Shapeways Reinforces Relationship With Am Solutions And Joins Beta Partner Programme For The C2 Liquid Color Smoothing Technology

AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology is delighted to announce that it has today signed an agreement at Formnext 2023 with leading digital manufacturing and 3D printing expert Shapeways Inc, which will join its Beta Partner Programme for the company’s C2 Liquid Color Smoothing technology. This represents a further strengthening of the relationship with Shapeways which invested in AM Solutions S1 and S2 technologies earlier this year after taking part in the Beta Programme for the S2 post processing solution.

Jules Witte, Plant Manager at Shapeways’ Eindhoven-based facility says, “Our interest in the C2 from AM Solutions is because it provides AM part post processing results that are increasingly demanded by both our B2B and B2C customers. As a company, we are known for our commitment to quality and reliability, placing customer requirements at the core of our operations, and continuously pursuing top-notch solutions to meet their demands.”

The C2 from AM Solutions takes the chemical smoothing of 3D printed parts to a new level. With its innovative 2-in-1 Liquid Color Smoothing process, it is capable of smoothing and dyeing parts in a single pass. The result is a streamlining of the process chain with both functions being performed by only one machine. It also reduces the total capital investment required and lowers the cost per finished part. Compared to other solutions, the immersion smoothing technology used reduces the processing time and the specially developed process media operates in a more eco-friendly way.

Tobias Schamberger, Head of Sales at AM Solutions – 3D post processing technology says, “We are proud to be working so closely with a company like Shapeways which is such a prominent player in the AM space. As two companies, we share similar objectives when it comes to AM, and that is for us developing, and for Shapeways investing in and using, technologies in the AM process chain that produce the highest quality end use parts in the most cost-effective way possible. Working with us on the C2 Beta Partner Programme endorses that Shapeways and AM Solutions both recognize the pivotal value of this technology for the AM sector.”

Witte continues, “We see the C2 as a solution that could produce quality parts, speedily, as well as reducing the overall cost per part due to its combined 2-in-1 Liquid Color Smoothing process in a more sustainable way.  The test parts coming out of the machine were excellent so we expect to add a significant value for our customers by using the C2 in the future.  Finally we are delighted to reinforce our relationship with AM Solutions.”

https://www.solutions-for-am.com/

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Asahi Kasei Exhibits At Ispo Munich 2023 

Asahi Kasei will exhibit its solutions for a more  sustainable material life cycle in the sportswear industry at ISPO Munich 2023, the leading  international sports trade fair, from November 28 to November 30 in Munich, Germany. Dis plays include a novel manufacturing technology for synthetic fibers and textiles from bio mass feedstock, the ECOSENSOR fabric collection by Asahi Kasei Advance, ROICA premium stretch fiber, and RespiGard, a PFAS and solvent-free waterproof membrane. 

A sustainable material life cycle starts with the production of raw materials. For the first time at ISPO,  Asahi Kasei will showcase its novel process technology to produce biobased basic chemicals from  bioethanol. This breakthrough technology makes it possible to manufacture most synthetic fibers and  plastics from biomass feedstock, including those that had been considered difficult to manufacture  from raw materials other than petroleum. This technology enables reduced CO2 emissions and  petroleum usage. 

Grades from the ROICA Eco-Smart family will also be displayed in a designated area of the booth.  ROICA EF is a recycled stretch fiber which features 58% pre-consumer recycled content, and is  certified to OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 in the product class 1 category. ROICA V550 is a  degradable yarn which decomposes into CO2 and water, and has obtained a C2C (cradle-to-cradle)  Certified Material Health Certificate.  

RespiGard is a unique lightweight membrane designed for apparel with the optimal combination of  waterproofness and breathability. The membrane is produced using a solvent-free manufacturing  process with a low carbon footprint. The polypropylene material is recyclable and PFAS-free*. Outdoor  sportswear and coats utilizing RespiGard have won numerous awards, including the 2021  Performance Days Performance Award and the 2019 and 2020 Outdoor Retailer’s Innovation Awards. 

To contribute to closing the material life cycle in the sportswear and apparel industry, Asahi Kasei and  partner company Microwave Chemical are currently developing a new chemical recycling process for  polyamide 66. The process utilizes microwaves to depolymerize polyamide 66 and directly obtain the  monomers, which can then be used to manufacture new polyamide 66 for apparel. Asahi Kasei will  describe this process at a presentation on November 29 from 11:30–12:00 at Munich Trade Fair  Center, Hall B1, Pink Stage. 

Be sure to visit Asahi Kasei’s ISPO exhibit in Hall B1, Future Lab Brand New Area: Booth 104.

https://www.asahi-kasei.com/

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ALTANA Successfully Places ESG Promissory Note Loan for 180 Million Euros

The specialty chemicals group ALTANA has secured a promissory note loan totaling 180 million euros. The transaction, which was placed with around 70 German and international investors, was oversubscribed several times. In response to the robust demand during the borrowing process, the initial volume of 100 million euros was increased to 180 million euros. The promissory note loan is divided into tranches with maturities spanning three, five, and seven years.

The tranches encompass both variable and fixed interest rates. Thanks to the substantial interest in this transaction, it was possible to set the interest rate at the lower end of the marketing range, resulting in an average fixed interest rate of 4.40 percent per annum. The placement was conducted through Deutsche Bank and Landbank Baden-Württemberg.We are delighted with the great response,” stated Stefan Genten, Chief Financial Officer of ALTANA AG. “This not only reaffirms our resilient business model, especially in economically challenging times, but also acknowledges our dedication to climate protection, energy efficiency, and occupational safety.”

As a sustainability-linked loan (“ESG-linked loan”), the amount of the interest rate is also contingent upon the attainment of certain sustainability targets of the ALTANA Group and thus on the company’s performance with regard to environmental, social, and corporate control processes (ESG for short).

“The promissory note loan fits excellently into our existing financing structure,” said Claudia Uhlich, Head of Group Treasury at ALTANA AG. “We have further diversified our financing sources and were able to tailor the individual tranches exactly to our specific requirements.”

The recently placed promissory note loan supports ALTANA’s overall corporate financing and serves as the foundation for the company’s further, sustainable growth. In 2021, ALTANA had already established a credit line with a sustainability component in collaboration with a consortium of house banks as well as a loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB) designated for green research projects. By doing so, ALTANA completely renewed the Group’s long-term financing.
www.altana.com

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Covestro Assists China’s Xinquan Automotive In Going Global

• Global strategic cooperation agreement signed at China International Import Expo.
• Partnership paves the way for innovative solutions that directly enhance the automotive industry in North America, Europe, and ASEAN.
• Advancing the expansion of low-carbon, lightweight, and low-odor polyurethane solutions for interiors, alongside applications in New Energy Vehicles.

German materials manufacturer Covestro has forged a global partnership with Chinese automotive trim company Xinquan Automotive at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai. This alliance seeks to strengthen the China business and enhance international collaboration, supporting Xinquan’s expansion into North America, Europe, and ASEAN countries. The Chinese company is dedicated to innovation, aiming to establish itself as a global player in the automotive industry. Partnering with Covestro provides Xinquan access to Covestro’s wealth of expertise and extensive global network. This partnership is focused on pioneering technologies and sustainable solutions that align with the dynamic requirements of the global automotive market.

Joining forces for global automotive advancement

Covestro excels in offering a diverse array of solutions for the automotive industry. Polyurethane, invented by Otto Bayer at Covestro’s predecessor company Bayer, is the vital material for automotive interiors. Polyurethane-based automotive interior applications, such as instrument panels, door panels, and center armrests, offer a soft, tactile feel, enhancing the comfort of both drivers and passengers. Polyurethane materials are known for their lightweight properties, minimal odor, and low levels of volatile organic compounds. These attributes create a comfortable and environmentally compatible interior environment, answering key demands of the automotive industry.

Having cultivated a successful cooperation with Xinquan for ten years, Covestro possesses a deep understanding of the evolving requirements of Chinese enterprises striving to expand their global presence. Xinquan’s global expansion strategy involves localizing research, production, and sales, in the respective regions. Its plant in Mexico has already started production last year, and there are plans for a North American technical center along with new facilities in Europe and ASEAN.

Covestro is well-equipped to effectively support Xinquan’s global aspirations. With its focus on innovation and research, Covestro has established ten innovation hubs across America, Asia and Europe. Furthermore, Covestro operates production facilities in Mexico and the U.S., where they have delivered polyurethanes to Xinquan’s new plant in Mexico. The partnership exemplifies the effectiveness of globalization in driving innovation and highlights Covestro’s commitment to globalization and expanding its presence in key markets.

“Covestro thrives on dynamic global partnerships, fueling innovation and tailoring solutions for the automotive industry. Together, we power our customers’ global expansion and zero-carbon journey. At Covestro, customer centricity isn’t just a phrase – it’s our energizing force, creating unmatched value through vibrant collaborations,” said Christine Bryant, Head of the Tailored Urethanes Business Entity at Covestro.

 Low-carbon polyurethane solutions for auto interiors and new energy vehicles

Expanding their technical collaboration, Covestro and Xinquan will harness Covestro’s global R&D capabilities to develop low-carbon polyurethane solutions for vehicle interiors by using partially bio-based raw materials. Besides, the cooperation extends to the development of polyurethane applications for electric vehicle battery packs. This partnership is intended to assist the automotive industry in attaining its carbon reduction objectives and embracing circular economic practices.

“During Xinquan’s global expansion, we have worked with Covestro closely to share resources and complementary advantages. By improving production efficiency and quality, reducing costs and risks, Xinquan has strengthened its core competitiveness,” said Zhihua Tang, Chairman of Xinquan. “With this new global partnership, we will jointly promote technological innovation and low-carbon applications of polyurethane materials to advance the sustainable development in the automobile industry.”

For a closer look at Covestro’s solutions for a fully circular future at the CIIE, visit us at booth 3B6-05, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) from November 5 to 10, 2023.

www.covestro.com.

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Say Cheese! Mondi And Skånemejerier Partner To Introduce Mono-Material Plastic Packaging

• Mondi and Skånemejerier collaborate to create new mono-material packaging for cheese.
• The new packaging is designed for recycling and replaces the previous solution not designed for recycling.
• Packs protect the food while keeping materials in circulation.

Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, has collaborated with Skånemejerier to create a mono-material, polypropylene (PP) based packaging for, among others, ICA’s Hushållsost cheese.

The new packaging comprises a mono-material base web and lidding film, all of which is produced and printed by Mondi before being converted for 1kg and 2kg blocks of cheese by Skånemejerier. It will be sold in leading Swedish supermarket ICA and now comes in packaging that is designed for recycling.

Mondi’s mono-material solution provides high barriers against oxygen and water vapours, keeping the product fresh on the supermarket shelf. It offers high puncture resistance protecting the cheese, and great printability so that the brand and recycling messages can be communicated well on-pack.

This innovative packaging is being launched in the same time period as Site Zero, the world’s largest sorting facility for used plastic packaging, will open its doors in Sweden. This state-the-of-art facility, slated to go live in November 2023, will process used plastic waste from both Sweden and Finland. Thanks to the packaging’s mono-material design, the facility will be able to effectively sort this solution for recycling, contributing to a circular economy.

Helene Brynell, Regional Sales Nordic Consumer Flexibles at Mondi says: “30% of the world’s food is lost or wasted – that equates to 1.3 billion tonnes – so fit-for-purpose packaging design has a crucial role to play. Fresh products like cheese need to be packaged properly – and protection must go hand in hand with sustainable packaging. Our new mono-material solution is fulfilling exactly that: it keeps the cheese fresh while also keeping the packaging materials in circulation through design for recycling.”

Ingemar Jönsson, Packaging Manager, Skånemejerier, adds: “Our collaboration with Mondi has been a thorough process: we started our first test and trials in 2019 and are delighted to be bringing this fully recyclable packaging to market before the end of 2023. The great working relationship we had, meant that we were able to adapt materials and machinery efficiently, resulting in a successful, fit for purpose solution. We have strong, effective and good-looking packaging that keeps materials in the loop and responds to consumer demands for more sustainable solutions.”

Rickard Jansson, Development Engineer at Swedish Plastic Recycling states; “We are very positive about the new packaging that Mondi has developed together with Skånemejerier for ICA. By using mono-material film instead of laminate consisting of different types of plastic, we can sort out and recycle the packaging that is left in the system, thus avoiding incineration. With Site Zero’s new technology, this PP film-based packaging will be able to become new products, which has not been possible in any facility in Sweden before. It provides circular plastic flows that reduce the need for fossil raw materials and combustion”.

The mono-material cheese packaging on ICA’s shelves won this year’s PackNorth Award in the ‘Food’ category and was also recognised at the Empack fair in October in Stockholm, Sweden.

www.mondigroup.com

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Plastfocus 2024 Launches As The Epicenter For Innovations And Business Synergies In The Plastics Industry – Featuring 300+ Cutting-Edge Machines

2^nd Edition of 5-day Plastfocus, India’s Premier exhibition in the plastics industry began on February 1, 2024 at Yashobhoomi (IICC), Dwarka. The Expo is hosting over 1200 stalls with participation from 18 countries. Over 300 cutting-edge machines are the star attraction at the event.

PlastFocus 2024, the much-anticipated second edition of India’s premier international exhibition in the plastics industry, kicked off yesterday at Yashoboomi (IICC), Dwarka, New Delhi. Organised by Triune Exhibitors Pvt. Ltd. and powered by the Plastic Machinery Manufacturers Association of India (PMMAI), the 5-day PlastFocus 2024 is supported by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers and the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Govt. of India.

The event was inaugurated by Mr. Sandeep Engineer, Chairman & Managing Director of Astral Limited, in the presence of industry  leaders including Mr. Mahendera Patel, Chairman Emeritus, PMMAI, Mr Tushar Parikh, Chairman, PMMAI & Mr Bill Shukla, Vice Chairman, PMMAI. Other dignitaries present at the occasion were Mr. Sunil Jain, Hon Treasurer, PMMAI, Mr. Chandrakanth Patel, Joint MD, Mamta Machinery, Ms. Khushboo Doshi, MD, Rajoo Engineers Ltd., Mr Vinay Bansod, Executive Director & CEO, Windsor Machines and Mr. Rajkumar Lohia, MD, Lohia Machines . Dr. Falco Paepenmuller, CEO, Windmoeller & Holscher was the Special Guest at the occasion.

Mr. Sandeep Engineer expressed his enthusiasm regarding the Plastic industry stating that, “Next 10 Years are going to be the best years of the Indian Industry. India is going to grow at an enormous pace in various businesses. Today we have to import certain machines from developed countries- let’s bring this technology to India. When the buyers are here why can’t the manufacturers be here? Machine manufacturers must invest in more plants to provide machinery for the country.  With every edition of PlastFocus, the Expo and the industry will keep growing and new technologies from Indian manufacturers will be show cased“

This edition of PlastFocus covers an expansive area of 1,00,000 sq meters, hosting 1200 stalls and attracting more than 50 international exhibitors from around 18 countries in addition to the participants from every corner of India. Over 300 cutting-edge machines are the star attraction at the event.

Mr. Cyril Pereira, Managing Director of Triune Exhibitors Pvt. Ltd. highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “In the realm of innovation, the plastics industry stands as a testament to human ingenuity. Transforming possibilities into tangible solutions, plastics have become the building blocks of progress, shaping a future where sustainability, creativity and efficiency converge. PlastFocus 2024 is not just an exhibition; it’s a convergence of ideas, technologies, and businesses that drive the plastics industry forward. ”

Mr. Tushar Parikh, Chairman of PMMAI, shared his insights, “Within the vibrant tapestry of India’s plastics industry, each thread is woven with innovation and resilience. As we explore  PlastFocus 2024,  we witness a harmonious dance between technology and sustainability, shaping a future where India’s ingenuity propels us towards a greener and more sustainable tomorrow.”

The plastics industry plays a pivotal role in the economy contributing significantly to GDP and providing employment opportunities. PlastFocus 2024 is a comprehensive showcase of innovations, spanning raw materials to cutting-edge technology, fostering collaborations that shape the industry’s future. Attendees can explore the plastic production lifecycle, emphasizing environmental sustainability and circular economy principles. The Recycling Pavilion underscores the industry’s commitment to responsible plastic usage.

As the event unfolds over the next few days around 2 lakh industry professionals, exhibitors, and visitors alike can expect a dynamic and engaging experience that will shape the trajectory of the plastics industry towards a more sustainable and innovative future.

About PlastFocus:  

PlastFocus is India’s flagship event in the field of plastics, raw materials, processing machinery and finished goods. This premier event of the plastics industry showcases the latest in technology, sustainability, and market trends. Plastfocus 2024 is the second edition of this Expo; the first edition known as Indiaplast  was held in 2019. With a legacy of fostering industry connections, PlastFocus is the go-to platform for processors seeking cutting-edge solutions.

For more information, visit https://www.plastfocus.org/ 

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Motion Control From Alio Industries Optimises Accuracy Of Digital Pathology Instruments

ALIO Industries (a Part of Allient) recognises that in the world of medicine and diagnostics, the immediate relevance of digital pathology is indisputable today. As healthcare systems worldwide face increasing demands and challenges, the need for more accurate and efficient diagnostic tools has never been more pressing.

Digital pathology, which involves the digitisation of tissue samples and the application of advanced imaging and analytical techniques, offers a transformative solution. This technology allows pathologists to remotely examine and analyse specimens with unprecedented precision, speeding up diagnosis and facilitating collaboration among experts across the globe. However, to harness the full potential of digital pathology, ultra-precise motion control systems are imperative, and companies like ALIO Industries are at the forefront of providing these critical components.

Bill Hennessey, President of ALIO Industries says, “Digital pathology applications demand ultra-precise motion control systems for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, the microscopic examination of tissue samples requires movements that are accurate down to the sub-micron level. The slightest deviation in motion can compromise image quality and diagnostic accuracy, making ultra-precision an absolute necessity. ALIO’s motion control systems excel in delivering sub-micron precision and repeatability, ensuring that imaging devices can precisely position and capture microscopic details. Furthermore, in the field of digital pathology, environmental factors like vibration and electromagnetic interference can be detrimental to image quality. Motion systems must, therefore, be designed to minimize these disturbances, guaranteeing the clarity and reliability of the images produced.”

The characteristics of successful motion control systems in digital pathology applications go beyond precision. They must be seamlessly integrated into the compact space and workflows pre-determined by the complex imaging system of the instrument. Moreover, durability is paramount, as these systems need to withstand continuous use in demanding laboratory environments. ALIO Industries not only provide ultra-precise motion control but also prioritise these additional features, ensuring their systems enhance the overall efficiency and reliability of digital pathology solutions.

Partnering with a motion control supplier like ALIO Industries is crucial for companies providing instruments for the digital pathology market. The expertise of specialised motion control suppliers can significantly expedite product development cycles while ensuring the highest level of precision and reliability. By collaborating with suppliers that have a proven track record in delivering accurate and repeatable motion systems, digital pathology OEMs can focus their resources on developing cutting-edge imaging and analysis technologies, confident that the critical motion control aspect is in capable hands. This collaborative approach is pivotal in driving innovation and advancing the field of digital pathology, ultimately benefiting patients, clinicians, and researchers by providing faster, more accurate, and reliable diagnostic tools for today’s healthcare challenges.

Hennessey concludes, “In digital pathology applications, achieving precise motion control often entails the utilization of advanced motorized platforms, which are equipped with either linear encoders or piezoelectric actuators. Linear encoders play a pivotal role by providing real-time feedback on position, ensuring the exact movement of specimens and slides. Meanwhile, piezoelectric actuators excel in offering exceptionally fine control, particularly when it comes to focusing and scanning tasks. Additionally, air-bearing stages find widespread use to minimize both friction and vibrations, which are critical factors for maintaining high-quality imaging standards. To further streamline the automation process, motion control solutions in the realm of digital pathology may incorporate robotic arms or loaders for the delicate handling of samples. ALIO’s robotic systems are meticulously engineered to handle specimens and slides with care, minimizing the potential risks of damage or contamination. Furthermore, these comprehensive solutions often seamlessly integrate with imaging devices and software, enabling efficient coordination and facilitating rapid scanning and image acquisition.”

As a proud member of the Digital Pathology Association, ALIO will be present during this year’s Pathology Visions in Orlando, FL from October 29^th to October 31^st. The company welcomes all attendees to come and discuss any digital pathology applications.

www.alioindustries.com