Author: MNA

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * Akdeniz Chemson * Ampacet * Avient * BASF * ExcelPlas * Graphene * HALS * Irgafos™ 168 * Irganox * LyondellBasell * Microplastics * NIR * SABIC * TruCircle™

INDUSTRY NEWS

Determination of Additives in Polymer Pellets by Near-infrared Spectroscopy
https://www.metrohm.com/content/dam/metrohm/en/blog/blog-docs/1275675_1275675_AN-nir004.pdf

Avient Debuts Next-Generation Solutions to Facilitate Use of Recycled Plastics in Packaging Applications
https://www.petnology.com/online/news-detail/avient-debuts-next-generation-solutions-to-facilitate-use-of-recycled-plastics-in-packaging-applications

Ampacet’s AgriStab™, Next-Generation UV Stabilizer Range, extends UV Resistance of Multi-season Greenhouse Films Subjected to High Pesticide Use
https://www.ampacet.com/agristab-next-generation-uv-stabilizer-range-extends-uv-resistance-of-multi-season-greenhouse-films-subjected-to-high-pesticide-use/

Avient Debuts Next-Generation Solutions to Facilitate Use of Recycled Plastics in Packaging Applications
https://www.avient.com/news/avient-debuts-next-generation-solutions-facilitate-use-recycled-plastics-packaging-applications

Akdeniz Chemson Launches a New Zinc Borate Plant
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210222005113/en/Akdeniz-Chemson-Launches-a-New-Zinc-Borate-Plant

Akdeniz Chemson World Leader in in PVC stabilizers is Named the Second Largest Chemical Exporter
https://www.akdenizchemson.com/news/akdeniz-chemson-is-the-second-largest-chemical-exporter

Graphene Masterbatches for Flexible and Rigid Packaging
https://www.ptonline.com/blog/post/graphene-masterbatches-for-flexible-and-rigid-polyolefin-packaging-and-beyond-

Determination of Contaminants in Polyolefin Recyclates by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS)
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00032719.2022.2101656

Release of Additives and Non-Intentionally Added Substances from Microplastics Under Environmentally Relevant Conditions
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4159402

Studying the Influence of Polyethylene Microplastics’ Intrinsic and Extrinsic Characteristics on their Weathering Behaviour and Heavy Metal Transport in Storm Runoff
https://cloud.excelplas.com/s/OZYPqPzq2dTpG2F

Environmental Hazard of Polypropylene: acute toxicity towards Daphnia magna and current knowledge on other polypropylene microplastics
https://microplastics.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43591-021-00020-0

Dangers of Oxodegradable Plastic Fragments
Nanoplastic Generation from Secondary PE Microplastics: Microorganism-Induced Fragmentation
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Evdokia_Syranidou/publication/357993232_Nanoplastic_Generation_from_Sec
ondary_PE_Microplastics_Microorganism-Induced_Fragmentation/links/61ea85f78d338833e38559cd/Nanoplastic-
Generation-from-Secondary-PE-Microplastics-Microorganism-Induced-Fragmentation.pdf

Equilibrium leaching of Selected Ultraviolet Stabilizers from Plastic Products
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304389421031149

Effects of Organic Based Heat Stabilizer on Properties of Polyvinyl Chloride for Pipe Applications: A Comparative Study with Pb and Ca/Zn Systems
https://mdpi-res.com/d_attachment/polymers/polymers-14-00133/article_deploy/polymers-14-00133-v3.pdf

Rheological Properties and Dynamic Thermal Stability of PVC/La L2/Ca‐Zn Composite Stabilizer for PVC Pipes
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/vnl.21891

First Record of Plastiglomerates, Pyroplastics, and Plasticrusts in South America
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969722022720

Analysis of Mechanical Property Degradation of Outdoor Weather-Exposed Polymers [PDF]
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/14/2/357/pdf

BASF’s IrgaCycle™ Stabilizes Recycled Plastics Used to Protect Pineapples from Sunburn in Malaysia
https://www.basf.com/global/en/media/news-releases/2022/07/p-22-298.html

Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Used as Common Plastic Additives: Levels, Profiles, and Human Dietary Exposure from the Indian Food Basket
https://nmbu.brage.unit.no/nmbu-xmlui/handle/11250/3007773

Controlled Wettability of Polymers via Environmental Crazing
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10118-022-2765-6

BASF: Material Said to Purify Pyrolysis Oils Made from Waste Plastics
https://www.plasteurope.com/news/BASF_t250764/

Chevron Phillips Chemical (CPChem) has Completed the First Commercial Sales of its Marlex Anew circular polyethylene (PE)
https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news/2291321-us-cpchem-completes-first-sale-of-circular-pe

How to Fuel a Sustainable Future for Packaging
https://sustainablebrands.com/read/from-purpose-to-action-building-a-sustainable-future-together/how-to-navigate-the-evolving-world-of-sustainable-packaging

Dow to Start Supplying Circular Polymers to Customers in 2022
https://www.ptonline.com/blog/post/dow-to-start-supplying-circular-polymers-to-customers-in-2022

Nanotubes: a Promising Solution for Advanced Rubber Cables with 60% Less Conductive Filler
https://ocsial.com/news/nanotubes-a-promising-solution-for-advanced-rubber-cables-with-60-less-conductive-filler/

Ageing Evaluation of PE Cotaining Irganox PS 802 Subjected to Radiation Ageing: Application of principal component analyses to Fourier Transform Infra-Red and dielectric spectroscopy
https://ietresearch.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1049/hve2.12239

Consequences of Radiothermal Ageing on the Crystalline Morphology of Additive-Free Silane-Crosslinked Polyethylene
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/14/14/2912/pdf?version=1658135421

Characterization of LDPE: a Thermal, Dynamic Mechanical, and Rheological Investigation
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00397-022-01360-1

Flame Retardant Coatings: Additives, Binders, and Fillers
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/14/14/2911

Moisture and Oxygen Barrier Properties of Glass, PET and HDPE Bottles for Pharmaceutical Products
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1773224722002404

Finite Element Analysis of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Nanocomposites
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-19-0676-3_19

Verification Testing of Recycled Plastics and the Role of Testing by ExcelPlas Labs
Polymer degradation has an immediate impact on the final plastic product and its properties. In the plastic extrusion process, increased temperatures, as a result of the melt processing, in combination with the time that polymers spend in the barrel, can influence the molecular weight of the extrudates.
The mechanical shear from the screw’s rotation, especially in cases of rapid extrusion, can lead to degradation and chain scission in polymer molecules.
Scission of long molecules, as a result of degradation, relates to an increase of melt flow index (MFI) or a decrease in the overall IV level. On the other hand, degradation can also lead to cross-linking of decomposed polymers, which can lead to an increase in IV or a decrease in MFI.
Conducting rheological measurements of a compound before, during and after the melt processing is an effective way to identify if any thermomechanical degradation has taken place throughout the extrusion process
Why is it Important to Avoid Degradation and Keep Polymers in Specification?
Polymer degradation has an immediate impact on the characteristics of the final plastic product.
Changes in molecular weight impact short-term and long-term characteristics such as fatigue resistance, impact resistance and environmental stress cracking resistance.
As recycling standards state that corporations must incorporate a certain percentage of recycled content, it is vital to keep producers’ reprocessed scrap or the purchased recycled material as close as possible to their pure product’s specifications to preserve quality.
Also, the polymer is a “blind item.” Recyclers and manufacturers are not able to determine the polymers’ specifications just by visual inspection alone.
Verification of the rheological properties of polymers is critically important to minimize degradation during the recycling process and to ensure that the polymer does not degrade and negatively impact the quality of the product
https://www.excelplas.com/

MORE NEWS

Want More News on Polymer Additives, Polymer Recycling and Polymers in the Environment?
https://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/

Providing the latest in news, views, and insights, it is a valuable and essential resource for the polymer additive and polymer processing/recycling industries
We deliver market news & information relevant to your business
MNA Plastics Intelligence is an evolving platform to address industry news, market challenges and trends
MNA Copyright 2022
https://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/
 

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * Ampacet * Avient * BBC News * Borealis * Brightmark * ExcelPlas * FDA * Formosa Plastics * Fresh+ 1032 AF * Gabriel-Chemie * HALS * Irgafos™ 168 * Irganox * LyondellBasell * Microplastics * OdorClear™ * Palsgaard * PolyBatch™ * ProVital+™ * Reclay * SABIC * TruCircle™

INDUSTRY NEWS

Borealis Patent Polyethylene Blend of Recycled PE and Virgin PE
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/WO2021122299A1.pdf

FDA Issues Letter to Industry on Fluorinated Polyethylene Food-Contact Containers
https://www.packaginglaw.com/news/fda-issues-letter-industry-fluorinated-polyethylene-food-contact-containers

Twenty Firms Produce 55% of World’s Plastic Waste, Report Reveals

“Plastic pollution is one of the greatest and most critical threats facing our planet,” said Dr Andrew Forrest AO, chairman of the Minderoo Foundation
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/may/18/twenty-firms-produce-55-of-worlds-plastic-waste-report-reveals

$1.15 Billion in Sales Expected for Avient Co. (NYSE:AVNT) This Quarter
https://www.marketbeat.com/instant-alerts/nyse-avnt-consensus-analyst-rating-2021-12-2-3/

Formosa Faces $2.2M in New Fines for Texas Plastic Pollution
https://cloud.excelplas.com/s/QSgqYCiP87iQbXY#pdfviewer

Gabriel-Chemie Launches New Product Masterbatch Range Named MaxiBlue™ and MaxiLoop™
https://www.plastech.biz/en/news/Gabriel-Chemie-launches-new-product-range-named-MaxiBlue-and-17325

Borealis and Reclay Group Establish a Unique Strategic Partnership to Tackle the Challenge of Plastic Packaging Waste and its Recycling
https://www.borealisgroup.com/news/borealis-and-reclay-group-establish-a-unique-strategic-partnership-to-tackle-the-challenge-of-plastic-packaging-waste-and-its-recycling

Global Plastics Testing Laboratory Specializing in Polymer Testing, Product Deformulation and Plastics Recyclability Studies
https://www.excelplas.com/

LyondellBasell’s Polybatch 73641 NIR Black Masterbatch Obtains COTREP Certification
https://interplasinsights.com/plastics-materials/plastics-masterbatch-and-additives-news/lyondellbasell%E2%80%99s-polybatch-73641-nir-black-obtains-cotrep-ce/

Breakthrough in Separating Plastic Waste: Machines can Now Distinguish 12 Different Types of Plastic
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/01/220105174109.htm

How to Enhance your Thin-Wall Packaging PP Formulation with a Sustainable Anti-Static Additive
https://packagingeurope.com/how-to-enhance-your-thin-wall-packaging-polypropylene/

Equilibrium Leaching of Selected Ultraviolet Stabilizers from Plastic Products
https://www.docwirenews.com/abstracts/journal-abstracts/equilibrium-leaching-of-selected-ultraviolet-stabilizers-from-plastic-products/

SABIC Action with Alliance to End Plastic Waste Outlined in 2021 Progress Report
https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/SAUDI-BASIC-INDUSTRIES-CO-6493058/news/Saudi-Basic-Industries-SABIC-action-with-alliance-to-end-plastic-waste-outlined-in-2021-progress-r-37359701/

SABIC and Mars Introduce Wet Pet Food Packaging Featuring Chemically Recycled Plastic
https://www.recyclingtoday.com/article/mars-petcar-sabic-huhtamaki-chemically-recycled-pp-retort-packaging/

SABIC Offering New PBT Compounds Incorporating Glass Fibre Diverted from Industrial Waste Streams
https://www.plasticstoday.com/materials/new-pbt-compounds-incorporate-glass-fiber-diverted-industrial-waste-stream

Brightmark to Build World’s Largest Advanced Plastics Recycling and Renewal Facility in Macon, GA
New state-of-the-art plant will sustainably recycle and convert all types of plastic waste into fully circular products.
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210607005636/en/Brightmark-to-Build-World%E2%80%99s-Largest-Advanced-Plastics-Recycling-and-Renewal-Facility-in-Macon-GA

BC NEWS – The World’s First ‘infinite’ Plastic Process
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20210510-how-to-recycle-any-plastic

NEW PRODUCTS

Ampacet Introduces Odour-absorbing Masterbatches for Post-Consumer Recycled Plastics
http://www.plastemart.com/press-release-plastics-industry/ampacet-introduces-odour-absorbing-masterbatches-for-post-consumer-recycled-plastics/7117

Ampacet introduces Fresh+ Antifog Masterbatch for Fresh Produce Packaging
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S030637472100213X

Ampacet Introduces New Range of Colour Solutions
https://www.medicalplasticsnews.com/news/medical-plastics-company-news/ampacet-introduces-new-range-of-colour-solutions/

SABIC Launches Biobased, Certified Renewable High-Performance Amorphous Polymer
https://www.medicalplasticsnews.com/news/medical-plastics-sustainability-news/sabic-launches-biobased-certified-renewable-high-performance/

NEW RESEARCH

Review and Characterization of Polymers Used in Flexible Multilayer Food Packaging
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214785321081311

Migration of Irganox 1010, Irganox 1076, and Titanium dioxide into Milk and Food Simulants from Laminated Packaging
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40201-021-00782-y

Massive Emissions of a Broad Range of Emerging Hindered Phenol Antioxidants and Sulfur Antioxidants from E-Waste Recycling in Urban Mining: New Insights into an Environmental Source
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.estlett.1c00866

Trace Analysis of Multiple Synthetic Phenolic Antioxidants in Foods by Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry with Complementary use of Electrospray Ionization and Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814621026698

Statistical Study on Additives Used to Improve Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/14/1/179/pdf

Addition of Nano-Silica to HDPE Delays the Loss of HALS from the HDPE Film and Increasing UV Stability
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S014139102100330X

Occurrence of Polyethylene Terephthalate and Polycarbonate Microplastics in Infant and Adult Faeces
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.1c00559

Determining Polymer Compatibility with Harsh Healthcare Disinfectants
https://www.medicalplasticsnews.com/medical-plastics-industry-insights/medical-plastics-materials-insights/determining-polymer-compatibility-with-harsh-healthcare-disi_1/

Migration of Antioxidants from EVA Corks and their Identification Using GC-MS and LC-TOF-MS
Irganox 1010, Irganox 1075, Irgafos 168 and BHT) or lubricants (EBO and octadecanamide, N,N’-1,2-ethanediylbis-) were identified
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814621015983

Quantification of PP Contamination in Recycled PE by TREF Analysis for Improved Quality and Circularity of Plastics
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0142941821002221

Stabilizing the Performance and Quality of Recycled HDPE for HDPE Pipe
https://www.waste360.com/plastics/stabilizing-performance-and-quality-recycled-hdpe

Industrial-Scale Polypropylene-Polyethylene Physical Alloying Toward Recycling
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095809921003246

The Effect of Post-Consumer Recycled Polyethylene (PCRPE) on the Properties of Polyethylene Blends of Different Densities
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141391021001476

Photostabilization of Polyethylene by a HALS in Blooming Conditions and Impact of Processing
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141391021002032

Worker Health Risk of Heavy Metals in Pellets of Recycled Plastic: a Skin Exposure Model
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34283290/

Organic Additive Release from Plastic to Seawater is Lower Under Deep-Sea Conditions
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-24738-w
Photo⁃Oxidation Aging Performance and Life Prediction for High⁃Density Polyethylene Pipe (HDPE)
http://www.plaschina.com.cn/EN/abstract/abstract3439.shtml

Life Cycle Assessment of PVC-a Polymer Alloy Pipes for the Impacts Reduction in the Construction Sector
https://www.cetjournal.it/cet/21/86/121.pdf

Coastal Ecosystem Inventory with Characterization and Identification of Plastic Contamination and Additives from Aquaculture Materials
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0025326X21003209

Low-Temperature Mechanical Properties of High-Density and Low-Density Polyethylene and Their Blends
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/13/11/1821/pdf

MORE NEWS

Want More News on Polymer Additives, Polymer Recycling and Polymers in the Environment?
https://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/

Providing the latest in news, views, and insights, it is a valuable and essential resource for the polymer additive and polymer processing/recycling industries
We deliver market news & information relevant to your business
MNA Plastics Intelligence is an evolving platform to address industry news, market challenges and trends
MNA Copyright 2022
https://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/

 

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA is owned and operated by ExcelPlas Pty Ltd.  By subscribing to MNA you agree to receiving regular MNA newsletters as well as the MNA platform using your email contact details to enhance the performance and functionality of MNA and its analytics reports.  These email contact details allow MNA to track page views and create more targeted and relevant content.  MNA provides an unsubscribe link on the bottom of each MNA newsletter.

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * Ampacet * Avient  * BAM * BASF * Colloids Plastics * ColorMatrix * ExcelPlas * Irgafos™ 168 * Microplastics * PACT Group * SABIC * SCG

INDUSTRY NEWS

Masterbatch Manufacturer Colloids Plastics Expands Chinese Site
https://plasticsinpackaging.com/masterbatch-manufacturer-expands-chinese-site/

ColorMatrix Patents New Barrier Additives for PET
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/11021591.html

Ampacet Announces Russia Plant Expansion, New Additive Production Line
https://plas.tv/?p=25602

Breakdown Product of Irgafos 168 (Tris(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)phosphate) An Unexpected Abundant Toxic Pollutant Found in Fine Urban Dust
A novel pollutant, tris(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)phosphate (I168O), was identified in urban fine particulate matter (PM2.5)
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.est.0c03709

Environmental Disaster Looms As Plastic Pellets from Capsized Ship Land on Sri Lankan Beaches
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57278473

BASF Patent New Stabilizer Compositions for Polyolefins Comprising Benzofuranones and Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/10941286.html

TESTING

Use and Misuse of FTIR Spectroscopy for Studying the Bio-Oxidation of Plastics
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1386142521004170

BAM Scientists Study Effect of Crop Protection Chemicals on Stress Cracking of HDPE Using Full Notch Creep Test
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0032386121004766#!

RECYCLING

Australia’s Largest PET Recycling Plant Ahead of Schedule
https://plasticsinpackaging.com/australias-largest-pet-recycling-plant-ahead-of-schedule/

A New Approach to Plastic Recycling Via the Concept of Microfibrillar Composites
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2542504821000099

Design From Recycling by Using Post-Consumer Polypropylene as a Core Layer in a Co-injection Molded Sandwich Structure Product
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264127521001295!

Processability of Different Polymer Fractions Recovered from Mixed Wastes and Determination of Material Properties for Recycling
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7867004/

Application of Low-Grade Recyclate to Enhance Reactive Toughening of PET
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141391021000252

Identification for Recycling Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Plastic Bottles by Polarization Vision
https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=9319667

Sustainable Additive Manufacturing: Mechanical Response of High-Density Polyethylene over Multiple Recycling Processes
https://www.mdpi.com/2313-4321/6/1/4/pdf

The Impact of Impurities on the Mechanical Properties of Recycled Polyethylene
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/pts.2551

MICROPLASTICS NEWS

Accumulation and Potential for Transport of Microplastics in Stormwater Drains into Marine Environments, Perth region, Western Australia
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0025326X21003969!

Queensland Researchers Study Dispersal and Transport of Microplastics in River Sediments
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749121004668

Understanding Plastic Degradation and Microplastic Formation in the Environment: A Review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749121001329!

Former Evansville Plastics Company Executives Sentenced for Securities Fraud Scheme
https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/pr/former-evansville-plastics-company-executives-sentenced-securities-fraud-scheme

Researchers Surprised to find Microplastics in Florida Keys Lagoons
https://phys.org/news/2021-04-microplastics-florida-keys-lagoons.html

Microplastics Are Affecting Melt Rates Of Snow And Ice
https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2021/04/01/microplastics-melt-snow-ice/

Airborne Plastic Pollution ‘Spiralling Around the Globe’, Study Finds
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/apr/12/airborne-plastic-pollution-spiralling-around-the-globe-study-finds

Multiple Impacts of Microplastics Can Threaten Marine Habitat-Forming Species
https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-021-01961-1

Microplastics Remediation in Aqueous Systems: Strategies and Technologies
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0043135421003420

New Methodologies for the Detection, Identification, and Quantification of Microplastics and their Environmental Degradation By-Products
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11356-021-12466-z

Effects of Environmentally Relevant Levels of Polyethylene Microplastic on Bivalve Molluscs Filtration Rate and Oxidative Stress
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11356-021-12506-8

ADDITIVES NEWS

Termite Attack Shown to Be Cause of Failure and Leakage of Buried HDPE Pipes
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1350630721002272

High‐temperature Stabilization of Polypropylene Using Hindered Phenol–Thioester Stabilizer Combinations, Part 1: Optimization and Efficacy via Nondust Blends
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/vnl.21813

USING CLAY NANOFILLERS AS SLOW RELEASE BODIES FOR PP STABILIZATION
https://www.x-mol.com/paper/1356727377756274688

NEW PATENTS

SCG Patent New Multimodal PE for Film Applications
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/10941223.pdf

BASF Patent New Stabilizer Compositions for Polyolefins Comprising Benzofuranones and Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/10941286.html

3D PRINTING

3D Printed PP Pipes and Fittings – BASF Industrialize 3D Printing with Polypropylene
https://www.shapeways.com/blog/archives/41432-basf-to-industrialize-3d-printing-with-polypropylene.html

MORE NEWS

Want More News on Polymer Additives, Polymer Recycling and Polymers in the Environment?
https://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/

 

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA is owned and operated by ExcelPlas Pty Ltd.  By subscribing to MNA you agree to receiving regular MNA newsletters as well as the MNA platform using your email contact details to enhance the performance and functionality of MNA and its analytics reports.  These email contact details allow MNA to track page views and create more targeted and relevant content.  MNA provides an unsubscribe link on the bottom of each MNA newsletter.

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * Addmaster * AF Color * Avient  * European Union * ExcelPlas  * Mitsubishi Chemical * Plum Environmental * SABIC * Sukano * Symphony Environmental

INDUSTRY NEWS

Plum Environmental Addresses Plastics Pollution with Circular Economy Thermal Upcycling (Seeking Industry Partners and Expressions of Interest)
https://cloud.excelplas.com/s/V7EadzefZj5IFqL#pdfviewer​

Antibacterial Additives Firm Addmaster Sold in USD45 Mill Deal
https://www.makeitstokestaffs.co.uk/news/read/2021/01/antibacterial-firm-addmaster-sold-in-ps33m-deal-b575
https://www.business-live.co.uk/enterprise/addmaster-sold-listed-swedish-firm-19600688

NEW PRODUCTS

Swiss Additive and Masterbatch Producer Sukano Launches a Newly Formulated Transparent Impact Modifier for Recycled or virgin PET Resin
https://plaspakasia.com/news-post/sukano-masterbatches/
https://www.sustainableplastics.com/news/sukano-expands-rpet-portfolio-new-impact-modifier

Interview with Michael Kirch Head of R&D on SUKANO® Antiviral MB
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqE7dt50-ow&feature=youtu.be

AF-COLOR – Masterbatches for High Temperature Polymers
https://www.medicalplasticsnews.com/news/af-color-%E2%80%93-masterbatches-for-high-temperature-polymers/

Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials Commercializes the World’s Strongest Injection Mouldable Polymer Compounds
https://plaspakasia.com/news-post/mitsubishi-chemical/

ANTIOXIDANTS & STABILIZERS

Active Antioxidant Additives in Sustainable Food Packaging
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/9783527820078.ch13

Preparation of a New Polymeric Antioxidant for Polypropylene Based on Phenylmalonic Acid
https://iranjournals.nlai.ir/handle/123456789/41720

SABIC Patents a New Stabilized Polyethylene
https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/db/91/89/26d97823c6cb22/US20200172708A1.pdf

NEW ADVANCES

Recent Advances in Polymer-Metallic Composites for Food Packaging Applications
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924224421000157

Migration of Polymer Additives and Radiolysis Products from Irradiated PET/PE Films into a Food Simulant
The concentration of phosphite antioxidant (Irgafos 168) was associated with increase in the concentration of its oxidized product (Irgafos 168-ox) that was induced by irradiation
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0956713521000244

Nanocomposites for Food Packaging Applications:  An Overview
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-4991/11/1/10/pdf

Effects of Al2O3 and BaO Nano-additives on Mechanical Characteristics of High-Density Polyethylene
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0254058421000341

Bridging the Gap Between Rubbers and Plastics: a Review on Thermoplastic Polyolefin Elastomers
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00289-020-03522-8

Effect of Interfacial Resistance and Crystallinity on Heat Transfer Mechanism in Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Polyethylene
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264127520309564

MICROPLASTICS

Toxicity and Biomarkers of Micro-Plastic in Aquatic Environment: a Review
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/1354750X.2020.1863470

Understanding Plastic Degradation and Microplastic Formation in the Environment: A Review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749121001329

Bioassays to Assess the Ecotoxicological Impact of Polyethylene Microplastics and Two Organic Pollutants, Simazine and Ibuprofen
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0045653521001739

Marine Microplastics as Vectors of Major Ocean Pollutants and its Hazards to the Marine Ecosystem and Humans
https://progearthplanetsci.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40645-020-00405-4

UPCOMING WEBINARS

Webinar: Formulating Thermoplastics With Non-Halogen Flame Retardants: An Introduction (17^th February 2021)
https://www.4spe.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageID=6424

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT……..

Plastic Additives Company Sues the European Union for Damages of Tens of Millions of Euros
https://www.plasticstoday.com/legislation-regulations/symphony-environmental-sues-eu-over-single-use-plastics-directive
https://www.symphonyenvironmental.com/resource/symphony-sues-the-eu/
https://www.packagingnews.co.uk/news/environment/biodegradable-compostable/symphony-environmental-threatens-eu-legal-action-damage-business-22-12-2020

Recycling of Plastics from Rivers and Oceans into the Circular Economy – Plum Environmental
https://vimeo.com/493169241

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA is owned and operated by ExcelPlas Pty Ltd.  By subscribing to MNA you agree to receiving regular MNA newsletters as well as the MNA platform using your email contact details to enhance the performance and functionality of MNA and its analytics reports.  These email contact details allow MNA to track page views and create more targeted and relevant content.  MNA provides an unsubscribe link on the bottom of each MNA newsletter.

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * Akro * Athlos™ * Avient  * Cabot * Clarient * European Union * ExcelPlas * Flame Retardants * Plum Environmental * Symphony Environmental 

INDUSTRY NEWS

Plastic Additives Company Sues the European Union for Damages of Tens of Millions of Euros
https://www.plasticstoday.com/legislation-regulations/symphony-environmental-sues-eu-over-single-use-plastics-directive
https://www.symphonyenvironmental.com/resource/symphony-sues-the-eu/
https://www.packagingnews.co.uk/news/environment/biodegradable-compostable/symphony-environmental-threatens-eu-legal-action-damage-business-22-12-2020

Newsweek Names Cabot Corporation One of America’s Most Responsible Companies
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201210005566/en/Newsweek-Names-Cabot-Corporation-One-of-America%E2%80%99s-Most-Responsible-Companies

Recycling of Plastics from Rivers and Oceans into the Circular Economy – Plum Environmental
https://vimeo.com/493169241

US Avient Glad It Did Not Cancel Clariant Deal Amid Pandemic – CEO
https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2020/11/03/10570663/us-avient-glad-it-did-not-cancel-clariant-deal-amid-pandemic-ceo

Avient Provides Fourth Quarter 2020 Updates
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/avient-provides-fourth-quarter-2020-updates-301191970.html

NEW PRODUCTS

New Technology Anti Rodent Masterbatch for Repelling Rodents to Avoid Cable Damage
https://cloud.excelplas.com/s/tT8ncaTdjVWVwfS#pdfviewer​

Cabot Launches Athlos™ Advanced Carbons Based on Carbon Nanostructures and Graphene for Next-Generation Applications
https://www.cabotcorp.com/solutions/products-plus/advanced-carbons

Masterbatches with Additives for Marking and Welding with Lasers
German compounder Akro Plastics has introduced two colour masterbatches that are combined with additives for optimised laser-marking
https://www.plasteurope.com/news/AKRO-PLASTIC_t246575/

UV STABILIZERS

Comparison of UV Resistance of HDPE with Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers with Different Molecular Structures
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/pat.5177

FILLERS

Synthetic Amorphous Nanotalc Imparts Super Ductility to HDPE/EVA Blends
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10965-020-02389-7

Additive Interactions Between Stabilizers and Fillers/Pigments in Polymers
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/vnl.21810

NUCLEATING AGENTS

Modulus Enhancement of Polypropylene by Sorbitol Nucleating Agent in Flow Field
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/pcr2.10170

ENVIRONMENT

Polypropylene Manufacturers Set Up Global Coalition for PP Pipes Recycling and PP Products Recycling
https://recyclingpartnership.org/polypropylene-coalition/

PET Nanoplastics Interactions with Water Contaminants and Their Impact on Human Cells
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749120369517

Unprecedented Plastic-Made Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Debris in River Outlets During COVID-19 Pandemic
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S004565352033558X

SAFETY

Safety Alert – Injection Moulding  Accident
https://www.liveleak.com/view?t=kepkY_1607988258

UPCOMING WEBINARS

Webinar: Formulating Thermoplastics With Non-Halogen Flame Retardants: An Introduction (17^th February 2021)
https://www.4spe.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageID=6424

NEW BOOKS

Free eBook on ‘Additives for Polyolefins’ (PDF Download for MNA Readers)
http://oil.vcdcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Additives-for-PolyolefinsGetting-the-Most-out-of-Polypropylene-Polyethylene-and-TPO-2015.pdf

MNA Offering Masterbatch and Additives Market Intelligence Reports Using Augmented Analytics (NEW)
Report rich with competitor and customer data on your specific products and/or services
https://www.excelplas.com/contact-us/

ADDITIVE ANALYSIS

ExcelPlas is an Independent Polymer & Additives Testing Lab that Provides Highly-customized Analytical Solutions to its Clients
The lab provides chemical analysis, physical tests, and research and development assistance, among other services.
“We have a large client base in the geosynthetic, pressure pipes, plastics and rubber, transportation, and consumer products industries,”  “The types of projects we work on can be categorized as failure analysis, material characterization, quality control, and competitor product analysis. 
https://www.excelplas.com/

POLYMER TESTING

Rapid and Accurate Determination of  Antioxidant and UV Stabilisers in Polymers (Full Plastics Additive Screen by ExcelPlas Labs)
https://www.excelplas.com/

Accelerated Weathering of Polymers and Determining The Resistance of Polymers to UV
https://www.uvtesting.com.au/

Polymer Testing Laboratory for All Your Plastic and Masterbatch Testing Needs
As a manufacturer or processor of plastic products you can only comply with high quality standards if you accurately know the material characteristics and material properties.  The experienced materials experts in our laboratories examine your plastics specimens and samples using state-of-the-art testing technology and many years of expertise. Whether regarding solids, powder or liquids, we provide you with solid results quickly and reliably. You thus receive recognized proof of the desired material properties and chemical composition of your materials.
EXCELPLAS offers the following polymer testing services:

• Identification of plastics by FTIR
• Determination of the glass transition temperature by DSC
• Determination of the melting temperature by DSC
• Detection of solvents by GC-MS
• Identification of pigments and fillers by XRD
• Determination of type and level of stabilizers by LC-MS
• Testing the hardening properties of thermosets by DSC
• Determination of crystallinity by DSC
• Determination of antioxidant and stabiliser levels by OIT
• Examination of fracture surfaces using the scanning electron microscope (SEM)
• Tensile tests 
• Pressure tests 
• Bending tests
• Charpy impact strength and notched impact strength
• Shore A and shore D hardness testing

https://www.excelplas.com/

More Masterbatch News
http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA is owned and operated by ExcelPlas Pty Ltd.  By subscribing to MNA you agree to receiving regular MNA newsletters as well as the MNA platform using your email contact details to enhance the performance and functionality of MNA and its analytics reports.  These email contact details allow MNA to track page views and create more targeted and relevant content.  MNA provides an unsubscribe link on the bottom of each MNA newsletter.

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * AGC Chemicals * Ampacet * Avient * Braskem * Chevron Phillips * Circular Economy * Dow * ExcelPlas * Irganox 1076® * Marlex * Microplastics * PCR * Titanium Dioxide

INDUSTRY NEWS

Chevron Phillips Chemical Successfully Completes first U.S. Commercial Scale Production of Circular Polyethylene from Recycled Plastics
https://www.bloomberg.com/press-releases/2020-10-08/chevron-phillips-chemical-successfully-completes-first-u-s-commercial-scale-production-of-circular-polyethylene-from-recycled

Ampacet Offers Halogen-Free Flame Retardant Masterbatches
https://www.ampacet.com/ampacet-offers-halogen-free-flame-retardant-masterbatches/

Running PCR? Optimize Performance & Processability with Stabilizers
https://www.ptonline.com/blog/post/running-pcr-optimize-performance-processability-with-stabilizers

Additive Concentrates for Laser Marking Wire Jackets and Cable Insulation
https://www.ptonline.com/products/additive-concentrates-for-laser-marking-wire-jackets-and-cable-insulation

Test Your Polymer Compounds and Masterbatches for UV Stability to Avoid Costly Failures
https://www.excelplas.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Excelplas-A4-Brochure-2pp-Accelerated-UV-NTs.pdf

NEW PATENTS

Dow Patents New HDPE Composition Based on UHMWPE with In-Built Processing Aid for Pipe and Geomembrane Applications
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/10858505.pdf

ANTIOXIDANTS

Physico-Chemical Analysis of a Silane-Grafted PE Stabilised with an Excess of Irganox 1076®
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141391020303827

New Method for Detecting Irganox Antioxidants in Thin Polymer Films
https://avs.scitation.org/doi/abs/10.1116/6.0000614?journalCode=bip

ETHANOX™ 330 Antioxidant for Wires & Cables
https://www.chempoint.com/en-mx/insights/si-group-ethanox-330-antioxidant-for-wires-cables

MEDICAL PLASTICS

Why Common Plastics Are Failing in Hospital Settings
https://www.mindflowdesign.com/insights/chemical-resistance-of-plastics-in-hospitals/

Test Your Medical Plastics for Compatibility with Cleaning Agents to Avoid Costly Failures
https://www.excelplas.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Excelplas-A4-Brochure-2pp-Medical-Plastics-NTs.pdf

ENVIRONMENT

Surprise Findings on Microplastics:  PP Significantly Worse than HDPE
The effects of HDPE and PP microplastics on the soil and on earthworm  gut microbiota
HDPE microplastics did not disturb the soil and earthworm gut microbiota however PP microplastics exposure significantly reduced bacterial diversity and altered bacterial community structure in the soil.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0045653520334160

Evaluation of Microplastics Accumulation in Two Commercial Fish Species
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S235248552030709X

Review of Toxicity and Carcinogenicity of Titanium Dioxide White Pigment
https://oehha.ca.gov/media/downloads/crnr/dartprioritization100120.pdf

Chevron Phillips soon to Offer Marlex Resins for the Circular Economy – Anew® Circular Polyethylene
https://injectionmouldingworld.com/first-u-s-commercial-scale-of-circular-polyethylene-produced-from-mixed-waste-plastics/
https://resource-recycling.com/plastics/2020/10/21/plastics-producers-tout-pyrolysis-achievements/

Braskem Announce Intent to Develop Circular Feedstock Agreement for Production of Recycled Polypropylene
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/braskem-america-and-encina-announce-intent-to-develop-circular-feedstock-agreement-for-production-of-recycled-polypropylene-301186706.html
UPCOMING WEBINARS

Changes in the Structure of US Polyolefins Markets December Talk (15th December 2020)
https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ehgahgh960dfb40e&oseq=&c=8e6df7c0-1f01-11e8-ab60-d4ae529a7ac4&ch=8edb3880-1f01-11e8-ab8a-d4ae529a7ac4

REPORTING & MARKET TOOLS

MNA Analysis Tools Now At Your Disposal
MNA constantly surveys the Masterbatch and Polymer Additive landscape to bring you the latest developments and products as well as associated technologies.

• Market Snapshot (view infographics of buyers and competitors)
• Product Snapshot (view infographics of buyers and competitors)
• Curated List of Sales Leads and Prospects

https://www.excelplas.com/contact-us/

SEE AN ITEM OF INTEREST IN MNA – REQUEST A MARKET REPORT ON THAT POST
You can request a Market Intelligence Report for any of the Items Listed Above
https://www.excelplas.com/contact-us/

Want More Global Polymer Masterbatch News?  … CLICK HERE:
https://www.masterbatchnews.com.au

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA is owned and operated by ExcelPlas Pty Ltd.  By subscribing to MNA you agree to receiving regular MNA newsletters as well as the MNA platform using your email contact details to enhance the performance and functionality of MNA and its analytics reports.  These email contact details allow MNA to track page views and create more targeted and relevant content.  MNA provides an unsubscribe link on the bottom of each MNA newsletter.

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * Avient  * Baerlocher * Borealis * Cabot * ExcelPlas * Lehmann & Voss Co. * Milliken * Mobil Exxon * Polyvel * RPET * Sukano * TOSAF

INDUSTRY NEWS

Avient Opens High-Tech Polymer Recycling Institute in Italy to Advance Circular Economy Goals
https://www.avient.com/avient-opens-cycleworks-innovation-center-advance-circular-economy-and-recycling-goals

Milliken Performance Modifier Additives Make Standard Polypropylene Resins Perform Like Premium Grades
https://www.ptonline.com/articles/game-changing-polypropylene-additives-improve-impact-resistance-and-processing-costs-

BOREALIS Patents Polymer Composition and Cable with Advantageous Electrical Properties
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/10822478.pdf

Lehmann & Voss Co. Starts New Business Line in Plastic Additives
New business line Plastic Additives with focus on additives and fillers for compounding and masterbatch industry
We are strengthening our position with the implementation of a new business line within our international organization. Since June 1st 2020 the new business team Plastic Additives is putting a focus on additives and fillers for the compounding and masterbatch industry. The product portfolio will include in-house manufactured materials as well as a set of well selected products from our distribution partners.
https://www.lehvoss.de/en/news-events/news/details/article/new-business-line-plastic-additives/

NEW MASTERBATCH PRODUCTS

New Masterbatches Demonstrate Long-Term Antiviral Effect
https://injectionmouldingworld.com/masterbatches-demonstrate-long-term-antiviral-effect/

New UV Additive Masterbatch for PET Fibres
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10965-020-02324-w

Inorganic Fluorescent Marker Materials for Identification of Post-consumer Plastic Packaging
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921344920302949

Cabot Launches New PLASBLAK® XP6801D Black Masterbatch Formulation for Styrenics
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201116005719/en/Cabot-Launches-New-PLASBLAK%C2%AE-XP6801D-Black-Masterbatch-Formulation

Polyvel’s Additive Masterbatches to Improve the Hand Feel Polypropylene Nonwovens
https://injectionmouldingworld.com/subject-polyvels/

Cabot Launches Elastomer Solution Masterbatch
https://www.rubbernews.com/blogs/new-products-cabot-launches-elastomer-solution-master-batch

Baerlocher Strengthens Plastic Recycling Foothold with New Additives
https://www.eppm.com/materials/baerlocher-strengthens-recycling-foothold-at-prse-virtual/

Avient Launches Artisan High-Gloss, Pre-coloured Thermoplastics for Paint Replacement
https://www.eppm.com/materials/avient-launches-artisan-high-gloss-pre-coloured-thermoplasti/

Tosaf Optimises Carrier Material for Low-emission POM Masterbatches
https://www.eppm.com/materials/tosaf-optimises-carrier-material-for-low-emission-pom-master/

Turning Liquids Into Solids for the Plastics Industry
The ACCUREL® XP range as a carrier technology offers solutions for liquid additives, which are otherwise difficult to handle.
https://www.plastic-additives.com/product/plastic-additives/en/products/compounder/porous-polymer-carriers/

Mobil Exxon Patents Solid Resin Plasticizers for Thermoplastic Vulcanizates
https://patents.google.com/patent/US20200339788A1/en

Reducing Weight for Interior Plastics the Sustainable Way
A prototype for the interior door trim of the Nissan Qashqai uses the 49% recycled plastic content polypropylene material Hycolene, made by Luxus, saving 10 to 12% of weight-per-part compared to the existing compound used in the production of the Qashqai.
https://www.autobeatonline.com/articles/reducing-weight-for-interior-plastics-the-sustainable-way

New Fire-Retardant Additive Formulated for Thermoplastics
https://www.plasticstoday.com/additivescolorants/new-fire-retardant-additive-formulated-thermoplastics

NEW RESEARCH

Hindered Phenolic Antioxidants as Heat-Oxygen Stabilizers for HDPE
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0967391120971167

Enhancing the High Voltage XLPE Cable Insulation Characteristics Using Functionalized TiO2 Nanoparticles
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo?journalid=316&doi=10.11648/j.ajpst.20200603.11

NEW BOOKS

Free eBook on ‘Additives for Polyolefins’ (PDF Download for MNA Readers)
http://oil.vcdcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Additives-for-PolyolefinsGetting-the-Most-out-of-Polypropylene-Polyethylene-and-TPO-2015.pdf

MNA Offering Masterbatch and Additives Market Intelligence Reports Using Augmented Analytics (NEW)
Report rich with competitor and customer data on your specific products and/or services
https://www.excelplas.com/contact-us/

ADDITIVE ANALYSIS

ExcelPlas is an Independent Polymer & Additives Testing Lab that Provides Highly-customized Analytical Solutions to its Clients
The lab provides chemical analysis, physical tests, and research and development assistance, among other services.
“We have a large client base in the geosynthetic, pressure pipes, plastics and rubber, transportation, and consumer products industries,”  “The types of projects we work on can be categorized as failure analysis, material characterization, quality control, and competitor product analysis. 
https://www.excelplas.com/

POLYMER TESTING

Rapid and Accurate Determination of  Antioxidant and UV Stabilisers in Polymers (Full Plastics Additive Screen by ExcelPlas Labs)
https://www.excelplas.com/

Accelerated Weathering of Polymers and Determining The Resistance of Polymers to UV
https://www.uvtesting.com.au/

Polymer Testing Laboratory for All Your Plastic and Masterbatch Testing Needs
As a manufacturer or processor of plastic products you can only comply with high quality standards if you accurately know the material characteristics and material properties.  The experienced materials experts in our laboratories examine your plastics specimens and samples using state-of-the-art testing technology and many years of expertise. Whether regarding solids, powder or liquids, we provide you with solid results quickly and reliably. You thus receive recognized proof of the desired material properties and chemical composition of your materials.
EXCELPLAS offers the following polymer testing services:

• Identification of plastics by FTIR
• Determination of the glass transition temperature by DSC
• Determination of the melting temperature by DSC
• Detection of solvents by GC-MS
• Identification of pigments and fillers by XRD
• Determination of type and level of stabilizers by LC-MS
• Testing the hardening properties of thermosets by DSC
• Determination of crystallinity by DSC
• Determination of antioxidant and stabiliser levels by OIT
• Examination of fracture surfaces using the scanning electron microscope (SEM)
• Tensile tests 
• Pressure tests 
• Bending tests
• Charpy impact strength and notched impact strength
• Shore A and shore D hardness testing

https://www.excelplas.com/

More Masterbatch News
http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * AMETEK * Avient * BIRLA * Borealis * Cabot * DataLase * ExcelPlas * Graphene * MAYZO * Polyvel * RPET

INDUSTRY NEWS

Cabot Corporation Provides Update on Fourth Quarter 2020 Business Results and Reschedules Announcement of Fourth Quarter Operating Results
https://www.galvnews.com/news_ap/business/article_e2b5676d-940f-55c3-9346-cba078cb6c7d.html

Mayzo Inc, A Leading Supplier, And Manufacturer Of Specialty Additives Announces Acquisition of Bio Accutech Inc.
https://www.polymerupdate.com/news/press-release-details.aspx?id=19540

Polyvel Releases New Additive Masterbatches for Use in Polypropylene Nonwovens
https://injectionmouldingworld.com/subject-polyvels/

Metal Additive Masterbatches for Growing Engineered Plastics Market
https://www.designworldonline.com/metal-additives-for-growing-engineered-plastics-market/

NEW RESEARCH

Understanding Dispersion of Copper Phthalocyanine Alpha Blue Pigment in Polyethylene Masterbatch with the Use of Wax
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/cote.12506

Degradation of Flame Retardance: A Comparison of EVA and LDPE Cables With Two Different Metal Hydroxides
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/app.50149

NEW ADDITIVES

Properties of Graphene-Related Materials Controlling the Thermal Conductivity of Their Polymer Nanocomposites
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-4991/10/11/2167

Thermally Exfoliated Graphene Oxide Reinforced Polycaprolactone-based Bactericidal Nanocomposites for Food Packaging Applications
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10667857.2020.1842150?journalCode=ymte20

Influence of Carbon Nanofiber Reinforcement on Mechanical Properties of Polymer Composites
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214785320374320

Novel LDPE/Vermiculite/Antifungal Hybrid Nanocomposites for Films
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/app.50232

Flame Retardancy of Polyethylene Composites: From Fundamental Concepts to Nanocomposites
https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/25/21/5157/pdf

Micromechanical Performance of HDPE-Alumina Nanocomposites
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0142941820321656

Vermiculite-Polyethylene Hybrid Packaging Films for Keep-Freshness of Bananas with Enhanced Oxygen and Water–Vapor Permeability
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43207-020-00091-4

Impact Study of New Formulations Based on Plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/2041247920968498

PET ADDITIVES

A Review – Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) in the Packaging Industry
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0142941820310333

Additives to Upgrade Scrap PET into High-Quality Engineering Polymer Compounds [PDF]
http://cloud.excelplas.com/s/6BXuwlIKV6aQueN#pdfviewer​

NEW PATENTS

BOREALIS AG Patents Polymer Composition and Cable with Advantageous Electrical Properties
https://www.freepatentsonline.com/10822478.pdf

Talc Improves Pipe Performance in Geothermal Heat Pump Systems
https://techxplore.com/news/2020-11-talc-pipe-geothermal.html

RUBBER ADDITIVES

Vulcanizate Structures of SBR Compounds with Silica and Carbon Black Binary Filler Systems at Different Curing Temperatures
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/12/10/2343/pdf

The Impedance Characterisation of Carbon Black Epoxy Composites
https://aip.scitation.org/doi/abs/10.1063/5.0027243?journalCode=apc

Elastomers and Polymers – Can the Demand for Improved Sustainability be Satisfied?
https://www.iom3.org/events-awards/ems-event-calendar/elastomers-and-polymers-can-the-demand-for-improved-sustainability-be-satisfied.html

Sustainability in the Carbon Black Industry by Dr. Gilles Moninot, Birla Carbon 
https://www.iom3.org/events-awards/ems-event-calendar/elastomers-and-polymers-can-the-demand-for-improved-sustainability-be-satisfied.html

TESTING

Concentrating Accelerated Weathering Test Applied in Weatherability Evaluation and Service Life Prediction of Polymeric Materials: A Review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0142941820321693

Application of Short-Term Methods to Estimate the Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance of Recycled HDPE PE100 SABIC VESTOLEN
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10965-020-02332-w

Effect of Film Fabricating Conditions and its Implications on Mechanical Properties of HDPE Film
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1757-899X/902/1/012030/pdf

Effect of Polyethylene and Polypropylene Cross-Contamination on Slow Crack Growth Resistance of HDPE Pipe
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/1023666X.2020.1833143?journalCode=gpac20

ExcelPlas is an Independent Polymer & Additives Testing Lab that Provides Highly-customized Analytical Solutions to its Clients
The lab provides chemical analysis, physical tests, and research and development assistance, among other services.
“We have a large client base in the geosynthetic, pressure pipes, plastics and rubber, transportation, and consumer products industries,”  “The types of projects we work on can be categorized as failure analysis, material characterization, quality control, and competitor product analysis.
https://www.excelplas.com/

BOOKS

Free eBook on ‘Additives for Polyolefins’ (PDF Download for MNA Readers)
http://oil.vcdcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Additives-for-PolyolefinsGetting-the-Most-out-of-Polypropylene-Polyethylene-and-TPO-2015.pdf

Free eBook on ‘How to Prevent Stress Cracking in Polymeric Medical Equipment Housings’ [PDF]
http://go.polyone.com/l/32552/2015-01-21/3d98t/32552/86206/How-to-Prevent-Cracking-in-Medical-Equipment-Housings.pdf

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * Arkema * Avient * BASF * Borealis * Brüggemann * DataLase * ExcelPlas * Irganox * LIFOCOLOR * Penn Colour * RPET * SABIC * Vanderbilt Chemicals

INDUSTRY NEWS

BASF to Expand its IRGANOX 1520L Production Capacity at the Ponicecio Marconi, Italy Site
https://topic.echemi.com/a/basf-will-expand-its-1520l-production-capacity-at-the-irganox-ponicecio-marconi-italy-106371.html

Vanderbilt Chemicals, LLC to distribute Solvay’s Tecnoflon® line of Fluroelastomers in North America
https://www.vanderbiltchemicals.com/news/vanderbilt-chemicals-solvays-tecnoflon-line

Arkema Finalizes Functional Polyolefins Sale, Strengthens Speciality Materials Focus
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7535626/

LIFOCOLOR Investment at headquarters Plant / French Unit to Double Capacity
https://www.plasteurope.com/news/LIFOCOLOR_t246180/

Penn Colour Launch White Masterbatch with 0% Titanium Dioxide
This innovative masterbatch technology (Pennaholt™) for PET bottles, is the first ever 0% TiO2 masterbatch achieving levels of opacity and whiteness that would typically require around 8% TiO2 with a conventional technology
https://packagingeurope.com/finalist-interviews-penn-color/
https://www.penncolor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/pennaholt_in_PETplanet_Insider-202006.pdf

Penn Color Introduces UV Enhancer for PVC Compounds and Extruded Profiles
https://plasticsbusinessmag.com/enews/2020/penn-color-introduces-uv-enhancer-for-pvc-compounds-and-extruded-profiles/

Penn Color Announces Key Appointments
https://uvebtech.com/enews/2020/penn-color-announces-key-appointments/

Webinar on Recycled PET
https://packagingeurope.com/bottle-to-bottle-tray-to-tray-closed-loop/

Sabic Posts Profit as Demand Revives
https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/saudi-chemicals-maker-sabic-returns-063943115.html

Sabic Release Anti-Fog Polycarbonate
https://sfs.sabic.eu/wp-content/uploads/resource_pdf/1590656839-57277533-LEXAN-HP92AF-FILM-DATASHEET-2020.pdf

SABIC and Schwarz Group Embark on Plastics Recycling Project
https://www.plastech.biz/en/news/SABIC-and-Schwarz-Group-embark-on-pilot-project-15873

Brüggemann Announces New Production System for Prodyucing Microgranules of Antioxidants and Plastic Additives
https://www.european-coatings.com/Markets-companies/Raw-materials-market/Brueggemann-New-production-system-for-reducing-agents

NEW RESEARCH

Thermal and Photooxidative Behaviour of Novel Hydroxybenzophenone Stabilizers in PP and HDPE Films
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/014139109290025Z

Recycling the Low-Density Polyethylene Pellets in Pervious Concrete Production
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10163-020-01127-x

FREE DOWNLOADS

Chapter on Fillers and Filled Plastics [PDF]
http://cloud.excelplas.com/s/kQ3iC3gIenUZdjh#pdfviewer​

Additives in Polymers Chapter [PDF]
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Pierfrancesco_Cerruti/publication/309055045-Additives-in-Polymers/links-5a900c4e0f7e9ba4296a6f66/Additives-in-Polymers.pdf

BOOKS & REPORTS

Book on Additives for Polyolefins (Free PDF Download for MNA Readers)
http://oil.vcdcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Additives-for-PolyolefinsGetting-the-Most-out-of-Polypropylene-Polyethylene-and-TPO-2015.pdf

MNA Offering Masterbatch and Additives Market Intelligence Reports Using Augmented Analytics (NEW)
Report rich with competitor and customer data on your specific products and/or services 
https://www.excelplas.com/contact-us/

RECYCLE

Life Cycle Comparative Assessment of PET Bottle Waste Management Options
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0956053X20304839

Webinar on Recycled PET
https://packagingeurope.com/bottle-to-bottle-tray-to-tray-closed-loop/

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/

MNA – The Latest Updates, News and Alerts on Polymer Masterbatches and Polymer Additives
Stay in Touch with the Polymer Additives Industry While Social Distancing 

NEWSMAKERS:  * Ampacet * Avient * BASF * Borealis * Brüggemann * DataLase * ExcelPlas * Formosa Plastics * Milliken * PureCycle * RPET * SABIC * Solvay * Tosaf

INDUSTRY NEWS

Avient Announces Tenth Consecutive Annual Increase in Quarterly Dividend
https://www.bloomberg.com/press-releases/2020-10-14/avient-announces-tenth-consecutive-annual-increase-in-quarterly-dividend

Brüggemann: New Polymer Additives Production Plant Commissioned
https://www.gupta-verlag.com/news/industry/24592/brueggemann-new-polymer-additives-production-plant-commissioned

PureCycle Technologies Partners with Milliken to Accelerate Revolutionary Plastics Recycling
https://injectionmouldingworld.com/purecycle-technologies-partners-with-milliken-nestle-to-accelerate-revolutionary-plastics-recycling/

Formosa Plastics USA Ramps up HDPE Production: Sources
https://www.spglobal.com/platts/en/market-insights/latest-news/petrochemicals/100220-formosa-plastics-usa-ramps-up-hdpe-production-sources

Borealis PEX-a Pipe Resin Achieves Highest Available Chlorine Resistance Rating
Borealis HE1878E-C2 for crosslinked pipes in plumbing applications has now achieved Class 5 listing corresponding to the highest chlorine resistance rating in accordance with ASTM F876.  Its state-of-the-art stabilisation package also opens it up for use in certain industrial applications.
https://www.borealisgroup.com/news/borealis-he1878e-c2

BASF Reports Huge Q3 Net Loss on Impairments / Margin Pressure Expected to Continue
https://www.plasteurope.com/news/BASF_t246176/

DataLase Launches Functional Masterbatch Additive for Plastics Integration
https://www.medicalplasticsnews.com/news/datalase-launches-functional-masterbatch-additive-for-plasti/

Start-up with Plastic Waste Recycling Solution Wins Top Prize
https://www.miragenews.com/start-up-with-plastic-waste-recycling-solution-wins-top-prize/

BOOKS & REPORTS

Book on Additives for Polyolefins (Free PDF Download for MNA Readers)
http://oil.vcdcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Additives-for-PolyolefinsGetting-the-Most-out-of-Polypropylene-Polyethylene-and-TPO-2015.pdf

MNA Offering Masterbatch and Additives Market Intelligence Reports Using Augmented Analytics (NEW)
Report rich with competitor and customer data on your specific products and/or services 💼
https://www.excelplas.com/contact-us/

LEGAL

Formosa Plastics Sues Chubb Insurance for Coverage of $50 Mill Water-pollution Settlement (Breaking News)
https://www.reuters.com/article/chubb-formosa-lawsuit-idUSL1N2H501W

Opponents of Formosa Plastics’ Plan to Build one of the World’s Largest Plastic Plants in Louisiana have Filed a Motion Seeking a Judgment
https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2020/10/02/opponents-formosa-plastics-louisiana-plant-move-overturn-federal-approval

NEW PRODUCTS

HI Tech Group Invents Plant Based Virus Reducing Keep-U-Safe Plastic Masterbatch, Films, Coatings and Additives Which can Reduce >99% of viruses  Within 1 Minute
http://cloud.excelplas.com/s/9fJa7XFZM3q7SE0#pdfviewer​

Ampacet Introduces PEARL 368, an Organic Cavitating Masterbatch for Premium White-Opaque BOPP Film
https://www.ampacet.com/ampacet-introduces-pearl-368-cavitating-masterbatch-for-premium-quality-white-opaque-bopp-film/

POLYMER STABILIZERS

Revealing Chinese Research Progress on Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers
https://longchangchemical.com/domestic-research-progress-of-light-stabilizers/

An Irgafos® 168 story: When the Ubiquity of an Additive Prevents Studying its Leaching from Plastics
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720351809

Study on Extractables and Leachables from Pharmaceutical Products: Case Studies on Irgafos® 168, and Irganox® 1010
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0273230020302282

Improvement of Melt Stability and Degradation Efficiency of Poly (Lactic Acid) by using Phosphite
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/app.49951

ANTIMICROBIAL MASTERBATCHES

Masterbatch Additives to Fight COVID-19
https://plasticsinpackaging.com/close-contact/

IIT Delhi-incubated Startup Launches Antimicrobial Water Storage Containers ‘AqCure’
https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-delhi-incubated-startup-launches-antimicrobial-water-storage-containers-aqcure/

Nanosafe Solutions Launch Anti-fungal Water Storage Containers Using Nano-Copper Masterbatch
AqCure polymer masterbatch (polymers compounded with active nano-copper) granules based on different carrier polymers are also available, which can be used in polymer moulding and extrusion operations to make the final products antimicrobial. 
https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2020/oct/10/nanosafe-solutions-launch-anti-fungal-water-storage-container-2208380.html

JOBS

BASF Seeking Technical Sales Manager in Plastic Additives
https://basf.jobs/red_AP/job/Guangzhou-Manager%2CSales-510000/625198801/?feedId=111101

NEW PUBLICATIONS

Lifetime Prediction Methods for Degradable Polymeric Materials—A Short Review [PDF]
https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1944/13/20/4507/pdf

Analysis and Fate of the Hindered Amine Light Stabilizer Tinuvin 622 in Polyester Powder Coatings using HPLC-TOF-MS
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0142941820311314

Enhancing the Performance of Rubber with Nano ZnO as Activators
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsami.0c15114

Studies on Natural Rubber Nanocomposites by Incorporating Zinc Oxide Modified Graphene Oxide
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42464-020-00059-3

ENVIRONMETAL

Effect of Different Microplastics on Nematodes in the Soil Environment
https://www.x-mol.com/paper/1316558994473717760

Review on the Biological Degradation of Polymers in Various Environments
https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1944/13/20/4586/pdf

RECYCLED PET

World’s First Carbon-Neutral rPET Resin Unveiled
https://www.plasticstoday.com/sustainability/worlds-first-carbon-neutral-rpet-resin-unveiled

Major Innovation Brings a New Level of Sustainability to PET Bottle Recycling
https://business-reporter.co.uk/2020/10/14/major-innovation-brings-a-new-level-of-sustainability-to-pet-bottle-recycling/

Krones Webinar “Sustainability Trend and rPET Implementation with Krones” (22 October, 2022)
https://thailand.ahk.de/en/members/member-news/news-details/krones-webinar-sustainability-trend-and-rpet-implementation-with-krones

Remarkable Role of Experimental Olefin-Maleic-Anhydride Copolymer Based Compatibilizing Additives in Blends of Waste PET Bottles and Polyamide
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12649-020-01253-5

3D PRINTING

Accurate and Rapid 3D printing of Microfluidic Devices using Wavelength Selection on a DLP Printer
A recently developed absorber with a spectrum extending well above 400 nm (Tinuvin CarboProtect®) was tested with channel sizes down to 400 μm
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2020/lc/d0lc00767f/unauth#!divAbstract

POLYMER TESTING

Rapid and Accurate Determination of  Antioxidant and UV Stabilisers in Polymers (Full Additive Screen by ExcelPlas Labs)
https://www.excelplas.com/

Accelerated Weathering of Polymers and Determining The Resistance of Polymers to UV
https://www.uvtesting.com.au/

Polymer Testing Laboratory for All Your Plastic and Masterbatch Testing Needs
As a manufacturer or processor of plastic products you can only comply with high quality standards if you accurately know the material characteristics and material properties.  The experienced materials experts in our laboratories examine your plastics specimens and samples using state-of-the-art testing technology and many years of expertise. Whether regarding solids, powder or liquids, we provide you with solid results quickly and reliably. You thus receive recognized proof of the desired material properties and chemical composition of your materials.
EXCELPLAS offers the following polymer testing services:

• Identification of plastics by FTIR
• Determination of the glass transition temperature by DSC
• Determination of the melting temperature by DSC
• Detection of solvents by GC-MS
• Identification of pigments and fillers by XRD
• Determination of type and level of stabilizers by LC-MS
• Testing the hardening properties of thermosets by DSC
• Determination of crystallinity by DSC
• Determination of antioxidant and stabiliser levels by OIT
• Examination of fracture surfaces using the scanning electron microscope (SEM)
• Tensile tests 
• Pressure tests 
• Bending tests
• Charpy impact strength and notched impact strength
• Shore A and shore D hardness testing

https://www.excelplas.com/

More Masterbatch News
http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/

This Newsletter is brought to you by Excelplas Labs, Australia’s Largest group of Polymer Testing Labs.
http://www.excelplas.com/

Masterbatch News Australia (MNA) is now Australia’s most current and comprehensive source of news on Plastics Additives, Polymer Compounding and Masterbatches;

MNA is now sent to over 3500 Plastics Industry Members every month.


Any news requests should be sent to [email protected]
To subscribe, visit http://www.masterbatchnews.com.au/subscribe/