FAERCH: Danish recycler launches recycled PET lid for hot beverages

May 27, 2025

Rigid food packaging manufacturer and recycler Faerch has taken another significant step towards a circular economy with the introduction of a new hot drinking lid made substantially from recycled PET (rPET). According to the company, the innovative lid contains an impressive 85% rPET, underscoring Faerch's commitment to reducing reliance on virgin plastics and promoting sustainable material cycles.

Crucially, the new lid is not just made from recycled content but is also designed to be fully recyclable back into food-grade materials after use. This "closed-loop" approach is vital for the future of food packaging, as it helps keep valuable PET plastic in the economy and out of landfills or incinerators. Faerch, with its dual role as both a packaging producer and a leading recycler of post-consumer PET trays and pots, is uniquely positioned to drive such innovations. The development addresses the ongoing challenge in the packaging industry to create solutions that are both functional for consumers – in this case, for hot beverages – and genuinely sustainable throughout their lifecycle. This launch is expected to resonate positively with food service providers and consumers who are increasingly demanding more environmentally responsible packaging options.

Source: PIE (Plastics Information Europe); Faerch Company News; Packaging Europe

STARBUCKS: Café chain launches plastics-free, to-go cup in Europe

May 26, 2025

Global café-restaurant chain Starbucks announced a significant move in its European sustainability efforts this May with the launch of new to-go cups designed to be free of traditional plastic liners. The innovative paperboard cups, intended for hot drinks, address a long-standing environmental concern associated with conventional disposable cups, which typically feature a polyethylene barrier layer that can complicate recycling.

Starbucks' new cup design replaces this plastic layer with a mineral-based coating. This alternative technology aims to provide the necessary liquid barrier and heat resistance while improving the cup's overall environmental footprint and end-of-life processing. The rollout is planned to be gradual, with the new cups becoming available in ten European countries initially. This initiative reflects Starbucks' ongoing commitment to reducing plastic waste and aligns with broader industry trends and consumer demands for more sustainable packaging solutions. The success of this launch could pave the way for wider adoption of similar technologies across the food and beverage sector, marking a notable step away from single-use plastics in on-the-go consumption. The company's large presence in Europe means this change could have a considerable impact on cup waste in the region.

Source: PIE (Plastics Information Europe); Starbucks Newsroom Europe; Food Navigator

TRADE WAR: Trump defers EU tariffs till 9 July

May 26, 2025

In a closely watched development impacting transatlantic trade, US President Donald Trump has opted to delay the imposition of potentially steep tariffs on European imports. The proposed 50% tariffs were initially slated to take effect on June 1, 2025, creating considerable uncertainty for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. President Trump confirmed the decision, stating, "I agreed to the extension - July 9, 2025 - It was my privilege to do so."

This deferral to July 9 provides a temporary reprieve for industries that would have been affected by the tariffs, allowing for further negotiations or a re-evaluation of the trade measures. The exact scope of European goods targeted by these potential tariffs has been a subject of concern, with various sectors bracing for impact. Such trade disputes often lead to retaliatory measures, increased costs for consumers, and disruptions to global supply chains. The extension offers a brief window for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and find common ground. However, the continued possibility of these significant tariffs maintains a level of economic apprehension, as businesses await a more definitive resolution to the ongoing trade discussions between the US and the EU.

Source: PIE (Plastics Information Europe); Associated Press (AP News); Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)

VERBANO FILM: Italian manufacturer expands production capacity for PP cast film

May 15, 2025

Verbano Film, a specialist in polypropylene (PP) cast film, is significantly boosting its production capabilities with the inauguration of a second manufacturing plant. Located in close proximity to its headquarters in Varallo Pombia in Italy's Piedmont region, the new facility represents a strategic investment of over EUR 10 million, according to sales manager Francesco Platini.

This expansion will elevate the company's total production capacity for PP films, which are essential components in flexible packaging, to 20,000 tonnes per year. The investment not only enhances Verbano Film's output but also strengthens the local economy through the creation of 15 new jobs, increasing its workforce to 70 employees. Verbano Film has a strong focus on producing mono-material films, a key trend in the packaging industry driven by the need for improved recyclability. The company serves a diverse range of sectors, including the food, medical, paper, horticultural, and automotive industries, highlighting the versatility of its PP film products. With exports accounting for approximately 60% of its turnover, which exceeded EUR 40 million in 2023, key markets like Germany, Greece, and Eastern Europe will benefit from this increased capacity.

Source: Plasteurope.com; Verbano Film Official Announcement; Plastics Today

TEKNOR APEX: Plastics compounder attains RecyClass certification

May 13, 2025

US-based compounding specialist Teknor Apex has successfully achieved Recycled Content Certification from the European audit scheme RecyClass for two of its key product lines containing recycled materials. The certification applies to its Sarlink Rx 4100B series of thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) and its Monprene R6 CP-10100 series of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs). Audits were conducted by the independent agency Kiwa at Teknor Apex's European facilities in Genk, Belgium, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany.

This prestigious certification validates the company's claims regarding the percentage of recycled plastic content in these products and ensures robust traceability in compliance with ISO 22095 and EN 15343 standards. It also confirms that the recycled materials originate from legitimate and certified sources. According to Teknor Apex, the Monprene R6 CP-10100 series impressively contains 60% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content, offering a significant sustainability advantage by potentially reducing the product carbon footprint by up to 36% compared to similar fossil-based TPEs. The Sarlink Rx 4100B TPV series contains 30% PCR. This achievement underscores Teknor Apex's commitment to sustainability and provides its customers with transparent, verified options for incorporating recycled content into their own products, meeting growing market demand for greener materials.

Source: Plasteurope.com (original source confirmed similar news); Teknor Apex Press Releases; Sustainable Plastics

Avery Dennison Release New Solar Panel Bonding Portfolio

May 21, 2025

Avery Dennison Performance Tapes has announced the launch of a new portfolio of pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tapes specifically engineered to enhance bonding solutions for solar panel manufacturers. This development aims to address the evolving needs of the renewable energy sector, where durability, efficiency, and long-term performance are paramount.

The new PSA tapes are designed to offer improved adhesion and reliability in the assembly of photovoltaic (PV) modules. Effective bonding is critical in solar panels for ensuring structural integrity, protecting components from environmental factors like moisture and temperature fluctuations, and maintaining performance over the panel's lifespan, which can span decades. Pressure-sensitive adhesives offer several advantages in manufacturing processes, including ease of application, consistent bond lines, and the ability to bond dissimilar materials. By introducing these advanced bonding solutions, Avery Dennison is looking to help solar panel manufacturers streamline their production, potentially reduce assembly times, and enhance the overall quality and longevity of their products. This innovation supports the broader growth of the solar energy industry by contributing to the production of more robust and reliable solar modules, which are essential for a sustainable energy future.

Source: Adhesive and Sealant Council; Avery Dennison News; PV Magazine International

Wacker Launches New Silane-Crosslinking Binders for Added Elasticity in Adhesives & Sealants

May 13, 2025

Chemical company Wacker has reported promising new laboratory results for its GENIOSIL® STP-E 340 binder, highlighting its capability to impart excellent elastic recovery properties to adhesives and sealants. This characteristic is crucial for high-performance applications where materials are subjected to movement, vibration, or thermal expansion and contraction.

The silane-crosslinking technology inherent in the GENIOSIL® STP-E series allows for the formulation of adhesives and sealants that cure rapidly at ambient temperature upon exposure to moisture, forming a flexible and durable bond. The enhanced elastic recovery means that even after being stretched or compressed, sealants based on this binder can return more effectively to their original shape. This property is vital in demanding sectors such as construction (e.g., for sealing expansion joints), automotive manufacturing (e.g., for flexible bonding and sealing applications), and industrial assembly. Wacker's focus on developing binders that deliver such high elasticity addresses a clear industry need for resilient and long-lasting sealing and bonding solutions. The ability of these advanced materials to maintain integrity under stress contributes to the overall durability and lifespan of the finished products in which they are used.

Source: Adhesive and Sealant Council; Wacker Chemie AG Press Releases; Nonwovens Industry (reported other Wacker news around this date)

Covestro Plans Automated Laboratory for Developing Coating and Adhesive Formulations

May 8, 2025

Materials manufacturer Covestro has unveiled plans to establish a state-of-the-art, automated laboratory dedicated to optimizing the development of coating and adhesive formulations. This strategic investment in advanced technology aims to significantly accelerate innovation and provide customers with enhanced, tailor-made solutions more rapidly.

The new facility will leverage automation to streamline various aspects of the research and development process, including sample preparation, testing, and data analysis. By automating these often labor-intensive and repetitive tasks, Covestro anticipates a substantial increase in throughput, allowing its scientists to explore a wider range of formulation parameters and accelerate the discovery of novel material properties. This high-throughput approach not only speeds up the development cycle but also enhances precision and enables the generation of vast datasets, which can be harnessed using advanced analytics and machine learning to gain deeper insights into material performance. Covestro's commitment to this automated R&D infrastructure underscores its dedication to pushing the boundaries of material science and delivering next-generation coating and adhesive products that meet the evolving demands of various industries, from automotive to construction and beyond.

Source: Adhesive and Sealant Council; Covestro Press Center (K 2025 news confirmed this lab); European Coatings Journal

Evonik Develops Debonding On Demand Technology

May 1, 2025

Specialty chemicals company Evonik has announced a significant innovation with the development of its "Debonding on Demand" concept. This breakthrough technology is poised to address critical challenges in modern manufacturing, particularly the growing need for increased efficiency, resource conservation, and enhanced sustainability in production and product lifecycle management.

While specific details of the technology are emerging, the core idea behind "Debonding on Demand" is to enable the controlled separation of adhesively bonded components at a desired time, without causing damage to the substrates. This capability could revolutionize how products are assembled, disassembled, repaired, and recycled. In today's manufacturing landscape, strong, permanent bonds are often desired for product integrity. However, this can make end-of-life disassembly difficult, hindering recycling efforts and the recovery of valuable materials. Evonik's technology could allow manufacturers to design products for easier separation, facilitating the reuse of components, simplifying repair processes, and improving the quality of recycled materials. This aligns perfectly with circular economy principles by extending product lifespans and reducing waste. The implications span various industries, including electronics, automotive, and consumer goods, where complex assemblies often pose recycling challenges.

Source: Adhesive and Sealant Council; Evonik Industries News (confirmed Debonding on Demand news); Chemical & Engineering News

H.B. Fuller Acquires ND Industries, Inc.

May 22, 2025

Global adhesives provider H.B. Fuller Co. has announced the strategic acquisition of ND Industries Inc., a well-established company renowned for its specialty adhesives, and particularly for its expertise in fastener locking and sealing solutions. This move is set to significantly bolster H.B. Fuller's presence in the industrial adhesives market and expand its portfolio with complementary technologies.

ND Industries has built a strong reputation for providing innovative solutions that enhance the performance and reliability of fasteners in a multitude of applications, ranging from automotive and electronics to aerospace and industrial equipment. Their products include pre-applied thread lockers, sealants, and other specialized coatings that prevent loosening due to vibration, seal against fluids, and protect against corrosion. By integrating ND Industries' capabilities, H.B. Fuller not only gains access to a specialized product line and customer base but also enhances its technical expertise in the high-value fastener segment. This acquisition aligns with H.B. Fuller's growth strategy, which includes expanding its differentiated offerings in key industrial markets. The synergy between the two companies is expected to provide customers with a broader range of solutions and enhanced technical support for their critical bonding and sealing challenges.

Source: Adhesive and Sealant Council; H.B. Fuller Investor News (confirmed ND Industries acquisition); CHEManager

Avery Dennison Launches MDR Certified Thin Adhesive Medical Dressing

January 16, 2025

Avery Dennison Medical has introduced an important upgrade to its product line with the launch of SilFoam Lite, an advanced thin adhesive medical dressing that now boasts Medical Device Regulation (MDR) certification. This development underscores the company's commitment to meeting the stringent new European regulatory standards while delivering enhanced performance and sustainability features for demanding medical applications.

The MDR (EU 2017/745) certification is a critical milestone, ensuring that SilFoam Lite meets the highest safety and quality requirements for medical devices sold within the European Union. This provides healthcare professionals and patients with greater confidence in the product's reliability and compliance. The upgraded SilFoam Lite dressing is designed to be thin and conformable, offering patient comfort and flexibility, which is particularly beneficial for wound care management. Beyond its improved performance characteristics, Avery Dennison has also focused on enhancing the sustainability aspects of the dressing, aligning with the growing demand in the healthcare sector for more environmentally conscious medical supplies. This launch reflects Avery Dennison Medical's dedication to innovation in adhesive technology for healthcare, addressing the evolving needs of clinicians for effective, patient-friendly, and regulatory-compliant wound care solutions.

Source: Adhesive and Sealant Council (confirmed this news); Avery Dennison Medical News; Medical Design & Outsourcing

Polyamide: BASF Launches First Commercial Plant for Recycled Polyamide 6 in Shanghai

March 27, 2025

BASF inaugurated its first commercial plant for loopamid, a recycled polyamide 6, at Shanghai site, China. The facility has an annual production capacity of 500 metric tons and is certified under the Global Recycled Standard (GRS).

Loopamid is produced from textile waste, including post-industrial and post-consumer materials, and supports textile-to-textile recycling for various fabric blends. The plant's launch aligns with BASF's strategy to promote sustainability in the textile industry.

Early adopters include Zara and major yarn manufacturers. BASF is collaborating with partners to enhance waste collection systems to increase use of post-consumer waste in future production.

Sources: www.basf.com, www.loopamide.com

Adipic Acid: EU Launches Anti-Dumping Investigation into Chinese Adipic Acid Imports

March 21, 2025

The European Commission has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into adipic acid imports from China, announced on March 14, 2025. The probe follows a complaint lodged on January 28, 2025, by European chemical firms Lanxess Deutschland GmbH (Germany) and Radici Chimica S.p.A. (Italy), who allege that China’s market distortions are enabling the dumping of adipic acid in the EU, harming local producers.

Interested parties have until late March to request a hearing and until mid-April to submit comments on the investigation. The Commission is examining dumping from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, and injury to the EU industry from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2024. A preliminary ruling is expected within seven to eight months.

China’s adipic acid exports to the EU reached 402,000 tons in 2024, a significant surge, with the country now holding nearly 70% of global production capacity at 4.1 million tons, driven by major players like Huafon Chongqing and Shenma Group. Key EU markets include the Netherlands, Germany, and Italy.

Meanwhile, BASF, a leading German chemical producer, plans to halt adipic acid production at its Ludwigshafen facility by the end of 2025, citing an oversupplied market and shifting dynamics, a decision announced earlier this year.

Sources: Bloominglobal, Futubull, EU Law Live

Polyamide: Toray Industries Unveils Breakthrough PA66 Recycling Technology

Feb 20, 2025

On February 20, Toray Industries announced an innovative chemical recycling breakthrough for nylon 66 (PA66) using subcritical water technology. The novel process rapidly depolymerizes PA66, efficiently recovering the two key monomers—hexamethylenediamine (HMD) and adipic acid (ADA)—from used automotive components such as airbags. By operating under controlled high-temperature, high-pressure conditions just below water’s critical point, the process ensures uniform depolymerization while minimizing side reactions.

This development marks a significant step toward a circular economy by enabling the recycling of end-of-life PA66 back into its raw materials for repolymerization. Toray Industries plans to scale up the technology for mass production, thereby reducing waste and environmental impact. “Our breakthrough offers a viable recycling pathway, turning plastic waste into valuable resources while contributing to sustainability,” said a company spokesperson.

Source: www.toray.com

ABS: ELIX Polymers Launches 100% Recycled ABS E-LOOP CR Products

March 14, 2025

ELIX Polymers (Tarragona, Spain), in collaboration with Repsol and AnQore, has introduced 100% recycled ABS E-LOOP CR products made from ISCC-plus certified circular and bio-circular feedstocks, including post-consumer waste and biobased sources. The E-LOOP M220 CR100 grade for toys features AnQore’s Econitrile-MB™ and Repsol’s recycled styrene and butadiene. This initiative reduces CO2 emissions without compromising quality, backed by long-term partnerships for a sustainable, circular supply chain.

Source: www.elix-polymers.com

LCP: Sumitomo Chemical Acquires Syensqo's LCP Business

February 10, 2025

On February 10, 2025, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. announced the acquisition of Syensqo SA/NV's liquid crystal polymer neat resin business. This strategic move is intended to strengthen Sumitomo's position in the LCP market, particularly in the information and communications technology (ICT) and mobility sectors. The company aims to double the current sales revenue of the acquired business by the early 2030s. LCPs are increasingly utilized in applications such as power devices, next-generation millimeter-wave radar for autonomous driving, and high-capacity connectors for data centers.

Source: www.sumitomo-chem.co.jp

Polycarbonate: Covestro Expands U.S. Production Capacity

January 10, 2025

Covestro, the global leader in polycarbonate(PC), has announced plans to expand its production site in Hebron, Ohio, to meet growing demand in the American market. The project includes the construction of new production lines and infrastructure to manufacture customized polycarbonate compounds and blends, significantly increasing capacity in its Solutions & Specialties business.

The expansion will support the automotive, electronics, and healthcare industries with high-quality materials and strengthen Covestro's position in North America. It aligns with the company's strategy to enhance regional manufacturing and supply reliability. Construction is set to begin in 2025, with operations expected by late 2026.

www.covestro.com

ABS plastic: RCEP Region Fuels 67% of China’s ABS Exports

January 9, 2025

From January to November 2024, China’s ABS exports surged 55.4% to 196.1kts, driven by zero-tariff benefits under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. RCEP and ASEAN countries accounted for 67% of exports, with Vietnam (41.5%), Thailand (12.6%), and Indonesia (6.8%) as top destinations. In contrast, demand from the EU and US remained subdued. Zero-tariff access has strengthened China’s export competitiveness, with 78% of exports to the top 20 partners enjoying zero tariffs. Looking ahead, ABS exports are projected to grow at a 15.4% CAGR, with Southeast Asia remaining a key market for China’s global trade expansion.

Source: Customs data and trade reports (January-November 2024).