcane ethanol, a 100% renewable raw material that is also used as fuel in flex cars. Using green resin not only prevents CO₂ emissions but also removes CO₂ from the atmosphere. For each ton of plastic produced, green plastic sequestrates 2.5 tons of CO₂ released during sugarcane cultivation through photosynthesis. This is a significant gain compared to traditional plastic, whose production releases 2.1 tons of CO₂.

During the 2011/2012 summer season, SUNDOWN® will avoid consuming around 100 tons of resin produced from petroleum a non-renewable source and avoid releasing the equivalent of about 630 tons of CO₂ in the atmosphere. SUNDOWN® is the only brand in Brazil's sun care segment to use this technology. It teamed up with Braskem in 2008 and since then has been working on developing new packaging made of green plastic.

"SUNDOWN® is a brand that develops products for consumers to enjoy the right measure of sunshine. The sun is associated with joy, fun, outdoor activity and nature and hence addressing the issue of sustainability by developing packaging that reduces damage to the environment reflects all that our brand stands for", says SUNDOWN® Marketing Manager, Juliana Sztrajtman.

The alliance between Johnson & Johnson, which makes SUNDOWN®, and Braskem is the result of their common commitment to sustainability. The green plastic is produced at Triunfo's petrochemical plant located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, with annual production capacity of 200 thousand tons.

50 Tons of Waste Plastic = 90-foot Thermoplastic Road Bridge

2011-12-21T00:40:00.000-08:00

With support from the Welsh Assembly Government, Vertech Limited, a relatively new start-up company partnered with Dawyck Estates, Specialist Bridge designer Cass Hayward LLP, Cardiff University’s School of Engineering, Rutgers University’s AAMIPP Department and Axion International to put in place the first recycled thermoplastic road bridge in Europe. Spanning the River Tweed at Easter Dawyck in Peeblesshire, the 90-foot bridge was built using 50 tons of waste plastic in just 4 days by an outstanding team from Glendinning Groundworks Ltd and 10 Field Squadron (Air Support), Royal Engineers.

Being made from plastic, the bridge won’t rust, requires no painting or regular maintenance; and is 100% recyclable. Vertech will also be manufacturing sheet materials using the same technology for use by the European construction sector as a replacement for plywood, MDF and laminates. With this unique technology, Vertech hopes that Europe would be able to convert a large volume of plastic waste into high performance and sustainable building materials, making better use of their plastic waste and avoid sending it to landfill or shipping it to China.

FDA to Issue Final Decision to Ban BPA in Food Packaging Next Year

2011-12-19T03:27:00.000-08:00

The FDA apparently will issue a final decision next Spring on an interest group's petition requesting a ban on the use of bisphenol A (BPA) in food packaging. This results from a settlement reached last week in Natural Resources Defense Council v. HHS, No. 11-cv-5801 (S.D.N.Y. 12/07/11).

FDA is agreeing to issue a final decision on or before March 31, 2012, settling a complaint by the NRDC that the agency unreasonably delayed a decision on its petition, which dates to 2008. In reality, FDA continued to gather data on the issues, and has been looking at taking what it has called reasonable steps to reduce exposure to BPA in certain aspects of the food supply. For example, the American Chemistry Council has supported restricting the use of BPA in infant feeding bottles and spill-proof cups used by infants.

NRDC didn't want to wait for the science, taking the usual pro-plaintiff, anti-industry position that all gaps in knowledge should be filled in with worst-case scenarios. Studies employing standardized toxicity tests have in fact supported the safety of current low levels of human exposure to BPA. (FDA has been consulting with other agencies, including the National Institutes of Health (and National Toxicology Program), Environmental Protection Agency, Consumer Product Safety Commission, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

And the interest group doesn't seem to care about the tremendous public health benefits that such products have provided. Any wide-spread ban of the product or litigation accomplishing the same result, may risk the public safety more than enhance it. Epoxy resins derived from bisphenol A are used to manufacture protective polymer coatings for the inner surface of metal food and beverage containers. This critical technology protects the contents of these containers from aggressive food products, thereby assuring a safe, wholesome, and nutritious food supply. Compared to other coating technologies, coatings derived from epoxy resins provide superior adhesion to the metal surface, greater durability, and higher resistance to the wide range of chemistries found in foods and beverages. These attributes are essential to protect the packed food from microbiological contamination, which is a significant food safety issue.

Canning might be the single most important innovation in the preservation of food in history. More than 1500 food items are regularly packed in cans, making out-of-season foods globally accessible year-round. More than 90% of food and beverage cans use epoxy-based coatings because of their strength, adhesion, formability and resistance to chemical reactions in the food and drinks without affecting the taste or smell of the product. They protect the food from the container and from bacterial contamination. They give canned foods their long shelf-life.

Lux Research Predicts Bio-based Chemicals & Materials Industry to Reach 19.7 USD B in 2016

2011-12-16T00:55:00.000-08:00

Buoyed by consumer preferences, government mandate and corporate commitments, bio-based chemicals and materials will more than double capacity to 9.2 million tons, says Lux Research.

The bio-based chemicals and materials industry, carefully nurtured from labs to factories, has reached a tipping point and capacity will double in market potential to $19.7 billion in 2016, as its global manufacturing capacity zooms 140%, according to a recent report by Lux Research.

The global capacity for 17 major bio-based materials doubled to 3.8 million tons this year, but over the next five years will climb to 9.2 million tons, bringing critical scale to an industry poised to revolutionize the chemicals market, said the report, titled, "Global Bio-based Chemical Capacity Springs to Scale."

"Several strong forces consumer preference, corporate commitment, and government mandates and support are driving development in this space." said Kalib Kersh, Lux Research Analyst and lead author of the report. "For an industry with the scale of plastics, polymers, and chemicals, no business issue is as big as that of capacity. For bio-based alternatives to compete with petroleum, they have to match billion-dollar businesses producing at megaton levels," he added.

Lux analysts tallied up the capacity of 151 identified global facilities and captured their intended operational dates, products and capacities, and added 87 additional facilities for which it made conservative estimates. Among Lux Research's other key findings:

Bioplastics steal the scene but will slow down. From 2006 to 2011, bioplastics have experienced explosive growth of 1,500% to a current aggregate capacity of 470,000 tons, and a 10.9% share of all bio-based materials. Expansion is expected to moderate, though their capacity will still grow 57% from 2011 to 2016.

Cellulose polymers and starch-based plastics dominant. Cellulose polymers and starch-derived materials still rule because they are durable, strong and easily biodegradable: They've been widely used in high-performance plastic coatings, buttons and yarns, and even early LEGO bricks. However, their share of total capacity will slide from 45% in 2011 to 21% in 2016.

Consolidation ahead. By 2016, there will be consolidation both within sectors of bio-based materials manufacturing, and regionally, as leaders buy up technologies and access to feedstock. Momentum derived from existing capacity ethanol from sugarcane ethanol being converted to ethylene and propylene, for instance will influence regional specialization.

Evonik's PMMA Solar Fresnel lens Finds Use in Large-scale Concentrating Photovoltaics

2011-12-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

Experts estimated the world's installed capacity for concentrating photovoltaics (CPV) at 23 megawatts in 2010. The market research company GTM Research expects annual demand to rise to more than a gigawatt by 2015. Gone are the days of small pilot plants. Forecasts in particular underline the increasing importance of CPV.

But a major prerequisite for building the solar panels is a supply of the required high-quality lenses. "We supplied PLEXIGLAS® Solar Fresnel lens parquets for over 10 MW of electricity from concentrating photovoltaics in 2011 already," says Uwe Loffler, who is responsible for the Solar Market Segment at the Acrylic Polymers Business Line of Evonik Industries. "That proved we can produce lenses for multi-megawatt projects."

PLEXIGLAS® is used for the primary lenses in the solar panels. These high-quality lens parquets can be supplied with an edge length in excess of one meter. Customers have confirmed the optical efficiency of over 87%. The key properties in this respect are high light transmission and the outstandingly accurate mold surface reproduction of the high-precision Fresnel structures. Added to this is the longevity of the material that retains its excellent transparency even in permanent use.

Evonik Industries is a worldwide manufacturer of PMMA products sold under the PLEXIGLAS® trademark on the European, Asian, African and Australian continents and under the trademark ACRYLITE® in the Americas.

Arizona Researchers to Widen Methods for Producing Bio-based Styrene

2011-12-08T02:47:00.001-08:00

Styrene is one of the major building-block chemicals used to make many of the rubbery polymers and plastic materials we use today. More than 6 billion tons of it is manufactured each year in the United States alone, most of which goes into producing insulating materials, automobile tires, footwear, medical devices and hundreds of other widely used products. The problem is that all styrene is currently derived from a dwindling resource petroleum and its production requires one of the most energy-intensive processes in the petrochemical manufacturing industry. More than three metric tons of steam is necessary to produce just one metric ton of styrene. That excessive energy consumption also produces significant amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to the detrimental buildup of greenhouses gases in the atmosphere.

At Arizona State University, David Nielsen and Rebekah McKenna are seeking ways to make styrene and other common petrochemicals using renewable resources. They want to produce materials that are more sustainable, require less energy to produce, and alleviate negative environmental impacts when they are manufactured. Nielsen is an assistant professor of Chemical Engineering in the School for Engineering of Matter, Transportation and Energy, one of ASU's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. McKenna is studying to earn a doctoral degree in chemical engineering. They're experimenting with engineering microorganisms to act as catalysts for making styrene from renewable resources in this case biological materials, like sugars from plants.

The bacteria they have genetically engineered for that purpose has drawn attention from peers in their field. A report on their work was first published in the international science and engineering journal Metabolic Engineering, and then later appeared in Nature Chemical Biology as a featured "research highlight". This past summer, McKenna was one of only a handful of student researchers selected by the Society for Industrial Microbiology to give a presentation at its annual meeting. Her report, "Styrene Biosynthesis from Renewable Resources," earned the conference's Best Student Oral Presentation award. "What we've done is create a new metabolic pathway," Nielsen explains. "We've found the particular genes and enzymes required to achieve the necessary chemistry, and we have strung them together in a way that enables our engineered bacteria to function as a sort of biological catalyst. In this way the cells can perform all of the biochemical reactions required to convert sugars like glucose into styrene".

He and McKenna are doing what he describes as building "microscopic microbial chemical factories," designed to synthesize the raw ingredients required to make products with characteristics identical to those that in the past have been derived only from petroleum. If that is achieved, it could be possible for these chemicals produced from renewable materials to "plug directly into existing infrastructure, and be ready to use in current manufacturing systems that provide many of the products we use every day," Nielsen says.

The next leap a particularly challenging one involves further improving the bacteria and scaling up the process to where styrene yields can be produced from renewable resources in as economically viable a way as styrene made from petroleum. Nielsen sees potential for his and McKenna's research to contribute to engineering efforts to develop other commonly used chemicals, fuels, and materials from renewable resources that would "create whole new markets for renewable biochemicals and biopolymers". At the very least, "we hope to be able to develop viable renewable alternatives for the bio-plastics industry," he says. "From there, we might be able to begin making all sorts of new products from renewable, biological materials," including new kinds of fuels.

Molecular Solar's Organic Photovoltaics Used for Charging Electronic Device Shines at Lord Stafford Awards

2011-12-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

Molecular Solar is pioneering ultra-thin, flexible solar panels that can be used in portable chargers for mobile phones and other handheld devices, allowing devices to be recharged without needing to be connected to a mains power supply. As well as being a convenient way to charge electronic equipment, the technology will also help to reduce an individual's carbon footprint.

The Lord Stafford Awards showcase collaboration between business and academia in the Midlands and Molecular Solar was recognised for its very successful partnership with Warwick Ventures, the University of Warwick's technology commercialisation company.

Warwick Ventures helped set the company up in 2008 and has been instrumental in securing funding to enable Molecular Solar to translate the research done in the University's Department of Chemistry into marketable products.

Most recently, Molecular Solar announced that its solar cells, which are made from organic photovoltaic materials, can now produce voltages of over 4 volts, making its technology suitable for recharging the lithium ion batteries used in many handheld devices. This means the cells are now ready to be developed for commercial use.

Professor Shipman says: "Molecular Solar is founded on the strength of its partnerships with Warwick Ventures, the University of Warwick's Department of Chemistry, and other companies with whom we are working closely. We are delighted that the success of those partnerships has been recognised by the Lord Stafford team."

Quentin Compton Bishop, CEO of Warwick Ventures, says: "Warwick Ventures has spun out more than 50 companies over the past 11 years and it is always a great honour to be recognised in the Lord Stafford Awards. We are delighted with Molecular Solar's achievement and look forward to working with them as they continue to grow and develop a truly groundbreaking technology."

PolyOne Utilizes Sanitized's Antimicrobial Solutions to Produce Medical Device for Healthcare Applications

2011-12-05T08:58:00.000-08:00

PolyOne Corporation, a premier global provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions, announced an alliance with Sanitized AG, one of the leading producers of antimicrobials with over 50 years of experience, to provide innovative, customizable polymer solutions for specialized healthcare and medical device applications.

PolyOne will utilize Sanitized® MedX antimicrobials in select formulations of WithStand™ Antimicrobial Solutions, which consist of active ingredients developed using proprietary technology that helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses and fungi on plastic surfaces.

"PolyOne continues to align with leading global and innovative companies that help us better serve our customers," said Craig M. Nikrant, Senior Vice President and President, Global Specialty Engineered Materials, PolyOne Corporation. "This alliance gives Sanitized the benefit of PolyOne's expertise in medical polymer formulation and our penetration in the healthcare market. In turn, PolyOne gains from Sanitized's unique bacteria protection technology."

PolyOne WithStand™ solutions are ideal for healthcare applications, such as minimally invasive surgical device housings, respiratory and anesthesia devices, catheters, hospital furnishings and medical packaging.

Sequana Selects Evonik's PEEK to Design its Pump Implant for Medical Applications

2011-12-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

The newly-developed ALFAPump™ System from Sequana Medical Switzerland helps patients suffering from excessive fluid in their abdomen: the battery-operated pump implant is based on the PEEK polymer VESTAKEEP® from Evonik Industries and has received CE approval. It pumps the excessive fluid from the abdominal cavity into the bladder, from which it can be excreted by the patient in the natural manner. Up to now, the water has had to be drained using painful paracentesis during regular doctor's appointments. Patients with liver disorders, congestive heart failure and certain types of cancer are particularly affected by ascites. The new system consists of a subcutaneously implanted pump and a catheter system: one catheter connects the abdomen to the pump, while the second connects the pump to the bladder.

The new technology is made possible thanks to the use of VESTAKEEP® PEEK, a polyether ether ketone which is particularly characterized by its biocompatibility and biostability. In contrast to metal, the ion content of VESTAKEEP® PEEK is virtually zero, thus preventing shift reactions with the body. What's more, the PEEK implant is considerably lighter than a comparable metal implant. The VESTAKEEP® PEEK iGrades are specifically suited to long-term use in the human body and can also be made transparent to X-ray on request, so that they cannot be seen on X-rays.

"The ALFAPump™ System not only improves the quality of life for patients but also represents a cost-effective solution," explains Dr. Noel Johnson, CEO at Sequana Medical. Marc Knebel, Business Management Director at VESTAKEEP® Medical & Implants, adds:

"The ALFAPump™ System is a perfect example of the many benefits of PEEK compared to metal in this field. Other areas, such as spinal implants, can also benefit from these advantages."

The high processability of PEEK is a further advantage of its use: VESTAKEEP® PEEK polymer can be manufactured using either the injection molding or cutting procedures, thereby supporting freedom of design in the development of new implant technology.

Teijin to Open CFRTP Pilot Plant for Producing Composites from Carbon Fiber for Japan's Automotive Industry

2011-12-03T00:07:00.000-08:00

Teijin Limited has announced that it will establish the world's first pilot plant for fully integrated production of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) components from carbon fiber on the premises of its Matsuyama Factory in Ehime Prefecture, Japan. The new plant will feature Teijin's unprecedented mass production technology for CFRTP components, which significantly reduces cycle times required for molding composite products to under a minute, enabling rapid production of various prototypes and performance evaluation tests.

Construction of the new plant will begin shortly, with operations expected to commence in mid 2012. The new plant will enable Teijin to further accelerate its commercialization of CFRTP components for mass-produced automobiles and other industrial uses. Capital expenditure for the establishment of the pilot plant will total over two billion yen.

Teijin's proprietary mass production technology for CFRTP enables the integrated production of carbon fiber to composite products within one minute, the ideal tact time required by automakers for mass-produced vehicles. The technology, which promises to realize revolutionary weight-reduction, is expected to find a wide range of applications in addition to automobiles, where certain levels of structural strength are required. CFRTP components are also highly recyclable, as technically its thermoplastic resins can be converted into desired shapes when heated.

To introduce this cutting-edge technology to automakers, Teijin developed an electric-vehicle concept car earlier this year featuring a body structure made entirely of CFRTP components and weighing only 47 kilograms or roughly one-fifth the weight of a conventional automobile body structure.

Through the new pilot plant, Teijin aims to accelerate its market development and further its position as a global leader in carbon fiber composite products.

Global wind power set for steady growth to 2020

2011-11-30T22:18:00.001-08:00

Global wind energy installed capacity increased at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.9% from 74.1 GW in 2006 to 198.2 GW in 2010, of which 36.1 GW came online in 2010. There was a fall in annual additions in 2010 by 10.9%, however, as major wind markets such as the US, Germany and Spain were hit by the global economic crisis.

The global wind power markets are expected to recover in 2011 with the huge order intake by major wind manufacturers, the growing Asia-Pacific region, emerging South America and Africa regions, steady European wind markets and recovery in North America, GlobalData says.

The growing Asia-Pacific wind power market powered by India, China and other emerging countries such as Republic of Korea, Thailand and Philippines will continue to drive the wind power market as well as emerging South America and Africa countries such as Brazil, Columbia, Argentina and South Africa.

China largest in 2010

China was the global leader with a cumulative installed wind power capacity share of 22.6% in 2010, overtaking the US as the number one wind power market in terms of new installations in 2009 following the addition of 13.8 GW of wind capacity in that year.

China has doubled its cumulative capacity every year during 2006-2009 and grew by 72.4% in 2010 after the addition of 18.8 GW of new capacity. Supportive government policies which include an attractive concessional programme and the availability of low cost financing from government banks are critical reasons for the success of the Chinese wind power market, the analyst says.

It is expected that China will continue to promote wind power in order to reduce its carbon footprint and increase rural electrification.

US comes in second

The US is the second largest wind power market with a cumulative share of 20.3% of the global wind power market. Its share decreased by 1.4% in 2010 which lost the US its market supremacy.

Germany is the third largest wind power market in the world with a share of 13.7%. Germany maintained its ranking in 2010 but lost 2.2% to competing nations. Spain, which is the fourth largest wind power market with a cumulative share of 10.4%, lost 1.4% in 2010 as it continued to face economic problems. The other major wind power markets include India with a share of 6.6%, Italy and France with a share of 2.9% each, the UK with 2.6%, Portugal with 2.1% and Canada with 2%.

Offshore wind gains momentum from 2015

The offshore wind market is expected to become one of the major market segments of wind power generation during the forecast period. Offshore wind power installations accounted for 1.6% of the global wind power market in 2010.

The UK, Germany, the Netherlands, the US and China are the biggest offshore wind power markets in the world with a number of projects currently in planning and under construction. With an increasing number of countries exploiting offshore wind potential during the forecast period 2010-2020 it is expected that its share in the global wind power market will reach 9% by 2020.

Vestas largest manufacturer in 2010

The global wind turbine market is a consolidated market with the top 10 players accounting for 80.4% of the market. Vestas Wind Systems A/S dominated the global market in 2010 with a 12.5% share and a total of 4719 MW of new turbines installed. The company however lost a share of 0.9% in 2010. Vestas is the industry leader and one of the strongest vertically integrated wind turbine manufacturers.

Chinese giant Sinovel Wind Group Co Ltd was the second largest wind turbine manufacturer in 2010 with a share of 11.6%. The company installed 4386 MW of wind turbines and gained a 2.3% market share. Sinovel is followed by another Chinese turbine manufacturer, Xinjiang GoldWind Science & Technology Co Ltd, which accounted for 9.9% of the market in 2010. The company installed over 3.7 GW of turbines in 2010 and gained a share of 2.7%.

GE Energy, which was the second largest turbine manufacturer in 2009, slipped down to fourth position after losing 2.8% of its market share in 2010. The company accounted for 9.4% of the market in 2010 compared to 12.2% in 2009.

Gamesa Corporacion Tecnologica S.A. accounted for 7.5%, Dongfang Electric Corporation Limited accounted for 6.9%, Enercon GmbH accounted for 6.8%,Guodian United Power Technology accounted for 6.5%, Suzlon Energyaccounted for 4.8% and Siemens accounted for 4.6% of the global annual capacity in 2010.

Consolidations on the horizon

The major business strategies adopted by the global manufacturers for long term sustainability in the market are investments in research and development (R&D) to expand existing product portfolios to meet changing market needs, capacity expansions and setting up manufacturing units across regions to cater to local demand.

Consolidation is on the cards as the US market is undergoing correction and the Chinese wind market is expected to stabilise during the forecast period. Companies have modest expectations of growth for 2011 as major markets have slowed down but are expected to pick up in the second half of year.

ESPCI Researchers Develop Light-weight Thermoset Plastic for Demanding Applications

2011-11-22T10:17:00.000-08:00

French scientists have created a new lightweight plastic that is as strong and stable as other thermoset materials such as Bakelite, yet can be easily reworked and reshaped when heated. The team suggests the material could be used in many applications, from aviation to electronics, while being recyclable and repairable.

Typically, the atoms in thermoset polymers are permanently crosslinked giving them excellent mechanical properties and solvent resistance. However, unlike thermoplastics, which can be repeatedly melted and moulded, thermosets remain fixed in shape once made and cannot be reprocessed.

Now, Damien Montarnal and colleagues led by Ludwik Leibler at the Industrial Physics and Chemistry Higher Educational Institution in Paris have created a thermosetting material that can be repeatedly reshaped like a silica glass using heat. According to the team the reworked material retains the mechanical properties of the original material.

'These materials are thermoset organic resins but they can be worked by techniques similar to blowing and smithing hitherto available solely for metals and glass,' says Leibler. 'Compared with metal and glass, they bring lightness, ease of implementation and a wide range of hardness and extensibility. Compared to other thermoset organic resins, they can be reshaped, recycled, repaired and still present solvent resistance and good mechanical properties.'

The material was made like a conventional epoxy resin by mixing a liquid resin, hardener and catalyst and then heating it between two hot plates. After complete curing, the material was cut and shaped in an oven or by using a heat gun. By applying sufficient heat, the material can be reshaped and remoulded. The team also demonstrated that it can be ground down into a powder and then remoulded or injected.

It works because the material is able to flow when heated thanks to reversible exchange reactions by transesterification. These allow some of the crosslinks in the molecular network to change the topology of the material without breaking bonds in the molecular network hence maintaining its integrity as a solid and preventing depolymerisation. During cooling exchange reactions become so sluggish that the network appears to be a solid just like silica glass.

It works because the material is able to flow when heated thanks to reversible exchange reactions mediated by transesterification. These allow some of the crosslinks in the molecular network to temporarily break which changes the topology of the molecular network while maintaining its integrity as a solid and preventing depolymerisation. The broken crosslinks then reconnect during cooling.

'By implementing the concept of crosslink exchange they have created a novel polymer network with unique capabilities,' comments Christopher Bowman who investigates synthetic polymers at the University of Colorado in Boulder, US. 'It is similar to other covalent adaptable networks that exist but implements a distinct reaction mechanism that utilises a non-radical mediated exchange reaction to enable the adaptation process. This reaction keeps the material in its polymer state but allows for reprocessing and recycling.' Bowman expects the principle applications will be in healable and recyclable composite materials.

'Possible applications include coatings, furniture, propellers and, more generally, any complex part in the fields where one wishes to combine lightness with mechanical and chemical resistance such as aviation, automotive, portable electronics, etc,' says Leibler. He suggests the new material, once reinforced by fibres, might even compete with metals in the most demanding applications.

Toray Produces Fully Renewable PET Fiber Derived from Gevo's Biobased Para-xylene

2011-11-22T10:10:00.001-08:00

Toray Industries, Inc. has succeeded in producing laboratory-scale samples of the world's first fully renewable biobased PET fiber by using fully renewable biobased PET derived from biobased para-xylene from Gevo, Inc., one of the leading companies in renewable chemicals and advanced biofuels.

Gevo has succeeded in converting isobutanol, produced from biomass by employing its own highly effective production method that uses synthetic biology, to synthesize para-xylene employing conventional chemical process used in commercial operations.

Toray used terephthalic acid synthesized from Gevo's biobased para-xylene and commercially available renewable mono ethylene glycol (MEG) as raw materials, and successfully produced the PET samples by applying a new technology and PET polymerization in June this year. This biobased PET has exhibited properties equivalent to petro-based PET in laboratory conditions.

Toray has also succeeded in the production of a fiber using this fully renewable biobased PET for the first time in the world. PET has one of the highest production volumes among petrochemical products in the world. Around 40 million tons of polyester fiber, for which PET is the source, is produced worldwide annually. Polyester fibers are widely used in our daily life as well as in industry, and it is one of the core products manufactured and sold by Toray.

The success of this trial, albeit under laboratory conditions, is proof that polyester fiber can be industrially produced from fully renewable biomass feedstock alone. This is a significant step that would contribute to the realization of a sustainable, low-carbon society.

Toray is planning to exhibit this laboratory-scale fully biobased PET fiber samples at Eco-Products 2011, which will be held at The Tokyo Big Sight in December 2011.

Under its management policy that all business strategies must place priority on the global environment in an effort to help realize a sustainable low-carbon society, Toray has been promoting the development of biobased polymers while expanding the businesses related to biobased materials such as poly lactic acid (PLA). The expansion of biobased polymers is an important initiative central to the Group's Green Innovation projects under its new medium-term management program "Project AP-G 2013," launched in April this year.

BASF's Tear-resistant Bioplastic Bin Liner Passes Test Under Real-world Conditions

2011-11-22T10:09:00.000-08:00

Leftover lettuce, old bunches of flowers, potato peelings, coffee grounds: the average kitchen generates lots of organic waste. This can be turned into nutrient-rich compost in an industrial composting plant, but only if it is collected separately in advance and that can be a bothersome and unhygienic task. Throw the leftovers straight into the bin and you will be confronted with a foul-smelling residue after emptying it. Lining the bin with a paper bag means liquid soaks through, the paper tears. This dilemma results in large quantities of compostable material ending up in the normal rubbish and subsequently being incinerated, using lots of energy in the process. Alternatively, biodegradable waste is disposed of in regular plastic bags, which must be painstakingly removed at the composting plant.

Bioplastic Bin Liners

BASF has a solution to this problem: the compostable plastic Ecovio® FS. In an industrial composting plant, this innovative material biodegrades within four weeks. Bin liners made from Ecovio FS are strong and tear-resistant, even if the waste inside is wet. Liquid from tea bags or fruit leftovers does not seep through reducing unpleasant odors and putting an end to laborious bin-scrubbing. Once full, the bag can simply be put out for collection with its contents.

The plastic's properties first underwent extensive investigation in pilot projects at composting plants in Germany, Canada and Australia. But would the new compost bags pass the test when used on a large scale. To find out, BASF and its project partners examined the bags under real-world conditions. The study took place in Bad Durkheim in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, from April to June 2011. Around 65,000 households each received ten Ecovio FS bio-waste bags free of charge, and could buy more if needed. Consultancy IBK-Solutions GmbH was responsible for analyzing the compost. "The results were very positive," says Erhard Freunscht, the Bad Durkheim council member responsible for waste management. "Residents really took to the new bin liners, as was clear from the number of bags put out for collection. And after around three weeks, the bags had biodegraded a complete success from our point of view."

The key to Ecovio FS's outstanding compostability lies in its composition. The material comprises a partly petroleum-based, compostable plastic called Ecoflex® FS, and polylactic acid made from corn starch. Polylactic acid, which is derived solely from renewable raw materials, tends to be brittle in its pure state. But when combined with Ecoflex, a flexible plastic is created that can be used to manufacture a variety of products, including bin liners. In the controlled conditions of an industrial composting plant high temperature and humidity, defined oxygen levels microorganisms such as fungi and bacteria break the plastic down into water, carbon dioxide and biomass. In other words, they transform the bag and the bio-waste into valuable compost.

"Both components of Ecovio Ecoflex and polylactic acid, are biodegradable," explains Professor Andreas Kunkel, Head of Research for Biopolymers at BASF. "For a material to be biodegradable, it is unimportant whether the feedstock is plant or petroleum-based. What matters is the structure of the molecules. Because this synthetic polymer has been engineered for outstanding biodegradability, microorganisms can easily digest it." Ecovio FS's superior biodegradable properties are recognized internationally, and it conforms to all relevant standards for compostable and biodegradable plastics in Europe, North America and Asia.

Bio-waste bin liners are by no means the only application. Paper cups can be covered with a thin layer of Ecovio FS, making them both waterproof and compostable. The same applies to shrink films for drink bottle packaging. And not only bin liners but also shopping bags can be manufactured from Ecovio. Agriculture, too, stands to benefit: by using biodegradable mulch films for their crops instead of conventional polyethylene film, farmers can simply plough it into the ground instead of painstakingly collecting it after the harvest.

International demand for biodegradable plastics is on the rise, with experts estimating an annual market growth of around 20 percent in the next few years. And BASF, a leading manufacturer of bioplastics, has significantly expanded its Ecoflex and Ecovio production capacity to keep pace. In future these plastics should make organic waste collection much easier so more ends up as compost and less in landfill.

United States: Honda Civic Natural Gas wins 2012 Green Car of the Year award

2011-11-18T19:13:00.000-08:00

The all-new 2012 model – the only factory-built, CNG-powered car produced in America – received the honor yesterday. The prize was presented to Honda by the editors of Green Car Journal representing a diverse panel of environmental experts and automotive enthusiasts who annually select a single vehicle for its outstanding environmental performance.

The six-judge panel on the Green Car of the Year jury selected the Civic Natural Gas from a field of five contenders, including the Ford Focus Electric, Mitsubishi i, Toyota Prius V and Volkswagen Passat TDI.

"The Civic Natural Gas is not only a great vehicle, it also demonstrates Honda's commitment to provide a variety of alternatives to gasoline," said Michael Accavitti, vice president of marketing at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The Civic Natural Gas and the all-new Fit EV that we introduced yesterday at the Los Angeles Auto Show are the latest additions to a rapidly expanding family of alternative energy Honda vehicles aimed at cutting petroleum use and reducing our carbon footprint."

The model’s engine produces almost zero smog-forming emissions and is the cleanest internal-combustion vehicle certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

All Civic Natural Gas models are produced by Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC (HMIN) using domestic and globally sourced parts. HMIN is the recipient of a 2011 Platinum Award for quality from J.D. Power and Associates. In addition to being named 2012 Green Car of the Year, previous versions of the CNG-powered Civic have topped the "greenest vehicle" rankings of the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) for eight straight years.

Biggest Plastics Recycling Initiative for London 2012 Olympic Games

2011-11-18T08:42:00.000-08:00

As part of its commitment to help London 2012 stage a sustainable Olympic Games, The Coca-Cola Company is placing 260 new recycling bins in locations around the city centre. These bins will encourage people to recycle the 11,000 tons of waste produced in the capital every day - before, during and after the Games. Working in partnership with WRAP, Coca-Cola has already established 44 Recycle Zones across the country, and has plans to almost double this number by the time the Games commence.

The process that follows the collection of waste includes the following steps:
1. The bottle gets picked up, squashed as small as possible and taken to a reprocessing plant
2. There, the bottle is spun in a special machine to shake off dirt and a magnet removes any metal
3. All the bottles are sorted by color and type
4. The sorted bottles are ground into flakes, and the flakes are then sieved through to get rid of any discolored or contaminated bits
5. These tiny pieces of plastic can then be made into a new bottle, ready for use.

Berkeley Lab research sparks record-breaking solar cell performances

2011-11-08T10:09:00.000-08:00

Theoretical research by scientists with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)'s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) has led to record-breaking sunlight-to-electricity conversion efficiencies in solar cells. The researchers showed that, contrary to conventional scientific wisdom, the key to boosting solar cell efficiency is not absorbing more photons but emitting more photons.

"A great solar cell also needs to be a great light emitting diode," says Eli Yablonovitch, the Berkeley Lab electrical engineer who led this research. "This is counter-intuitive. Why should a solar cell be emitting photons? What we demonstrated is that the better a solar cell is at emitting photons, the higher its voltage and the greater the efficiency it can produce."

Yablonovitch is the corresponding author of a paper describing this work titled "Intense Internal and External Fluorescence as Solar Cells Approach the Shockley-Queisser Efficiency Limit." Co-authoring this paper with Yablonovitch were Owen Miller of Berkeley Lab, and Sarah Kurtz, at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

In their paper, Yablonovitch, Miller, and Kurtz describe how external fluorescence is the key to approaching the theoretical maximum efficiency at which a solar cell can convert sunlight into electricity. This theoretical efficiency, called the Shockley-Queisser efficiency limit (SQ Limit), measures approximately 33.5% for a single p-n junction solar cell. This means that if a solar cell collects 1,000 W per square meter of solar energy, the most electricity it could produce would be about 335 W per square meter.

Calculations by Miller, who is a member of Yablonovitch’s research group, showed that the semiconductor gallium arsenide is capable of reaching the SQ Limit. Based on this work, a private company co-founded by Yablonovitch, Alta Devices Inc., has been able to fabricate solar cells from gallium arsenide that have achieved a record conversion efficiency of 28.4%.

"Owen Miller provided an accurate theory on how to reach the SQ Limit that for the first time included external fluorescence efficiency," Yablonovitch says. "His calculations for gallium arsenide showed that external fluorescence provides the voltage boost that Alta researchers subsequently observed."

Solar or photovoltaic cells represent one of the best possible technologies for providing an absolutely clean and virtually inexhaustible source of electricity. However, for this dream to be realized, solar cells must be able to efficiently and cost-competitively convert sunlight into electricity. They must also be far less expensive to make.

The most efficient solar cells in commercial use today are made from monocrystalline silicon wafers and typically reach a conversion efficiency of about 23%. High grade silicon is an expensive semiconductor but is a weak collector of photons. Gallium arsenide, although even more expensive than silicon, is more proficient at absorbing photons, which means much less material is needed to make a solar cell.

"Gallium arsenide absorbs photons 10,000 times more strongly than silicon for a given thickness but is not 10,000 times more expensive," says Yablonovitch. "Based on performance, it is the ideal material for making solar cells."

Past efforts to boost the conversion efficiency of solar cells focused on increasing the number of photons that a cell absorbs. Absorbed sunlight in a solar cell produces electrons that must be extracted from the cell as electricity. Those electrons that are not extracted fast enough, decay and release their energy. If that energy is released as heat, it reduces the solar cell’s power output. Miller's calculations showed that if this released energy exits the cell as external fluorescence, it would boost the cell’s output voltage.

"This is the central counter-intuitive result that permitted efficiency records to be broken," Yablonovitch says.

As Miller explains, "In the open-circuit condition of a solar cell, electrons have no place to go so they build up in density and, ideally, emit external fluorescence that exactly balances the incoming sunlight. As an indicator of low internal optical losses, efficient external fluorescence is a necessity for approaching the SQ Limit."

Using a single-crystal thin film technology developed earlier by Yablonovitch, called "epitaxial liftoff," Alta Devices was able to fabricate solar cells based on gallium arsenide that not only smashed previous solar conversion efficiency records, but can be produced at well below the cost of any other solar cell technology. Alta Devices expects to have gallium arsenide solar panels on the market within a year.

"The SQ Limit is still the foundation of solar cell technology," says Yablonovitch. "However, the physics of light extraction and external fluorescence are clearly relevant for high performance solar cells."

Yablonovitch believes that the theoretical work by he and his co-authors, in combination with the performance demonstrations at Alta Devices, could dramatically change the future of solar cells.

"We're going to be living in a world where solar panels are very cheap and very efficient," Yablonovitch says.

Brazilian Designer Selects Ticona's Long Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic to Design a Chair

2011-11-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

A new plastic chair introduced in Brazil is receiving awards for its contemporary look with a focus on features such as geometry, harmony and consistency thanks to Ticona Engineering Polymers and the exceptionally well balanced property profile of Celstran® long fiber reinforced thermoplastics (LFRT).

Manufactured from a single mold, the IC01 chair by designer Guto Indio da Costa uses a glass fiber reinforced polypropylene (PP) Celstran LFRT grade from Ticona that offers design, processing and cost advantages vs. unfilled polypropylenes and acrylonitrile butadiene styrenes (ABS), as well as short glass reinforced nylons and polyesters. "In addition to the significant weight and cost advantages over typical materials used in similar applications, this Celstran PP LFRT offers high stiffness, strength, toughness and low warpage while providing wide design latitude, colorability and a much better surface finish out of the mold," said Simone Orosco, Development & Marketing Manager, Brazil.

Celstran PP LFRT grades from Ticona offer several advantages:

Weight and cost savings less weight at equal wall thickness

Improved creep resistance resists compression and deformation from skin/cover shrinkage

Improved impact performance reduces breakage during shipping, handling and assembly

Improved notched impact strength better load transfer and predictable performance in cold temperatures

Superior tensile strength higher tensile strength and elongation resulting in ductile behavior

The Ticona team, including George Dini, sales manager, Brazil, worked with the Rio de Janeiro design house Indio da Costa and its Brazilian molder Pnaples, which is supplied by the Ticona distributor Tecnopolymer. The chairs are injection molded in various colors by adding tint concentrates to the base Celstran PP LFRT.

SABIC's Low-moisture Absorbing PEI Replaces PMI in Aerospace Applications

2011-11-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

SABIC's Innovative Plastics strategic business unit is presenting the low moisture absorption of Ultem* polyetherimide (PEI) foam for composite aircraft structures. Ultem resin's low-moisture absorption is critical in that it helps address two major aircraft OEM challenges: reducing weight for fuel conservation and emissions reduction, and lowering systems costs while delivering equal or better performance than traditional materials. Low moisture absorption combined with the proven flame-smoke-toxicity (FST), dielectric, acoustic and thermal performance of Ultem foam underscores the pioneering work of SABIC in engineering superior, world-renowned thermoplastic solutions for the aircraft industry.

"By replacing competitive materials such as polymethacrylimide (PMI) with Ultem foam, OEMs and tiers can meet their environmental goals and industry challenges, while lowering systems costs by streamlining processing and extending the application's useful life," said Kim Choate, Global Product Marketing Manager, Ultem, Innovative Plastics. "Investment in proactive laboratory testing is just one of the ways in which SABIC delivers ever-better solutions for the aircraft industry to improve performance and drive cost advantages across the board."

Ultem foam products, available in three densities, are manufactured as boards for use in skin-core-skin composite structures. Applications include luggage bins, galleys and lower wall panels.

Ultem Foam Outperforms PMI in Hot, Humid Conditions:

Testing involved exposing Ultem foam and PMI foam boards to elevated heat (70C/158F) and humidity (85 percent relative humidity) in an environmental chamber. Test results demonstrated that the Ultem foam absorbed less than 0.5 percent moisture by weight at 1,000 hours. In contrast, PMI absorbed five to six percent moisture by weight at just 150 hours and maintained those results through 1,000 hours.

Weight gain from moisture absorption adds to the overall weight of the aircraft, adversely affecting fuel consumption and emissions. On average, an aircraft will burn about 0.03 kg (0,06 lbs) of fuel per hour for each kilogram (2.2 lbs) carried on board. Given that the total commercial fleet flies about 57 million hours per year, cutting one kilogram per flight can save roughly 1,700 tons of fuel and 5,400 tons of carbon dioxide per year.

In addition, moisture absorption itself can have a disruptive effect on electronics (interference) and may cause condensation on sensitive areas of the interior. The cycle of absorption and drying that occurs as the aircraft travels through different environmental conditions also has the potential to cause delamination of a composite structure and can distort the dimensions of a part. Such results can lead to more-frequent repairs and downtime.

Ultem Foam Avoids Time and Cost of Drying Boards:

Another important benefit of Ultem foam's outstanding low moisture absorption occurs during processing. Often, PMI foam boards must be conditioned (dried and/or stored in a special area) before they can be machined, compression molded or thermoformed. This extra step adds time, costs and overhead to the process. Ultem foam avoids this scenario. Further, PMI may have to undergo a multi-step annealing process. In addition, Ultem foam is compatible with metals and thermoset laminate materials, potentially eliminating adhesives and other secondary operations that are common to the aircraft industry.

Ultem foam has a density of 10 to 30 times less than the traditional resin. It exhibits the outstanding FST performance of Ultem resin (it meets Ohio State University (OSU) performance levels below 50/50) and offers excellent dielectric and acoustic properties, including demonstrated noise reduction coefficients of greater than 0.3.

Scientists make human blood protein from rice

2011-10-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

Scientists at a Chinese university said Monday they can use rice to make albumin, a protein found in human blood that is often used for treating burns, traumatic shock and liver disease.
When extracted from rice seeds, the protein is "physically and chemically equivalent to blood-derived human serum albumin (HSA)," said the research in the US-published Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

The findings could lead to a breakthrough in production of HSA, which typically comes from human blood donations.

The demand for the blood protein is about 500 tons per year worldwide, and China has faced worrying shortages in the past.

The rice method was devised by scientists at Wuhan University in China and colleagues from the National Research Council of Canada and the Center for Functional Genomics at the University at Albany in New York.

First, they genetically engineered rice seeds to produce high levels of HSA. Then, they worked out a way to purify the protein from the seeds, gathering about 2.75 grams of the protein per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of rice.

When they tested the rice-made protein in rats with liver cirrhosis, a common condition for which the human equivalent is often used, they found it produced similar outcomes to treatment with HSA.

"Our results suggest that a rice seed bioreactor produces cost-effective recombinant HSA that is safe and can help to satisfy an increasing worldwide demand for human serum albumin," said the study.

The protein is often used in the manufacture of vaccines and drugs and is given to patients with serious burn injuries, hemorrhagic shock and liver disease, the researchers said.

In 2007, a shortage in China led to price spikes and a brief rise in the number of fraudulent albumin medicines on the market.

Concerns have also been raised about the potential for the transmission of hepatitis and HIV, since the protein comes from human blood.

Large-scale planting of genetically modified rice fields that could produce enough seed for mass production of the protein also raises environmental and food supply contamination concerns, since rice is a major world food staple.

However, the study authors noted that rice is a largely self-pollinating crop, pointing to previous studies that showed "a very low frequency (0.04-0.80%) of pollen-mediated gene flow between genetically modified (GM) rice and adjacent non-GM plants."

More research is needed to evaluate the safety of the rice-derived protein in animals and humans before it can be considered for the market.

Body parts manufacturing: Future may be now

2011-10-30T04:21:00.000-07:00

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-500165_162-20126356/body-parts-manufacturing-future-may-be-now/

CBS News)

Synthetic body parts sound like something out of a science fiction novel, but body parts that can be used in humans are actually being made and used. A medical professor in England has developed a new nano-plastic that has enabled a world first in organ transplantation and opened the door to "off-the-shelf" body parts.

CBS News correspondent Mark Phillips remarked that professor Alex Seifalian's work might well be the start of a whole new medical industry. While the technique is not yet approved in the United States, Seifalian's London lab is already getting body part orders from other countries around the world.

"60 Minutes" on growing body parts

Phillips, who recently visited Seifalian's lab, reported that you might think you'd stumbled onto a film set for a re-make of "Frankenstein" in which the synthetic parts are manufactured. Bubbling vats there contain noses, ears -- even a windpipe and trachea.

But how are the parts actually made?

Seifalian explained the breakthrough technique for manufacturing replacement organs happens with the help of a a special plastic that, Phillips noted, has the potential to change the transplant landscape.

On his visit to the lab, Phillips asked, "So an actual living windpipe grows in a jar?"

Seifalian said, "Exactly. So that's what's transplanted."

There has only been one actual transplant so far of what's called a "wholly tissue-engineered synthetic windpipe." It was successfully completed in a Stockholm, Sweden, hospital in June.

The recipient, Andemariam Teklesenbet Beyene, from Eritrea, who had previously been diagnosed with inoperable throat cancer, is now recovering well.

Beyene told Phillips, "They soon discharged me, and then I was feeling OK, you know, I was feeling hope for the future."

The technique involves making a glass mock-up of the diseased body part and then coating it in a new type of polymer -- a rubbery type substance developed in a lab. Seifalain explained it's a special type of plastic with microscopic pores, onto which stem cells taken from the patient can attach and grow.

Chemicals in a "red liquid growth medium" determine that the stem cells grow into the required type of tissue.

Phillips said, "So basically, you're providing a scaffold -- a kind of foundation or form around which the patient's own cells then regrow the diseased body part."

Seifalian said, "The cell remodels itself and becomes the patient's own."

And because the cells are the patient's own, they are not rejected by the body's immune system -- the usual problem with transplants.

And the trachea, Seifalian says, may be just the beginning.

Seifalian said, "The heart is possible, but a more complex organ like lung and brain are more complex to build, but liver is possible."

The lab is already growing blood vessels to be used in heart bypass surgery.

But Seifalian shies away from descriptions that liken his work to the construction of the fictional character in Mary Shelley's book "Frankenstein."

"We're not making (a) human," he said. "We're just making spare parts, human spare parts. You know, just simple."

Boeing funds strategic carbon fibre recycling collaboration with the University of Nottingham

2011-10-29T07:58:00.000-07:00

In desert ‘aircraft graveyards’, where retired planes often go when flight service ends, good parts are removed and sold and many materials are recycled. Increasingly popular strong, light carbon fibre composites (or carbon fibre reinforced plastics) were once too difficult to recycle, so went to landfill.

In the past decade, researchers at Nottingham led by Dr Steve Pickering have developed ways to recycle carbon fibre composites. They have worked with Boeing since 2006. Now Boeing plans to invest $1,000,000 per year in a strategic research collaboration – an inclusive partnership in which Boeing will collaborate with Nottingham in all its composites recycling activities.

Sir Roger Bone, President of Boeing UK, launched this major new collaborative investment in carbon fibre recycling research involving Boeing Commercial Airplanes and The University of Nottingham’s Faculty of Engineering when he visited Nottingham on Monday 24 October.

First introduced into military aircraft 30 years ago, carbon fibre composites are stronger and lighter than any other commonly available material. This helps reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions in aircraft making modern passenger planes more efficient and cheaper to fly. Advanced composite materials comprise half the empty weight of Boeing’s new 787 Dreamliner.

“Boeing wants to be able to recycle composite materials from manufacturing operations to improve product sustainability and to develop more efficient ways of recycling aircraft retired from commercial service,” said Sir Roger Bone, President of Boeing UK Ltd.

“The ultimate aim is to insert recycled materials back into the manufacturing process, for instance on the plane in non-structural sustainable interiors applications, or in the tooling we use for manufacture. This work helps us create environmental solutions throughout the lifecycle of Boeing products.”

“Aerospace is a priority research area for this University,” said Professor Andy Long, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Professor of Mechanics of Materials and Director of the Institute for Aerospace Technology. “This recognises the sector’s potential for growth and our ability to deliver influential world-class research and knowledge transfer to address global issues and challenges.

Our agreement formalizes a long-term working commitment between The University of Nottingham and Boeing. We have been working together for over six years on mutual R&D activities in aircraft recycling as well as novel applications for power electronics. We share the aims of improving environmental performance of aircraft and using materials more sustainably."

In the strategic collaboration on composites recycling Boeing will provide funding of $1,000,000 per year initially for three years, but with the intention to continue with a rolling programme. The collaboration with Boeing will further develop:
• recycling processes
• technology to process recycled fibre into new applications
• and new products using recycled materials, in collaboration with other suppliers.

Boeing was a founding member six years ago of AFRA, the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association. AFRA is a non-profit standards-setting association for the aerospace industry. Nottingham joined two years later, and a significant part of this agreement will involve working with several other AFRA member companies on the very difficult challenge of aircraft interiors recycling.

“Through this work, Boeing and Nottingham intend to develop quality and performance standards for recycled aerospace carbon fibre,” said Bill Carberry, Project Manager of Aircraft and Composite Recycling at Boeing and Deputy Director of the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association.

“Our research at Nottingham has been developing recycling processes for carbon fibre composites for over 10 years in projects funded by industry, UK Government and EU,” said Dr Steve Pickering.“As well as recycling processes, we are creating applications to reuse recycled material.

“With Nottingham, Boeing is a partner in the ongoing Technology Strategy Board (TSB) funded project AFRECAR (Affordable Recycled CARbon fibre). With colleagues Professor Nick Warrior and Professor Ed Lester, and industrial collaborators including Boeing, we are developing high value applications for recycled carbon fibre along with new recycling processes.”

Momentive Introduces Silver-Based Antimicrobial Elastomer for Healthcare Applications

2011-10-28T05:06:00.000-07:00

Momentive Performance Materials Inc., one of the leading global providers of silicones and advanced materials, has announced that its StatSil* antimicrobial elastomer platform technology is being customized for a growing number of applications in the healthcare industry, as customers seek built-in antimicrobial protection for various products.

The innovative portfolio of addition curable, high consistency rubber (HCR) and liquid silicone rubber (LSR) custom compounds is based on direct incorporation of a silver-based antimicrobial additive into the base silicone elastomer. Silver's effectiveness against a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and mold, has been demonstrated in several published studies.

"StatSil technology is an excellent candidate for manufacturers to consider for greater design flexibility and performance in applications where controlling the growth of microbes in or on the body is of concern," said Dr. Burkhard Ledig, Marketing Manager for Consumer Goods and Healthcare in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and India at Momentive Performance Materials. "Customers are impressed with the antimicrobial aspects of our StatSil materials, as well as their inherent processability."

Typically, StatSil silver-based technology does not influence processability, and the elastomers have been custom formulated to meet specific performance and processing requirements of various devices and components. Manufacture of silicone applications based on StatSil technology is possible in a hardness range between 20 and 80 Shore A.

"These new products are part of our continuing effort to support the growing global demand in healthcare applications based on silicone elastomers, room temperature vulcanizates and gels," Dr. Ledig added. In addition to proven antimicrobial efficacy, StatStil products have been shown to provide excellent resistance to a wide range of temperatures and chemicals.

Teijin Launches High-Strength & Metal-replacing All Black Aromatic Polyamide Fiber

2011-10-05T01:22:00.000-07:00

Teijin Aramid started the production of the first all black aramid fiber, Twaron Black, in Emmen. Twaron, normally golden yellow in color due to the chemical process, now is completely black for the first time. With its three production sites in the Netherlands, Teijin Aramid is responsible for more than half of the world's production of aramid.

Aramid is difficult to dye by nature, but it is now possible to produce black threads of the same quality. Twaron is five times stronger than steel at the same weight and is often used in bullet-proof vests, ropes and cables, sails and firefighter suits. At the request of customers in the sailing and sports industries, Teijin Aramid started to investigate other colors for Twaron. Twaron Black will soon be seen for the first time in the sails of the world's largest ocean sailing race, the Volvo Ocean Race.

For the threads to become completely black, they are not dyed afterwards, like cotton fibers. The production process has been adjusted to inject the fiber with the black dye during the process. This makes it the first black aramid fiber with characteristics that are equivalent to the standard golden yellow fiber. Gert Frederiks, CEO of Teijin Aramid, explains: "With Twaron Black, it is possible to combine the special characteristics of the aramid fiber with a beautiful look. Black aramid fibers have already been produced in the world, but they do not have the same characteristics (modulus) as the standard Twaron aramid fiber."

Aramid fibers are frequently used in water sports and sportswear, but combined with carbon. "For example, you often see the golden yellow of aramid in sails on a professional yacht or the underside of a canoe. With Twaron Black, it becomes part of the whole and maintains the same characteristics."

Innovative epoxy prepreg using a bio-based resin

2011-10-03T22:35:00.001-07:00

The formulation features CTS’s new novolac-based bio-hardener, Novocard™ XFN, which introduces a high level of renewable content to prepregs and increases impact strength by 163 percent, when compared to composite prepregs made with a conventional amine-cured resin and carbon fiber. The aerospace, wind energy, transportation and sporting industries can use the bio-based prepreg in a range of applications due to its versatility and strength.
Novocard resin is produced with oil extracted from discarded cashew nutshells. Thermally, chemically, and water-resistant, the bio-resin delivers superior fiber wetting and improved surface appearance. In addition to higher impact strength, Novocard-cured prepregs show improved material flow properties and processability in hot melt prepreg processes due to longer gel time when compared to traditional amine-cured epoxy systems.
Mechanical tests of a composite laminate made with a Novocard prepreg demonstrated higher shear strength and toughness of the cardanol-based matrix. The prepreg is especially compatible with carbon fibers. These results prove Novocard’s potential for other manufacturing methods such as Resin Transfer Molding, pultrusion and filament winding.

Composite Technical Services LLC is a leading manufacturer of innovative, cost effective, environmentally sustainable materials and technologies for a broad range of industries that include automotive, aerospace, construction, marine, coatings and packaging. Along with its Italian partner Cimteclab SRL, CTS has pioneered ExaPhen™, a family of bio-resins that include Novocard™ XFN and Polycard™ XFN, by taking the non-edible agricultural by-products of cashew nuts and extracting the inherent phenolic resins engineered by nature. This highly stable phenolic structure improves thermal stability, heat resistance, fire retardancy and compressive strength. Novocard XFN liquid novolac resins is an epoxy hardener designed to deliver improved physical and processing properties suited to composite manufacturing. ExaPhen’s latest product line, Polycard XFN, is a new class of aromatic bio-based polyols with the ability to significantly improve the mechanical properties of bio-based rigid spray foams, sandwich panels and pour-in-place insulation systems. CTS is dedicated to providing customers with a total solution from design concept and development of manufacturing processes to testing and production. CTS also works with customers to tailor products to unique requirements.

BASF Launches Transparent PESU Reflector for Automotive Interior Lighting Application

2011-09-28T22:02:00.001-07:00

For the reflector used in an automotive interior lighting application, the international automotive supplier Delphi has recently started to employ a high-performance plastic from BASF. After being injection molded, the complex and highly detailed part is metalized by means of physical vapor deposition (PVD), a process with demanding requirements for the plastic. The relatively new Ultrason E 2010 MR is a polyether sulfone (PESU) characterized by its good mold release properties. The reflector is manufactured by Goletz GmbH, located in Kierspe (Germany, North Rhine-Westphalia).

For this small and complicated part, ease of demolding is especially important, since it could otherwise be removed from the injection mold only with difficulty or possibly even not at all. BASF has succeeded in combining a variety of properties in this material: it offers not only excellent mold release characteristics, but as a high-temperature material it also easily withstands a continuous service temperature of 180 °C, and briefly even 220 °C. Moreover, it exhibits very good adhesion to aluminum, the material with which it is metalized in this case. In addition, the plastic is also very transparent, allowing it to be used unrealized as well. This makes it a candidate for fryer cover applications or other design-oriented household products where this combination of properties and good appearance are a requirement. Therefore, Ultrason E 2010 MR also has the necessary approvals for food contact applications.

LANXESS & Gevo Collaborate to Develop Butyl Rubber from Renewable Biomass Feedstocks

2011-09-20T09:29:00.001-07:00

One of the most intriguing working relationships in the search for renewable biomass feedstocks is the partnership of Gevo, a renewable chemicals company in Colorado, USA, and LANXESS, who intends to open up alternative resources for the production of butyl rubber.

Together, scientists from LANXESS and Gevo are now making good progress in producing isobutene a key raw material for butyl rubber from renewable resources. Traditionally, isobutene has been produced in steam crackers, which require various petrochemical-based materials for feedstock. But the LANXESS-Gevo partnership is now pioneering a unique method that may hold the key to the sustainable production of isobutene.

Researchers at LANXESS have now created a breakthrough dehydration process that converts isobutanol into isobutene. In this process, water is removed from the isobutanol. The result is biologically obtained isobutene. The dehydration process has not only proven to be successful in the laboratory, but has also undergone several months of practical testing in a small-scale reactor at LANXESS' site in Leverkusen, Germany. These tests have shown that the process can deliver bio-based butyl rubber that meets the rigorous standards of the tire industry, which represents 25 percent of LANXESS' sales. In the long term, bio-renewable isobutene will account for half of LANXESS synthetic rubber production at its plant in Sarnia, Canada. Heitmann stated: "As the world's largest purchaser of isobutene, it is only prudent that we seek alternate supply options from renewable sources as a counterweight to fossil fuels. It underpins our commitment to Green Chemistry."

Bayer Launches Polymer-based Blast-resistant Transparent Structural Shield for Buildings

2011-09-20T09:24:00.001-07:00

Bayer MaterialScience LLC's Hygard® BL80 Shock-Wave Sentinel is certified with a Developmental Testing and Evaluation Designation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the Support Anti-Terrorism by Fostering Effective Technologies (SAFETY) Act.

The DHS certification recognizes Hygard® BL80 a blast-resistant transparent structural shield for buildings as a promising anti-terrorism technology. Additionally, the certification limits a building owner's legal liability for installing and utilizing the technology.

DHS performed a thorough review of Bayer's Hygard® BL80 innovative design, product development, performance testing, and quality management systems. "The DHS sets a high threshold to qualify for this certification, both for the new solution's potential contribution to U.S. security, and confidence in Bayer's ability to effectively deliver the new technology," said Mike Gallagher, Leader, Public Sector Business, Bayer MaterialScience LLC. "Receiving the DHS Developmental Testing and Evaluation Designation for the Hygard® BL80 is tremendously gratifying."

"Hygard® BL80 is inherently transparent, lending itself to an 'open architectural appearance,' but can also be decorated as desired. We think this aesthetic flexibility in a new standard of protection will be especially pleasing for building owners who are looking for a cost-effective alternative to relocation or new construction," said Roger Rumer, Marketing Leader, Public Sector Business, Bayer MaterialScience LLC.

"Hygard® BL80's potential ability to absorb the force of an external blast to protect a structure, its occupants, and provide operational continuity for critical infrastructure makes it an appealing solution for government agencies," said Bob Pyles, Co-Inventor and Pursuit Team Leader, Hygard® Structural Integrity Systems. "We look forward to being able to contribute to our nation's safety."

Hygard® BL80 is comprised of laminated, transparent polymer panels attached to a structural steel frame that is supported on a concrete foundation. Shock-range and open-tube testing demonstrated Hygard® BL80 can withstand 80 psi peak pressure and 380 psi-msec impulse, well above the most challenging known standards. The blast-resistant structural shield is the first product launch from Bayer's Public Sector Business, which offers integrated products, manufactured according to ISO-9001 compliant processes and procedures, and services that will help government entities meet challenges through materials innovation in the areas of construction and infrastructure, health, security, sustainability and transportation.

"This Public Sector Business builds on the success of Bayer's Government Services Group, which has completed federally funded research and development projects totaling $2 million, and has commitments for another $3 million," Rumer said. "The Public Sector Business will continue to provide research and development services to fulfill government grants, but will also work directly to provide the benefits of our innovative materials to the needs of government entities."

Case Western Researchers Develop CNT Reinforced Polyurethane Blades for Wind Turbines

2011-09-12T22:23:00.001-07:00

Efforts to build larger wind turbines able to capture more energy from the air are stymied by the weight of blades. A Case Western Reserve University researcher has built a prototype blade that is substantially lighter and eight times tougher and more durable than currently used blade materials.

Marcio Loos, a Post-doctoral Researcher in the Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering, works with colleagues at Case Western Reserve, and investigators from Bayer MaterialScience in Pittsburgh, and Molded Fiber Glass Co. in Ashtabula, Ohio, comparing the properties of new materials with the current standards used in blade manufacturing.

On his own, Loos went to the lab on weekends and built the world's first polyurethane blade reinforced with carbon nanotubes. He wanted to be sure the composite that was scoring best on preliminary tests could be molded into the right shape and maintains properties. Using a small commercial blade as a template, he manufactured a 29-inch blade that is substantially lighter, more rigid and tougher.

"The idea behind all this is the need to develop stronger and lighter materials which will enable manufacturing of blades for larger rotors," Loos said.

In order to achieve the expansion expected in the market for wind energy, turbines need a bigger share of the wind. But, simply building larger blades isn't a smart answer. The heavier the blades, the more wind is needed to turn the rotor. That means less energy is captured. And the more the blades flex in the wind, the more they lose the optimal shape for catching moving air, so, even less energy is captured. Lighter, stiffer blades enable maximum energy and production.

"Results of mechanical testing for the carbon nanotube reinforced polyurethane show that this material outperforms the currently used resins for wind blades applications," said Ica Manas-Zloczower, Professor of Macromolecular Science and Engineering and Associate Dean in the Case School of Engineering.

In a comparison of reinforcing materials, the researchers found carbon nanotubes are lighter per unit of volume than carbon fiber and aluminum and had more than 5 times the tensile strength of carbon fiber and more than 60 times that of aluminum.

Fatigue testing showed the reinforced polyurethane composite lasts about eight times longer than epoxy reinforced with fiberglass. The new material was also about eight times tougher in delamination fracture tests. The performance in each test was even better when compared to vinyl ester reinforced with fiberglass, another material used to make blades.

The new composite also has shown fracture growth rates at a fraction of the rates found for traditional epoxy and vinyl ester composites. Loos and the rest of the team are continuing to test for the optimal conditions for the stable dispersion of nanotubes, the best distribution within the polyurethane and methods to make that happen.

The functional prototype blades built by Loos, which were used to turn a 400-watt turbine, will be stored in our laboratory, Manas-Zloczower said. "They will be used to emphasize the significant potential of carbon nanotube reinforced polyurethane systems for use in the next generation of wind turbine blades."
The research is funded by a U.S. Department of Energy stimulus grant and Bayer MaterialScience.

ORTHOCON Selects Bezwada's PUs & PAs to Develop Products for Bone Applications

2011-09-09T11:08:00.001-07:00

ORTHOCON, Inc., a privately-held therapeutic device company, has announced the signing of an exclusive, worldwide license agreement with Bezwada Biomedical to develop and commercialize Bezwada's technology for bone applications.

Bezwada Biomedical is an innovation-driven company with proprietary technology platforms comprised of bioabsorbable and biocompatible polyurethanes and polyamides derived from hydrolysable isocyanates. This technology can be utilized to create absorbable surgical devices for a variety of applications including structural support, fixation, and drug delivery, with the potential to address significant limitations of existing therapeutic modalities.

John J. Pacifico, President and Chief Executive Officer of ORTHOCON, commented, "This strategic partnership is another important milestone for ORTHOCON as it significantly enhances the company's technological capabilities and product pipeline." He added, "Bezwada Biomedical has invented new technology that clearly improves upon existing marketed products, and we are very pleased to be working with Dr. Bezwada and his team to develop and commercialize additional devices that address the needs of our surgeon customers. We are delighted to partner with ORTHOCON to develop and commercialize an important part of our technology for bone applications," stated Rao Bezwada, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Bezwada Biomedical.

"Given ORTHOCON's financial, technical, and commercial capabilities, we believe this is the right step to move our technology forward and we are thrilled to be working with the ORTHOCON team." Richard Kronenthal, Ph.D., ORTHOCON's Founder, Chief Scientific Officer, and principal technology inventor, previously worked with Dr. Bezwada to develop several market-leading products. Commenting on this strategic partnership, Dr. Kronenthal stated, "Having known and worked with Dr. Bezwada for many years, and having assessed the advantages of his materials relative to other marketed technologies, I am enthusiastic about the new roads we are taking together to overcome important problems in orthopedic and other surgical specialties."

Fraunhofer Engineers Develop Battery Box Made of Fiber-reinforced Composite for Electric Vehicles

2011-09-02T10:37:00.001-07:00

Everyone is talking about electric drives, and the scientists from Fraunhofer are also working on them. Engineers have replaced a battery box for lithium-ion batteries with a lightweight component. Not only does the housing save weight and sustain no damage in an accident for the first time ever, it can also be mass-produced.

If an electric car wants to be environmentally friendly it must weigh as little as possible, because when the light turns green every additional pound/kilogram must be accelerated with considerable energy expenditure. And the lighter the electric vehicle, the longer it can be on the road without having to be plugged back into a power outlet. To advance the symbiosis between electromobility and lightweight construction, engineers from the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT in Pfinztal, Germany, are developing manufacturing concepts that have one goal they want to gradually replace individual components in the vehicle with lightweight ones. "However, this cannot affect the stability or the safety of the passenger," said Manfred Reif, Project Manager in the joint project "Fraunhofer System Research for Electromobility."

The fact that this is possible is proven by the researchers with the Artega GT, a sports car that was modified into a prototype with an electric drive, where the electric motor is located in the rear. The experts, along with colleagues from the Fraunhofer Institutes for Mechanics of Materials IWM, for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF and for High-Speed Dynamics, Ernst-Mach Institut EMI, have developed a mass-production-ready, crash-safe battery housing that meets strict requirements. The battery housing that surrounds the battery that weighs 340 kilograms (749.57 lbs.) only weighs 35 kilograms (77.16 lbs.). "Traditional solutions made of steel weigh up to 25 percent more," said Reif. "The battery housing can withstand a crash, assuming a ten-fold gravitational acceleration." And even if a sharp object collides with the housing at 60 km/h (45mph), the highly sensitive battery on the inside remains intact. In addition, the 16 lithium-ion modules are protected from humidity, and a semi-permeable membrane to equalize pressure also guarantees that the batteries are able to "breathe."

What make the new battery protection so special are the new fiber-reinforced composite materials. Currently, steel components are welded together to make these boxes. "However, it must be possible to mass-produce the lightweight components," explained Reif. "Up to now, this has not been possible in this form." Fiber composites have been used for a long time in the manufacturing of airplanes; however, only a few hundred are built every year. But as far as cars are concerned, this number could be several thousand daily, and mass production involves completely different requirements as far as materials are concerned. For this reason, the scientists have developed a special process chain with cycle times that make the production of high unit counts possible. "The process chain is designed so that many steps can be run simultaneously," said Reif. For example, the plastic is heated up parallel to the production step, and elements are prepared that ensure load and tensile strength or the attachment to the storage in the rear of the Artega. This includes, for example, directionally oriented fiberglass structures or custom-made metal inserts. All the individual components are then assembled and pressed together in a "one-shot process."

Gurit's Carbon Composite Gets ISO / TS 16949 Certification for its Use in Automotive Industry

2011-09-02T10:34:00.001-07:00

Gurit, one of the leading manufacturers of carbon composite body panels for the automotive industry has secured Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance approval for ISO / TS 16949:2009.

ISO / TS 16949 is an ISO technical specification, which aligns existing American, German, French and Italian automotive quality systems standards within the global automotive industry, with the aim of eliminating the need for multiple certifications to satisfy customer requirements. ISO / TS 16949 details the management system requirements for the design/development, production, installation and servicing of automotive-related products.

The new accreditation now identifies Gurit as well-structured, stable, and credible world-class automotive tier 1 supplier, aligned to OEM processes. By achieving this accreditation, it proves that Gurit has a strong management system, dedicated to continuous improvement, and highlights Gurit's serious intent to the on-going automotive business. Kees Reijnen, General Manager Transport comments, "This milestone demonstrates that we have transferred the supply of composite components to automotive OEM's from a skilled art into an industrial process. Gurit now provides a transparent and robust process." The accreditation follows the recent announcement, that Gurit has secured a significant parts supply contract for automotive body panels with an existing customer, running from 2012 through to 2016.

Toyota Selects DuPont™ Sorona® EP Polymer for Designing its Hybrid Vehicle's Interior Parts

2011-08-29T20:32:00.000-07:00

Toyota's new hybrid vehicle(Prius alpha), features automotive interiors made of DuPont™ Sorona® EP polymer, a high-performance, renewably sourced thermoplastic resin. Sorona® EP was selected for this precisely engineered, functional component for its heat resistance, durability and ability to maintain great appearance.

Developed in close collaboration with DuPont Kabushiki Kaisha (DKK), Toyota Motor Corporation, Kojima Press Industry Co., Ltd. and Howa Plastics Co., Ltd., the parts made from Sorona® EP polymers are used on the instrument-panel air-conditioning system outlet and contribute to the advanced interior design while also reducing the environmental footprint.

Tadayuki Koyama DuPont Performance Polymers (DPP) Account Manager for Toyota, credited the global DPP team's research and development collaborations, as well as support from technical, supply chain and operations for success in achieving the commercialization of this first automotive application of Sorona® EP polymers.

"Automakers are extremely interested in renewably sourced polymers that perform as well or better than their petroleum-based counterparts," said Marsha Craig, Global Business Manager for renewably sourced DPP products. "Adopted by a leading automaker such as Toyota is a significant milestone, as it supports the value of the product and is likely to encourage more automakers to follow suit."

Sorona® EP polymers contain between 20% and 37% renewably sourced material (by weight) derived from plant sugar. Working with Toyota, the team was able to confirm that performance and molding characteristics of Sorona® EP in this application are similar or better to petroleum-based high-performance PBT (polybutylene terephthalate). Sorona® EP also helps reduce both carbon dioxide emissions and the use of petrochemicals used to produce use the PBT that is typically used for conventional auto interior parts. Sorona® EP also offers lower warpage and improved surface appearance, compared to PBT, to help streamline the manufacturing process.

Illinois Researchers Develop Plastic Skin Patch with Electrical Activity for Wide Applications

2011-08-19T22:14:00.000-07:00

Engineers have developed a device platform that combines electronic components for sensing, medical diagnostics, communications and human-machine interfaces, all on an ultrathin skin-like patch that mounts directly onto the skin with the ease, flexibility and comfort of a temporary tattoo. Led by John A. Rogers, the Lee J. Flory-Founder Professor of Engineering at the University of Illinois, the researchers described their novel skin-mounted electronics.

The circuit bends, wrinkles and stretches with the mechanical properties of skin. The researchers demonstrated their concept through a diverse array of electronic components mounted on a thin, rubbery substrate, including sensors, LEDs, transistors, radio frequency capacitors, wireless antennas, and conductive coils and solar cells for power.

"We threw everything in our bag of tricks onto that platform, and then added a few other new ideas on top of those, to show that we could make it work," said Rogers, a Professor of materials science and engineering, of chemistry, of mechanical science and engineering, of bioengineering and of electrical and computer engineering. He also is affiliated with the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, and with the Frederick Seitz Materials Research Laboratory at U. of I. The patches are initially mounted on a thin sheet of water-soluble plastic, and then laminated to the skin with water just like applying a temporary tattoo. Alternately, the electronic components can be applied directly to a temporary tattoo itself, providing concealment for the electronics.

"We think this could be an important conceptual advance in wearable electronics, to achieve something that is almost unnoticeable to the wearer," said U. of I. Electrical and Computer Engineering Professor Todd Coleman, who co-led the multi-disciplinary team. "The technology can connect you to the physical world and the cyberworld in a very natural way that feels very comfortable."

Skin-mounted electronics have many biomedical applications, including EEG and EMG sensors to monitor nerve and muscle activity. One major advantage of skin-like circuits is that they don't require conductive gel, tape, skin-penetrating pins or bulky wires, which can be uncomfortable for the user and limit coupling efficiency. They are much more comfortable and less cumbersome than traditional electrodes and give the wearers complete freedom of movement.

"If we want to understand brain function in a natural environment, that's completely incompatible with EEG studies in a laboratory," said Coleman, now a professor at the University of California at Diego. "The best way to do this is to record neural signals in natural settings, with devices that are invisible to the user."

Monitoring in a natural environment during normal activity is especially beneficial for continuous monitoring of health and wellness, cognitive state or behavioral patterns during sleep. In addition to gathering data, skin-mounted electronics could provide the wearers with added capabilities. For example, patients with muscular or neurological disorders, such as ALS, could use them to communicate or to interface with computers. The researchers found that, when applied to the skin of the throat, the sensors could distinguish muscle movement for simple speech. The researchers have even used the electronic patches to control a video game, demonstrating the potential for human-computer interfacing.

Rogers' group is well known for its innovative stretchable, flexible devices, but creating devices that could comfortably contort with the skin required a new fabrication paradigm.

"Our previous stretchable electronic devices are not well-matched to the mechano physiology of the skin," Rogers said. "In particular, the skin is extremely soft, by comparison, and its surface can be rough, with significant microscopic texture. These features demanded different kinds of approaches and design principles."

Rogers collaborated with Northwestern University Engineering Professor Yonggang Huang and his group to tackle the difficult mechanics and materials questions. The team developed a device geometry they call filamentary serpentine, in which the circuits for the various devices are fabricated as tiny, squiggled wires. When mounted on thin, soft rubber sheets, the wavy, snakelike shape allows them to bend, twist, scrunch and stretch while maintaining functionality.

"The blurring of electronics and biology is really the key point here," Huang said. "All established forms of electronics are hard, rigid. Biology is soft, elastic. It's two different worlds. This is a way to truly integrate them." The researchers used simple adaptations of techniques used in the semiconductor industry, so the patches are easily scalable and manufacturable. The device company mc10, which Rogers co-founded, already is working to commercialize certain versions of the technology.

Next, the researchers are working to integrate the various devices mounted on the platform so that they work together as a system, rather than individually functioning devices, and to add Wi-Fi capability.

"The vision is to exploit these concepts in systems that have self-contained, integrated functionality, perhaps ultimately working in a therapeutic fashion with closed feedback control based on integrated sensors, in a coordinated manner with the body itself," Rogers said.

Thin-wall PP Pack Featuring EVOH Barrier Technology for Maximum Shelf Life

2011-08-19T22:10:00.000-07:00

RPC Bramlage, specializing in injection molding process, has introduced a thin wall (0.4mm) multilayer polypropylene (PP) pack which exhibit shelf life of between one to two years for food products. With simultaneous injection of skin and center layers, the barrier technology thus achieved gives critical control of the EVOH barrier layer to oxygen and water vapor. The company claims that this technology is a low-cost alternative to glass and tin formats.

These food packs can be sterilized, pasteurized and heat-sealed to keep product fresh for a longer time. The packs come in various sizes and design and feature exceptional excellent clarity for in-mould labeling for maximum shelf appeal.

Permabond launches high temperature epoxy adhesive

2011-08-13T19:33:00.000-07:00

Permabond ET5401 has been developed to bond a wide variety of engineering materials, such as composites, thermoplastics, metals and ceramic materials. Permabond believes this product will be ideal for the composites bonding industry, the transportation market and automotive industries.

Traditionally, standard two-component epoxy adhesives (resin and hardener) can only resist temperatures of up to around 80°C before they soften, resulting in joint failure, reports Permabond. The new Permabond ET5401 epoxy adhesive can successfully survive 140°C continuously, and maintain its performance characteristics.

The adhesive can be exposed to temperatures higher than this (such as those experienced in a paint stoving oven) for short periods, providing the adhesive is not overly stressed, Permabond notes.
Permabond ET5401 is a toughened product which is ideal for bonding dissimilar materials (such as metal to composite) where differential thermal expansion and contraction could be an issue. It is also ideal for applications where good impact and vibration resistance is important.

Large Cured-in-Place Pipes with 40% Less Thickness

2011-08-02T07:52:00.001-07:00

While expansion work of San Diego International Airport, Insituform’s iPlus® cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) technology, using Vipel® 102NA resin from AOC, helped reducing time and cost of the overall process.
The airport put a terminal over a 96-inch diameter concrete sewer pipeline, but the 25ft underground pipe was not designed for the structural loads that were most likely to emerge as part of the new project. The critical part was to maintain the wall thickness of the new liner under 1.26 inches such that the upgraded pipe’s flow rate could handle present and forthcoming projected volumes. To give appropriate strength to the liners, slip-lining could have added nearly 12-in while the conventional CIPP, an additional 2.07-in.
As an alternative, Insituform Technologies® installed a customized 518-m long fiber-reinforced iPlus® Composite liner, which comprised of carbon fibers. The pipes thus made are strong enough to withstand the new structural loads while keeping wall thickness less than 40 percent as compared to conventional CIPP.

Battelle Researchers Develop Soyabean-based Superabsorbent Polymers for Diapers

2011-08-02T07:49:00.000-07:00

Anyone who's had a baby knows how fast diapers can pile up. Battelle scientists have developed a chemistry to make diapers and other absorbent products friendlier to the environment with the aim of making them cost competitive. The next step is to commercialize this new, green innovation a thoughtful idea that uses soybean meal to replace a third of the petroleum products currently found in such items.

Diapers and other materials that absorb liquids are effective because of hydrogels, which are known to scientists as superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) petroleum-based acrylic acid materials that can absorb hundreds of times their weights in liquid.

For several years, scientists at Battelle have been hard at work creating this soy-based replacement technology with funding provided by the United Soybean Board (USB) and the Ohio Soybean Council (OSC). Battelle's association with these organizations has led to other recent breakthroughs in soy research, such as flexible foams for bedding and furniture, toner for printers, lubricants, coatings, plasticizers and many other products that partially replace petroleum-based components.

Soybeans are about 20 percent oil, 70 percent soybean meal and eight percent hulls. Soybean meal is mainly used for animal feed and is the part Battelle scientists use to convert to the SAP.

The idea is to use soy meal to replace 33 percent of the acrylic acid-based SAPs, keeping the same absorption rate 200 to 300 times its own weight and, perhaps most importantly, maintaining a comparable price point. "We believe that everyone wants to be environmentally friendly, but they want products that perform exactly the same as their oil-based counterparts without costing more," said Marty Toomajian, President of Battelle's Energy, Environment and Material Sciences Global Business. "That is what we are trying to do with this new innovation. The aim is to replace a portion of the petroleum-based product with a sustainable one and work to make it cost effective."

The market for SAPs today is about 1.6 million tons per year, with personal care items making up the vast majority diapers account for 83 percent of that market. Even a modest penetration of the market could mean a large replacement of oil-based products with a renewable, sustainable replacement, reducing the need for dependence on foreign oil while helping American farmers.

These farmers are aided in such efforts by what is known as the soybean checkoff program, which is administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is a is a dedicated effort to collect 0.5 percent of the market price of soybeans. These funds are then distributed to the USB on a national level and organizations such as the OSC on a state level. The purpose of these organizations is to use that funding for domestic and international marketing and commercialization, production research, consumer education and research in new uses or products from soybeans. "Soy products have proven their potential to provide economical green solutions for many industries," said Bob Haselwood, USB New Uses Committee Chair. "The checkoff is proud to partner with the Ohio Soybean Council to make investments like this in soy-based replacement technology."

Another use for the hydrogels applies to agriculture. In arid climates, the hydrogel could be added to soil to help hold moisture for plants to use. Hydrogels also can be used to coat seeds that have been planted, helping them absorb water and then use it when there's a lack of rain, extending the longevity and effectiveness of the seeds.

"The Ohio Soybean Council has worked with Battelle for more than 15 years to learn how to use soybeans to replace petroleum in commercial products," said Allen Armstrong, Chairman of the Ohio Soybean Council. "Soy hydrogels can replace a significant portion of petroleum-based products and provide profit opportunities for farmers as well as develop new economies for Ohio and the United States."

DSM Introduces GMP-compliant Vinyl Ester Resin for Food & Drinking Water Applications

2011-07-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

DSM Composite Resins has announced Atlac® 5200 FC, its new vinyl ester resin, fully compliant with European regulations and manufactured using Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for food and drinking water applications. Now, the GMP predicate is deployed for 9 different types of resins throughout 3 European locations. The high standard set, beginning in Xinghou plant, China, is now also available on various products in Europe.

Atlac® 5200 FC was launched in April 2011 especially for application in the manufacture of composite components such as storage tanks, vessels, pipes and auxiliary equipment that comes into direct contact with European regulations on food and drinking water. Commenting on the deployments to date, Wilfrid Gambade, Director, DSM Composite Resins, said: "The strong interest generated by Atlac® 5200 FC since its launch is wholly consistent with our strategy to invest in new technologies that deliver value for our clients in terms of superior performance and functionality, environmental sustainability and better health and safety for workers and the population at large."

Gambade continued; "DSM's brand promise is all about using our bright science to create brighter living for current and future generations. Atlac® 5200 FC achieves this by setting a new standard in safety for food and drinking water applications, significantly contributing to a healthier future for all."

Antimicrobial Fabrics for Cyclists Control Unpleasant Odor

2011-07-28T10:32:00.000-07:00

SANITIZED AG has made available its performance apparel technology to the Levi’s® brand “Commuter” series, keeping in mind the specific needs of the urban commuter cyclist. Sanitized™ hygiene function is a textile finish in fabrics that protects from odors and bring long-lasting comfort to the wearer. Built around the 511™ Skinny Jean and the Levi’s® Trucker Jacket, the collection features fabric that provides increase mobility and durability while commuting.

The denim fabrics benefit from the Sanitized™ T20-19 hygienic finish for textiles; non-denim fabrics contain the Sanitized® Silver hygienic protection for textiles which is based on silver salt (scientifically recognized as having natural antimicrobial properties). Sanitized™ products prevents growth of bacteria and hinders unpleasant odors. Additionally, the Sanitized™ products carry bluesign® approval and the Oeko-Tex 100 registration (class I-IV).

Composite military helmets

2011-07-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

The use of composite materials for military helmets and other armouring solutions differs in many respects from traditional structural composite applications.

For optimum ballistic protection, the laminate has to be “suitably weak” in structural terms. This is achieved by optimizing materials and lay-up to allow absorbing the energy introduced by the projectile through delamination, failure of the fibre-matrix bond, and fibre breakage. Due to the three-dimensional shape of helmets, it is an extremely challenging task to optimise the laminate lay-up in a way that the ballistic performance is achieved all over the helmet area, whilst keeping the helmet weight at a minimum. In helmet production, numerically-controlled automatic cutting of each reinforcement ply is used to achieve high precision and quality. After pressing and water-jet cutting to the right shape, the helmets are sealed with an integrally manufactured edge in order to minimise moisture pick-up of the laminate.

High-performance aramid fibres for outstanding protection

FY-Composites’ helmets are made from high-performance aramid fibres and offer an excellent performance-weight ratio. In addition to protection against fragments, they also offer high protection against bullets. The standard combat helmet developed in co-operation with the Finnish Defence Forces offers a protection area of 0.12m2 and a protection level over 580 m/s against a 1.1-g fragment and 420 m/s against a 9-mm, 7.5-g FMJ bullet. The total weight, including the inner suspension, is only 1.1kg. The advanced design of these composite helmets provides the user with the following features: large protection area; possibility to wear ear protection; versatile options for attachment of other equipment such as visor, gas mask, headset, etc.; easy to clean, good weather and wear resistance; and inner suspension ensuring excellent support, comfort and impact absorption. Compared with traditional metal helmets, composite helmets offer considerably lighter weight combined with much higher ballistic protection.

Individually developed helmets
Typically, FY-Composites’ helmets are developed individually in close co-operation with the customers and tailored to their needs. Customers appreciate the in-house advanced analysis and design tools, as well as the thorough understanding of various composite materials and production methods, which is necessary to achieve lightweight and cost-efficient products while keeping development time short. The market for ballistic helmets includes armies, police SWAT teams and UN troops, amongst others. For instance, a special helmet model with a ballistic visor is used for mine-clearing operations. Other special models include tank crew and police helmets.

PepsiCo Canada Launches 7UP EcoGreen™ Bottles Made from 100 Percent Recycled PET

2011-07-22T09:35:00.001-07:00

PepsiCo Beverages Canada has announced the introduction of the 7UP EcoGreen™ bottle, Canada's and North America's first soft drink bottle made from 100 percent recycled PET plastic.

The development of the 7UP EcoGreen bottle is a significant achievement for PepsiCo and a breakthrough for the Canadian beverage sector because the company has identified a way to couple existing technology with the best sources of recycled PET plastic and best-in-class processing techniques to produce a 100 percent recycled PET, food-grade bottle that meets all regulatory requirements and is of the highest quality. Creating a bottle made from 100 percent recycled plastic for soft drinks is more challenging than creating a bottle for non-carbonated beverages because of the stress on materials from carbonation pressure.

By introducing the 7UP EcoGreen bottle in Canada, PepsiCo Beverages Canada will reduce the amount of virgin plastic used by approximately six million pounds over the course of one year. Studies published by the Association for Post-Consumer Plastic Recyclers in 2010, estimate this reduced use of virgin plastic will lead to a reduction of more than 30 percent in greenhouse gas emissions and more than 55 percent in energy use, based on current 7UP production levels.

"After three years of research and development, we have cracked the code to commercially develop a soft drink bottle made from 100 percent recycled PET plastic, and Canada has proudly led the way," said Richard Glover, President, PepsiCo Beverages Canada. "Consumers want products and packaging that reflects their desire to protect the environment, and PepsiCo is committed to delivering on that with this kind of world-class innovation."

"At Pitch-In Canada we initiate recycling and composting programs to clean up and beautify streams, wilderness and urban areas," said Misha Cook, Executive Director, Pitch-In Canada, one of Canada's oldest not-for-profit environmental organizations. "Any action that reduces the use of virgin plastic by approximately six million pounds annually gets my nod of approval. I commend PepsiCo Beverages Canada and its 7UP brand for taking this important step, and I encourage other manufacturers to follow their lead. Together, we can make a significant difference."

The 7UP EcoGreen bottle will be available across all 7UP and Diet 7UP package sizes beginning in early August, and will look and feel like any other PET plastic soft drink bottle consumers will not detect a difference to the packaging or refreshing taste of Canada's number one lemon lime soft drink.

PepsiCo Beverages Canada's long-term plan is to increase the use of bottles made from 100 percent recycled plastic. Currently, PepsiCo leads the industry by incorporating an average of 10 percent recycled PET in its primary soft drink bottles in Canada and the U.S.

With this announcement, PepsiCo reinforces its steadfast commitment to Performance with Purpose and finding innovative sustainable packaging solutions. To drive progress against the company's goal of rethinking the way that it grows, sources, creates, packages and delivers its products to minimize the impact on land, PepsiCo adheres to the following guideposts for sustainable packaging:

Reduce: Optimize the amount of packaging required through light weighting and minimizing the use of secondary and transport packaging. For example, Aquafina introduced the Eco-Fina bottle in 2009, the lightest bottle of its size among U.S. bottled water brands.

Reuse: Reuse packaging materials and components.

Recycle: Design packaging to be recyclable, use recycled content in our packaging and promote responsible recycling practices. In May 2011, PepsiCo began offering five options of eco-friendly, recyclable and compostable cups to Foodservice customers in the United States.

Renew: Leverage packaging materials derived from renewable sources, as PepsiCo did when it introduced the world's first 100 percent plant-based PET plastic bottle in March 2011.

Researchers Develop Nanocomposite-based Trachea Scaffold for Medical Applications

2011-07-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

A UCL scientist and his team designed and built the synthetic windpipe 'scaffold' used in an operation in Sweden announced by the Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet.

The windpipe (trachea) implanted in this patient was developed using nanocomposite materials which were developed and patented by Professor Alexander Seifalian (UCL Division of Surgery & Interventional Science), whose labs are based at the Royal Free Hospital.

Together with Professor Paolo Macchiarini at Karolinska, who also holds an Honorary appointment at UCL, Professor Seifalian designed and developed the trachea scaffold using a material known as a novel nanocomposite polymer.

Professor Seifalian has worked closely with UCL Business (UCLB), responsible for technology development and commercial transactions at UCL, to patent these materials and develop their use in medical devices. As well as being used for tissue scaffolds, the materials have other potential uses such as coronary stents and grafts.

A nanocomposite is a material containing some components that are less than 100 nanometres (nm) in size. To give a sense of scale, a human hair is about 60,000 nanometres in thickness. A polymer is a repeating chain of small, identical molecules (called monomers) which are linked together.

Polymers are already used in medical devices, but the properties of these novel polymers reduce the risk of rejection, rupture, or the need for repeat surgery. They have better elasticity, strength and versatility and are formulated to encourage cell growth.

A full size 'y-shaped' trachea scaffold was manufactured in Professor Seifalian's labs. This was accomplished using a CT (computerised tomography) scan of the patient as a guide, to create the exact shape and dimension needed. A mould was then made using glass.

When the polymer scaffold had been made, it was taken to Karolinska where the patient's stem cells were incorporated to it (or 'seeded') by Professor Paolo Macchiarini's team, and the full biological trachea was grown in a bioreactor - a device designed for the procedure by Harvard Bioscience which provides the correct environment for the tissue to grow. This process means the trachea very effectively simulates natural tissue and has the same properties as a 'real' trachea.

Professor Seifalian said: "Professor Macchiarini has previously performed successful transplants of tissue engineered tracheas, but on those occasions the tracheas used were taken from organ donors and then reseeded with the patient's own stem cells."

"What makes this procedure different is it's the first time that a wholly tissue engineered synthetic windpipe has been made and successfully transplanted, making it an important milestone for regenerative medicine. We expect there to be many more exciting applications for the novel polymers we have developed."

Victrex lntroduces Corrosion-resistant PEEK-based Pipes for Harsh & Demanding Environments

2011-07-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

In response to growing market demand for superior performing pipes in harsh and demanding environments, Victrex Polymer Solutions, one of the leaders in high performance polyaryletherketones, has launched its VICTREX Pipes™ product family.

Developed to replace the corrosion resistant alloys (CRAs) used to make pipes and piping systems for extraction and transportation in the oil and gas industries, VICTREX Pipes offer an opportunity to replace CRAs in pipes and piping systems by lining pipes manufactured in other metals.

VICTREX Pipes represent the latest in a long line of material and technical innovation from Victrex. "The launch of VICTREX Pipes is the culmination of six years of intensive research, development, market assessment and customer liaison. VICTREX Pipes can also deliver performance solutions in a broad range of applications beyond the original lined pipes for oil and gas, from industrial to aerospace to electrical sheathing and conduit," said James Simmonite, Business Leader Pipes, Victrex Polymer Solutions. "Victrex has an unrivalled reputation for identifying challenges in key markets and delivering a solution. VICTREX Pipes are a demonstration of this skill and offer a broad range of properties, including chemical, corrosion, abrasion and permeation resistance at high temperatures, in a flexible lightweight format."

The new product line of extruded pipes and tubing made from VICTREX® PEEK™ polymer makes full use of the material's performance capabilities, including the ability to withstand extreme temperatures and corrosive conditions and reduce weight. VICTREX Pipes open up new application opportunities, with the capability to deliver greater long-term reliability in the demanding operating conditions found in the high temperature, pressures and corrosive conditions in the oil and gas sector. As well as addressing the needs of the oil and gas sector to search for new fields in more demanding environments, its weight reduction capabilities can facilitate fuel efficiency in the aerospace sector while also addressing the harsh corrosive, temperature and electrical demands of the industrial sectors.

VICTREX Pipes are currently available in a range of sizes, from 6mm (0.24") outer diameter (OD), up to 200mm (8") OD, with wall thicknesses depending on the OD, from 0.8mm (0.03") up to 5mm (0.2"). They are available either as straight lengths or, for smaller diameters, in coiled lengths of up to 3000m (10,000 feet). VICTREX PEEK polymer-based pipes can be joined using a range of connectors and adhesives, and also by using conventional welding equipment. VICTREX Pipes can also be laser marked by using suitable equipment.

"Mounting performance expectations and harsh environments are increasing the emphasis on material selection in application design," said Simmonite. "The properties of VICTREX Pipes provide the option to line metal pipes with VICTREX Pipes as an alternative to expensive CRAs, in challenging applications such as those found in the oil and gas industry, where it is not uncommon to find operating temperatures above 140°C (284°F), in the presence of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), methane, carbon dioxide, brine and crude oil. Drilling deeper to access crude oil reserves requires a material that will withstand the harshest conditions found in these environments."

"Tests have shown that pipes and tubes extruded from VICTREX PEEK polymer display chemical resistance to H2S at high temperature. It is also unaffected after 2,000 hours of exposure to steam at 200°C (392°F)," noted Simmonite. "The exceptional chemical resistance and very low permeability make them ideal for oil and gas applications, where steel pipes may suffer the severely corrosive effects of H2S and carbon dioxide gases, and where existing thermoplastic solutions are reaching the limit of their thermal endurance."

VICTREX Pipes, being made with VICTREX PEEK polymer, are also lightweight and inherently halogen-free, with low levels of smoke and toxic gas emissions, ensuring they not only satisfy the stringent safety, quality and performance regulations within the aerospace industry, but also offer a significant weight reduction potential, when replacing metals.

Additionally, offering electrical insulation, mechanical stability and fatigue strength, as well as chemical, corrosion and hydrolysis resistance at high temperatures, VICTREX Pipes offer potential solutions to the numerous performance requirements of industrial applications, from corrosive and high temperature conditions in chemical, geothermal and mining plant to insulation and protection demands in electrical and industrial sheathing.

Victrex has dedicated in-house pipes extrusion lines, solely for the production of pipes and tubing made from VICTREX PEEK polymer. Having a fully integrated supply chain, Victrex manufactures from raw materials through to finished product, enabling guaranteed product quality, supply, consistency and performance.

The launch of the VICTREX Pipes family is just the latest step on the company's continuous path of innovation and unique solutions based on the proven capability of its high performance VICTREX PAEK family of polymers.

NatureWorks to Commercialize Ingeo M700 Lactide Biopolymer for Industrial Applications by 2013

2011-07-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

NatureWorks LLC has announced that as part of a major capital investment at its Blair, Nebraska, Ingeo™ lactide and biopolymer manufacturing facility, the company will be the world's first to offer in commercial quantities a high-purity, polymer-grade lactide rich in the stereoisomer meso-lactide. Identified as Ingeo M700 lactide, the new material can be used as an intermediate for copolymers, amorphous oligomers and polymers, grafted substrates, resin additives/modifiers, adhesives, coatings, elastomers, surfactants, thermosets, and solvents.

Until now, several niche-focused producers have attempted to address the functionality requested by the market with what are described chemically as racemic lactides. "Compared to these, the high-purity Ingeo M700 will be lower in cost, easier to process, and an overall better alternative to high-priced racemic lactide, as well as L and D-lactides, in a host of industrial applications," said Dr. Manuel Natal, Global Segment Leader for lactide derivatives at NatureWorks.

As compared to racemic lactide's melting point of nearly 130° C, and L and D lactide's 97° C, Ingeo M700's melting point is below 60° C. This makes for a more effective chemical intermediate on a number of different levels. For example, Ingeo M700 offers a more efficient way to deliver ester functionality and, because it is effectively an anhydrous form of lactic acid, processors will not have to deal with water when using Ingeo M700. Meso-lactide is up to two times more susceptible to ring-opening reactions than L, D, or racemic lactides, which can mean less catalyst usage, lower reaction temperatures, or both. It can be processed below 70° C, which under most circumstances eliminates the need to handle expensive solid particles and allows easier processing.

NatureWorks was the first company in the world to manufacture a biopolymer in commercial quantities. Today, Ingeo is one of the world's leading biopolymer brands and is used in rigid and flexible packaging, electronics, clothing, housewares, health and personal care, semi-durable products, and food service ware. In 2010, NatureWorks began offering high-performance L-lactide intermediates.

By early 2013, the company will offer thousands of tons of Ingeo M700 lactide. Prior to this availability, meso-lactide samples will be available in 2012 to advance market development.

Andromeda Selects Net Cages Made of Dyneema® Fiber for Maintaining Efficient Aquaculture

2011-07-11T11:38:00.001-07:00

Fish farming plays a key role in providing a sustainable source of protein to the earth's ever-growing population. Increasing international demand for all types of sea food is driving the aquaculture industry to develop more economic and extensive operations. (Aquaculture encompasses not only fish farming but also farming for shrimps, oyster, seaweed and other species.) This places huge demands on equipment, manpower and materials as well as the environment.

Greek aquaculture company Andromeda aims to become the leader in its field in the Mediterranean. It is using nets and cages with Dyneema® ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber to sustain healthy growth and above-average profitability. Greece is a key country in aquaculture in the Mediterranean and Andromeda is one of the country's top five aquaculture companies.

Andromeda started using netting made from Dyneema® more than five years ago (2005). Today it has over 80 nets with Dyneema® installed. This accounts for almost 25% of all nets Andromeda uses for sea bream farming. Andromeda is considering using nets with Dyneema® for sea bass as well.

"Net cages made with Dyneema® fiber are lighter and stronger than cages made in other, traditional fibers. They are also much easier to handle. As a result, they provide a safer working environment by reducing bodily strain and physical requirements. The lighter nets also require 40% less use of antifoulants than nylon nets", says Antonis Raftopoulos, Purchasing Manager at Andromeda. "This not only has a positive environmental impact but also produces significant cost savings."

Dyneema® fibers are highly impervious to wear and tear. They resist fish bites much better than other materials, so fewer fish escape, and their high resilience hampers predators like seals, turtles and bluefish from damaging and entering the cages. Dyneema® is also helping Andromeda cut maintenance costs. "We are confident that with Dyneema®, we can reduce diving inspections by 50%" says George Tzamalis, Production Supervisor at Andromeda. "Furthermore, nets made from Dyneema® only need cleaning every 12 months, while nylon nets have to be cleaned after 7 months. Netting with Dyneema® has a smaller diameter meaning up to 30% less surface area to catch dirt. When using a clean net from Dyneema® the fish grow faster and better."

Andromeda expects the benefits to last over time too. "We expect nets with Dyneema® to have a lifetime at least equaling that of nylon nets," comments Antonis Raftopoulos. "Our experience is that nylon nets show a steep decline in performance after some years. In contrast, nets with Dyneema® only lose strength gradually over time. They are worth the investment as they lead to overall savings of 10 to 15%."

"Dyneema® enables net manufacturers and fish farmers to harness a range of performance benefits that aid sustainable development," says Andre van Wageningen, Global Marketing Manager at DSM Dyneema. "Andromeda is the latest of many end users to have experienced the various benefits that nets with Dyneema® bring, and I am sure there will be many to come. DSM is committed to a sustainable future by driving innovation that generates value."

Applied Nanotech Gets Grant to Develop CNT Reinforced Improved Hydrogen Fuel Tanks for Vehicles

2011-07-06T09:45:00.001-07:00

Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc., has announced that it has been awarded a Phase I SBIR grant, in the amount of $149,426, from the US Department of Energy to develop ultra lightweight hydrogen fuel tanks using carbon nanotube reinforcement.

This grant was awarded for a 9-month program with an overall objective to significantly improve the mechanical properties of the carbon fiber/epoxy material used to construct the hydrogen fuel tanks using carbon nanotube reinforcement. The primary goal is to reduce the weight of the tanks by 20 to 30 percent. A weight reduction of this magnitude will not only significantly lower the hydrogen fuel tank costs but also increase the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

The International Association of Natural Gas Vehicles reported that sales of composite pressure vessels are expected to reach $250 million by 2013, and upwards of $560 million by the end of the decade; the adoption of nanotechnology enhanced resins in high pressure hydrogen storage vessels represents an immense opportunity for near term commercialization. Today, the price of carbon fiber is the main driver of the hydrogen pressure vessel's cost; by incorporating carbon nanotubes into the resin matrix, the resin itself can absorb much of the load currently absorbed by the carbon fiber reinforcement. Using carbon nanotube enhanced resins will undoubtedly decrease the carbon fiber required to construct a functioning hydrogen pressure vessel. The value of this decrease will not only be realized in lower material costs but also in lighter pressure vessels, enabling a more streamlined manufacturing and supply chain process and ultimately a more efficient vehicle.

Applied Nanotech has developed carbon nanotube reinforced epoxies, vinyl esters, and polyesters for carbon fiber and glass fiber reinforced composites. These composites can apply to a wide range of products including: sporting goods, aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, ballistics, and many other applications.

"I am very pleased to see that our nanocomposite technology, first commercialized for sporting goods badminton racquets and golf club shafts with Yonex Corporation, is starting to gain traction in other commercial applications with very large market potential," said Dr. Zvi Yaniv, CEO of Applied Nanotech, Inc.

"Nanocomposite materials are a very important part of our business. We are currently working with a variety of companies across several industries to tailor our composite materials to improve the underlying products of our potential customers," said Doug Baker, CEO of Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc.

Japan Wool Utilizes SABIC's Flame-retardant PEI Fiber for Blending to Produce Protective Garments

2011-07-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

SABIC Innovative Plastics has announced that its versatile, high-performance Ultem* polyetherimide (PEI) fiber has found an important new application in high-end work wear and protective clothing. Japan Wool Textile Company, a division of NIKKE Group, is now blending Ultem fiber with wool and other materials to produce yarn, fabrics and garments that offer a unique combination of comfort and protection, including permanent, non-halogenated flame retardance (FR) and excellent ultraviolet (UV) resistance. Unlike traditional aramid materials, Ultem fiber can be easily and cost-effectively colored in a wide range of shades using conventional polyester dyeing processes, enabling Japan Wool Textile Company to enhance the aesthetic appeal of its new line. SABIC Innovative Plastics continues to penetrate and grow new market segments and expand the range of applications for its globally proven Ultem resin technology to give customers innovative new options for product differentiation and exceptional performance.

"The work wear and protective clothing sector has outgrown traditional materials, and our Ultem fiber offers a significantly better option," said Kim Choate, Global Product Marketing Manager, SABIC Innovative Plastics. "This flexible, soft and colorable fiber provides superior comfort and aesthetics, plus sustainable FR technology and the highest level of protection and durability for workers in safety-focused industries such as oil and gas and chemicals. We foresee many other uses for this versatile fiber, which has already broken new ground in composite aerospace boards for aviation interiors, filtration media and other demanding applications."

"Following a rigorous development process, we launched a completely new flame-retardant material by using Ultem fiber," said Takanobu Matsumoto, General Manager, Japan Wool Textile Company. "Particularly in the areas of improved comfort and colorability, our new work wear products will provide major benefits for customers and address unmet market needs. This SABIC Innovative Plastics technology has also helped us to establish an overseas market for our work wear."

Japan Wool Textile currently offers shirts, trousers, jackets and coveralls in an Ultem fiber-rich blend, as well as yarn and woven fabrics.

Tough on Protection, Easy on the Worker:

Ultem fiber's unique combination of properties fills a longstanding need in the high-end work wear marketplace. Traditional work wear, particularly clothes made from meta-aramids, are stiff and uncomfortable. They also are difficult to dye, thus limiting the ability to produce custom-colored items that support a company's brand. In contrast, Ultem fiber is soft and flexible for improved wearability, and can be dyed in many different colors using existing infrastructure, helping to drive down system costs. It resists degradation from UV light, making the material a potential candidate for outdoor wear.

Ultem fiber is inherently and permanently flame retardant. It utilizes proprietary technology that avoids the addition of environmentally hazardous halogens and cannot wash out of the garment, as many FR agents in low-end fabrics can.

This material offers excellent heat resistance meeting the European Union (EU) EN 531/ISO 11612 and U.S. National Fire and Protection Association (NFPA) 2112 standards, and provides low smoke and toxicity performance.

NJIT Researchers Focus on Making Corn-based Epoxy for Promoting Green Plastics

2011-07-01T06:25:00.001-07:00

NJIT Research Professor Mike Jaffe's recent book chapter about sugar-based chemicals is topping the American Chemical Society (ACS) book series' must-read list.

"Sugar-Based Chemicals for Environmentally Sustainable Applications" appeared in the most recent ACS Symposium Series and is racking up kudos. Co-authors were Xianhong Feng, a Doctoral Student and Research Professors A. J. East and W. Hammond, all at NJIT.

The popularity stems from the topic, an overview of isosorbide and its potential role creating polymers and small molecules. The chapter features new and better ways to replace the dreaded bisphenol A (BPA) in manufacturing processes. In 2009, Jaffe's team was awarded a patent for a chemical derived from sugar. The new material uses a corn byproduct, isosorbide, to create a derivative that can be used to replace bisphenol A (BPA) in epoxy resins. Such resins are used in a number of adhesives and coatings of consumer products, including those used in the lining of tin cans. The researchers recently received another patent to compliment the earlier one.

"The new patent will help create a less toxic epoxy resin," said Jaffe. Such resins are polymers widely used as adhesives, paints and coatings to protect food in cans. Jaffe has been developing sugar-based materials in conjunction with the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) in an effort to promote and create new, commercially attractive, sustainable chemistries from wider uses of corn. This new sugar derivative can be obtained from corn. The two patents are part of a series filed by the ICPB and NJIT to develop applications and markets for sugar-based chemistry.

"Renewable materials made from corn are gaining ground for new industrial plastics markets," said Rod Williamson, Iowa Corn Director of Research and Business Development. "Making epoxy from corn can be a win-win for public health, plastic manufacturers and for farmers."

Sugar-based chemicals can be used as building blocks to produce new monomers, polymers and additives for the commercial plastics and cosmetics industry. These are materials generally recognized as safe sugar compounds with a unique stereochemistry providing a ubiquitous platform for making cost-effective chemicals and polymers.

The book chapter focuses on isosorbide and its isomers as sugar-derived dianhydrohexitols. The two can be either incorporated in the backbone of new polymers or converted to low molar mass additives for thermoplastics and thermosets or as specialty chemicals. As the cost of petroleum rises, the attractiveness of renewable feedstocks for producing value-added products increases. The emergence of sustainable sugar derived chemicals (especially isosorbide modified products) offers attractive prospects with high potential for the next generation chemical industry.

Much attention has recently focused on BPA, which has been known to have estrogenic properties since the 1930s. BPA is widely used in processes that result in the lining for tin cans and key ingredients in plastics ranging from baby bottles to nail polish. Unfortunately, the chemical bonds that link BPA in polymer structures are not completely stable and the polymer may slowly decay with time, releasing small amounts of it into materials with which it comes into contact, such as food or water. Recent studies have shown the widespread presence of tiny amounts of BPA in the environment. Even at minute levels BPA may still exert estrogen-like effects on living organisms.

The ACS Symposium Series contains high-quality, peer-reviewed books developed from the ACS technical divisions' symposia. Each chapter is carefully authored by an expert in the field, and the collection of chapters edited by an internationally recognized in the field. The series covers a broad range of topics including agricultural and food chemistry, cellulose and renewable materials, chemical education, organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, materials, and many others.

HDPE with Improved Melt Flow Rate Serves to Make Complex Injection-molded Medical Devices

2011-07-01T06:24:00.001-07:00

Converters operating in the healthcare market can utilize Bormed™ HE9601-PH high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for high-speed injection-molding applications, such as syringe plungers, caps and closures. This high melt flow rate (MFR=31 which is 2.5-times better than other available options) polymer from Borealis and Borouge gives packaging productivity improvements in medical, pharmaceutical and diagnostic streams.
High flow of HDPE also allows carrying the injection molding process, even for complex designs, easily at relatively lower pressure and temperature, thus giving cost and energy saving advantage to the OEMs. Bormed HE9601-PH is characterized by high stiffness, chemical resistance, barrier performance and impermeability to water vapor, thus making it ideal for use in highly demanding medical and healthcare applications. Bormed HE9601-PH conforms to European and US Pharmacopeia and is registered with Drug Master File.

Boeing to boost 737 production rate to 42 airplanes per month in 2014

2011-06-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Jim Albaugh said the market outlook for single-aisle jetliners is strong and growing.

"Customers are demanding our Next-Generation 737 at an unprecedented rate," Albaugh said. "New performance improvements and enhanced passenger comfort features have driven home the value equation for our customers."

Albaugh emphasized the popularity of Boeing's new passenger comfort features, noting that since its introduction in May 2010, the new Boeing Sky Interior is specified on more than 80 percent of new 737 orders.

737 Program Vice President and General Manager Beverly Wyse said the goal with this rate increase is to continue meeting customer demand with an innovative airplane that provides strong performance and value.

"We have worked very closely with our supply chain and our world-class manufacturing team to ensure we can increase rate in an efficient and responsible fashion," Wyse said. "We believe that many of the capital investments and production system changes made for 38 airplanes per month will already position us to build 42," Wyse said. "We are very well situated for this rate increase."

The 737 program currently produces 31.5 airplanes per month and expects to go to 35 per month in early 2012, 38 per month in second quarter 2013, and then to 42 per month in the first half of 2014.

The rate increase announced today is not expected to have a material impact on 2011 financial results.

Boeing's highly efficient and reliable 737 family has become the best-selling airliner in history. More than 280 customers have placed more than 8,880 orders for the single-aisle airplane – including more than 5,750 orders of the Next-Generation 737. Boeing currently manages a backlog of more than 2,100 of the 737 family.

Opel Astra Selects BASF's PU Glass Encapsulation Technology to Develop Panoramic Windshield

2011-06-25T01:09:00.000-07:00

This windshield is quite something. Extending from the hood to the B-pillar, it measures a remarkable 1.5 meters which amounts to more than a third of the vehicle's total length. To give such a large surface sufficient strength, Opel's engineers had to pull out all the development stops a total of eleven patents are now pending. The outcome is nothing less than remarkable. According to the manufacturer, the Panorama GTC is just as strong as the three-door vehicle with a steel roof. One reason for so much light and space is light-stable COLO-FAST® systems from BASF Polyurethanes.

Panorama windscreens of this size are simple to realize with WST technology:

Driving gains a fascinating new dimension with light-stable COLO-FAST systems from BASF Polyurethanes. For decades in applications around the world, they have proven effective as a glass encapsulation material and are in use with almost all leading manufacturers of glass panes and modules. With COLO-FAST WST (Window Spray Technology), BASF now also has an innovative system for pressureless application to glass in an open mold. This flush glazing technology is only possible with polyurethane. The result is glass and panorama roofs with impressively flush seals and glass panes. Bonded or extruded profiles, on the other hand, have considerable design drawbacks and are more susceptible to dirt. WST technology has much more going for it, such as greater design freedom, a reaction time of less than 45 seconds, reduced reworking and ultimately also lower investment costs.

Flush surfaces are the goal of COLO-FAST, WST technology and this not only applies to the automotive industry:

After taking over window encapsulation business from Recticel in 2009, BASF promptly initiated the development of a COLO-FAST® system series in line with the latest requirements of REACH. These systems have been undergoing successful launch in Europe and Asia since the end of 2010.

In addition to the automotive industry, product managers at BASF have also been investigating other growth markets for COLO-FAST WST technology, including the solar industry. The possibility of producing integrated flush photovoltaic panels and solar collectors with it improves water management of the roof, i.e. prevents moisture penetration, and counteracts dirt accumulation by improving rainwater run-off. What's more, COLO-FAST protects the edges of panels and collectors from breakage during shipment and installation.

DSM's ThermoPlastic Copolyester Blow Molding Grade Finds Use in FIAT Automobiles

2011-06-25T01:02:00.000-07:00

Arnitel PB500-H has been approved for dirty and clean air ducts, assembled on the 1.3 JTD engines for the FIAT Group Automobiles platforms FIAT Minicargo and LANCIA Y (euro V) and for the new LANCIA Y which will be launched in the coming months. Dirty air ducts convey the air before the air filter, whereas clean air ducts are situated in the engine between the air filter and the turbo-compressor.

This new blow molding grade of Arnitel ThermoPlastic Copolyester (TPC) is particularly suited for blow molding of complex shaped air duct applications in the automotive industry for use at continuous use temperatures (CUT) of 130°C. The new material was developed by DSM Engineering Plastics in conjunction with Fiat Group Automobiles and Tier 1 systems supplier Mecaplast.

According to Marco Foresti, who is responsible for CRF Engineering Material Application for Fiat Group Automobiles, Arnitel PB500-H meets the Fiat technical requirements, whilst at the same time offering a cost advantage over current solutions: "With a hardness Shore D equals to 50, Arnitel offers new design freedom and a range of material properties that facilitate easy assembly and higher tolerances on the final design layout."

Ludovic Poix, Fiat Project Manager at Mecaplast, says: "Arnitel PB500-H offers good and stable processability even in achieving complex shapes. The material delivers a superior smooth inner surface with no orange and/or 'crocodile' skin effects. We found it very flexible, over the whole temperature range of -40 ° up to 150 °C. Moreover, Arnitel offers good weldability with PBT fittings/couplings."

Paolo Rossi, Fiat Business Development Manager, explains: "Requirements for Under the Bonnet (UTB) applications are changing constantly. Environmental requirements, EURO V and VI legislation and the call for reduced fuel consumption have resulted in significant changes, e.g. the use of smaller & lighter engines with higher turbo pressures and EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation). As a consequence, automobile UTB components such as air ducts are exposed to continuously rising operating temperatures. With increasingly critical temperature and tougher life time requirements, the long term service life of components made from current thermoplastics can be at risk."

Arnitel delivers cost efficient solutions for airducts combining high performance with cost savings through a single piece solution. Arnitel processes faster and lowers weight. DSM Engineering Plastics offers Technical support to Tier-1 to achieve first time right solutions.

Saint-Gobain Introduces PTFE-based Multipurpose Hose for Transferring Corrosive Chemicals

2011-06-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics (SGPPL) has introduced a high-performance solution for transferring bulk corrosive chemicals. A superior flexible and kink-resistant hose, Chemfluor® Convoflex™ WCSR Multipurpose Chemical Transfer Hose is designed to solve the issue in bulk chemical transfer process where corrosive chemicals such as acids may damage the stainless steel braid commonly used as a cover on transfer hoses. Saint-Gobain's solution provides a longer service life while enhancing plant and worker safety.

Chemfluor® Convoflex™ WCSR is the newest addition to Saint-Gobain's growing portfolio of versatile critical connections solutions for chemical applications. These solutions are engineered to maintain safety during chemical processes, while reducing total systems cost.

From solvents to bulk chemical transfer, Chemfluor® Convoflex™ WCSR can withstand highly aggressive chemicals during chemical processing. Its highly engineered low profile helical convoluted inner core design provides superior flexibility while maintaining the productivity of plant operations by preventing kinking, a common cause of downtime for such demanding applications.

Chemfluor® Convoflex™ WCSR is constructed with a chemically- resistant, high-purity Chemfluor® PTFE inner core, and is reinforced with 304 high tensile strength stainless steel braids and an acid-resistant Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) outer-cover. Extremely hard-wearing and durable, the vulcanized EPDM outer cover protects the integrity of the hose when acid or other corrosive chemicals are accidentally exposed to the outer surface.

"We are pleased to introduce this new product to our critical connections solutions portfolio, which is aimed at connecting our customers' processes, operations, and products to what matters to them most: safety, performance, and brand assurance," says Lily Lei, Global Market Leader, Chemicals, Process Systems division at Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics.

Emco Launches Transparent PC Sheets with ASTM F 1915-05 Standard for Security Glazing

2011-06-23T07:44:00.000-07:00

Emco Plastics is one of the leading distributors of monolithic, UV, and abrasion resistant security glazing material that conform to ASTM F 1915-05 standards. Made from polycarbonate, the 3/8" thick material meets the level 4 requirements, while the 1/2" thick material meets the level 3 requirements. This product provides 90% light transmission and may be used for banks, convenience stores and courtroom security windows as well as prison glazing. These sheets resist physical attack and vandalism.

Emco Plastics, is one of the industry leaders in distribution and fabrication of industrial plastic products offers several types of security glazing that comply with ASTM F 1915-05 standards.

Copolyester-based Beer Tubes for Restaurants and Bars

2011-06-11T05:41:00.001-07:00

Beer Tubes™ is a BPA-free and good looking barware and a beverage dispenser made using Eastman Tritan™ copolyester, which is known for its clarity, toughness, and heat & chemical resistance.
This tabletop beverage dispenser featuring sports or non-sports-themed base can be commercially used in restaurants and bars or home for individual use. The 100-ounce Beer Tube and 128-ounce Super Tube, along with commercial taps are copolyester-based, and are available in more than 25 designs. The product was previously manufactured using polycarbonate, but Beer Tubes™ later switched to Eastman copolyester which does not fade away after repeated contact with dishwashing detergents.

PEEK Bioimplants Synchronize Well with Human Anatomy

2011-06-11T05:40:00.001-07:00

Minimally invasive spinal implants supplier Apollo Spine Inc. from California has received FDA’s go ahead for its new Eclipse-L® vertebral interbody lumbar spacer and Eclipse-C® vertebral interbody cervical spacer made of Solvay Advanced Polymers’ Zeniva® polyetheretherketone (PEEK) resin. Zeniva PEEK biomaterial features modulus close to that of bone, and is used in replacement of metals such as titanium. The hollow implants grow through the device, and get fused with the nearby bony surfaces for easy movement. Available in various ranges of sizes, shapes and diameters, the implants grow in synergy with the natural human anatomy.
Exhibiting great strength, stiffness and radiolucent properties for X-ray treatments, the PEEK biomaterial used in rods and stocks are manufactured in compliance with ISO 13485. Besides Zeniva PEEK, the Solviva Biomaterials range also includes Proniva® self-reinforced polyphenylene thermoplastic; Veriva® polyphenylsulfone provides transparency and biocompatibility; and Eviva® polysulfone (PSU), another transparent polymer.

Mercedes Selects BASF's Semi-aromatic Polyamide for its Fuel Filler Flap

2011-05-20T07:42:00.001-07:00

The current T-model in the E-Class from Mercedes has an especially large fuel filler flap, since it is intended to accommodate variable fueling options. This flap has recently been converted to the new Ultramid® TOP 4000 from BASF, a mineral-filled semi-aromatic polyamide (PA 6/6T). The conductive engineering resin is an improved version of the Ultramid TOP 3000 introduced in 2007 and offers primarily greater stiffness and dimensional stability. Just like its predecessor, the new material is also suitable for online painting.

This means: plastic components made from Ultramid TOP 4000 can, without additional effort or costs, withstand the various baths and painting operations to which the rest of the body is subjected. This material thus represents one more step towards the lightweight plastic automobile body thus enabling further reduction of fuel consumption and emissions.

In the course of development, the BASF Verbund once again demonstrated its capabilities, as the experts at BASF Coatings GmbH in Münster contributed greatly to optimizing the new resins on the basis of their know-how in the fields of paint and coating. The fuel filler flap for the Daimler station wagon is manufactured at Kunststoff Schwanden AG in Schwanden (CH).

India: Delhi’s buses may run on renewable fuels

2011-05-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

As a joint venture with the Swedish government, Delhi plans to convert biogas generated at Keshopur sewage treatment plant to CNG. The fuel will be used to power buses owned by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). Headed by the local Efficiency and Renewable Energy Management Centre, it is the first such initiative undertaken in the country and is expected to begin by September this year.

Last Friday, Swedish experts made a final presentation before Delhi’s Environment department, and the project has been in principle approved. According to Indian Express, Delhi government will get 50 per cent of funding from Swedish Development Corporation Agency and will support the rest of the cost.

Delhi began talks with the Swedish government last December, when Swedish experts completed a three-month study of four sewage treatment plants in Delhi (Dwarka, Keshopur, Coronation Park and Okhla).

“If Keshopur project is successful, we will replicate it in all 17 plants of the Capital. This will be able to meet the CNG requirement for a major portion of the DTC fleet,” said a senior official.

iFrogz Launches Translucent TPU-based Soft Gloss Case for iPhone 4

2011-05-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

iFrogz introduces the Soft Gloss case which will provide your iPhone 4 with a decent amount of protection and a fairly eye-catching visual design. But there's little else to distinguish this utilitarian iPhone 4 case.

The Soft Gloss uses a thermoplastic polyurethane wrap to cover up the back and sides of your iPhone 4. A ridge over the front edge of the phone keeps your iPhone 4 from coming into contact with any surfaces if you set it down with the screen facing down.

In a way, the Soft Gloss is like the jellied wrap portion of another iFrogz case, the Swerve, although the openings on the former's top and side are slightly different. Both cases feature the same spiral design with dots circling around the Apple logo on the phone's back side.

The Soft Gloss has a small opening on the side for accessing the ring/silent switch. On AT&T-model iPhones, the Soft Gloss fits perfectly. But the opening doesn't line up exactly for Verizon phones, so the switch rubs up against the side of the slit, making it more of a challenge to operate and less visually appealing. Note that the openings on the top for the headphone jack and sleep/wake button as well as the raised buttons on the side for controlling volume fit both AT&T and Verizon models equally well.

Though it's translucent, the Soft Gloss comes in four colors to give your phone a distinct tint. The eye-catching effect will please aesthetically minded users, who will also enjoy a decent amount of protection from the case. But Verizon iPhone 4 users may be disappointed with how this case fits their phone.

Isfahan Scientists Develop PEEK-based Nanocomposite Powder for Aerospace Industry

2011-05-10T09:19:00.000-07:00

Researchers at Isfahan University of Technology have developed a poly (ether ether ketone) /silica polymeric nanocomposite in powder form by mechanical alloying for aerospace industry applications. They claimed PEEK as advanced engineering polymer with excellent chemical resistance and high favorable erosive and frictional behavior. Scientists revealed that the main objective of this project was to develop a method for the synthesis of polymeric base nanocomposites so that the product is prepared in powder form.

However, extremely low solubility in common solvents and high melting temperature (about 340° C) created problems for them to use common methods which, lead to the discovery of new procedure. Reinforcing nanoparticles were distributed and dispersed into the polymeric matrix by means of solid state processing and high energy ball milling (for 15 hours).

One of the research team members, Mehdi Hedayati concluded that molecular destruction won't evolve in the polymeric structure if the process parameters are adjusted. Also, an appropriate distribution and dispersion of nanoparticles in polymeric matrix is achieved by modification of surface chemical behavior of silica nanoparticles. Hedayati further said that they held good negotiations with Iran airplane manufacturing industries (HESA) and a contract with the novel industries department of the Ministry of Industries and Mines which, is in the final stages of endorsement.

Symphony Supports EU Commission's Proposal Investigate on Plastic Waste Problem in the Environment

2011-05-10T09:17:00.000-07:00

Symphony Environmental Technologies, specialists in controlled-life, Oxo-biodegradable plastic technology has welcomed the announcement by the EU Environment Commissioner, Janez Potocnik to investigate the problem of plastic waste in the environment.

The announcement, which came at a meeting of EU Environment Ministers in Brussels, included the intention of the Commission to launch an impact assessment and "the possibility of a Europe-wide ban on plastic bags".

In response to the announcement, Michael Stephen, Deputy Chairman of Symphony, said: "We welcome the Commissioner's intent to look into "all options", because the EU currently has no policy for plastic waste which gets into the land or sea environment and cannot realistically be collected for recycling or anything else. We look forward to introducing him to d₂w Oxo-biodegradable technology as a valuable tool for future policy. d₂w is no more a solution to plastic waste than catalytic converters are a solution to air pollution, but both technologies have an important contribution to make. Education also has a role to play, but it is unrealistic for the foreseeable future to think that there will be no plastic waste in the environment. There is no evidence whatsoever that biodegradable plastic of any kind encourages littering."

d₂w additive included at manufacture turns ordinary plastic at the end of its useful life into a material with a different molecular structure. At that stage it is no longer a plastic and has become a material which is inherently biodegradable in the open environment in the same way as a leaf. Approximate timescale for degradation can be set at manufacture as required.

Last month the UK Environment Agency published an LCA which recognised the environmental benefits of plastic bags, including those made of Oxo-biodegradable plastic, and Symphony does not believe that an EU ban on all types of plastic carrier-bags would be justified.

"The Commissioner's announcement is timely given the profusion of national schemes aimed at reducing the amount of plastic waste in the environment, some of which were rushed through and are based on confused scientific knowledge and the wrong technical norms. These should be replaced by a regulatory framework that is long-term, pan-European, realistic and sustainable."

FDA-approved Minimally Invasive PEEK Spinal Implants

2011-05-04T08:31:00.001-07:00

Xiphos™ posterior interbody medical devices from Austin, Texas-based minimally invasive spinal implants supplier DiFUSION Technologies Inc. has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Xiphos™ device is made using Zeniva® polyetheretherketone (PEEK) resin from Solvay Advanced Polymers. The modulus of this biomaterial is kept quiet close to that of natural bone and offers chemical inertness, toughness, fatigue resistance and possesses radiolucent properties for X-ray; Zeniva® PEEK in medical implants can also be used as an alternative to metals such as titanium. The PEEK rod is used with supplemental internal fixation of thoracolumbar spine. Xiphos comes in variety of implant shapes and sizes as per patient anatomy and surgical need. The company plans to use Zeniva PEEK for future non-antimicrobial products too.

Boston Utilizes Teijin's BIOFRONT™ Heat-resistant Bioplastic to Make Eco-friendly Eyeglasses

2011-04-30T11:52:00.000-07:00

Teijin Limited has announced that eyeglass frames made of its BIOFRONT highly heat-resistant bioplastic will be used in the JAPONISM series of eyeglasses by Boston Club Co., Ltd., a Japan-based globally active eyeglass maker. The eyeglasses will be marketed by Boston Club and sold in its directly owned shops in Tokyo and other retail stores nationwide from mid May. Boston Club expects to sell 2,000 pairs of the environmentally friendly eyeglasses annually.

BIOFRONT, a type of bioplastic, is produced from plant-based feedstock. It has a melting point of at least 210° C, which is significantly higher than that of conventional polylactide (PLA) bioplastic. BIOFRONT also is highly resistant to bleaching and bacteria, has good hydrolytic stability and achieves semi-crystallization in just 20-25% of the time required by conventional PLA, making it an excellent choice for many molded-plastic applications.

In 2009, Teijin Limited and Teijin Chemicals Limited, in collaboration with Tanaka Foresight Inc., which manufactures and sells approximately 60% of all plastic eyeglass parts in Japan, successfully developed eyeglass frames made from BIOFRONT. BIOFRONT eyeglass frames are currently available in the Katherine E Hamnett line of ethically and environmentally sound fashion.

Acetate is commonly used for the plastic parts of eyeglasses, but contact with cosmetics or hair-styling products can bleach the material. Acetate also tends to warp under high heat, and in some cases it can cause skin rashes. PLA has been used for nose pads because its antibacterial properties help to prevent rashes, but conventional PLA has not been used for parts such as frames and temples because of insufficient heat resistance.

Specialty Insulation Foamed Tanks Maintain Low Temperature for LNG

2011-04-30T11:49:00.001-07:00

In Gwangyang, Korea, pipes in a liquefied natural gas (LNG) tank terminal are now been insulated using specialty foam Basotect® from BASF for the first time. LNG gas needs to be stored and temporarily liquefied at low temperature, hence proper insulation of such pipes is very critical. The foam also protects pipes from high temperature conditions and provides flame retardancy too. Basotect's base material makes it flame-retardant and can be used at up to 240°C while retaining its properties over a wide temperature range. Basotect has an open-cell foam structure made from melamine resin, which is a thermoset polymer. This makes it lightweight foam (9g/l) due to which even heavy pipes can be easily moved if needed during inspection purposes and re-installed when through.

Injection-molded Cleaning Spray Bottle: Simple to Use - Complex in Structure

2011-04-30T11:48:00.001-07:00

Replenish Bottling Founder Jason Foster developed 'Replenish', a household cleaning product. It is packaged in an intelligent and reusable spray bottle system which comprises of a two-part arrangement. Concentrate is stored in a reservoir of the pod that, when pushed, reaches the base of the bottle; here the unit of concentrate gets mixed with water. The delivery mechanism that connects the injection-molded bottle with injection blow-molded pod is more complex. The pod contains enough concentrate for four bottles of cleaner. The pods and bottle are made of Eastman Eastar™ copolyester.
Wowing industry with its smart functionality and pleasing aesthetics, the innovation has been declared as the finalist for the '2011 Edison Best New Product' Awards. Replenish also won the 'Alice Best New Product of 2010'.

Samsung Launches Eco-friendly Android Smartphone made Using Recycled Plastics

2011-04-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

Sprint unveiled several progressive initiatives building on Sprint's environmental leadership in the wireless industry, including upcoming availability of the stylish Samsung Replenish™ from Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile). Samsung Replenish, an Android touch QWERTY smartphone enabled with Sprint ID, will be available on May 8 at the affordable price.

Sprint is waiving the $10 monthly premium data add-on charge for Samsung Replenish to make it easier for customers to make eco-friendly buying decisions. In addition, the Earth-friendly Samsung Restore™, first available from Sprint in 2010, will be offered to Virgin Mobile USA customers without an annual contract beginning on April 18.

"We want to make it as simple as we can for our customers to go green with a robust selection of products and competitive pricing," said Dan Hesse, Sprint CEO. "Samsung Replenish is as green as we could make it with more than 80 percent recyclable materials, housed in partially recycled plastics, energy efficient and built with fewer environmentally sensitive materials. As if this is not enough incentive, we are also lowering the monthly rate for this phone by $10 for new or existing customers so it pays for itself within just five months."

With four eco-friendly phones launched to date, Sprint has made available the most green devices and accessories of any U.S. wireless carrier. Marking another U.S. first, an optional solar charging battery cover will be available for Samsung Replenish. The solar battery cover and an Eco-cover made from Naturacell will be available for purchase on May 8.

Earth-friendly yet Powerful

Samsung Replenish, Sprint and Samsung Mobile's first eco-friendly Android smartphone boasting access to more than 150,000 apps in Android Market™, is partially built with recycled plastics and recyclable packaging making it the ideal choice for the environmentally conscious consumer who needs the latest technology. The phone will also be enabled with Sprint ID, which lets customers personalize their device instantly with eco-friendly focused apps and mobile content.

"We are excited to expand our portfolio of eco-friendly devices to now include the Samsung Replenish with Sprint, Samsung's first Android-powered eco-friendly phone, and the Samsung Restore with Virgin Mobile," said Dale Sohn, President of Samsung Telecommunications America. "Both the Replenish and Restore offer an impressive feature set with hardware made from recycled materials and eco-centric packaging, giving customers the option to have an eco-friendly phone without having to compromise features and functionality."

It has the following impressive eco-credentials:

Reduced environmentally sensitive materials (RoHS compliant, free of intentionally added polyvinyl chloride (PVC), brominated flame retardants (BFRs), phthalates and beryllium)
Energy efficient, with a charger that meets the EC Code of Conduct on Energy Efficiency of External Power Supplies, Version 4, as well as a visual alert for full charge
Casing includes 34.6 percent post-consumer recycled plastic content (the highest level in our eco-portfolio) and 82 percent of the device is made from recyclable materials
Fully recyclable packaging that incorporates 80 percent post-consumer waste material and uses soy inks
Includes a postage-paid envelope to recycle your old phone and promotes a virtual user guide available on the Sprint website

Sprint also recently announced the availability of the newest Sprint ID pack, the Green ID pack. This ID pack offers Sprint customers using select Android devices, including Samsung Replenish, the opportunity to personalize their phone with an unmatched eco-focused Android experience that provides mobile content to live green, shop green, recycle and more.

Sprint's new Green Sprint ID pack provides instant personalization in a single download with apps, widgets and mobile shortcuts on the user's device, and it features apps from eco-conscious favorites such as Green America and the National Audubon Society. Started recently owners of select Sprint devices, including Samsung Transform™, Samsung Epic™ 4G* and Samsung Galaxy Tab™, can load the Green ID pack onto their device. Samsung Replenish will offer the Green ID pack when it launches on May 8. Like all other Sprint ID packs, the Green ID pack is free to download with Sprint's Everything Data plan.

Sainsbury Utilizes RPC Blackburn's Transparent PET Bottles for Storing Food Extracts

2011-04-21T10:59:00.000-07:00

Sainsbury's has launched the latest additions to its successful Taste the Difference range premium flavourings in a custom 43.5ml PET bottle manufactured at RPC Containers Blackburn.

The bottle, produced for Food Innovation, is being used for a new range of premium food extracts for home baking and flavoring. Its impressive clear appearance highlights the vibrant colours of the contents. PET combines ease of use with safety it is lightweight and shatterproof, making it ideal for use in the kitchen.

Kevin Rushton, Senior Partner at Food Innovation, added "The excellent clarity of the bottle means these high-quality extracts are clearly identifiable on the shelf."

"We know there's a growing market for home baking products such as these, and consumers who buy the range are looking for quality. It was important, therefore, that the packaging from RPC matched that ethos."

Sainsbury's are the first to market with an own-label home baking extract using Madagascan vanilla. The range also includes Sicilian lemon and the first extract sourced from mentha piperita one of the highest quality mint plants grown in the US to go on sale in a UK supermarket.

PBT+PC Blend Adds Life to Exterior Truck Components

2011-04-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

To protect exterior truck components from harsh environments, LANXESS has developed Pocan C 1202 blend of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polycarbonate (PC). It has been used on uncoated radiator grille of the FM series FMX construction truck. The PBT blend features UV stability and chemical resistance. Volvo Trucks Corporation fitted the model with a new front section, while the (180x35x4)cm radiator grille is produced by Germany-based Gerhardi Kunststofftechnik GmbH, a manufacturer of plastic components for vehicle interiors and exteriors in Europe. The relevant molds are cascaded; latching lugs and mounting domes are reproduced while excellent flow behavior causes negligible distortion. The company is also offering PBT blends that can be used in truck panels, moldings, wind deflectors, pillars, bumpers, etc.

Argentina will have natural gas for 509 years

2011-04-20T21:51:00.000-07:00

The Department of Energy has confirmed that the South American country holds more natural gas trapped in shale rock than all of Europe does, a 774-trillion-cubic-feet (tcf) bounty that could transform the outlook for Western Hemisphere supply and that could be the third largest in the world. The production of this gas involves horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, unconventional techniques that revolutionized gas markets, opening up 100 years of new supplies.

While shale exploration in Argentina is still in its infancy and it is early to determine exactly how much gas can be tapped economically, the country's technically recoverable shale reserves would be worth over USD 3 trillion at today's U.S. futures markets prices, reported Reuters news agency.

"In the richest area of Argentina’s Neuquén Basin of, at least one third or half of the reserves could be economically viable based on current prices," explained the energy consulting firm Advanced Resources International, which prepared the DoE report.

It is worth adding that these reserves may encourage the momentum for further investments in the sector and also increase the volume of natural gas in Argentina. In this sense, it may guarantee the supply of fuel for different uses, including transportation.

Eden Encourages Commercial Application of Carbon Nanotubes & Nanofibers in Automotives & Electronics

2011-04-12T12:55:00.001-07:00

Eden Energy Ltd has announced the wide applications of carbon nanotubes and nanofibers in various industries like electronics, automotives where they are mixed with rubber and plastics and used in manufacturing of vehicle tyres etc. Initially they encourage nano tubes and fibers utilisation in batteries followed by plastic and rubber industries where they improve the tensile strength and shelf life of rubber. Eden has also developed new pyrolysis technology along with university of Queensland which produces carbon nanotubes and nanofibers from natural gas and significant advantage of not producing carbon dioxide as an unwanted by-product.

First Sale of Eden's Nano-Carbon Fibers to a Battery Manufacturer for Commercial Application:

Eden Energy Ltd ("Eden") has made its first commercial sale of its carbon nanotubes (CNT) and carbon nanofibers (CNF) to an industrial battery manufacturer. The sale followed the testing by the battery manufacturer of the suitability of Eden's nano-carbon fibers in its batteries, which include a wide range of rechargeable industrial batteries including re-chargeable vehicle batteries. They advertise that a very small quantity of carbon nanotubes added to material in the battery, dramatically increases the storage capacity of the battery and significantly reduces the time taken to recharge the battery. Whilst the first sale was of only a relatively small quantity of carbon, it is nevertheless understood to be sufficient for possibly up to 1000 batteries, but most importantly is confirmation from the market of the commercial acceptability of Eden's carbon nano-products for electrical applications.

Initial Testing of Eden's Nano-Carbon Fibers in Rubber and Plastics to Begin:

Eden will commence testing at the Hythane Company's laboratory in Colorado, USA, the effects of mixing carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers with rubber and plastic. Published test results of trials by other research groups indicate that in the case of rubber, which is normally made with a base mixture of rubber (67wt%) and carbon black (33wt%), substitution of 5wt % of carbon nanotubes for the 33wt% carbon black, can increase the tensile strength of the rubber by up to 35% and the strain energy density by up to 37%, potentially resulting in lighter, longer life tyres. In the case of plastics, published test results of other researchers have shown that the addition of carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers to the plastic produces a significant increases in strength, and both electrical and thermal conductivity. 1wt% of multiwalled nanotubes, added to polyethylene increased its strain energy density by approximately 150% and its ductility by approximately 140%. In the case of carbon fibre strengthened epoxy composites, addition of 0.5wt% of multiwalled carbon nanotubes increased stiffness and strength by 10-15% and sheer strength by 25-30%.

Eden's New Pyrolysis Technology:

Eden's new Pyrolysis technology, developed by Eden and the University of Queensland, produces hydrogen and carbon nano-fibers or carbon nanotubes from natural gas (methane) and has the very significant advantage of not producing carbon dioxide as an unwanted by-product. In India, where Eden is planning to demonstrate its hydrogen enriched Hythane™ fuel in two bus trials later this year, establishing a market for a significant quantity of the nano-carbon products will not only enable production of large quantities of hydrogen but also a significant amount of valuable carbon nano-products.

Eden's pyrolysis process and catalyst production capability, is currently being scaled up at Hythane Company to a small scale commercial production level of up to 100 tonnes of carbon per year, and is planned to be completed by the end of 2011, which, if successful, will open the way to a commercial rollout in 2012, with initial deployment being planned for India.

Ensinger’s Thermoplastic Carbon Fiber Composites Made Using Victrex’s PEEK Offers High Mechanical Strength

2011-04-11T03:52:00.000-07:00

Ensinger recently launched a series of highly loaded thermoplastic carbon fiber composites. Components made of this composite material offer high mechanical strength alongside excellent heat distortion properties.

Stock shapes made using the new TECATEC product series comprise a thermoplastic matrix and a woven fabric of carbon fiber bundles. This combination ensures the achievement of significantly higher tensile and flexural strength compared to fiber reinforced extrudates. The lightweight materials also offer good chemical resistance and are radiolucent, making them ideally suited for external fixation devices and surgical instruments.

TECATEC PEEK CW50 makes use of the matrix polymer VICTREX® PEEK™, which is compressed with laminated woven carbon fabric mats. A special coating on the fabric helps to reduce the number of faults. A carbon fiber fabric component of 50 per cent ensures extremely good torsional stiffness and minimal tendency to warp even after multiple sterilization cycles. These attributes make for a long service life of components.

This new material is an example of close co-operation between the Ensinger Group and Victrex Polymer Solutions. The two companies have agreed to work closely together on the development and marketing of new application fields for PEEK™ products.

The other composite material offered within the Ensinger portfolio is TECATEC PEKK CW60. This comprises a polyetherketoneketone matrix (PEKK), laminated with a 60 per cent carbon fiber fabric. The proprietary manufacturing process used achieves excellent fiber and matrix integration. Because of its high glass transition point (165 °C), PEKK is resistant to repeated steam sterilization cycles, while its enhanced carbon fiber component ensures even higher dimensional stability and stiffness. Medical technology is the single most important field of application for TECATEC products. Both materials are physiologically harmless (biocompatibility in accordance with ISO 10993-5) and corrosion resistant. In orthopaedic applications, radiolucent, low-warpage targeting fixtures made of carbon fiber composites are used for positioning fixing pins. The extreme strength of these composite materials also offers benefits when used in the manufacture of spreaders or in components for the external fixture of bone fractures.

TECATEC is available in plate thicknesses of 3 to 40 mm, with larger dimensions available on request.

PA6 ‘Fuel’-filling the Wish to Make Gasoline Engine Tanks Permeation-free

2011-04-11T03:49:00.000-07:00

LANXESS is in process of developing a new blow-moldable, gasoline fuel-resistant polyamide 6 (PA6) grade for high-performance tanks. Used as a replacement to high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and other metal-based tanks (such as aluminum, steel or multi-layer plastic composites), PA6 is compliant with EPA regulations and suppresses fuel permeation in blow-molded tanks effectively. Tanks made of multi-layer plastic composites contain a polar layer of ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) as a permeation barrier. Making these layers by means of co-extrusion blow molding process is a complex and costly task too. Steel and aluminum tanks do not give design freedom.
LANXESS experts are also looking for a possibility to make the new polyamide tank material which is resistant to E85 fuels too. PA6-based fuel tanks can find their application in motorcycles, cars, boats, combustion machines, mobile power generators, and more.

Carbon fibre suppliers are looking forward to recovery in the market.

2011-04-02T12:42:00.000-07:00

Carbon fibre supplier SGL Group of Germany announced in its latest financial report in November that, despite a recent recovery in demand, the market for carbon fibre continues to face temporary overcapacities due to the numerous delays in new aircraft projects, delayed investments in wind energy, as well as declining demand in sports and consumer applications.
“This has resulted in an increased competitive environment with temporary negative impact on prices and volumes,” relates SGL. “The recent increase in demand, however, has led to prices stabilising, albeit at still unsatisfactory levels. Further price increases are necessary in 2011,” the report notes. The company also says that in recent months it has improved the structure of its precursor supply with the addition of two independent production sites.
Long delays in Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner programme have contributed to the supply and demand imbalance. Boeing announced in January that it expects delivery of the first Dreamliner in the third quarter of this year. The 787 programme has been gradually returning individual aircraft to the flight test programme. Four have been subjected to extensive ground testing and a thorough review to ensure their readiness to return to flight, says Boeing.

Demand on upswing

Leading US carbon fibre supplier Zoltek, while reporting a loss in the first quarter, reports that sales for the quarter were up 14%, reflecting business with new customers, which offset soft demand from large wind energy customers.
“Worldwide, we are seeing the beginning of a strong resurgence in demand for carbon fibres from wind energy, our primary application area,” noted Zoltek Chairman and CEO Zsolt Rumy.
He reports that over the past two years, there has been a great deal of progress in wind energy in China, India and other countries as high-tech companies have moved in the direction of larger and more efficient wind turbines.
“Wind energy is continuing to go global and entering a new phase of rapid growth,” adds Rumy, noting that Zoltek produces the majority of commercial carbon fibres used in the super-long blades that power advanced wind turbines.
Toray Industries recently announced that it has decided to resume construction of a carbon fibre production facility in Japan in anticipation of a recovery in demand. The new plant is expected to go online in September 2012. Toray and its Korean subsidiary are also building a carbon fibre production plant in Korea to ensure a stable domestic supply there. It is expected to go online in 2013.
In January, Toray and Daimler AG announced a joint venture to manufacture and market carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) automotive parts. Toray has been working on design and moulding processes, while Daimler is taking responsibility for designing parts and developing technologies for joining of the parts, the companies announced. The result is said to be an innovative technology for mass production of CFRP parts with a significantly shorter moulding cycle. Toray is also heavily invested in aerospace, having signed a 16-year contract in 2006 worth at least US$6 billion to supply CFRP materials to Boeing’s Dreamliner programme.
Mitsubishi Rayon Company’s Carbon Fibres and Composite Materials business suffered a loss in 2010, but the company has decided to resume work on an additional carbon fibre plant, which will add annual capacity of 2700 tons. Construction had been suspended pending a recovery in demand. Last year the company formed a business alliance with SGL Group to produce precursors for the manufacture of carbon fibres and fabrics for the BMW Megacity vehicle.
US carbon fibre supplier Hexcel reported improved sales in its 4th quarter report, noting that a significant number of orders received in 2010 by its commercial aerospace and wind customers, provided a “much improved environment for our markets.” Chairman and CEO David Berges notes: “We are pleased with our 2010 results, especially since we started the year with a great deal of uncertainty about the direction of our core markets.” Hexcel expects sales to continue rising in 2011.
In Turkey, carbon fibre producer AKSA Akrilik Kimya has decided to increase the annual capacity of its existing line by 300 tons and to build a second line to add 1700 tons of capacity. In India, Kemrock Industries and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd recently announced plans to form a joint venture to develop and manufacture CFRP prepregs for aerospace and defence applications.