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Showing posts with the label Polymers and Resins

Recycled Plastics: A Viable Option for Sustainable Development

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Recycled Plastics Plastic Production on the Rise Plastic production has increased exponentially over the past few decades to meet the growing demand of packaging and consumer goods industries. According to industry reports, worldwide plastic production reached over 360 million tons in 2018 and is expected to double by 2035. However, largescale manufacturing of plastics from fossil fuels like oil and gas has serious environmental consequences. Plastic waste has become a global problem as most plastics end up in landfills or oceans polluting the ecosystem. With less than 10% of plastic scrap currently recycled worldwide, there is an urgent need for sustainable waste management practices. Challenges in Plastic Recycling Recycling plastic scrap is challenging due to the complex resin types and contamination issues. Most plastics like PET, HDPE, and PP can be recycled but other types with chemical additives are difficult to process. Mixed plastic waste from households containing residue fo...

Biopolymers: Exploring Sustainable Alternatives to Petroleum-Based Polymers A Greener Future

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Biopolymers Macromolecule, also known as natural polymers, are polymers produced by living organisms. They include cellulose, the most abundant natural polymer found in trees and plants, as well as starch, proteins like collagen and gelatine, and natural rubber. Macromolecule have shown great potential as replacements for petroleum-based plastics. Types of Biopolymers There are four main types of macromolecule: polysaccharides, proteins, polyesters and natural rubber. Let's explore each in more detail: Polysaccharides: Biopolymers These include cellulose, starch and chitin. Cellulose is the most prolific organic polymer and is incredibly strong yet flexible. It is the main component of plant cell walls and used to produce biodegradablecellophane. Starch is a major energy store in plants and raw material for bioplastics. Chitin is another structural polysaccharide found in exoskeletons of arthropods like crustaceans. Proteins: Collagen, silk, gelatin and gluten are some common p...