Easily Recyclable and Compostable – A New Plastic With Excellent Mechanical Stability

A new polyester balances durability and biodegradability, decomposing rapidly in composting conditions.

How can plastics be designed so that they maintain their useful properties while also being more easily recyclable? Chemist Stefan Mecking and his research group at the University of Konstanz are focused on studying eco-friendly solutions for plastics. In their recent paper in the international edition of Angewandte Chemie, the team introduces a new polyester that exhibits material properties that are suitable for industrial use and environmentally responsible.

Normally Hardly Compatible

Plastics are made of long chains of one or several chemical basic modules, so-called monomers. Plastics distinguished by high crystallinity and water repellency, therefore mechanically highly resilient and stable, are widely used. A well-known example is high-density polyethylene (HDPE), whose basic modules consist of non-polar hydrocarbon molecules. What may on the one side be advantageous properties for applications can also have adverse effects: It is very energy intensive and inefficient to recycle such plastics and recover the basic modules. Also, if such plastics leak into the environment, the degradation process is extremely long.

To overcome this supposed incompatibility between the stability and biodegradability of plastics, Mecking and his team insert chemical “breaking points” in their materials. They already showed that this greatly improves the recyclability of polyethylene-like plastics. However, good biodegradability is not automatically guaranteed. “Plastics often gain high resilience because they are ordered in densely packed crystalline structures,” Mecking explains: “Crystallinity in combination with water repellency usually strongly decelerates the biodegradation process, as it impairs the microorganisms‘ access to the breaking points.” However, this does not apply to the researchers’ new plastic.

Crystalline and Yet Compostable

The new plastic, polyester-2,18, consists of two basic modules: a short diol unit with two carbon atoms and a dicarboxylic acid with 18 carbon atoms. Both modules can be easily obtained from sustainable sources. For example, the starting material for the dicarboxylic acid, which is the plastic’s main component, comes from a renewable source. The polyester’s properties resemble those of HDPE: due to its crystalline structure, for example, it exhibits both mechanical stability and temperature resistance. At the same time, the first experiments for recyclability showed that under comparatively mild conditions, this material’s basic modules can be recovered.

The new plastic also has another, quite unexpected property: in spite of its high crystallinity it is biodegradable, as lab experiments with natural enzymes and tests at an industrial composting plant showed. Within a few days, in a lab experiment, the polyester was degraded by enzymes. The composting plant’s microorganisms required about two months, so this plastic even meets ISO-composting standards. “We too were amazed by this rapid degradation,” says Mecking, who adds: “Of course, we cannot transfer the results of the composting plant one-to-one into any conceivable environmental condition. But they do confirm that this material is indeed biodegradable and indicate that it is much less persistent than plastics like HDPE, if it should unintentionally be released into the environment.

”Both the recyclability of this polyester and its biodegradability under variable environmental conditions are now to be studied further. Mecking sees possible applications for this new material, e.g. in 3D printing or in the production of packing foils. In addition, there are further areas of interest, in which it is desirable to combine crystallinity with recyclability and the degradation of abraded particles or similar loss of material.

https://scitechdaily.com/

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Andrea Grandi is the New General Manager of the SACMI Group

He succeeds Mauro Fenzi, whose tenure ended on 31^st December 2024. A 49-year-old electronics engineer, Mr. Grandi has been with SACMI almost 25 years. During that time he has displayed outstanding technical and managerial skills, most notably in mechatronics and industrial automation

Imola, 2^nd January 2025 – On 1^st January, Andrea Grandi took on the role of SACMI Group General Manager. He succeeds Mauro Fenzi, whose mandate ended on 31^st December 2024.

Andrea Grandi – a 49-year-old electronics engineer – joined SACMI in 2001. In a career spanning almost 25 years, he has held increasingly prominent roles within the Group and distinguished himself for his technical and managerial expertise in the fields of mechatronics and industrial automation.

His first 18 years were spent in the Special Pressing Business Unit and as the Metals PU Manager. In 2020 he became General Manager of the Advanced Technologies BU. Over the last three years he has held the key roles of Operations and Plant Director and, subsequently, Corporate Product Supply Manager, demonstrating a talent for operational management and innovation development.

In addition to his positions at SACMI, Andrea Grandi is a member of the Forming Committee of UCIMU (Association of Italian Machine Tool, Robot and Automation Manufacturers). He was also formerly on the Technical Committee of AIM, the Italian Metallurgy Association.

“His appointment”, underlines the President of SACMI, Paolo Mongardi, “aims to make the most of internal skills and strengthen our technological leadership across the various businesses, all within a framework of strategic and operational continuity. I take this opportunity to wish Mr. Grandi every success in this exciting new challenge. His experience and skillset offer a secure base from which to launch the SACMI Group towards new goals, ever-greater innovation and sustainable growth”.

The SACMI Board of Directors wish to express their heartfelt thanks to Mauro Fenzi for his dedication and the results achieved. “During his tenure at the helm of the Group, Mauro Fenzi displayed outstanding leadership and strategic vision: his work has seen the SACMI Group achieve success in terms of growth, technological and organizational innovation, and reputation on international markets”.

www.sacmi.com

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QC20 Ballbar For Machine Tool Verification

Highly regarded within the industry for being quick, simple and effective, Renishaw’s ballbar for machine tool performance verification, is the trusted choice.

Meeting stricter tolerances, keeping up with customer deadlines, and maintaining international quality standards does not have to be a complex or ambitious objective. Incorporating straightforward measures such as machine calibration can effectively streamline processes, enhancing precision and efficiency along the way. Our QC20 ballbar is leading the way in machine tool diagnostics.

What is a ballbar?

A ballbar is a telescoping linear sensor equipped with precision balls at both ends. Our QC20 ballbar serves as a precision measurement device used to assess a machine tool’s performance by detecting minute variations in radius as it follows a programmed circular path around a fixed mount. During operation, the sensor’s balls are precisely located within magnetic cups, facilitating the measurement of radius.

Why would you use a ballbar?

Component dimensional and finish defects can stem from various factors, including defective tooling, worn spindles, or issues with workpiece clamping. However, defects can also trace back to positioning errors within the machine tool itself. These errors are known as geometric, dynamic or play-related issues.

Errors can be promptly addressed, often within a matter of minutes, provided you can pinpoint their exact nature and location. Whether your machine is brand new or used, errors can occur.

The key to achieving defect-free production lies in understanding the true capabilities of your machine. This knowledge enables you to effectively plan production and make necessary adjustments where required.

Historically, achieving this understanding involved machining test or “master” parts, followed by meticulous inspection. Not only is this method time-consuming but it also offers limited confidence when dealing with parts featuring different geometries than the master part.

With QC20 ballbar testing you can effectively assess a machine tool’s performance. Areas where remedial action may be necessary can be identified quickly, providing you with the insights needed to maintain high-quality production.

Performing a ballbar test

Ballbar testing involves a straightforward three-step process:

• QC20 ballbar set-up
• data capture during testing (360° or 220° partial arc)
• data analysis and diagnosis.

Featuring the latest Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, the QC20 ballbar rapidly forms a robust wireless connection with the PC and provides superior power efficiency, plus a substantially longer battery life when in use.

Read ballbar testing explained to explore the range of tests that can be carried out with the QC20 ballbar. Our QC20 ballbar accessories for machine applications further enhance its versatility.

Ballbar 20 software

Our powerful diagnostics software simplifies testing and reporting processes for machine tool preventative maintenance measurement using the industry standard QC20 ballbar.

• Comprehensive test and reporting; flexibility to display captured data as analysis reports to international standards, e.g. ISO 230-4, ANSI B5.54 or using the comprehensive Renishaw analysis format.
• Selectable user modes; adapts to suit the operator’s needs, skill level and authorisation (Quick Check, Operator and Advanced).
• Part program generator; helps ballbar test CNC part programs to be automatically generated quickly.
• Machine performance history; review variations in the machine’s performance over time using standard report graphs and plot points for in-depth explorations.
• Ballbar plot simulator; powerful tool to aid decisions on corrective action or maintenance predictions from test results.

Meeting international standards

Recognised in major international standards, a ballbar test can serve as a crucial component of overall quality assurance procedures within a manufacturing process and as an objective assessment tool for the CNC machine tool.

Using QC20 ballbar for ISO 10791-6 standard testing is achieveable and highly effective. The QC20 ballbar can efficiently complete most tests outlined in the ISO 10791-6 standard. Reporting the maximum to minimum deviation in accordance with ISO 10791-6 can be effortlessly achieved by capturing data using our Ballbar Trace software.

https://www.renishaw.com/

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Monique Buch Appointed As New Chief Commercial Officer Of Covestro   

Covestro, a world-leading supplier of high-tech polymer materials, is announcing Monique Buch (50) as the company’s new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). The Supervisory Board of Covestro has unanimously appointed Monique Buch who is taking over from Sucheta Govil by 1st June 2025. Sucheta Govil’s as been Covestro’s CCO since 2019. Her two consecutive terms with Covestro come to an end by 31st July 2025.

As the Chief Commercial Officer, Buch will be responsible for the segment of Solutions & Specialties. With this, she will be leading six business entities including the supply chain centers in the three major regions.

Dr. Richard Pott, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Covestro said: “Monique Buch is an experienced B2B commercial executive with a strong international footprint. With her background in building sustainable, market-leading businesses she will be an ideal successor to Sucheta Govil in the Board of Management and will continue to shape the future of Covestro. Already now, we want to express our deep gratitude to Sucheta Govil who has laid the solid foundation for a successful development in commercial excellence and innovation. With her strong background in commercial operations, sales, marketing, and innovation, she has been and will be steering the transformation journey of Covestro.”

“I am very much looking forward to join the transformation journey by driving profitable growth, along with the whole Covestro team and my new colleagues on the Managing Board,” said Monique Buch.

Dedicated to sustainable growth

Monique Buch was born in the Netherlands and studied industrial engineering and management. In her last position, Buch was Executive Vice President Nonwoven at Lenzing AG. Before, she held various executive positions in international B2B companies, among them Freudenberg Performance Materials and Owens Corning.

www.covestro.com.

Record-Breaking Attendance Of Over 50,000 Visitors At PLEXPOINDIA 2024 Recently Concluded

After a long time, PLEXPOINDIA 2024 made a glorious return to Gujarat and concluded successfully on 9th December at Helipad Exhibition Centre (HEC), Gandhinagar (Gujarat). The grand comeback to Gandhinagar immediately captured the attention of the plastics industries with its immense scale and extraordinary appeal.

This time, PLEXPO exhibition surpassed all the records of its previous editions and became landmark in the history of Plastic Industry. The exhibition was spread over 25,000 sq.mts. area and around 500 exhibitors took part in the event showcasing variety of products and newer technologies taking place in the field of Plastics. The exhibition was supported by Ministry of MSME, Gujarat and Plastindia Foundation along with leading plastic associations & GPCB extended their logo support to the event, making this event memorable one.

The inaugural function of Plexpoindia exhibition took place on 6th December at the venue in which large number of plastic industrialists/stalwarts, exhibitors, visitors and members remained present. The function was presided over by Shri Mulubhai Bera, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Cultural activities, Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of Gujarat, whereas Shri Jagdishbhai Vishwakarma, Hon’ble Minister of State for cooperation Salt Industries, Printing & Stationery, Protocol, Cottage, MSMEs, Khadi & Rural Industries, Civil Aviation and Shri Shamalbhai Patel, Chairman, Amul-Sabar Dairy, Director-NDDB were Guest of Honour at the function. Shri R. B. Barad, IAS, Chairman, Gujarat Pollution Control Board also present on this occasion. Addressing the gathering Hon’ble Minister Shri Mulubhai Bera uttered that plastic industry is playing vital role and following PWM rules by plastic manufacturers, co-ordinating with implementing authorities will go a long way in growing plastic industries.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Jagdishbhai Vishwakarma said that no one can live without plastics and it becomes part of our daily life. It is very wrong prediction that industry become victim of so called criticization. He also highlighted about of use of plastics v/s. use of traditional materials in various applications. Shri R. B. Barad, Chairman-GPCB talked about implantation of PMW rules and assured to extend full co-operation of GPCB to plastic industry to facilitate the units in meeting their obligations and will not be any harassment.

Shri Bharat Patel, President-GSPMA welcomed all the guests and invitees and thanked all the sponsors, exhibitors and wish all of them for their fruitful participation in the exhibition. Shri Vajubhai Vaghasia, Chairman-Plexpoindia’24 reiterated role of plastics exhibitions and history and glory of Plexpo exhibitions being held by GSPMA every three years. Shri Shailesh Patel in his concluding remarks at the inaugural function again thanked all the sponsor, exhibitors for their support and team GSPMA/PLEXPOINDIA for successful organization of the event.

During the exhibition, technical sessions were held on 6th, 7th & 8th December 2024 on various topics at the venue. Panel discussions were held on * War: Price V/s. sustainability, * Meeting the global Plastics & Sustainability Race with Technology, * EPR Compliance, * Manufacturing with Alternate to Virgin Plastics, * Government of India certification for Labs & Indian Standards for Plastic Industry, * Brands & Plastics: Sustainable Collaboration and lastly presentation on How to export & avail government subsidies by PLEXCONCIL, Sponsored by Ministry of Commerce, Government of India. All the technical sessions organized and managed by Shri Krunal Goda, Chairman, Technical Seminar & Conference Committee.

The exhibition has become a platform for future industries. New materials, innovative machineries, biomanufacturing, bioplastic, compostable plastics. etc., received widespread attention and were fully represented. Bringing into the front industrial innovations, cutting-edge technologies in automotive, circular economy/recycling, packaging and other sectors were introduced with various innovative solutions utilizing plastics “Circular Economy”, “Innovative Materials”, “Digitalization” and “High-end Technologies are the industry trends emphasized at this mega event. Focusing on the four main themes of “Circular Economy,” “Innovative Materials,” “Digitalization” and “High-End Technologies. The exhibition showcased innovative technologies presented by exhibitors. It highlighted keywords such as energy efficiency, cost reduction, intelligence, efficiency and high quality, directly addressing customer pain points and demands, and getting a lot of attentions in the fairground.

The promotional events of the Plexpoindia exhibition like Launch Functions/ Road Shows organized at Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Rajkot, Hyderabad, Bangaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Jaipur, Daman, Vapi, Dhoraji, Bhavnagar, etc. and many more throughout the country. Also promotion of the exhibition made through social media, newspapers, channels, radios, hoardings at prominent places in the country.

Reputed companies sponsored the exhibition in different categories like Diamond Sponsor – M/s. Kapsun Resources Corporation, whereas Gold Sponsors includes ACL, Bestzone, Haitian, HPCL, HMEL, etc. and many companies joined as Silver Sponsors of the event. The exhibitors from all the segments participated in the exhibition. Large number of visitors from the different sectors visited the show and large volume of business anticipated.

The exhibition not only received overwhelming praise from exhibitors but also earned high acclaim from the visitors. Visitors with their footsteps and expressed their abundant gains and benefits from the show. The grand event has come to a successful conclusion, but the excitement never ends. The 10th edition of PLEXPOINDIA 2028 declared to be held in February 2028.

https://www.plexpoindia.org/

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Sustainable Investment Platform Sustvest Raises $1.7 Million In Pre-Series A Round Led By Inflection Point Ventures And Antler

• SustVest is India’s first regulated platform for sustainable investments, offering investments in renewable energy. It delivers 12-14% XIRR returns with monthly payouts while enabling C&I consumers to access zero-cost solar projects, reducing electricity costs by up to 50%.
• The funds will be allocated toward acquiring solar projects, covering marketing expenses with the launch of the regulated platform, managing operations and legal expenses.
• So far, Inflection Point Ventures has invested over INR 800 Cr across 260+ startups.

Gurugram : Sustainable Investment Platform SustVest Raised $1.7 Million in Pre-Series A Round in mix of equity and debt Led by Inflection Point Ventures and Antler along with participation from WEH ventures, Venture Catalysts, Soonicorn Ventures, FAAD Network, and others. The funds will drive key business growth initiatives, including acquiring solar projects, scaling marketing with the regulated platform launch, strengthening operations, and covering legal expenses.

SustVest specializes in sustainable investments in renewable energy. The platform has achieved over ₹43 Cr in Assets Under Management (AUM) with 9.3 MW of solar installations, distributing over ₹5.7 Cr in energy income and saving over 94 lakh kgs of carbon emissions.

Co-founders Hardik Bhatia (CEO) and Devansh Shah (CTO) bring deep industry expertise. Hardik, a B.E. in Computer Science from BITS Pilani, had a family background in the solar business and extensive fintech experience. Devansh, also a BITS Pilani graduate in Finance and Computer Science, is a tech innovator.

Mr. Ankur Mittal, Co-Founder, Inflection Point Ventures, says: “Many smaller investors find it difficult to invest in renewable energy due to high entry barriers. SustVest solves this by offering fractional ownership in renewable energy projects for investing. By doing so, SustVest is making sustainable investments more accessible to a broader audience and democratizing the renewable energy projects. In turn, helping investors earn passive income and promote the growth of clean energy initiatives.”

SustVest offers investors fixed-income opportunities with environmental impact while enabling C&I consumers to access zero-cost solar projects at up to 50% lower tariffs. Their portfolio includes renowned clients such as Lodha Group, Hitachi, Mahle Group, Subros Ltd, CISF, NSG, CRPF, and others.

SustVest serves investors across the globe with seamless KYC processes via its regulated platform. Its projects span key locations, including Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, and more.

Hardik Bhatia, Co-Founder and CEO, Sustvest, says,” The investment opportunities once reserved for the ultra-wealthy are now accessible to all through SustVest, democratizing renewable energy investments. We’re building a gateway for EPCs to access finance for the OPEX model, bridging critical gaps in the ecosystem. IPV has been exceptional in understanding our vision and supporting us on this journey with their expertise, enabling us to scale our impact and bring clean energy closer to everyone.”

India’s rooftop solar market presents a $405.63 billion opportunity, with 7.6 million MSMEs fit for solar integration. The alternative investment market in India is expected to reach $11.8 billion, driven by 99 million individuals earning over ₹15 lakh annually.

https://sustvest.com/

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