Researchers from the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) have developed novel techniques, known as automated fiber embedding (AFE), to produce complex fiber and silicone composite structures for soft robotics applications.
Read MoreTotal Cray Valley is expanding its hydroxyl-terminated diene resin portfolio with the industrial introduction of sustainably sourced farnesene-based resins, Krasol F3000 and Krasol F3100. The Krasol product line is known in the market as a source of well-defined hydroxyl-terminated liquid poly(butadiene) diol and monol grades. These materials are used in a variety of end-use applications as components in urethane, epoxy and UV-cured adhesive and sealant formulations for the automotive and electronic markets. The diene backbone incorporates hydrophobic quality and chemical resistance, as well as elastomeric softness and low-temperature performance.
Read MoreSmithers announces the addition of an Instron 5985 universal testing system to its materials physical testing laboratory in Akron, OH.
The machine offers expanded testing capabilities and parameters for tensile, compression, bend, peel, shear, tear and cyclic tests. Its high-force load frame has a load capacity up to 250 kN and vertical test space of 1,430 millimeters (56.3 inches).
Wacker Group has started to build a liquid resins unit at its Nünchritz site. This unit will supply key upstream products for formulating silicone based building protection agents and binders for exterior paints and industrial coatings. At the moment, only Wacker’s Burghausen site produces these substances. Scheduled to go on stream at the end of 2022, the new unit will close important material loops and so further increase the cost-effectiveness of Wacker’s integrated production system. Capital spending amounts to some €30 million.
Read MoreInjection molding is an important sector of the manufacturing industry in Ireland. With the demand for plastics components, particularly in the medical sector, set to grow in the future, companies are giving significant thought to their ability to access a sufficiently well-trained workforce moving forward.
Read MorePatents listed in the May issue of Rubber World Magazine
Read MoreChlorinated polyethylene (CPE) polymers were developed by DuPont in the late 1950s by a simple chlorination of polyethylene (PE) in a solution process using a solvent. In 1971, Dow Chemical Company introduced Tyrin CPE using a more efficient and cost-effective aqueous suspension chlorination known as the slurry process. The polyethylene feedstock is in a powder form and the final CPE product remains in powder form. The chlorination process can be modified to produce amorphous (non-crystalline) products or products that contain residual crystallinity
Read MoreRecent developments in stimuli-responsive or “smart” materials offer the opportunity for major advances in material design that could impact markets for latexes. One of the lesser known, but simpler technologies includes polymers and latexes whose properties can be dramatically, and reversibly, switched simply by adding or removing CO2. The processes used offer advantages in sustainability without requiring expensive materials or catalysts, and are based on currently used materials and production methods. This article will give a general overview of three examples relevant to latexes and coatings
Read MoreDow announced the general availability of its first low density LSR for injection molding as part of its Silastic line, and the LSR is initially available to brand owners and formulators in Europe and North America. The material’s properties make it a favorable option, particularly for food dosing valves, closures, dispensers, seals, gaskets and other food contact applications
Read MoreAn extrusion die is a purpose built tool designed by cutting shapes in plates to reflect an intended extruded rubber product. In advance of an extrusion project, a process engineer designs the die according to specifications of the project and those of the customer, and installs it on an extruder. Often, an extrusion die is made from hard metal, like steel, polished and with sharp edges. Once all plates of the mold or die are created, rubber is forced through them under high pressure in a high temperature zone
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