Blog

Composite materials innovator Aluula, which uses a patented no-glue fusion process, has found a way to reuse its products to form panels 10 times stronger than those molded from virgin material. In a preliminary trial with the University of British Columbia (UBC), end-of-life and off-cut Aluula composites were compressed into new, uniquely light and durable panels — without altering the original fibers made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Aluula,…

[embedded content] Approximately one year ago, RJay Matkin walked the PTXPO show as an attendee, taking in the exhibits, including Sodick Plustech’s. There a machine ran Matrix Tool’s entry into the first ever Hot Shots injection molded part contest — a showcase part that would would earn Matrix both the competition’s awards — Technical Sophistication and Achievement in Molding Efficiency/Economics. In March 2023, Matkin, director of molding operations at Ultradent…

The Cool Parts Showcase is accepting submissions of cool, innovative and functional 3D printed parts now through May 30. Manufacturers, inventors, students, and anyone with an interest in 3D printing is invited to enter for the chance to win a spot on The Cool Parts Show.  Enter Your Cool 3D Printed Part Submit photos and a description of your 3D printed part by May 30 for the chance to display it at Formnext Forum…

A new “stealth” polymer intended to deliver drugs more efficiently and safely also might have potential to break down plastic waste. The new material — Polythio Glycidyl glycerol (PTGG) — was developed at England’s University of Portsmouth School of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences prompted by the buildup of polyethylene glycol (PEG) antibodies in people who have received COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. PEG, which is nontoxic and highly soluble, is the most…

Photo Credit: University of Sydney Ongoing research into a variety of technologies for biodegradation of hard to recycle plastics is among the various avenues being taken by the industry and academia in their efforts to address plastic waste and the circular economy. Recently, two common strains of fungi were used to successfully biodegrade polypropylene in a laboratory experiment led by researchers at Australia’s University of Sydney, School of Chemical & Biomolecular…