Page 59 - Plastics News Issue November - 2024

PRODUCT NEWS

Additional Leading Players Danone. Each company is committed to advanc-
ing PEF as a potential sustainable bioplastic to
In addition to Avantium, other leading players in replace several fossil-based polymers.
the Polyethylene Furanoate market include Sulz-
er, ALPLA Group, Origin Materials, Toyobo, and Source – Plastics Engineering

Improved PVC Durability for

Microplastic Prevention

As plasticizers leach from the material, the PVC
deteriorates, losing its flexibility and functional
properties. Even more concerning is that this
process releases harmful organic compounds
and microplastics into the environment. These
microplastics, which can persist in ecosystems
for long periods, pose serious health risks to hu-
mans and wildlife. Leaching shortens the lifespan
of PVC products and contributes to widespread
plastic pollution.

A New Solution: Covalent Bonding
esearchers have developed a break-
through technique to improve the dura-
Rbility of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), one of
the most widely used plastics.

Plasticizer Leaching and Microplastics

PVC is commonly used in products ranging from
plumbing and flooring to medical packaging.
However, its pure form is brittle and thermally
unstable, making it unsuitable for many applica-
tions. Manufacturers typically add plasticizers—
compounds that enhance flexibility, stability,
and durability to improve these properties. The
problem, however, is that these plasticizers are
not covalently bonded to the PVC polymer and
can gradually leach out over time.

November 2024 PLASTICS NEWS 59