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Bioplastics Biopolymers Market Emerging Trends and Growth Prospects 2032 | Nature Works, Braskem, BASF
2024-12-20 - 2024-12Global Bioplastics Biopolymers Market Size, Status, and Forecast for the 2024-2032. In-depth research has been compiled to provide the most up-to-date information on key aspects of the worldwide market. This research report covers major aspects of the Bioplastics Biopolymers Market including drivers, restraints, historical and current trends, regulatory scenarios, and technological advancements. It provides the industry overview with growth analysis and historical & futuristic cost, revenue, demand and supply data (as applicable). The research analysts provide an elaborate description of the value chain, future strategies. Our reports are single-point solutions for businesses to grow, evolve, and mature. Our real-time data collection methods along with ability to track more than one million high growth niche Bioplastics Biopolymers are aligned with your aims.
UA Little Rock Student Leads Polymer Chemistry Project During Summer Internship at Sherwin-Williams
2024-10-25 - 2025-01
A University of Arkansas at Little Rock student gained invaluable hands-on experience this summer while interning at Sherwin-Williams’ research and development site in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
“This experience prepared me for my future career by giving me hands-on exposure to polymer chemistry and a deeper understanding of how chemistry is applied in industry,” said MaryGrace McAfee, a senior double major in biology and chemistry from Texarkana. “The diversity of tasks and learning opportunities made the experience both challenging and rewarding.”
Specializing in polymer chemistry, McAfee managed her own project to develop and test a new polymer for coil coatings.
“I researched polymers with the goal of developing improved coil coatings for metal surfaces,” McAfee said. “Coil coating is a fast and continuous process that allows metal to be pre-painted before fabrication, which offers significant efficiency benefits. Researching this work is important because metal surfaces often require specialized coatings for different applications, each with distinct performance requirements such as durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic needs. By formulating polymers tailored to these specific applications, we ensure that the coatings deliver optimal performance, providing customers with high-quality, reliable products for their various needs.”
McAfee presented her findings to Sherwin-Williams employees and leaders during a presentation and poster session. She is also grateful for the new opportunities she gained from the summer internship.
“At Sherwin-Williams, I had had the opportunity to work with large molecules, gaining new lab techniques, exploring different synthesis routes, and broadening my perspective on organic chemistry,” she said. “I also had the opportunity to collaborate with various chemistry groups, which improved my communication and teamwork skills, essential for working on complex projects. Additionally, I learned valuable insights into how chemistry is practiced in a corporate setting, giving me a clearer understanding of what it’s like to work in the industry.”
After the Donaghey Scholar graduates next May, McAfee plans to attend graduate school to earn a Ph.D. in organic chemistry, but she will look on this summer internship as a major growing point in her professional career.
“I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to my mentor at Sherwin-Williams, Andy Tangen, and the entire polymer group for their incredible guidance and expertise throughout the summer,” McAfee said. “I also want to thank Sherwin-Williams for providing such a fantastic internship experience. They are a company that truly cares about their employees and is committed to advancing chemistry in innovative and impactful ways.”
Dr. Basit Yameen Recognised as Pioneering Investigator in Polymer Chemistry by Royal Society of Chemistry’s Polymer Chemistry Journal
2024-12-11 - 2025-01
The Polymer Chemistry journal of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) recently named Dr. Basit Yameen, Associate Professor, Syed Babar Ali School of Science and Engineering (SBASSE), LUMS, amongst those recommended for recognition as one of the 2025 Polymer Chemistry Pioneering Investigators. This achievement reflects his focused approach and passion for the field.
Polymer Chemistry is the flagship journal of the RSC that publishes most innovative and impactful original work in the field of polymer chemistry. “The Editorial and Advisory Boards of the RSC’s Polymer Chemistry journal and previously-recognised Pioneering Investigators have personally recommended researchers who continuously publish creative, innovative work and have enriched several research areas for this recognition,” explains Dr. Basit.
“I have been invited to contribute to the Polymer Chemistry Pioneering Investigators collection, which will highlight the great work being done by mid-career investigators who have firmly established themselves as pioneers of the field of polymer chemistry.”
In 2014-15, Dr. Basit was among the 30 scientists globally who were recognised as “Emerging Investigators” by the same platform. Commenting on his latest achievement, Dr. Basit says, “This is such a humbling moment, that nearly a decade later I have been identified and recommended by the journal’s Editorial and Advisory boards as one of the Pioneering Investigators who have firmly established themselves as pioneers of the field of polymer chemistry.”
Having established a vibrant and thriving research programme at LUMS himself, Dr. Basit and his team, day-in day-out, explore the exciting opportunities offered by the wonderful world of polymer chemistry. His current research activities encompass a range of fundamental and applied endeavours focused on the development of functional polymers, hybrid smart materials, and interfaces.
“My contributions are related to the development of polymers, nanomaterials, surface chemistries, and chemistries in confined environments enabling the creation of innovative smart materials. These materials find applications in biomedical sciences, bio and chemical sensing, efficient light energy harvesting and conversion technologies, stimuli-responsive separation technologies, and environmental remediation,” explains Dr. Basit.
Dr. Basit Yameen, with over two decades of experience with polymers, is also helping stakeholders including the government and industry in streamlining policies and regulations for plastic production and mitigating plastic-related pollution challenges.
Commenting on LUMS and the research opportunities here, Dr. Basit says, “LUMS has established an ecosystem where I have been able to translate my vision of high-quality teaching, research, and service. The University has generously invested in the development of critical infrastructure, providing access to essential resources to conduct high-quality research. The internal fu
Biopolymers Market, worth USD 8.06 Bn in 2023, is expected to grow to USD 22.37 Bn by 2030, with a 15.3 Percentage CAGR
2025-01-08 - 2025-01
The biopolymers market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials across various industries. These polymers, derived from renewable resources like plants, microorganisms, and agricultural waste, are gaining popularity as alternatives to conventional plastics. The market is driven by rising environmental concerns, stringent regulations on plastic usage, and growing consumer preference for biodegradable and compostable products. With applications spanning packaging, agriculture, medical, and automotive sectors, the biopolymers market is poised for robust expansion in the coming years.
The growth of the biopolymers market is propelled by a combination of environmental, regulatory, and economic factors. Rising awareness about the adverse effects of plastic pollution has encouraged industries to adopt sustainable solutions, boosting demand for biopolymers. Governments worldwide are implementing stringent regulations and offering incentives to promote biodegradable materials, further supporting market expansion. Additionally, advancements in technology have reduced the production costs of biopolymers, making them more competitive with traditional plastics. Consumer preference for green products and the push from major corporations toward sustainable practices are also key drivers accelerating the market's growth.
Vietnam's commitment to environmental sustainability has led to increased adoption of biopolymers, particularly in the packaging industry. Government initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste are expected to further drive market growth.
Thailand's robust agricultural sector provides abundant raw materials for biopolymer production. The country's focus on sustainable development and export-oriented manufacturing offers significant growth opportunities for biopolymers.
Japan's advanced technological landscape and strong emphasis on environmental conservation have positioned it as a leader in biopolymer research and application. The automotive and electronics industries are notable sectors driving demand.
South Korea is witnessing increased collaboration between research institutions and industries to develop advanced biopolymer applications. The government's support for green technologies is fostering market consolidation.
Singapore's strategic initiatives in sustainable materials and circular economy practices are propelling the adoption of biopolymers. The city-state's focus on innovation and R&D is expected to lead to significant advancements in biopolymer technologies.
The U.S. market is experiencing substantial growth, driven by consumer demand for sustainable products and supportive regulatory frameworks. The packaging and automotive sectors are major contributors to market expansion.
Europe holds a significant share of the global biopolymers market, with countries like Germany, France, and Italy leading in production and consumption. Stringent enviro
Bio-Emulsion Polymers Drive Sustainability, Meeting Growing Demand for Eco-friendly Solutions with Market Set to Reach USD 3.4 Billion by 2034 | Transparency Market Research
2025-01-16 - 2025-01
The bio-emulsion polymers market is witnessing steady growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials across industries like packaging, paints, and adhesives. These polymers offer enhanced performance while reducing environmental impact, aligning with the growing focus on green chemistry. Advancements in bio-based technologies are further propelling the adoption of bio-emulsion polymers in diverse applications.
Wilmington, Delaware, Transparency Market Research Inc.Jan. 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) The bio-emulsion polymers market has garnered significant attention due to its environmentally friendly properties and rising demand from various industrial sectors. Valued at US$ 1.5 billion in 2023, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2024 to 2034, reaching an estimated size of US$ 3.4 billion by 2034.
Analysts’ Viewpoint on Market Growth
The growth of the bio-emulsion polymers market can be attributed to stringent regulations on volatile organic compounds (VOCs), increasing adoption of bio-based feedstock’s, and growing demand from key industries such as paints, coatings, and adhesives. With strong support from governments globally for reducing reliance on petroleum-based feedstocks, bio-emulsion polymers have emerged as a viable alternative. Key properties, including lower VOC levels, adhesion, durability, thermal stability, and biodegradability, have enhanced their appeal to manufacturers looking to meet regulatory and environmental requirements.
The bio-emulsion polymers market encompasses a comprehensive analysis at both the global and regional levels. It includes cross-segment analysis and qualitative aspects such as:
Drivers: High demand from the paints and coatings industry and a shift toward a circular economy model.
Restraints: Limited scalability and higher costs compared to synthetic alternatives.
Opportunities: Development of innovative bio-based polymers and increasing demand from emerging economies.
Trends: Adoption of green building certifications and growing focus on sustainable manufacturing practices.
The analysis also incorporates Porter’s Five Forces, value chain analysis, and key trend analysis to provide a holistic view of the market landscape.
1. High Demand from Paints & Coatings Industry
The paints and coatings sector represents a significant end-user of bio-emulsion polymers, especially acrylic variants. Rising infrastructure development, urbanization, and increased disposable incomes in developing regions are driving demand for eco-friendly coatings. Additionally, renovation activities and changing consumer preferences for sustainable paints are expanding the market’s reach.
2. Shift Toward a Circular Economy Model
The circular economy promotes recycling, reuse, and reduced reliance on non-renewable resources. Governments and organizations globally are supporting bio-based solutions that align with this model. Recycling bio-emulsion polymers redu
Stronger, greener superglue: Biodegradable polymer outperforms commercial options
2025-01-17 - 2025-01
Researchers at Colorado State University and their partners have developed an adhesive polymer that is stronger than current commercially available options while also being biodegradable and reusable. The findings, described in Science, show how the common, naturally occurring polymer P3HB can be chemically re-engineered for use as a strong yet sustainable bonding agent.
Adhesives are commonly used in automotives, packaging, electronics, solar cells and construction, among many other areas. Together they make up a roughly $50 billion industry that supports much of our modern life but also contributes to the mounting issue of plastic waste. The paper describes the team's work using experimental, simulation and process modeling to develop a replacement polymer.
The project was led by University Distinguished Professor Eugene Chen in the Department of Chemistry. Other partners on the paper include Gregg Beckham at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Professor Ting Xu at the University of California, Berkeley and researchers from their groups.
Chen explained that poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), known as P3HB, is a natural, biobased and biodegradable polymer that can be produced by microbes under the right biological conditions. While the polymer is not adhesive when made that way, his lab was able to chemically re-engineer its structure to now deliver stronger adhesion than the common petroleum-derived, nonbiodegradable options when used on various substrates or surfaces such as aluminum, glass and wood. The adhesion strength of the re-engineered P3HB can also be tuned to accommodate different application needs.
The findings are part of a larger goal by Chen's group to improve and expand our ability to tackle the global plastics pollution crisis. His team is involved in many efforts to develop chemically recyclable, biodegradable, and overall more sustainable alternatives to today's plastic materials. He said that while many people inherently recognize the life cycle issues that come with a disposable water bottle, adhesives present more daunting issues with fewer potential solutions.
"Petroleum-based thermoset adhesives such as Gorilla Glue and J-B Weld, along with thermoplastic hot melts, can be very difficult or even impossible to recycle or recover—primarily because of their strong bonds to other materials," he said. "Our approach instead offers a biodegradable material that can be used in a variety of industries with tunable or even higher strength compared to those options."
Ethan Quinn is a Ph.D. student at CSU and served as a co-lead author on the paper with postdoctoral researcher Zhen Zhang. Quinn said he and Zhang led work around the creation and testing of the material.
"We developed a sample P3HB glue stick and were able to use it with a commercially available glue gun to test its application in sealing cardboard boxes and other properties on steel plates," Quinn said. "I knew the data supported it being stronger
Biopolymers In Electrical and Electronics Market Gaining Momentum with Positive External Factors
2025-01-20 - 2025-01
The "Biopolymers In Electrical and Electronics Market" intelligence report, just published by USD Analytics Market, covers a micro-level study of important market niches, product offers, and sales channels. To determine market size, potential, growth trends, and competitive environment, the Biopolymers In Electrical and Electronics Market provides dynamic views. Both primary and secondary sources of data were used to generate the research, which has both qualitative and quantitative depth. Several of the major figures the study featured BASF, Dow, Arkema, Mitsubishi Chemical, NatureWorks, Braskem, SABIC, Evonik, DuPont, Toray, Eastman, Celanese
The global Biopolymers In Electrical and Electronics Market is poised to register a 22.3% CAGR from $72.1 Million in 2024 to $241.3 Million in 2032.
An Overview of the Biopolymers In Electrical and Electronics Market
Natural or synthetic polymers derived from renewable sources, such as cellulose, polylactic acid (PLA), or starch, used in electronic components for insulation, circuit boards, or casings due to their biodegradability and eco-friendly nature.
Biopolymers In Electrical and Electronics Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth Outlook, and Opportunities to 2032- By Type (Biodegradable, Non-Biodegradable), By Application (Rechargeable Batteries, Wires & Cables, Electrical Insulators, Panel Displays, Electronic Device Casings, Others). and significant players are the market segments.
In order to provide a thorough analysis of the industry, the report compiled data from over 22 jurisdictions or nations across Europe, North America, South America, Asia Pacific, and MEA.
Geographically, the global version of the report has the following country inclusion:
• North America [United States, Canada, and Mexico]
• Europe [Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, Sweden, and the Rest of Europe]
• Asia-Pacific [China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, Indonesia, and Others]
• South America [Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and the Rest of South America]
• the Middle East and Africa (South Africa, Turkey, Israel, GCC Countries, and the Rest of Africa)
The primary goal of this study is to determine which market niches or nations that companies and investors should concentrate on in the future in order to allocate their resources and efforts toward Biopolymers In Electrical and Electronics that will optimize growth and profitability. The year 2024 will see notably slower growth, and given the dynamic macroeconomic and regulatory environment, major markets in North America and Western Europe will need "heavy lifting" to handle these tendencies.
In the Biopolymers In Electrical and Electronics industry, distribution channels are always crucial because of the "push" nature of many offerings in the sector. In an effort to strengthen their relationship with customers, companies have been refining their distribution model. As the Internet becomes more widely used and c
Tuning polymer microstructure produces adhesive stickier than super glue
2025-01-21 - 2025-01
By manipulating the microstructure of a natural polyester, researchers in the US have developed a biodegradable adhesive polymer that’s even stronger than super glue. Through careful control of the order and orientation of monomer units, the team were able to tune both the adhesive and thermomechanical properties, engineering the polymer for a variety of real-world applications.
‘Adhesives are an exceptionally important bit of polymer science where biodegradation offers an end-of-life advantage where there isn’t really an alternative,’ says Michael Shaver, a polymer scientist at the University of Manchester, UK. The ability to bind surfaces together underpins many aspects of daily life, including packaging, electronics, and sealants used in construction. But, the overwhelming majority of these commercial products are based on petroleum-derived polymers and are neither recoverable nor biodegradable. Bio-based and decomposable adhesive polymers are therefore an attractive alternative, but finding materials with the appropriate mix of adhesive, mechanical, and chemical properties is a difficult challenge.
Engineered adhesion
Rather than starting from scratch, a team led by Colorado State University’s Eugene Chen sought to engineer an existing sustainable polymer, the natural polyester poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (P3HB), to exhibit adhesive properties. Originally identified in certain microorganisms, synthetic chemical and biological methods now enable greater control over the formation of the polymer chain, facilitating the preparation of P3HB plastics with different internal arrangements, known as microstructures.
The monomer unit, ?-butyrolactone (BBL), contains a chiral carbon and the organisation of these stereocentres in relation to each other – an effect known as tacticity – has a profound impact on the physical properties of the overall polymer. ‘Controlling the tacticity and the position of the chain will affect the ability of the chain to pack or crystallise,’ explains Charles Romain, a sustainable polymers chemist at Imperial College London, UK. ‘If a material is semi-crystalline, it’s likely to be hard and rigid. If it’s amorphous, it’s probably more stretchable.
Manipulating the microstructure
Searching for the perfect balance of these properties, Chen’s team began by creating a spectrum of possible P3HB microstructures. They selected a more complex monomer unit called 8DL, which contains two chiral carbons, and developed a panel of catalytic conditions to closely control the orientation of each stereocentre as it was incorporated into the polymer chain. ‘There are three extreme tacticities: isotactic,’ – in which all the R groups are on the same side of the chain – ‘syndiotactic,’ – where the R groups alternate sides – ‘and atactic,’ – a random arrangement – explains Chen. ‘But there are also sub-tacticities between those extreme cases, such as iso-rich, syndio-rich, and block structures.’
With eight different microstructur
Polymer research shows potential replacement for common superglues with a reusable and biodegradable alternative
2025-01-16 - 2025-01
EMBARGO: THIST CONTENT IS UNDER EMBARGO UNTIL 2 PM U.S. EASTERN STANDARD TIME ON JANUARY 16, 2025. INTERESTED MEDIA MAY RECIVE A PREVIEW COPY OF THE JOURNAL ARTICLE IN ADVANCE OF THAT DATE OR CONDUCT INTERVIEWS, BUT THE INFORMATION MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, OR POSTED ONLINE UNTIL AFTER THE RELEASE WINDOW.
Researchers at Colorado State University and their partners have developed an adhesive polymer that is stronger than current commercially available options while also being biodegradable and reusable. The findings – described in Science – show how the common, naturally occurring polymer P3HB can be chemically re-engineered for use as a strong yet sustainable bonding agent.
Adhesives are commonly used in automotives, packaging, electronics, solar cells and construction, among many other areas. Together they make up a roughly $50 billion industry that supports much of our modern life but also contributes to the mounting issue of plastic waste. The paper describes the team’s work using experimental, simulation and process modeling to develop a replacement polymer.
The project was led by University Distinguished Professor Eugene Chen in the Department of Chemistry. Other partners on the paper include Gregg Beckham at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Professor Ting Xu at the University of California, Berkley and researchers from their groups.
Chen said that poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), or P3HB, is a natural, biobased and biodegradable polymer that can be produced by microbes under the right biological conditions. While the polymer is not adhesive when made that way, his lab was able to chemically re-engineer its structure to now deliver stronger adhesion than the common petroleum-derived, nonbiodegradable options when used on various substrates or surfaces such as aluminum, glass and wood. The adhesion strength of the re-engineered P3HB can also be tuned to accommodate different application needs.
The findings are part of a larger goal by Chen’s group to improve and expand our ability to tackle the global plastics pollution crisis. His team is involved in many efforts to develop chemically recyclable, biodegradable and, overall, more sustainable alternatives to today’s plastic materials. He said that while many people inherently recognize the life cycle issues that come with a disposable water bottle, adhesives present more daunting issues with fewer potential solutions.
“Petroleum-based thermoset adhesives such as Gorilla Glue and J-B Weld, along with thermoplastic hot melts, can be very difficult or even impossible to recycle or recover – primarily because of their strong bonds to other materials,” he said. “Our approach instead offers a biodegradable material that can be used in a variety of industries with tunable or even higher strength compared to those options.”
Ethan Quinn is a Ph.D. student at CSU and served as a co-lead author on the paper with postdoctoral researcher Zhen Zhang. Quinn said he and Zh
Biomimetic polymerization: Liquid crystals enable chiral polymer synthesis
2025-01-28 - 2025-01
By using optically active liquid crystals as reaction sites, researchers at University of Tsukuba have successfully achieved the living polymerization of polymers with aligned helical structures. In this process, optically inactive monomers adopt the chiral (mirror-image) structure in liquid crystals as they grow, resulting in optically active polymers.
Polyisocyanides are polymers distinguished by their helical structures, where the helix's winding direction (right- or left-handed) can be controlled through catalysts designed for synthesizing chiral molecules. This feature allows the exhibiting of optical properties such as circular dichroism and optical rotation in polyisocyanides, making them stable, optically active polymers.
In their study, the research team synthesized optically active conducting polymers from non-optically active monomers through physical rather than chemical methods using a liquid crystal reaction field as an external environment.
For the first time, they achieved asymmetric (chiral) living polymerization of optically active polyisocyanides using liquid crystals with chiral (mirror-image isomer) structures as a solvent.
Circular dichroism measurements of the resulting polyisocyanides confirmed their optical activity, which can be attributed to their helical structures. Additionally, the liquid crystal used in the reaction exhibited properties of the twisted-bend nematic phase—a recently discovered phase that has been attracting considerable attention in liquid crystal research.
The identification of a twisted-bend nematic liquid crystal within a polymer is a notable finding in liquid crystal science.
This reaction is analogous to the enzymatic growth of amino acids with chiral structures in vivo, which leads to the synthesis of proteins with helical structures. As such, it holds promise as a biomimetic technology—a field that mimics and leverages the functional principles of living organisms.
Two-way polymerisation produces both elastic and rigid recyclable thermoset plastics
2025-01-31 - 2025-01
A one-pot method for producing a range of degradable, partially recyclable thermosetting plastics by polymerising the same monomer in two different ways has been developed by US researchers.1 The plastic could be the basis of a 3D printing ink and, in future, could provide sustainable alternatives for many widely-used polymers today.
Whereas thermoplastics melt at high temperatures, thermosetting plastics such as epoxy resins and melamine have highly crosslinked polymer chains, making them heat resistant and much more robust. Around 15–20% of polymers produced are thermoset. Unfortunately, they are also far harder to recycle as they cannot be melted and reshaped. Researchers are therefore attempting to produce chemically degradable polymers that can be broken at the crosslinks. ‘People have designed dual functional monomers that have two different functionalities and you can polymerise those through two different mechanisms,’ says polymer chemist Brett Fors at Cornell University, US. ‘The problem with those is that it’s pretty inefficient and usually pretty expensive.’
Since the 1950s, it’s been known that the cyclic vinyl ether 2,3-dihydrofuran (DHF) can undergo cationic polymerisation to yield the strong, rigid poly(c-DHF). In 2022, Fors’ group showed that this could be oxidatively degraded.2 Polymer chemists John Feist and Yan Xia at Stanford University in California had separately and unexpectedly shown in 2020 that the same monomer could also undergo ring-opening metathesis polymerisation (Romp).3 In the new work, researchers led by Fors’ graduate student Reagan Dreiling used this dual functionality to create a new class of tunable polymers.
They combined the DHF with a ruthenium catalyst and a photoacid generator. Romp begins immediately, producing long-chain, soft, stretchable poly(r-DHF) while leaving the vinyl ether’s double bonds intact. Irradiation with blue light then triggers the formation of a superacid, which leads to cationic polymerisation. This causes crosslinking of the poly(r-DHF) double bonds and polymerisation of the unreacted DHF. The simultaneous two types of polymerisation – one producing an elastic polymer and the other producing a brittle polymer, allows the researchers to tune the properties of the finished product. ‘We can change the properties by changing either the catalyst loading or when we start irradiating,’ says Fors. ‘That’s going to dictate how much of the Romp polymer we’re going to have, how much of the cationic polymer we’re going to have and how much crosslinking we’re going to have.’
The researchers’ materials ranged from thermoset elastomers to strong, tough rigid polymers. All of the Romp-polymers could be depolymerised to the monomer by heating, whereas the sections linked by cationic polymerisation could be degraded by acid hydrolysis. The researchers are now seeking applications. One possibility, says Fors, is to 3D print an object by selectively exposing the poly(r-DHF) to light. This c
Bio-based Polymers worldwide: Status and Outlook
2025-01-31 - 2025-02
As the New Year begins, let's take a closer look at the current state of bio-based polymers. We look at the rapidly growing production capacity, the major investments currently underway in China, Europe and the Middle East, and the new political conditions in Europe that are driving demand for biodegradable polymers. But first things first. Firstly, global capacity for bio-based polymers will grow strongly over the next five years, much faster than for fossil-based polymers. For the 14 bio-based polymers presented at the European Bioplastics Conference (EBC December 2024 in Berlin), the expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2024 and 2029 is an impressive 18% – total capacity will increase to 5.7 million tonnes in 2029, with PLA accounting for the largest share.
The data was collected by the international nova expert group on bio-based polymers. Taking into account all 17 commercially available bio-based polymers, the CAGR between 2024 and 2029 is 13%, compared to 2-3% for fossil-based polymers. This would mean that the capacity share of bio-based polymers in the total polymer market will increase from 1% today to around 1.5% in the coming years.
The low utilisation rate of some capacities, especially for PLA capacities in China, was also shown and discussed. This has already been shown in the report "Bio-based and Biodegradable Plastics Industries in China" published by the nova-Institute in May 2024. China’s bio-based polymer industry is experiencing rapid growth despite being in its early stages, largely propelled by policy incentives. Projections suggest that the industry will expand substantially, reaching 2.53 million tonnes by 2026, up from 765,000 tonnes in 2023, representing a notable CAGR of approximately 49%.
Second, investments in new capacity will take place in China, Europe, the Middle East, and the US. NatureWorks (US) is the current major producer of lactic acid (LA) and polylactic acid (PLA). The installed capacities of 198,000 tonnes/year for LA and 165,000 tonnes/year for PLA in the United States will be increased in 2025 with new installations in Thailand. Adding a total of 175,000 tonnes/year Asian production capacity to NatureWorks North American capacity.
Belgium's Futerro will become the world's second largest producer of LA and PLA. Projects in China, together with BBCA Biochemical, have realised 30,000 tonnes/year of PLA capacity, now expanding to 150,000 tonnes/year. The next Futerro plant will be located in Normandy, France. With an estimated total investment of € 500 million, it will be Europe's first fully integrated, circular and sustainable biorefinery. With an annual production capacity of 125,000 tonnes of LA and 75,000 tonnes of PLA combined with its recycling, this project is a world first in the field of bio-based polymers.
Emirates Biotech, a newcomer to PLA production, announced in December 2024 specific details of its planned PLA project in the United Arab Emirates. The 160,000 t
New additives increase the market potential of biopolymers
2025-02-05 - 2025-02
Polytives GmbH, a specialist in the development and production of special polymer additives, announces the successful completion of a research project in collaboration with the Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research (TITK). The research project was part of a partnership within the Thuringian technology competition "get started 2gether" and pursued the goal of improving the processing and material properties of biopolymers, especially polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), by adding innovative additives. This is the second project within the "get started 2gether" funding program that Polytives has successfully completed with the business-oriented research institute TITK.
PHAs are a promising alternative to existing synthetic materials, as they come from sustainable resources and are also biodegradable. They belong to the group of thermoplastics, but are rarely used as they are quite brittle and have low thermal stability during processing.
The aim of the research project was to optimize the processing possibilities and thus significantly improve the usability of PHA for industrial applications. Using the processing aid bFIA 3745 from Polytives, different PHA types were compounded and then tested for their processing quality and the resulting plastic properties. These TITK tests show that even a small amount of the additive significantly improves the flowability and increases the melt flow rate (MFR) by up to 30 percent. The improved flowability increases the temperature window in which the bioplastics can be processed more easily.
This opens up completely new application and market potential for PHA. In particular, they can now make a significant contribution to the wider use of sustainable plastics.
"Our collaboration with the TITK is an excellent example of cooperative research and development in Thuringia. Together, we have made important progress in making biopolymers such as PHA more attractive for industrial applications and thus driving sustainable innovation from our region," says Oliver Eckardt, Managing Director at Polytives.
For Benjamin Redlingshöfer, Managing Director of TITK and Chairman of the Thuringia Research and Technology Association (FTVT), this successful project is another example of how the "get started 2gether" competition initiated by the FTVT acts as a real accelerator for start-ups. "Our mission is to successfully transfer innovative ideas to industrial market maturity," says Redlingshöfer. "With Polytives, we have now been able to achieve this in an exemplary manner for the second time. We provided the company with intensive support from the first laboratory tests in Jena to the move to the new site with its own production facility in Rudolstadt. And we will be very happy to continue doing so."
Polymer Nanocomposites Market Insights: Forecasting Size, Growth, and Competitive Trends from 2014 to 2022
2025-02-05 - 2025-02
Polymer nanocomposites market size was valued at $5,276 million in 2015, and is expected to reach $11,549 million by 2022, supported by a CAGR of 10.9% during the forecast period 2016 to 2022.
According to a recent report by Allied Market Research titled "Polymer Nanocomposites Market by Type and Application - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2014 - 2022", the global polymer nanocomposites market is projected to reach $11,549 million in revenue and 6,014 kilo tons in volume by 2022, with a revenue growth rate of 10.9% during 2016 - 2022. North America held a one-third share in the global polymer nanocomposites market in 2015 and is expected to maintain its leadership position throughout the forecast period.
The polymer nanocomposites market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising demand across industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, packaging, and energy. These advanced materials incorporate nanoparticles into polymer matrices, enhancing mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties.
Government initiatives like Japan’s Society 5.0, China’s Made in China 2025, and U.S. programs such as the National Nanotechnology Initiative are accelerating R&D and adoption.
Technological advancements, including graphene and carbon nanotubes, are revolutionizing the market by improving strength, conductivity, and sustainability.
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How Are Polymer Nanocomposites Utilized Across Different Industries?
Polymer nanocomposites are utilized extensively across a broad range of industries due to their enhanced properties. In the automotive industry, these materials are used to produce lightweight, high-strength components that improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Applications include structural parts, coatings, and interior components.
The aerospace sector leverages the high strength-to-weight ratio and improved thermal properties of nanocomposites for applications such as aircraft panels, insulation, and composite structures.
In the electronics industry, polymer nanocomposites are critical for manufacturing high-performance, miniaturized electronic devices, including flexible displays, conductive films, and advanced batteries.
Additionally, the packaging industry benefits from nanocomposites that provide superior barrier properties against gases and moisture, extending the shelf life of food products. Medical applications also utilize these materials for drug delivery systems, implantable devices, and antimicrobial coatings.
These diverse uses underscore the transformative impact of polymer nanocomposites on enhancing product performance and functionality across various sectors.
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What Factors Are Driving the Growth in the Poly
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