People are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of key industrial sectors, especially in fields such as construction and transportation, where obtaining materials with good mechanical properties, lighter weight, and higher fire resistance plays a crucial role. In this context, the Plastics Technology Center AIMPLAS is carrying out two projects funded by the Valencian Institute of Competitiveness and Innovation (IVACE+i) and supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to sustainably develop new flame-retardant coatings and composites to enhance safety in homes and transportation. Reduce the environmental impact of construction and transportation. On one hand, the main objective of the NEOCOMP project is to develop high-performance flame-retardant composites using advanced manufacturing technologies. This involves producing various parts through innovative industrial processes such as dry fiber placement (DFP) and additive manufacturing. These composites must not only deliver high performance in terms of mechanical strength, durability, and flame retardancy but also make significant contributions to reducing the environmental impact of construction and transportation. Specifically, NEOCOMP will develop flame-retardant thermoplastic adhesives for dry fibers, unidirectional dry fiber tapes for DFP, and continuous reinforced 3D tows. These new manufacturing methods will, on one hand, enable the efficient production of preforms with complex geometries, and on the other hand, will be capable of producing customized composite parts with improved mechanical properties, higher fatigue resistance, and excellent fire resistance. This will bring new opportunities to fields such as construction, automotive, and aerospace. Ziur Composites and IT3D are collaborating on this research to significantly reduce environmental impact and enhance the fire safety of key transportation and construction infrastructure. Flame-retardant coatings made from renewable materials On the other hand, the REFUGI project aims to develop phosphorus-based flame retardants using mechanochemical processes, representing a step towards more environmentally friendly methods. These flame retardants are being integrated into varnish formulations specifically designed for wood. The strategy aims to improve the fire resistance of coatings used in the construction sector. Carolina Acosta, Chief Researcher in Mechanochemistry and Reactive Extrusion at AIMPLAS, explained: "In recent years, the use of flame-retardant varnishes has increased because they offer finishes almost identical to any wood coating while providing greater fire resistance, delaying the spread and impact of fires. We are focusing on exploring different material sources to produce these flame retardants, prioritizing those that are renewable and recyclable." This study was carried out in collaboration with Omar Coatings and Decomader, aiming not only to improve the efficiency of flame retardant production but also to reduce the environmental impact associated with the manufacturing and application of flame retardants. "The application of mechanochemistry in the production of these compounds represents an innovative and promising approach, expanding the possibilities of green chemistry and sustainable manufacturing. We are looking for innovative methods to synthesize flame retardants using processes that minimize solvent use, require fewer resources and reaction time, and maximize efficiency. Additionally, we are researching coating application techniques to enable flame retardants to be distributed evenly and effectively on wood substrates," Acosta added. These two projects are part of the IVACE+i funding program, which is carried out in collaboration between the technology centers and companies of the Valencian Community, intended for non-economic R&D projects in 2024, funded by the EU ERDF under the 2021-2027 operational program.

Achieving transparency and flame retardancy in modified nylon is indeed a technical challenge, mainly because of the following reasons.The objectives of transparency and flame retardancy fundamentally conflict with each other in terms of implementation mechanisms.。 There are several key reasons: The Physical Form of Flame Retardants and Light Scattering Traditional flame retardants are mostly solid particles.The most commonly used and efficient flame retardants (such as halogenated ones, inorganic hydroxides like aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide, and certain types of phosphorus-based ones) are usually added in the form of solid powders. Refractive index mismatch:The refractive indices of these solid particles are usually different from that of the nylon matrix. When light passes through the material, refraction and scattering occur at the interfaces between the particles and the matrix. Disruption of optical uniformity:Even when the particle size is very small (approaching the wavelength of visible light), a large number of particles can cause strong light scattering, making the material turbid or opaque (similar to a foggy or milky appearance). High loading levels (usually 15-30% or even higher are required to achieve the desired flame retardant effect) exacerbate this problem. 2The Effect of Flame Retardants on the Crystallization Behavior of Nylon Transparent nylon relies on controlling crystallization.Ordinary nylon (such as PA6, PA66) is a semi-crystalline polymer. The refractive indices of its crystalline and amorphous regions are different, resulting in light scattering and giving it a translucent or opaque appearance. Transparent nylon is usually achieved through the following methods: Introducing comonomers disrupts crystalline regularity.Transparent nylons such as PA6/6I and PA6/3-T inhibit extensive crystallization by introducing large side groups or asymmetric monomers, forming small crystalline regions or highly amorphous structures, thereby reducing light scattering. Add nucleating agents to control crystal size.Make the grain size much smaller than the wavelength of visible light (< 400 nm) to reduce scattering. Flame retardant interference with crystallization:Flame retardant particles may: Act as a heterogeneous nucleation site.Promoting crystallization leads to an increase in grain size, which in turn increases light scattering and reduces transparency. Hindering the movement of molecular chains.Inhibit crystallization or alter crystal morphology, but it is usually difficult to precisely control to both maintain high transparency and meet flame retardant requirements. Poor compatibility with the matrix.Incompatible flame retardants form defects at the interface, which are also sources of light scattering. The choice of efficient transparent flame retardants is limited and expensive. ①Liquid flame retardant:Theoretically, liquid flame retardants (such as certain phosphate esters and phosphonate esters) can avoid the scattering problems caused by solid particles if they are well compatible with nylon and have matching refractive indices. Compatibility:It is difficult to find a liquid flame retardant that is highly compatible with nylon and does not easily migrate or precipitate. Poor compatibility can lead to phase separation, fogging, sticky surfaces, and can affect transparency and performance. Thermal stability:Many liquid flame retardants lack thermal stability and may decompose or volatilize at nylon processing temperatures (typically >250°C), reducing flame retardant efficiency and potentially causing bubbles or odors. Flame retardant efficiency:Liquid flame retardants typically have lower flame-retardant efficiency compared to highly effective solid flame retardants (such as brominated compounds and phosphinate), which may require higher addition levels. However, higher addition levels increase the difficulty of compatibility and migration, and may deteriorate mechanical properties. Refractive index matching:It is very difficult to find a flame retardant liquid with a refractive index that closely matches transparent nylon. ② Reactive flame retardants:Covalently bond flame-retardant elements (such as phosphorus and nitrogen) to the nylon molecular chain. Theoretically, this can avoid dispersion issues. Complex synthesis and high cost: The synthesis of specialized flame-retardant monomers or polymers involves complicated processes and costs much more than additive flame retardants. Balance between flame retardant efficiency and transparencyThe introduction of flame-retardant structural units may affect the regularity of molecular chains, which is beneficial for transparency, but a sufficient content of flame-retardant groups is required to be effective. This may affect the crystallization behavior or refractive index uniformity of the final material. The properties of the base resin are greatly affected.Changing the molecular chain structure may significantly affect the melting point, fluidity, mechanical properties, and other characteristics of the material. ③Nano flame retardants:The use of nanoscale flame retardants (such as nanoclay and nano metal hydroxides), whose dimensions are much smaller than the wavelength of visible light, can theoretically reduce light scattering. Decentralization Challenge:Achieving complete, uniform, and stable exfoliation and dispersion of nanoparticles in a polymer matrix is extremely difficult. Aggregated nanoparticles can become strong scattering points. Flame retardant efficiency:Using nano flame retardants alone usually fails to achieve high flame retardant ratings (such as UL94 V0) and often requires blending with other flame retardants, which may introduce scattering sources. Cost and Process:High-quality nanomaterials and specialized dispersion processes are costly. The color issue of the flame retardant itself Some flame retardants themselves have inherent colors (for example, some brominated flame retardants tend to be yellowish, and some phosphorus-based flame retardants tend to be yellowish or reddish). Even if dispersion issues are resolved, their intrinsic colors will still affect the transparency and appearance of the material, making it difficult to achieve high light transmittance and a water-white appearance. In summary, the difficulty lies in Physical conflict:Solid flame retardants inevitably cause light scattering that destroys transparency. 2. Limitations of Alternative Solutions:Liquid flame retardants face challenges such as compatibility, migration, thermal stability, and flame retardant efficiency; reactive flame retardants are expensive and complex to synthesize; nano flame retardants are difficult to disperse and have limited efficiency. ③ Synergy is difficult to achieve:It is very difficult to achieve a balance between ensuring the flame retardant is highly uniformly dispersed in the matrix (at the nanoscale and stable) to maintain transparency, ensuring its flame retardant efficiency is high enough (usually requiring a high addition level), and not affecting other key properties of the material (mechanical, thermal, electrical). 1Current Possible Solutions(still developing/has limitations) 1. Develop high-performance transparent flame-retardant nylon special materials. Select specific transparent nylon resins (such as amorphous PA or microcrystalline PA) as the base. Carefully selected and compounded phosphorus-nitrogen-based flame retardants with good compatibility, similar refractive index, thermal stability, and high efficiency. It may be necessary to add an anti-migration additive. Result:It may achieve a certain level of transparency and flame retardancy (such as UL94 V2 or some thin-walled V0), but the cost is high, and long-term stability (such as heat aging resistance, light aging resistance, and migration resistance) may present issues. Additionally, the light transmittance and water whiteness are usually not as good as non-flame-retardant transparent nylon. 2. Multi-layer composite structure: The outer layer is made of transparent non-flame-retardant nylon, while the inner layer is made of flame-retardant nylon (which does not need to be transparent). This method sacrifices overall complete transparency but ensures a transparent appearance and internal flame retardancy. The process is complex and costly. Surface flame retardant treatment: Apply a flame-retardant coating to the surface of transparent nylon products. The coating needs to be highly transparent, have good adhesion, and strong durability. There are challenges regarding both transparency and durability. Therefore, the difficulty in modifying nylon to be "transparent and flame-retardant" essentially stems from the inherent contradiction between optical performance and flame-retardant performance in the path of realization. It requires overcoming multiple barriers such as physical dispersion, chemical compatibility, efficiency, and cost. Although there are some commercial transparent flame-retardant nylon products, they often involve compromises in terms of transparency, flame-retardant grade, overall performance, or cost.

On August 1, it was reported that the plastics industry holds an important position in the application fields of titanium dioxide, being its second-largest user. The consumption of titanium dioxide in the plastics sector accounts for approximately 20% of its total consumption. Among more than 500 titanium dioxide grades worldwide, over 50 are specifically designed for plastics. When titanium dioxide is applied to plastic products, it not only functions as a pigment with high hiding power and strong decolorizing ability, but also enhances the heat resistance, light resistance, and weather resistance of the plastics, protecting them from ultraviolet damage. At the same time, it improves the mechanical and electrical properties of the products. Almost all thermosetting and thermoplastic plastics rely on titanium dioxide, with usage typically ranging from 1% to 5%. The application methods are diverse: it can be mixed with resin dry powder, blended with liquids containing plasticizers, or first processed into masterbatches before use. According to the Masterbatch Industry Network, the particle size of titanium dioxide used in plastics is generally finer, typically ranging from 0.15 to 0.3μm. This allows it to form a blue undertone, which provides a masking effect for most resins with a yellow hue or those prone to yellowing. Additionally, titanium dioxide used in plastics is usually subject to organic surface treatment, using agents such as polyols, silane, or siloxane. The treated titanium dioxide can achieve better dispersion under appropriate mechanical shear forces. However, it is important to note that the high hardness of rutile is a disadvantage for glass fiber reinforced plastics, as it can damage the glass fibers during the coloring process, leading to a significant reduction in the mechanical strength of the plastic products. Therefore, when coloring glass fiber reinforced plastics, it is advisable to choose zinc barium white or zinc sulfide as white pigments, which have slightly inferior optical properties but much lower hardness. Plastic products have clear quality requirements for titanium dioxide. In terms of weather resistance, plastic products used outdoors and plastic doors and windows must ensure that the titanium dioxide has good weather resistance; whiteness determines the appearance of light-colored or white plastic products; dispersibility affects the production cost of plastic products, and poorly dispersed titanium dioxide reduces the smoothness and glossiness of the products; titanium dioxide with good hiding power allows the produced plastic products to be lighter and thinner. Plastic color masterbatch is a highly concentrated and efficient color formulation. According to incomplete statistics, the amount of titanium dioxide used annually for masterbatch production in China is about 20,000 to 30,000 tons. The performance of color masterbatch is usually reflected in subsequent product applications, such as film blowing or injection molding processes, so the performance of titanium dioxide in the masterbatch mainly manifests during its application. Specifically, tinting strength determines the amount of titanium dioxide required for plastic products of the same color; whiteness and color difference affect the appearance of light-colored (white) plastic products with the same titanium dioxide content; dispersibility influences the production cost of masterbatch as well as the appearance, gloss, and other indicators of plastic products; and processing performance is related to the production cost of the masterbatch.

Anhui Polynt New Materials Co., Ltd. "Anhui Polynt New Materials Co., Ltd. Polynt's Annual Production of 50,000 Tons of High-end Automotive Modified Materials Project" Environmental Impact Report Form Pre-approval Public Notice. The project involves the establishment of 16 new modified plastic production lines along with supporting water supply facilities, power supply facilities, testing facilities, and environmental protection facilities, designed for an annual output of 50,000 tons of high-end automotive modified materials. The main raw and auxiliary material, black masterbatch, has an annual designed usage of 2.5 tons. According to the Color Masterbatch Industry Network, this black masterbatch comes from Jiangsu Haiyan New Materials Co., Ltd. Jiangsu Haiyan New Materials Co., Ltd. was established in 2018. The company focuses on the research, development, and production of high-end plastic color masterbatches, functional masterbatches, and modified engineering plastics. Its products are widely used in fields such as automobile manufacturing, aerospace, electronics and electrical appliances, and food packaging. In 2021, Jiangsu Haiyan's wholly-owned subsidiary, Xuzhou Haiyan Technology Materials Co., Ltd., invested in the construction of a "Masterbatch Processing Project for New Energy Vehicle Components" in the Qing'an Town Industrial Park, Suining County. The total investment of the project is 150 million yuan, equipped with 16 color masterbatch production lines and 2 modified plastic production lines, with an annual production capacity of 20,000 tons of color masterbatch and 10,000 tons of functional masterbatch. The project was fully put into operation in September 2023.

Proper drying of polymer resins is crucial during molding or extrusion processing of these materials to avoid operational errors and defects in the finished products. Resin dryers provide convenient, quick, and efficient drying treatment for injection molding and extrusion processing.Its types are diverse and can provide high-quality drying effects for almost all application scenarios. Some of the most common types include: Hot air dryer:No desiccant Compressed air dryer: Non-membrane or low dew point membrane Desiccant Bed/Dehumidification Type:Single or multiple bed types Desiccant Wheel/Dehumidification Type:Spin the wheel Vacuum dryer:Using heat and vacuum to remove moisture from materials. Dryers are suitable for handling molding machines and extruders with capacities ranging from as low as 1 pound per hour to over 6,000 pounds per hour. Optional solutions range from small, energy-efficient portable devices to large centralized systems. Many drying solutions feature compact designs and integrated conveying systems to ensure that dried materials are directly delivered to processing machines. Dryer type 01 Hot air dryer: Most economicalThe resin dryer usesUsing a one-way process, draw the atmosphere into the filter and heater, push the heated air through the drying hopper, and discharge it back into the atmosphere.。 Ambient air is heated and introduced into a drying hopper. Surface moisture is removed from non-hygroscopic materials, which are typically dried at temperatures of 180º F (82.22º C) or lower. For hygroscopic materials, the air heats the pellets, bringing internal moisture to the surface for drying. The maximum hot air temperature is determined by the material's softening (not melting) temperature. Such dryers are generally not used for hygroscopic materials, except when small quantities are taken from sealed resin bags. 02Compressed Air/Dehumidification/Membrane Dryer: Mainly used forLow throughputApplications andSmall machineThe application requires a large amount of compressed air. High-pressure compressed air expands to produce a larger volume of low-pressure air. The expanded air passes through a heater and then enters the drying hopper. The heated moist air is discharged from the drying hopper into the atmosphere. The non-membrane version provides factory (for process use) air with a dew point of 40ºF to 50ºF (approximately 4.44ºC to 10ºC). Factory compressed air typically provides air with a dew point of approximately 0 to +15ºF (approximately -17.8ºC to -9.44ºC). If the central compressed air system is equipped with a central compressed air dryer, this may reduce the compressed air dew point low enough (0 to -15ºF (approximately -17.8ºC to -26ºC)) to achieve proper drying without the need for an additional membrane on the dryer. Membrane versions allow compressed air to pass through a membrane to remove moisture from the air. Compressed air dryers using membranes can produce air at -40°F (-40º C) or better. Some applications may require the installation of a HEPA filter at the air outlet of the drying hopper to capture any discharged dust particles and prevent them from entering the atmosphere. 03Desiccant bed/dehumidifying dryer: This type of dryer usesDesiccant materialsWhen beads (for example) absorb moisture, they undergo a regeneration process to remove the moisture once they are saturated, allowing the desiccant to be regenerated and moisture to be absorbed into the beads again (adsorption process). Extremely hot air (400 to 800°F, approximately 204 to 427ºC) passes through the desiccant, releasing the moisture absorbed from the airflow. However, the beads must be cooled before returning to the drying process to avoid melting the resin due to a sudden temperature rise when handling on the bed. The multi-bed desiccant technology can use one or two blowers. The blowers provide process air, cooling air, and regeneration air, guiding the air through the desiccant beds using switching valves. 04Desiccant rotor (honeycomb type) dryer: The desiccant wheel dryer provides a different type of desiccant drying method. They...More efficient and more compact.And compared to other models, it requires less. Traditional desiccant dryers use a large amount of molecular sieves (in granular form) consisting of at least 30% clay. These desiccant beads degrade over time. The design of the desiccant wheel is completely different. It is composed of pure molecular sieves impregnated on a durable carrier medium. This material is formed into a reinforced honeycomb structure. Desiccant wheel dryers can provide stable and extremely reliable dew points under almost any environmental conditions. A stable process temperature means no bed temperature peaks; these dryers take only a few minutes to start drying from a cold start; due to the low rotor pressure drop, they can achieve above-average process airflow with minimal energy; the large surface area to volume ratio of the desiccant provides faster adsorption and desorption (regeneration) regulation; the honeycomb structure has a thin layer of desiccant that absorbs moisture evenly; during regeneration, the absorbed moisture easily evaporates off the media, allowing the dryer to achieve efficient continuous drying as the wheel rotates slowly. The working principle of a wheel dryer The rotary dryer operates simultaneously through three processes:Drying, regeneration, and cooling. In the drying circuit, moist air from the drying hopper passes through a filter, cooler, and blower to reach the desiccant wheel, where moisture is extracted from the process air, and then it returns to the drying hopper. The regeneration process uses separate filters, blowers, and heating chambers to remove moisture from the desiccant wheel, expelling the hot, moist air outside the dryer. The regeneration process uses separate filters, blowers, and heating chambers to remove moisture from the desiccant wheel, discharging hot, humid air outside the dryer. After regeneration comes cooling, with a portion of the low dew point cooling air being directed towards the desiccant wheel (before the heater) to enhance its moisture absorption capacity in preparation for the next drying cycle. 05Vacuum dryer: Vacuum dryerLowered the boiling point of water.In a vacuum degree of 90%, water boils at 122ºF (approximately 50ºC). The current design employs an insulated vacuum container; an insulated stainless steel hopper with drying temperatures up to 662ºF (approximately 350ºC); weighing sensors to control material levels and display material consumption; a dry air membrane for purging the vacuum container; and an insulated retention hopper for drying materials. The pellets are heated to the required temperature. When vacuum is applied, the water vapor inside the resin boils. Compared to traditional drying methods, the resin is ready for processing in a shorter time. The vacuum dryer has fewer moving parts, making it suitable for certain processing applications. Control system The control system monitors and maintains optimal performance during the drying process. Today's control platforms offer many control and diagnostic functions, including airflow and temperature control. Some platforms are capable of adjusting dew point parameters and incorporating dryer maintenance programs into routine operations and usage. Dryer control systems are typically equipped with color, user-friendly touch screens that intuitively display drying parameters and processes. The intuitive layout enables operators to quickly learn and initiate dryer functions. The dryer control device meets the data collection requirements of Industry 4.0 used in the plastics industry. The advanced control device optimizes moisture removal through features such as energy control algorithms and integrated conveying control with purge take-off functionality. The remote monitoring feature allows operators to closely monitor operations via mobile phones, tablets, or computers. The process data collected by modern dryer controllers enables smarter facilities and displays trend graphs of key parameters. Dry hopper All types of drying applications require drying hoppers. Drying hoppers allow the appropriate amount of material to reside for the right amount of time. This enables the dryer to remove the necessary moisture from the resin. The design of the resin drying hopper is another key consideration in the plastic drying system.Flow design, size determination, and thermal insulationThe key factors to understand when choosing an ideal drying hopper. Flow design (mass flow or funnel flow) will affect the material passing through the hopper. In overall flow design, all materials flow through the hopper at the same rate, and the material flow direction is opposite to the direction of the drying air (countercurrent). In a funnel flow system, materials flow faster in the center of the hopper and slower near the sides and walls of the hopper. Overall flow design is necessary to ensure that the material has adequate residence time before entering the feed throat of the processing equipment. The size of the drying hopper can be determined by weight or volume. The average capacity of small drying hoppers ranges from 0.1 cubic feet to 30.0 cubic feet. These are usually mounted on floor stands or portable carts, typically located next to or near the processing machine. For some low throughput applications, drying hoppers can be directly mounted on the feed throat of the machine. The average capacity of large drying hoppers is from 30 to 425 cubic feet, and they are usually installed on floor stands or mezzanine platforms due to the larger footprint requirements of the equipment. To determine the size of the drying hopper by weight, its capacity must equal the machine's processing rate (pounds/hour) multiplied by the material residence time (hours). For example, if your machine can process 100 pounds of material per hour and the material residence time is 4 hours, you will need a drying hopper with a capacity of 400 pounds. The formula for determining the size of a drying hopper by volume is: machine processing rate (lbs/hour) multiplied by material residence time (hours), then divided by bulk density (lbs/cubic foot). For example, 100 pounds of material requiring a 4-hour residence time with a density of 40 lbs/cubic foot would need a drying hopper with a capacity of 10 cubic feet. Many engineering resins can refer to a bulk density of 35 to 40 lbs/ft³ for virgin pellets (refer to material supplier data sheets). Filled resins—such as ABS with 40% glass filler—are heavier, while regrind is often less dense. The particle size and shape of regrind can also affect material density. For example: PET virgin pellets:52 to 53 pounds per cubic foot PET recycled sheet material:The density is usually 17 to 23 pounds per cubic foot, depending on the thickness of the board. PET bottle preform recycled material:Average 26 to 38 lbs/ft³ PET bottle flakes:Typically 18 to 23 lbs/ft³ PE virgin pellets:32 to 35 lbs/ft³ PE film:7 to 11 pounds per cubic foot (depending on specifications) Due to various reasons, non-insulated drying hoppers are not very popular: they waste energy, overheat the process area, affect operator safety, and the material adjacent to the hopper wall will be at a temperature below the selected set point. Resin moisture measurement equipment Understanding the initial moisture content of plastic resins is crucial for determining their drying time. The drying time and temperature guidelines provided by material suppliers are often based on assumed initial moisture content, which can lead to over-drying or under-drying of the resin, resulting in process and part issues. Resin moisture measurement devices come in two forms: offline (laboratory) or online. Laboratory equipment can also provide complete chemical analysis, while online equipment is usually cheaper and easier to use. Offline devices include: Weightlessness Analyzer:Measure the total change in weight of the resin sample when heated at a specific temperature. Moisture AnalyzerDetect the moisture content using a chemical process. Online moisture analyzer includes: Capacitive sensor:Measure the capacitance change caused by dielectric variation. Microwave:The working principle is that the dielectric constant of water is significantly higher than that of most other materials. Due to the dipole effect of water molecules, the resonance frequency of a microwave resonator changes with variations in water content. These changes are detected by the sensor electronics and scaled through a calibration process to provide an accurate reading of the presence of moisture. Near-infrared:Using a beam to excite water molecules and measuring the wavelength of light absorption to indicate the moisture content in resin.

Nordmann has established a partnership with Jiangsu Liside New Materials, an eco-friendly flame retardant supplier. Effective immediately, Nordmann will be responsible for the distribution and marketing of Liside's halogen-free flame retardants in Europe, including Turkey. LSD's products have a wide range of applications, covering fields such as engineering plastics and polyurethane coatings. The materials involved include PA6, PA66, PBT, TPE, as well as special grades developed specifically for PET spinning and fibers. Ralf Meier, Business Manager for Flame Retardants in Europe at Nordmann, said: “We are impressed by Liside’s high quality, innovative strength, and first-class R&D team. We value such high standards and look forward to this new cooperation. Liside’s innovative flame retardant products will perfectly complement our existing range of halogen-free flame retardants, synergists, and flame retardant masterbatches, enabling us to provide first-class solutions to our customers.” Thomas Leung, Head of Sales at Li Si De, added, "We are very pleased to partner with Nordmann. Our shared commitment to quality and innovation lays a solid foundation for future success. We are confident that this collaboration will bring substantial benefits to both parties." In the future, Nordmann will offer a variety of flame retardant grades for the above-mentioned application fields. The first major event where both parties will make a joint appearance will be the K 2025 exhibition in Düsseldorf, Germany: List will have its own independent booth at Hall 7, Level 1, Booth A28, and will also participate as a co-exhibitor at Nordmann’s booth (Hall 6, Booth E75).

Recently, Anhui Nuomeite New Material Co., Ltd. has initiated a project to construct an annual production capacity of 6,000 tons of plastic masterbatch granules. The project leases Factory Building No. 17 in the New Materials Industrial Park of the Southern Anhui Jiangnan Emerging Industries Concentration Area, with a land area of approximately 4,000 square meters. The project will purchase 58 units (sets) of production and auxiliary equipment, including automatic feeding machines, ribbon mixers, vacuum feeders, dewatering machines, and granulators, forming a production capacity of 6,000 tons of plastic color masterbatch pellets per year. The total investment is 100 million RMB, of which the environmental protection investment is 1.99 million RMB, accounting for 1.99% of the total investment.

Fluorescent Whitening Agent (FWA), also known as Optical Brightening Agent, is a compound capable of absorbing light in the ultraviolet and violet regions of the electromagnetic spectrum and re-emitting it as blue light. These additives are typically used to enhance the color appearance of fabrics and paper, creating a "whitening" effect by increasing the total amount of reflected blue light, making the material appear less yellowish. Therefore, they are also often used in thermoplastic materials for injection molding. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the mechanism of action and the effectiveness of optical brighteners. 1Why use fluorescent whitening agents? Fluorescent whitening agents are also known as optical brighteners.The functions of such additives are as follows: 1. Brighten the color 2. Covering up the natural yellowing of plastic 3. Improve the initial color Make colored or black pigment products shine. These fluorescent whitening agents work through a fluorescence mechanism.Absorb ultraviolet light and emit light in the blue region of the visible spectrum, making clothes look brighter and fresher.Some recommended uses of fluorescent whitening agents include: 1. Molding thermoplastic plastics 2. Films and Sheets Fiber Adhesive 5. Synthetic leather Let's take a detailed look at fluorescent whitening agents, their mechanisms of action, and benefits... 2Operating mechanism Fluorescent whitening agents or optical brightening agents (FWA) are colorless to slightly colored organic compounds that, when in solution or applied to substrates, absorb ultraviolet light and re-emit most of the absorbed energy as blue fluorescence in the 400-500 nanometer range. If a material can uniformly reflect most of the light of all wavelengths that shine on its surface, it appears white to the human eye. For example, natural fibers usually absorb more light in the blue region of the visible spectrum ("blue defect") than other fibers due to the presence of impurities (natural pigments).Therefore, natural fibers also exhibit this light yellow color. Synthetic fibers also have this light yellow color, although not as pronounced. The whiteness of the substrate can be improved by enhancing reflectivity or compensating for the blue deficiency. Before the advent of fluorescent whitening agents (FWA), the common practice was toUse a small amount of blue or purple dye to enhance the visual effect of white.These dyes absorb light in the green-yellow region of the spectrum, thereby reducing brightness. However, since they simultaneously shift the hue of the yellow material towards blue, the human eye perceives an increase in whiteness.Unlike dyes, optical brighteners can counteract yellowish tints and enhance brightness because their blueing effect is based on adding blue light rather than subtracting yellow-green light.Fluorescent whitening agents are actually colorless compounds that, when present on a substrate, primarily absorb invisible ultraviolet light in the 300-400 nanometer (nm) range and re-emit visible violet to blue fluorescence. In other words, they can absorb invisible short-wavelength radiation and re-emit visible blue light, thereby making the light reflected by the substrate appear brighter and whiter, which is key to the effectiveness of fluorescent whitening agents. 3How do fluorescent whitening agents work? The molecule of the whitening agent absorbs photons (A), which induces a transition from the singlet ground state S.0Transition to the electronically excited singlet state (S1The vibrational energy levels of.Located in S1The whitening agent in its excited state can be deactivated through various pathways. Fluorescence is generated by the transition of radiation to the vibrational energy level of the ground state (F). The deactivation processes competing with fluorescence mainly include non-radiative deactivation to S.0Internal conversion (IC) and non-radiative transition to the triplet state (intersystem crossing, ISC). Fluorescence efficiency is measured by quantum yield.Quantum yield (Φ) = Number of quanta emitted / Number of quanta absorbed The relative rate of fluorescence emission and competitive processes determine it. When the brightener is fixed on a solid matrix, it emits fluorescence with a high quantum yield. Fluorescent whitening agent and its transition energy diagram 4The polymer matrix of fluorescent whitening agents. Fluorescent whitening agents (FWA) can be effectively used for a variety of polymer substrates.Engineering plastics (such as polyester, polycarbonate, polyamide, and acrylic resin)Thermoplastic polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, styrene homopolymers and copolymers, polyolefins, adhesives, and other organic substrates. The effectiveness of optical brighteners depends on the type of substrate, processing conditions, and interaction with other components in the formulation (such as white pigments or UV absorbers). Generally, optical brighteners can be effective at very low concentrations. Titanium dioxide pigment (TiO2It absorbs light within the same ultraviolet wavelength range as fluorescent whitening agents, so it also produces a lower level of whiteness. Fluorescent Brighteners in Flexible PVC Anatase-type titanium dioxide pigment absorbs about 40% of incident radiation at a wavelength of 380nm, while rutile-type titanium dioxide pigment absorbs about 90%. In flexible PVC samples, a bright white color can be achieved by using only a low concentration of fluorescent whitening agent (FWA) and anatase titanium dioxide. When using rutile titanium dioxide, the whiteness slightly decreases at the same concentration. The following two images demonstrate the advantages of fluorescent whitening agents. The concentration dependence of whitening effect of soft PVC  The light resistance of the whitening effect of soft PVC. Fluorescent brighteners in PET fibers A key criterion for the applicability of fluorescent whitening agent technology is its lightfastness in the substrate. The diagram below shows the stability of the whitening agent in PET fibers: (Light Fastness of Whitening Effect on PET Fibers)

I. UL94 Standard Classification and Core Indicators 2. Application Guide for Flame Retardants in Different Fields HB Grade (Standard Packaging/Regular Toy) Requirement: Pass UL94 HB test (horizontal burning rate ≤ 40 mm/min) Plan: Add 15% phosphorus-based (such as TPP) or inorganic flame retardant (aluminum hydroxide). Advantage: Lowest cost, meets basic flame retardant requirements V-2 Level (Non-critical Electronic Components/Children's Toys) Requirement: Pass the UL94 V-2 test (vertical self-extinguishing ≤ 30s, dripping allowed) Plan: Add 20-30% phosphorus-nitrogen composite flame retardant (APP+MPP 3:1) Note: Must comply with EN71-3 toy safety standards. V-1 Level (Automotive Interior/Sealing Parts/Home Appliance Shell) Requirement: Pass the UL94 V-1 test (vertical burn self-extinguishing ≤30 seconds, no ignition of cotton). Add 15-25% microencapsulated nitrogen and phosphorus flame retardant masterbatch (EVA carrier). Add 1-2% charring agent (pentaerythritol) to suppress dripping. V-0 level (electronic connectors/cables/medical devices) Requirement: Pass the UL94 V-0 test (vertical burning time ≤10 seconds, no dripping). Plan: Add 20% PPO (polyphenylene oxide) Characteristics: Simultaneously enhance flame retardancy (OI≥28%), heat resistance (HDT≥120℃), and strength. Disadvantage: Material costs increase by 35-50% Restrictions on the Use of Halogen Flame Retardants Advantage: Achieving V-0 rating with the addition of only 5-10% brominated flame retardant, with costs 40% lower than halogen-free solutions. Risk: The EU RoHS restricts substances such as decabromodiphenyl ether, which produce toxic smoke when burned (fails IEC 60754 test). Key Measures for Performance Balancing Blending SEBS substrates with high and low molecular weight grades (such as YH-503T, 533, 602T, 604T) ·Compound high-flow grades (such as YH-688, 506, 502T) Flame retardants cause a decrease in the flowability of TPE (MI reduced by 30-50%). Taboo: SEBS oil content > 40% will significantly reduce flame retardant efficiency.

When selecting materials or developing flexible plastic formulations, engineers often encounter a mysterious yet crucial component: the plasticizer. It is often defined as an "additive that imparts flexibility to plastics," but how do plasticizers work? Why does the plastic become softer and more pliable after they are added, and why does the glass transition temperature (Tg) even decrease? All of this can actually be explained by an important concept in polymer physics: free volume. What is "free volume"? Explain with an example from daily life. Imagine you stack a pile of mahjong tiles tightly together, with almost no gaps between them. This is like the tight arrangement of rigid plastic chains. Once you sprinkle some small balls (like marbles) in between, the mahjong tiles get "pried open" and gain some room to move. These small balls are like plasticizer molecules. They insert themselves between the polymer chains, increasing the movable space between the chain segments, which is referred to as the "free volume." In terms of physical meaning, free volume refers to the space in polymer materials that is available for segment movement after excluding the space occupied by polymer chains. The larger the free volume, the easier it is for the segments to move, and the softer and more easily deformable the material becomes. Plasticizers increase free volume how? The essence of the plasticizing effect of plasticizers is: By introducing foreign molecules with low molecular weight and low Tg, these molecules insert themselves between polymer chains, disrupting the original interchain interactions and increasing the free volume of the material. This results in a decrease in the glass transition temperature, making the material soft and usable at room temperature. Specifically, the way plasticizers increase free volume includes the following four steps, with the first three steps being indispensable (the core of the mechanism): 1. Reduce the attraction between chain segments - decrease interchain hydrogen bonds or van der Waals forces.Dipole-dipole interaction； 2. Physical separation of chain segments - Plasticizer molecules insert themselves, acting as "separators." 3. Enhance molecular mobility — especially increasing the freedom of the main chain, side chain ends, and other such parts. 4. Prevent recrystallization or aggregation — Keeping the chain segments in a disordered state helps to enhance the flexibility of the material. Misconception: Many people mistakenly believe that BDP (a liquid flame retardant for flame-retardant PC/ABS) is a "plasticizer" and should make the material softer. However, in practical applications, BDP often increases the rigidity (modulus) of PC/ABS, and even makes it more brittle and prone to cracking. The fundamental reason:BDP has high structural rigidity and strong polarity, and is highly compatible with PC/ABS. BDP is a bisphenol A-based phosphate ester containing two bulky rigid aromatic rings. It has the same origin structure as PC (polycarbonate) itself (also derived from bisphenol A). At the molecular level, there are strong polar interactions between PC molecules (such as π–π stacking, hydrogen bonds, etc.). The result is: Unlike traditional plasticizers, the BDP molecule does not increase the free volume, but may instead reduce segmental mobility. Further: Why are some plasticizers "good" and others "bad"? Although in theory many organic small molecules can be incorporated into polymers, to become a high-quality plasticizer, the following requirements must also be met: Good compatibility with polymers (similar solubility parameter δ). Molecular structure provides low glass transition temperature. Appropriate polarity to facilitate interaction with polar polymers (such as PVC); Low volatility to reduce migration and fogging. Stable and reversible within the applicable temperature range. This explains why phthalates (such as DOP, DINP) and fatty acid esters (such as DOA, DINA) are widely used in flexible PVC, while other low-polarity molecules have difficulty achieving similar effects. Too much plasticizer makes it harder instead?—The "anti-plasticization" phenomenon Interestingly, when the amount of plasticizer is very low, it may actually make the material harder! This is known as the phenomenon of "antiplasticization." The reason is that a small amount of plasticizer molecules preferentially bind with the polymer, causing the chain segments to arrange more regularly and the crystallinity to increase, leading to a harder material. Only when the amount of plasticizer added exceeds a certain threshold does the free volume significantly increase, beginning to exhibit "true plasticizing" behavior. Conclusion: Free Volume - The Scientific Underpinnings of Choosing the Right Plasticizer Understanding the concept of "free volume" can help engineers scientifically select plasticizers from the structure-performance relationship to optimize the flexibility, processability, and final performance of polymers. In the context of increasingly stringent environmental regulations and the vigorous development of new non-toxic plasticizers, this concept deserves more attention. In the future, materials research and development is not just about the accumulation of formula experience, but also the precise manipulation of structural control. Plasticizers are not merely small molecules that "make plastics a bit softer"; they are actually a key that unlocks the door to the "free movement" space between molecules.

Lead-in: On July 28, 2025, a significant livelihood policy was unveiled. The implementation plan for the national childcare subsidy system clearly announced that starting from January 1, 2025, families with children under the age of 3 who are legally eligible for childbirth will receive an annual childcare subsidy of 3,600 yuan until the child reaches the age of 3. This policy is expected to benefit over 20 million families with infants and toddlers each year, playing a positive role in reducing the cost of childbearing and upbringing. Meanwhile, what role does polypropylene play in the infant and toddler products industry? What kinds of products related to infants and toddlers are associated with polypropylene? How will the implementation of this policy promote the consumption of polypropylene materials? I: Polypropylene: Excellent Product Characteristics Help It Become the Cornerstone of the Infant Industry From the comparison of the characteristics of the five major general-purpose plastics, different products have varying characteristics, resulting in their application in different fields of infant products. Polypropylene is mainly used in products that can be in direct contact with infants, such as baby bottles, tableware, and baby diapers. The main reason is that polypropylene is non-toxic, odorless, and heat-resistant, making it highly favored in the field of infant products. Polypropylene Products Vary: Infant Products Account for Over 30% of Its Applications                                               Data source: Longzhong Information From the tracking of downstream applications of polypropylene, homopolymer injection molding accounts for as much as 16.7%. Its downstream applications include infant toys, supplementary food tools, and disposable tableware. Due to its characteristics of being wear-resistant and capable of high-temperature sterilization, it has become an ideal choice for raw materials used in infant utensils. Baby diapers account for a large proportion of polypropylene raw material consumption. According to tracking data from Longzhong Information, fibers account for 9% of downstream applications of polypropylene, among which spunbond nonwoven fabric is the main raw material for baby wipes and diapers. Due to its softness, breathability, and good liquid permeability, it can effectively keep a baby's skin dry and comfortable, making it the preferred choice for infant hygiene products. In addition, 80% of baby bottles worldwide are made from polypropylene (PP) materials. PP bottles include various types such as standard, wide-neck, anti-colic, and leak-proof, meeting the needs of different consumers. With technological advancements, new PP bottles with added antibacterial agents and anti-drop materials are continuously emerging, in addition to traditional PP materials. Transparent polypropylene, as an important modified variety of polypropylene, is particularly suitable for baby bottles and other utensils that require high transparency and need to be used or sterilized at high temperatures due to its excellent heat resistance. 3: Conversion of Finished Products to Polypropylene Raw Material Consumption - Nearly One Million Tons of Polypropylene Consumed Annually for Baby Products Hygiene products: Taking diapers as an example, children under one year old consume about 10 diapers per day, totaling around 3,000 diapers per year. Each diaper contains approximately 20 grams of non-woven fabric, of which 80% is polypropylene fiber material. Therefore, each child uses approximately 0.048 tons of fiber material per year. Based on the newborn birth rate calculation, 0.048 * 9.6 million equals 460,000 tons. Hence, the annual consumption of polypropylene fiber material for newborn diapers is roughly 460,000 tons. In addition, the consumption of polypropylene materials for disposable underpads, sanitary wipes, etc., exceeds 100,000 tons annually. Daily necessities Due to the wide variety of products such as toys and complementary food utensils, it is impossible to estimate their raw material consumption directly. Therefore, we deduce it from the downstream applications of homopolymer injection-molded polypropylene. Among the downstream products of homopolymer injection molding, toys account for about 30%, of which infant products make up approximately 20% of the entire toy industry. Thus, the annual consumption of polypropylene raw materials for this sector is: 3.566 million tons (actual downstream consumption of polypropylene raw materials) * 16.7% * 30% * 20% = 357,000 tons. Baby bottle The consumption proportion of polypropylene raw materials for infant feeding bottles is relatively low. The weight of a single bottle is about 140g. Based on an estimate of 3 bottles per child per year, 0.00014*3*9.6 million = 4,032 tons. Therefore, using the highest bottle conversion rate, approximately 4,000 tons of transparent polypropylene are consumed annually. Overall, In the downstream industries of polypropylene, baby products account for a relatively low proportion, consuming about 3% of polypropylene raw materials. However, the number of newborns and the purchase of newborn products involve various aspects of society and the economy. 4: Interpreting Subsidy Policies from a Policy Perspective to Stimulate Demand for Infant Products The implementation of the national childcare subsidy system has directly increased the disposable income of families with children. For many families, although the annual subsidy of 3,600 yuan may not seem like a large amount, over time it can play a certain role in the purchase of infant and toddler supplies. On one hand, for families already struggling with childcare expenses, the subsidy is like a "timely rain." They may use this funding to purchase essential infant products such as baby formula, diapers, and bottles. Take diapers as an example; a baby might need approximately 200-300 diapers per month. Based on a moderate price range, monthly diaper expenses could be around 200-500 yuan. A portion of the childcare subsidy can be directly used to cover these expenses, allowing some families more options in choosing diapers, and potentially prompting some families to switch from lower-end products to higher-quality, more comfortable ones. On the other hand, for families with relatively better economic conditions, subsidies may make them more willing to try some high-end and new types of infant products. As consumers' demands for the quality and safety of infant products continue to rise, many products with innovative features and environmentally friendly characteristics have emerged in the market. These products have indirectly or directly promoted the consumption of polypropylene materials and the upgrading of products. In summary, the "annual subsidy of 3,600 yuan for each child under three years old" forms a close industrial link with polypropylene raw materials through the infant products industry. This connection not only promotes the development of the infant products industry and increases the consumption of polypropylene raw materials but also injects new vitality into social and economic development. In the future, with the continuous advancement and deepening of policies, the industry will also upgrade and innovate to adapt to this change. The synergy of industrial linkage will play a greater role, bringing more positive impacts to families, society, and the economy.

Clariant, a specialty chemicals company focused on sustainable development, announced today that it has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Shanghai Boiler Works.As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shanghai Electric, Shanghai Boiler Works specializes in energy conversion and the development of new energy applications. Both parties will integrate their respective expertise to jointly promote the innovative development of sustainable energy solutions in China.This collaboration stems from the successful partnership between both parties in the Shanghai Electric Jilin Taonan Biomass-to-Green Methanol Project. In addition to providing MegaMax catalysts, Clariant also offered on-site technical support during the successful startup of this plant with an annual capacity of 50,000 tons.The second phase of this project plans to produce 200,000 tons of green methanol and 10,000 tons of sustainable aviation fuel annually, and is expected to be put into operation in 2027.The formal signing ceremony for the cooperation between both parties was grandly held last week at the Clariant Innovation Center in Frankfurt, Germany. Signing Ceremony of the Frankfurt Clariant Innovation Center: Stephan Eckle from Clariant (left), Ni Jianjun from Shanghai Electric Group (right) Clariant Catalysts Syngas & Fuels Business UnitGlobal Vice PresidentGeorg Anfang (Han Jie'an)："We are proud that the first biomass-based green methanol facility in Taonan, China, has successfully joined the ranks of global excellence projects using high-performance MegaMax catalysts to produce green methanol. China is becoming a leader in global energy transition, and our strategic alliance with Shanghai Electric will further strengthen Clariant's market position, making us a key enabler in the production of clean energy, chemicals, and fuels." Clariant Syngas and Fuels Business UnitGreater China RegionSales DirectorI'm sorry, but it seems that there is no content provided above for translation. Could you please provide the text you want translated into English? "This strategic partnership signifies a deep integration between the two parties in the field of sustainable energy. Leveraging Clariant's advanced catalyst technology and Shanghai Electric's engineering design strengths, we will provide innovative solutions for China's energy transition. The success of the Taonan project has validated the potential of this cooperative model, and we look forward to replicating this success in broader markets, jointly contributing to China's carbon neutrality goals." Vice President of Shanghai ElectricQiu JiayouIndicates:We are proud of the successful launch of the new project and delighted to establish a strategic partnership with Clariant, who share and uphold the same vision for the future. We look forward to working together to develop outstanding sustainable energy solutions for customers worldwide. Shanghai Electric is one of the global leaders in industrial and energy solutions, focusing on power generation, power transmission and distribution, smart manufacturing, and automation system technologies. The company leverages cutting-edge technological innovation to empower the industry and create sustainable development value. This strategic cooperation agreement will combine Shanghai Electric's process capabilities and plant design expertise with Clariant's catalyst technology advantages.The scope of the agreement includes joint research and development, engineering design services, chemical equipment supply, and turnkey solutions.Clariant will share its extensive knowledge and advanced catalyst technologies in the production of green methanol, electronic methanol, green ammonia, sustainable aviation fuel, and gas purification.

Recently, the YS-9010 silver catalyst, independently developed by the Beijing Chemical Research Institute, successfully completed its initial calibration at the Gulei Petrochemical Ethylene Oxide/Ethylene Glycol (EO/EG) facility. All operational indicators of the catalyst are comprehensively superior to the technical guarantee values, significantly reducing the energy consumption of the facility. The overall performance exceeds user expectations, marking a major breakthrough in the research and application of high-end domestic silver catalysts. The Gulei EO/EG unit is the largest-scale application of the YS series silver catalyst, marking the first successful use of the YS-9010 silver catalyst in a high-load unit designed with a space-time yield of 200 kg EO/m³/h; this represents the 22nd successful application of this catalyst model. To ensure the full performance of the catalyst, the Silver Catalyst Research Laboratory at the Yanshan Branch of the North China Institute of Chemical Technology formed a professional technical service team. They dedicated over 100 person-days to on-site technical support, providing "one-on-one" service throughout the entire process from catalyst production, loading, and activation to the startup of the equipment. Additionally, they established a 24-hour remote technical response mechanism, providing a solid guarantee for the stable operation of the equipment. This further validated the North China Institute's full-chain support capability from research and development to application. This achievement further consolidates the YS series silver catalysts in South China EO./The technological leadership of the EG market has further enhanced the industry influence of domestically produced silver catalysts.Beihua InstituteContinuously promote technological innovation in silver-catalyzed ethylene epoxidation catalysts to support EO with superior localized solutions./High-quality development of the EG industry.

International News Guide:   Raw Materials - Borealis: Plans for First Mechanical Recycling Plant Shelved for Now Automotive - Hyundai Motor Q2 Revenue Hits New High, Operating Profit Exceeds Expectations Packaging - ITOCHU launches joint pilot project for CNF reinforced plastic logistics containers Medical -Medical tubing extrusion company Xponent Global acquired by Arterex Additives - Bakelite acquires Sestec to boost bio-based adhesive portfolio Macro - Thai Acting Prime Minister: Escalating Military Actions May Lead to War Price - Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia $820/tonne; CFR Southeast Asia $830/tonne   International News Details:   1. Borealis: Plans for First Mechanical Recycling Plant Shelved for Now Borealis has put its plans for a mechanical recycling plant for polyolefin waste at Schwechat, Austria, on hold for the time being. A spokesperson for the polyolefin group told Plasteurope.com that a detailed assessment of the project had shown that, under current market conditions, the plant would not “achieve the expected performance targets”. The project has therefore been put on hold for the now. 2. Hyundai Motor Q2 Revenue Hits New High, Operating Profit Exceeds Expectations Hyundai Motor announced that in the second quarter of this year, driven by strong sales of its hybrid vehicles in North America, its revenue rose 7.3% year-on-year to 48.287 trillion won (approximately $35.26 billion), a new high. However, affected by U.S. tariffs on imported automobiles, operating profit fell 15.8% year-on-year to 3.602 trillion won, but still slightly exceeded the median forecast (3.5 trillion won) compiled by Bloomberg. Net profit dropped 22.1% year-on-year to 3.25 trillion won. 3. Medical tubing extrusion company Xponent Global acquired by Arterex Arterex, a leading global medical device developer and contract manufacturer, has expanded its portfolio of medical device manufacturing companies with the acquisition of Xponent Global, Inc., an ISO 9001:2015 certified producer of extruded tubing for the medical industry based in Massachusetts, USA. 4. ITOCHU launches joint pilot project for CNF reinforced plastic logistics containers ITOCHU Corporation announced the launch of a joint demonstration project for cellulose nanofiber (CNF) reinforced plastic logistics containers in collaboration with FamilyMart Co., Ltd., SANKO Co., Ltd., and the Research Institute for Sustainable Humanosphere, Kyoto University 5. Bakelite acquires Sestec to boost bio-based adhesive portfolio Bakelite announces the acquisition of Sestec, a Poland-based company renowned for its sustainable, protein-based adhesives for wood and composite products. This strategic move significantly enhances Bakelite’s position as a sustainability leader in the adhesive industry. 6. ARA, Bernegger, GreenDot plan plastic recycling facility investment Altstoff Recycling Austria AG (ARA), Bernegger GmbH and GreenDot, owners of the TriPlast sorting plant in Ennshafen, Austria, have announced a 35-million-euro ($41.2 million) investment in a plastics recycling plant on the TriPlast site. 7. Thai Acting Prime Minister: Escalating Military Actions May Lead to War Thailand's 2nd Army Region, which manages parts of Thailand's border with Cambodia, stated today (July 25) that conflicts are occurring in multiple border areas, and people should avoid approaching the border region. Cambodia's military stated today that Thai forces attempted to occupy the Dângrêk Temple area this morning, and Cambodian forces repelled the attack. According to Cambodian media reports, clashes broke out again in the border area between Cambodia and Thailand in the early morning of today local time. Thai media also reported that artillery fire was heard on the Thai-Cambodian border in the morning.   Overseas Macro Updates:   ECB Governing Council Member Kazaks: Euro Remains Near Historical Average, No Rush to Adjust Rates ECB Governing Council Member Martins Kazaks stated that the euro remains close to its historical average, and the bank will continue to monitor exchange rate fluctuations; the ECB's stable and prudent policy is currently appropriate; the era of directly deciding to raise or lower interest rates has ended, as there is still untapped potential in the economy, and there is no rush to adjust rates. JPMorgan Postpones ECB Rate Cut Forecast to October According to reports, JPMorgan expects the ECB to implement its next rate cut in October, compared with a previous forecast of September. Goldman Sachs No Longer Expects ECB Rate Cuts This Year Goldman Sachs no longer expects the ECB to lower its deposit rate in 2025, compared with a previous forecast of a 25-basis-point cut in September; it predicts the terminal deposit rate will remain at 2% in 2025, compared with a previous forecast of 1.75%.Report: BOJ Expects Environment for Potential Rate Hike This YearAccording to Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter, after the U.S. and Japan reached a trade agreement this week, Bank of Japan officials believe that another rate hike may be considered this year. The officials view the agreement as reducing a key source of uncertainty for Japan's economy and businesses, allowing the central bank to focus on monitoring the actual impact of tariffs on upcoming economic data, the people said. With the trade situation clearer, the central bank may be able to make policy decisions at an earlier stage after analyzing data and information from enterprises. If the agreement to set most tariffs at 15% remains unchanged, officials expect the bank will have sufficient data by at least the end of this year to consider whether a rate hike is appropriate, the people said. They added that the BOJ will also closely monitor Japan's price trends and progress in trade negotiations with other countries as it considers the possibility. Volkswagen Lowers Earnings Forecast Due to U.S. Tariffs Impacting Audi and Porsche Profit Margins Volkswagen has lowered its financial forecast for this year, as rising costs due to Donald Trump's tariffs have pressured profit margins at Audi and Porsche. The automaker now expects an operating sales return rate as low as 4%, down from a previous forecast of at least 5.5%.   Price information:   USD/CNY Central Parity 7.1419, down 34 pips; previous trading day’s central parity 7.1385, previous trading day’s official closing price 7.1547, overnight closing price 7.1557. Upstream Raw Materials USD Market Prices Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia $820/tonne; CFR Southeast Asia $830/tonne. Propylene Northeast Asia: FOB Korea average price $740/tonne; CFR China average price $770/tonne. North Asia frozen cargo CIF price: propane $504-506/tonne; butane $484-486/tonne. South China frozen cargo for second half of August CIF price: propane $544-554/tonne; butane $530-538/tonne. Taiwan region frozen cargo CIF price: propane $504-506/tonne; butane $484-486/tonne. LLDPE USD Market Prices Film: $860-920/tonne (CFR Huangpu), down $5/tonne; Injection molding: $950/tonne (CFR Dongguan). HDPE USD Market Prices Film: $920/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Hollow: $855-865/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Pipe: $1,035/tonne (CFR Huangpu). LDPE USD Market Prices Film: $1,075-1,090/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Coating: $1,350/tonne (CFR Huangpu). PP USD Market Prices Homopolymer: $965/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Copolymer: $940-950/tonne (CFR Nansha); Film material: $1,030/tonne (CFR Nansha); Transparent: $1,000-1,065/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Pipe material: $1,160/tonne (CFR Shanghai).

On July 24th, news from Zunyi City, Yuqing County, Guizhou Province: Gongpitan Town is ushering in a new chapter of industrial development. The local heavy calcium carbonate grinding factory project site is bustling with activity, with equipment installation, commissioning, and storage tank construction underway in full swing. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed and put into production by mid-August. Goupitan Town boasts a unique advantage in mineral resources, with proven reserves of high-calcium limestone reaching 1.327 billion cubic meters, and the extraction conditions are extremely convenient. Currently, the town has attracted two specialized mining enterprises and a calcium carbonate powder processing company, forming a relatively complete industrial chain foundation. Against this backdrop, the Goupitan Town Heavy Calcium Carbonate Grinding Plant Project has emerged. This project is a crucial step in revitalizing local limestone resources and promoting industrial transformation and upgrading. It uses high-calcium limestone tailings as raw materials, utilizing advanced mechanical grinding and classification technology to successfully convert low-value tailings into high-value-added heavy calcium carbonate powder products. According to information from the Color Masterbatch Industry Network, Guizhou Yuanxing New Building Materials Co., Ltd., as the operator of this project, revealed through its General Manager, Yang Zuowen: "In the first phase of our plant, we have carefully arranged two production lines. Once operational, they will have strong production capacity, with a stable daily output of more than 300 tons of calcium carbonate powder in various specifications from 80 to 800 mesh, and an expected annual output of up to 150,000 tons." The implementation of this project will not only effectively improve the comprehensive utilization of local mineral resources, but also inject new vitality and momentum into the industrial development of Kupitan Town.

From August 20 to 22, 2025, the Foshan Plastics Expo will be held at the Tanzhou International Convention and Exhibition Center. Qingdao Huabang High-Energy Materials Co., Ltd. will showcase new materials and wax additives at the event. 01Company Profile Qingdao Huabang High Energy Materials Co., Ltd. is located in the beautiful coastal city of Qingdao and has been engaged in the industry for more than twenty years. It is a comprehensive enterprise specializing in the research, production, and sales of new materials and wax additives, with extensive industry experience and strong product development capabilities. The company has established long-term strategic cooperative relationships with many large chemical groups, research institutions, and academies, and is committed to providing a wide range of high-quality, high-performance, and high value-added products to customers worldwide. The company always adheres to the business philosophy of "people-oriented, quality-based; spreading beauty, and creating value together," insists on satisfying customer needs as its responsibility, and aims to assist the new materials industry and shape Chinese brands. We provide high-quality services and products to our customers. We warmly look forward to collaborating with both new and old friends at home and abroad to achieve great success in the new era! 02 Product Introduction Polymer wax, polyethylene wax, polypropylene wax, oxidized polyethylene wax, EVA wax, polyester wax, modified wax, micronized wax, texturing powder, amide wax, synthetic Fischer-Tropsch wax, oleamide, erucamide, EBS, APP, APAO, oligomer wax paste, and over a hundred other types of wax additives.

Polypropylene (PP) is lightweight, has excellent performance, is corrosion-resistant, and easy to process and mold. Its application proportion in automotive materials continues to increase, especially in automotive bumpers, where the primary raw material is modified PP material. However, the injection molding cycle of existing automotive bumpers is often relatively long. As a semi-crystalline polymer material, PP has certain issues related to cooling crystallization rate and demolding shrinkage rate. This paper focuses on the effects of various components in modified PP on the crystallization behavior, mechanical properties, rheological behavior, injection molding flow length, and injection molding cycle of modified PP. By studying these influencing factors, it seeks a modified PP solution that facilitates the reduction of the injection molding cycle for bumpers, in order to meet the automotive manufacturing industry's demand for efficient production. 1. The impact of different elastomers. After blending four types of POE with PP at a mass ratio of 20:80, the mixture was extruded and then injection-molded into specimens. After brittle fracture at low temperature, the fractured surfaces were gold-sputtered and the dispersion state of the elastomer in the blend system was observed, as shown in Figure 1. The four types of POE are as follows: POE-1, with a melt flow rate of 0.5 g/10 min (190°C, 2.16 kg), is an ethylene-octene copolymer (EOR) produced by Dow Chemical (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. POE-2, melt flow rate (190 ℃, 2.16 kg) is 1.2 g/(10 min), structure type EOR, Dow Chemical (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. POE-3, melt flow rate (190℃, 2.16 kg) is 15 g/10 min, structure type EOR, Dow Chemical (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. POE4, melt flow rate (190℃, 2.16 kg) is 1.2 (10 min), structural type is ethylene-butene copolymer (EBR), Dow Chemical (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. From Figures 1(a), (b), and (c), it can be observed that for the same EOR structure, the higher the melt index of POE, the smaller the particle size of the dispersed phase, and the better the dispersion effect. From Figures 1 (b) and (d), it can be seen that the POE materials with the same melt index but different structures have similar dispersed phase particle sizes. This indicates that the main factor affecting the dispersed phase particle size of POE is its melt index, while the structural type is a secondary factor. The effects of different POEs on the melt crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of modified PP are shown in Table 1. Among them, the mass ratio of PP: POE: talc powder: black masterbatch is 50:20:20:1. The modified resin containing POE-2 with an EOR structure has a lower melting temperature and higher notched impact strength compared to POE-4 with an EBR structure. This is because POE-2 with an EOR structure has longer side chains, which more easily weaken the crystalline regions of the POE ethylene chains and the crystalline behavior of the PP resin, forming more elastic amorphous regions. POE-3 containing EOR structure has a higher melt index, resulting in smaller dispersed phase particle size and better dispersion effect in modified resins. This can more effectively prevent the formation of PP spherulites, leading to a lower melting temperature of the modified resin while maintaining excellent toughness. The reduction of the melting temperature of modified PP resin can lower the injection molding temperature, thereby indirectly reducing the cooling time; meanwhile, after modification with POE-3, the resin has a higher melt flow index, which is also beneficial for shortening the injection molding cycle. Figures 2 and 3 show the injection molding flow length and shear viscosity of different POE-modified PP, respectively.   From Figure 2, it can be observed that the flow behavior of modified PP during the injection molding of bumpers is as follows: POE-3 modified PP has a higher melt flow index, and its injection flow length is also the longest (168mm). From Figure 3, it can be observed that in the capillary rheological behavior, with the increase of shear rate, the shear viscosity of POE-3 modified PP is significantly lower than that of other POE modified PP. This indicates that POE-3 modified PP is more conducive to shortening the injection molding cycle of bumpers. 2. The impact of different additives The effects of different additives on the melting crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of modified PP are shown in Table 2. As shown in Table 2, the melting temperature and crystallization temperature of nucleating agent-modified PP are higher than those of other modified PPs. The presence of the nucleating agent promotes the formation of nuclei during the cooling and molding process of PP resin and improves the crystallization rate, resulting in a higher crystallization temperature. This is beneficial for shortening the cooling and molding cycle during injection molding. In terms of mechanical properties, the flexural modulus of nucleating agent-modified PP is higher, and the notched impact strength of the toughness for the three modified PPs is also consistent. The melt index of lubricant-modified PP is relatively higher, which is beneficial for the injection molding process. Figures 4 and 5 respectively show the injection molding flow length and shear viscosity of PP modified with different additives. From Figures 4 and 5, it can be seen that PP modified with a lubricant has a greater injection molding flow length (166mm) and slightly lower shear viscosity. This is because the lubricant zinc stearate acts as an external lubricant, which is more conducive to the lubrication between the molten PP resin and the die, thereby improving its flow behavior. 3. Fast-paced bumper made of modified PP material The melting and crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of modified PP before and after optimization are shown in Table 3. The DSC curves of modified PP resin before and after optimization are shown in Figure 6. The optimization plan uses high melt flow index PP, high melt flow index POE-3, and lubricants to improve the material's flowability. The high melt flow index EOR structure POE can reduce the material's melting temperature, while the compounded nucleating agent can enhance its crystallization temperature and mechanical properties. The comprehensive performance of the modified PP material for bumpers is improved through multifaceted compounding. The modified PP material after optimization has a lower melting temperature (163.3°C) while possessing a higher crystallization temperature (125.0°C). This is beneficial for shortening the material's plasticizing time during the injection molding process and can also increase the crystallization rate of the material, thereby reducing the holding and cooling time. The injection flow length and shear viscosity of modified PP before and after optimization are shown in Figures 7 and 8, respectively. From Figures 7 and 8, it can be seen that the optimized modified PP has a greater injection molding flow length (167 mm) and a lower shear viscosity under the same shear rate conditions. This is because the optimized scheme uses high melt index POE-3 to replace low melt index POE-2, improving the dispersion of the rubber phase in the resin, ensuring the toughness of the material, and enhancing the melt index to optimize its melt flow behavior. The compounding nucleating agent further improves the mechanical properties of the material and increases its crystallization temperature. Additionally, the addition of a lubricant further optimizes the melt flow behavior of the material. Table 4 compares the process parameters of the original injection molding process 1 and the optimized injection molding process 2 for a sample with dimensions of 355mm x 100mm x 3.2mm. According to Table 4, injection molding process 2 has a lower injection temperature, higher injection speed, and shorter holding and cooling times. The molding cycle of injection molding process 2 is 47 seconds, which is 13 seconds shorter than the original injection molding process 1. Figure 9 shows the samples made from modified PP through Injection Molding Process 2 before and after optimization. From Figure 9, it can be seen that under the conditions of Injection Molding Process 2, the modified PP injection-molded sample with optimized conditions exhibits a good appearance, whereas before optimization, the modified PP had a poor appearance with noticeable tiger stripe patterns and significant localized sink marks. This indicates that under the conditions of Injection Molding Process 2, using the optimized modified PP can effectively reduce the injection molding cycle while maintaining good appearance results, improving processing efficiency by 21.7% compared to the original injection molding process. After the application of optimized modified PP aimed at shortening the injection molding cycle in the bumper project, the comparison of bumper injection molding process parameters before and after optimization is shown in Table 5. The bumper made from optimized modified PP through optimized injection molding process is shown in Figure 10. As can be seen from Table 5, the injection molding cycle of the bumper before optimization was 78 seconds. By using the optimized modified PP, the injection molding cycle can be shortened to 62 seconds, reducing the cycle by 16 seconds and improving processing efficiency by 20.51%. Its appearance is good, and the dimensions remain consistent with the original design. Conclusion The 1.EOR structure high melt index POE can improve the dispersion of the rubber phase in modified PP, ensure the toughness of the material, increase the melt index of the material, and reduce its melting temperature and shear viscosity. Nucleating agents can optimize the mechanical properties of modified PP and increase its crystallization temperature. Lubricant additives can further improve the flow behavior of modified PP and increase its injection molding flow length. To improve the flowability of materials, high melt flow index PP, high melt flow index POE, and lubricants are used. The EOR-structured high melt flow index POE can reduce the melting temperature of modified PP, while compounded nucleating agents can enhance its crystallization temperature and mechanical properties. By integrating multiple aspects, the comprehensive performance of modified PP materials for bumpers is enhanced, resulting in modified PP for bumpers that can shorten the injection molding cycle, with an increase of approximately 20% in injection molding efficiency.

Hebei Ruike New Energy Technology Co., Ltd.'s project for an annual production of 3,000 tons of propane dehydrogenation catalysts has obtained the construction engineering planning permit. It is reported that the project is invested by Hebei Ruike New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. with a total investment of 50 million yuan. The construction site is located in the eastern area of Cangzhou Lingang Economic and Technological Development Zone. The project covers an area of 298,521.06 square meters, with a total building area of 145,449.37 square meters. The total green space ratio is 7.7%, and the total plot ratio reaches 0.83. The ratio of land used for administrative offices and living service facilities is 3.04%. The building density is 30.9%, and the building coefficient is 40.82%. The construction of this project will help promote the development of the local chemical industry, especially in...Propane dehydrogenationIn the field of catalyst production, increasing the supply of related products meets market demand, while also creating employment opportunities and economic benefits for the local area. Hebei Ruike New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. was established in April 2012 by Dalian Ruike Technology Co., Ltd. Dalian Ruike Technology Co., Ltd. was founded by key researchers from the former National Catalysis Engineering Center, focusing on energy chemical industry and new material catalysts. It is a service-oriented high-tech enterprise integrating research and development, production, sales, and technical services. The company has established the "New Energy Catalyst R&D Center" and the "National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for New Energy Catalysts". It has undertaken major scientific and technological projects and industrial demonstration projects from the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Science and Technology multiple times, and has received honors such as the "National High Technology Industrialization Decade Achievement Award" and "National Key New Product". The company currently has two major catalyst production bases located in the Lvshun Development Zone of Dalian and the Qinhuangdao Industrial Zone in Hebei. It produces a full range of catalyst products with completely independent intellectual property rights, including methanol synthesis catalysts, dimethyl ether catalysts, deoxygenation catalysts, synthetic natural gas catalysts, selective hydrogenation catalysts, hydrocarbon synthesis catalysts, and special molecular sieves. Hebei Rike New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. is a manufacturing enterprise primarily producing methanol synthesis catalysts, coal-to-natural-gas catalysts, dimethyl ether catalysts, coalbed methane deoxygenation catalysts, coal-to-liquid catalysts, melamine catalysts, catalysts for sulfuric acid, molecular sieves, special alumina, catalysts for ammonia synthesis conversion, catalyst protectants, and other new energy materials. It was recognized as a high-tech enterprise in November 2016 and was designated as a specialized and sophisticated small and medium-sized enterprise in March 2022.

In the field of polymer material processing, modification is an extremely common operation, especially in the bio-based biodegradable materials industry. Bio-based biodegradable materials uphold the concept of environmental protection, combining bio-based sources with degradable properties, which sounds almost perfect. However, in practical applications, various challenges are often encountered, so in most cases, modification treatment is required. According to whether the substance undergoes a change, modification can be divided into physical modification and chemical modification. Among them, physical modification is relatively simple and mainly relies on physical interactions to achieve blending, that is, through the method of physical blending modification. Depending on the specific treatment method, physical blending modification can be further subdivided into three types: melt blending, solution blending, and powder blending (also known as dry blending). Below, we will take a closer look at these three methods. Melt blending: the most commonly used method in industry Melt blending is one of the most commonly used methods for blend modification. During the operation, equipment such as extruders is used to heat the materials above their melting points, allowing the components to mix uniformly in a viscous flow state to produce a homogeneous polymer melt blend. This is followed by cooling, crushing, or pelletizing. For example, in the modification of bio-based biodegradable material polylactic acid (PLA), melt blending is often employed with other materials to improve its properties. Advantages: Wide applicability, capable of processing almost all thermoplastic polymer materials, especially suitable for the industrial production of bio-based biodegradable materials. High mixing efficiency, good molecular chain mobility in the molten state, combined with the shearing force of the equipment, enables uniform dispersion. Continuous production, suitable for large-scale mass production, and highly compatible with industrial production lines. Insufficiency: High temperatures may cause thermal degradation of certain materials, affecting their performance. High energy consumption is required to maintain a molten state through continuous heating. It requires high standards for equipment, with precise control of temperature and shear force; otherwise, uneven mixing or material degradation is likely to occur. Solution blending: Common methods used in the laboratory The operational logic of solution blending is "dissolve first, then mix, and finally remove the solvent." Specifically, two or more polymer materials are dissolved in a common solvent (such as certain organic solvents or water), stirred to form a homogeneous solution, and then the blend is precipitated by evaporating the solvent or adding a non-solvent. The final product is a solid blended material. Advantages: Good mixing uniformity, with molecular chains in the solution fully extended, enabling molecular-level dispersion; suitable for preparing high-performance composite membranes and similar products. The operating temperature is low, avoiding damage to thermosensitive bio-based materials caused by high temperatures. Suitable for small-scale laboratory research, capable of precisely controlling component proportions. Insufficient: The use of a large amount of solvent not only increases costs but may also remain in the material, affecting biological safety. The recovery and treatment of solvents are complex, and improper handling can cause environmental pollution, which contradicts the eco-friendly concept of biodegradable materials. Low production efficiency makes it difficult to achieve large-scale industrial production, and it is mostly used in special fields (such as medical degradable coatings). Powder Blending: A Simple Method of "Grinding and Dry Mixing" Powder blending is the process of mixing two or more different types of fine powder polymers in various common plastic mixing equipment to form a uniformly dispersed powder polymer. During the mixing process, various necessary plastic additives can also be added. The polymer blend obtained from powder mixing can, in some cases, be directly used for compression, calendering, injection, or extrusion molding, or it can be extruded and pelletized for later molding. Advantages: Simple equipment, easy operation, no need for high temperature or solvents, low initial investment cost. Low energy consumption, only requires mechanical stirring, suitable for small-scale production or material pretreatment. Low thermal stability requirements for materials avoid the risk of high-temperature degradation. Shortcomings: Poor mixing uniformity, only achieving particle-level mixing, prone to component agglomeration, affecting the final product performance. The scope of application is limited, suitable only for materials that can easily be made into powder, and not very suitable for materials with high toughness that are difficult to crush. Powder is prone to becoming airborne, which may lead to raw material wastage and operational environment issues. Translate the above content into English and output the translation directly without any explanation. Melt blending: melting the materials before mixing. Solution blending: Dissolve the materials and then mix. Powder blending: Crush the materials into powder and then mix. The above describes the three common blending methods in the physical modification of polymer materials. Each of them has its own unique advantages, disadvantages, and applicable scenarios.In practical applications, it is necessary to choose the appropriate method based on material properties (such as heat resistance and solubility), production scale, and performance requirements. Sometimes, multiple methods are combined (for example, first powder blending and then melt blending) to achieve the best modification effect.  

Guangdong Sirong New Material Technology Co., Ltd. plans to invest 30 million yuan to construct a production project for inorganic stone dispersants, PVC dispersants, waterproof backing adhesives, UV coatings, and color masterbatches in Building #23 of the first phase of Wanyang Innovation City in Qingxin (Economic Development Zone), Qingyuan City, Guangdong Province. The second public announcement of the project's environmental impact assessment report has recently been made. After completion, the total production capacity of the project will be: 2,000 tons per year of inorganic stone dispersant products, 4,000 tons per year of PVC dispersant products, 6,000 tons per year of waterproof adhesive products, 200 tons per year of UV coating products, and 3,000 tons per year of color masterbatch products. The main construction is expected to be completed and handed over to Guangdong SIRONG New Material Technology Co., Ltd. for use by October 2025. Guangdong Srirong New Material Technology Co., Ltd. was established on September 6, 2024, with a registered capital of 5 million RMB. The legal representative is Zheng Sirong, who also serves as the legal representative of Dongguan Lixin Environmental Protection Technology Co., Ltd. and Guangdong Meihong New Material Technology Co., Ltd., among others.