Plastindia International University (PIU) is India’s first private university dedicated to Polymer Engineering and Sustainability. PIU is based at Vapi and established by Plastindia Foundation. PIU is proud to announce that today it received Letter For Approval (LOA) from All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE),
AICTE approval ensures that the institution adheres to strict standards in terms of infrastructure, faculty qualifications, teaching methodologies, and overall educational excellence. PIU gets this approval from the inception. The University’s School of Engineering will offer B.Tech in Plastics and Polymer Engineering with 60 Seats from current Academic Year 2024-25 at it’s 32 acre State-of-the-Art campus at Vapi, which is a hub of Plastic Processing in India.
The AICTE approval will help to conduct symposiums, seminars and developmental programs in the field of Polymers and Plastics which will benefit the Industry, Researchers, Faculty Members and Students in this field.
Sources at PIU said that AICTE approval right from the inception of the program resonates their commitment to quality education from which student who aspires to study engineering at PIU will be benefitted immensely. PIU will not only provide world-class Plastics & Polymer Engineering academic programs but also focus on strong research & development on Sustainability & Polymer recycling.
Modern Plastics Award 2024 (Indian Second Editon) is the Ultimate and Largest Award in The Indian Plastics Industry recognised veterans and innovators
Modern Plastics India Award 2023 only award in the Indian Plastics Industry organised by Modern Plastics Global Network, it was a hunt for the top brightest entrepreneurs, innovators, and game-changers in the Plastics Sector from 300 plus categories and nearly 850 plus nomination we received as there was no charge for nominations. Celebrating the most definitive gathering of change-makers and innovators, we invited the leaders of the industry to be the part of second India edition of Modern Plastics India Award 2024. Our international juries reviewed and evaluated 850 plus nominations and recognised 80 plus disruptive founders, funders, corporate leaders, change makers and some lifetime achievers and one hall of fame.
Modern Plastics Award (𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧) was a hosted at Taj Lands End, Bandra, Mumbai. 𝐃𝐫. 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐫 𝐑. 𝐀. 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐤𝐚𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐆𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐢𝐬 𝐏𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐛𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐧, 𝐏𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐚 𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐧, 𝐏𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐚 𝐒𝐡𝐫𝐢 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐫. 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐚𝐛𝐮 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝟏𝟐𝟓 𝐏𝐡𝐃 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫.
Modern Plastics Award was presented by Husky, Co Presented by SML and Powered by D. R. Joseph and Co Powered by GIPPeV. which is known as German Indian Plastics and Polymers e.V also there were delegates from 𝐒𝐫𝐢 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐚, 𝐍𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐥, 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐡, 𝐔𝐀𝐄 and 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐊𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐢 𝐭𝐨 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝. Thank you everyone for your support and encouragement! Thank you, Team Modern Plastics Global Network and Modern Business Network! Many Consulate Generals and Ambassadors attend the event and given the trophy to the winners at Taj Lands End, Mumbai on 11th June 2024 and many high profiles people from the industry attend followed by cocktail and dinner. There were cultural and entertainment programs to encourages our culture in largest level. Most of the attendees appreciated the initiative and were happy to be a part of it, posting the photos on social media and waiting for next in 2025.
Modern Plastics India, India’s No.1 plastics monthly with a national reach and presence celebrating its 25th Anniversary and planned to have this grand prize distribution ceremony to honour those who have brought the Indian plastics industry to where it is today. Modern Plastics Award 2025 (Indian Third Editon) will be along with the 25th Anniversary of Modern Plastics India and the global leaders are invited which will happened tentatively in February 2025.
This spectacular event paid tribute to the great figureheads and pioneers, the entrepreneurs and the mavericks, the great manufacturers in various machine categories, the giants in the ancillary industries, the suppliers of raw materials, the top exporters and importers, and even those who interface and liaise as representatives of the world’s no.1 international brands. MPA also recognised the largest processors from Injection and Blow Moulding Extrusion, Packaging, Blown film and much more . . .
These are the ultimate awards of the plastics industry, spread over more than 300 + categories, from a magazine that has been documenting its rise, from bags to riches, and everything else. Modern Plastics India, published by Modern Plastics India which is a part of Modern Plastics Global Network, is the most referred and renowned magazine for the plastics, packaging and rubber industries in India for the past 25 years. In fact, the name Modern Plastics India itself is synonymous with the Indian plastics industry and with global plastics activity, thanks to inputs and coverage provided by our US and German partners. Ginu Joseph, Global Group Editor and CEO of Modern Plastics Global Network is a well-known name in the plastics industry worldwide, which he has been a part of for well over nearly 30 years. He is a member of most plastics associations and is a committee member in many of them. He dedicated his time to travelling overseas, visiting leading manufacturers and also being present at major exhibitions across the globe.
The expertise extends to an advanced team of dedicated staff members who ensured that the Modern Plastics India Awards 2023 was a resounding and thumping success, will change the way the world perceives industrial awards and install new benchmarks when evaluating the individual’s and the company’s contribution to the plastics industry, to environment, and to society!
Do not wait for long, nominate now for next edition, nominations are open for 2024 at www.modernplasticsaward.com
Modern Plastics India Hall of Fame
H.E. Dr. Raghunath Anant Mashelkar (Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, Padmasri)
Life Time Achievers Awards
Mrs. Shakuntala Jain
Life Time Women Achievement Award – Rural
Dr. Sabu Thomas
Life Time Achievement Award
Mr. Marimuthu Poolthevar – Arun Plasto
Life Time Achievement Award
Mr. J. P. Panchal – Panchal Machinery
Life Time Achievement Award
Mr. N Chandrakant – PIMCO
Life Time Achievement Award
Mr. Ram Awatar Saraogi – Chemco Group
Life Time Achievement Award
Winners of Modern Plastics Award 2023-24
Adiva Polymers
Best MSME Recycler of The Year
Agarwal Technoplast Pvt. Ltd.
Innovative Use of Plastics in Personal Care
Alba Polyesters
Best Initiatives in Recycling – Non Bio Degradable
All Around Polymers LLP
Best MSME Women Entrepreneur
Amul
Largest Dairy Brand in India
Aqua Star
Innovative Finished Product 2024
AVG Polymers India Pvt. Ltd.
Fastest Growing MSME Raw Material Trader
Axiom Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd.
Most Innovative Beverages Company
Bajaj Polyblends Pvt. Ltd.
Best MSME Masterbatches Manufacturer
Balaji Polymers
Best Regional PET Producer for Edible Oil
Big Bags International Pvt. Ltd.
Best Flexible Packaging Manufacturer
Bisleri International
Largest Water Brand in India
Blend Colours Pvt. Ltd.
Fastest Growing Masterbatches Manufacturer
Boston Polymers
Innovation in Plastics in Agriculture
CML Biotech Ltd.
Innovative Use of Plastics in Health Care
Cosmo Films Limited
Fastest Growing Enterprise of the Year 2024
Daily Fresh
Best Regional PET Producer for Beverage
Davat Beverages Pvt. Ltd.
Fastest Growing Regional Brand Owner
Die Plast Pvt. Ltd
Best Closure Mold Manufacturer
Dr. Girish Joshi
Best Professor Award (Rural)
Dr. Manoj Gawande
Best Professor Award (Rural)
Dr. Pawan Jain
Best Scientist of the Year 2024 (Advanced Materials)
DS Drinks and Beverages PVT. LTD
Best Regional Brand
ECON Machinery Pvt. Ltd
Biggest Pelletizing Systems Brand in India
Efficient Engineering
Best Cosmetic Product innovations
Eklingjee polymers Pvt. Ltd.
Best Additives Manufactures for Pipe
Environmentalist
Plastics Environmental Champion of India
Garware-Wall Ropes Limited
Innovative Net Manufacturer of the Year
GS Caltex India Pvt. Ltd.
Best Lubricant Supplier
Himalya Ropes LLP
Best SME Entrepreneurship
Hinds Plastic Machines Pvt. Ltd.
Best SME Injection Moulding Machine of the Year
Hinds Plastic Machines Pvt. Ltd.
Best Processing Book of The Year
HPCL Mittal Energy Ltd
Fastest Growing Company
Indian Oil Corporation Limited
Best Product of the Year
JB Group
First in India – Chemical Recycling of PET
JB Plastochem Pvt. Ltd.
Best MSME Trader Rural
Kapsto Closures Pvt. Ltd.
Youngest Entrepreneur Packaging MSME
Kriya Medical Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
Fastest Growing Female Entrepreneur SME Medical & HealthCare
Labotek Plastics Auxiliaries (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Fast Growing Plastics Processing Ancillary Equipment
Best Japanese Injection Moulding All Electric Machine Award
Rollepaal Engineering India Pvt. Ltd.
Largest Size Pipe Making Machine Manufacturer
Saarthi Propack
Best Houseware Manufactures North East
SBM Industries
Best Recycling Machines South India
Shell India Markets Pvt. Ltd.
Best Lubricant Supplier of the Year
Shree Naina Packaging
Best Diversify PET Producer
Simplex Plast
Best Roto Molding Brand
Sivananda Moulds and Dies
Best Automotive Precision Mold Maker
Snackings Pvt. Ltd.
Best Regional PET Producer in Sri Lanka
SSF Plastics India Pvt. Ltd
Largest Plastic Packaging solutions Innovators
Sudarsshan Pollyblends Pvt. Ltd.
Fastest Growing MSME Enterprises
Tirupati Sprinklers Pvt. Ltd.
Largest Drip Irrigations Product Manufacturer
UFLEX Limited
Largest Flexible Packaging Manufacturer of the Year
Uniloy Plastic Machinery Pvt. Ltd.
Largest Size Blow Moulding Technology
Varun Beverages
Best Growing Beverages Company
Vasantha Tool Crafts Pvt. Ltd
Best High Cavitation Mold Exporter
Welspun World
Innovative Home Products of the Year
Wittmann Battenfeld India Pvt. Ltd.
Best Automation Company
Zeit Electo-Mech Pvt. Ltd.
Best Cost-Effective Product of the Year
Don’t miss the opportunities to be the part of India’s largest award ceremony which nominations is absolutely free what are you waiting for just log in to www.modernplasticsaward.com and nominate yourself, your company, your friends, your suppliers, your customers and even any achievers.
Nu-Vu Conair, a leading name in the plastics processing industry, is delighted to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Modern Plastics India (MPI) Award for “Innovative Plastics Processing Ancillary Equipment”. This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering advanced technology and cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of the plastics processing sector.
Innovative Solutions for the Plastics Processing Industry
Nu-Vu Conair has consistently been at the forefront of innovation, developing a wide range of auxiliary equipment designed to enhance operational efficiency and product quality for plastics processors. Our award-winning equipment includes central vacuum conveying systems, drying systems, gravimetric blending systems, chillers and mould temperature control units, crystallizers, belt conveyors, granulators and more for polymer processors. These products incorporate the latest technology to ensure optimal performance and sustainability.
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facility
Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Ahmedabad spans 1,50,000 square feet and is capable of producing up to 10,000 units annually. Equipped with ultra-modern machinery and technology, it allows us to manufacture high-quality equipment that meets international standards. The facility features dedicated assembly areas and SAP integration to ensure seamless production processes and quality control. Our advanced manufacturing capabilities enable us to deliver products that consistently meet the stringent demands of our customers.
Commitment to Sustainability
At Nu-Vu Conair, sustainability is at the core of our innovation strategy. We recognize the environmental impact of plastics processing and are dedicated to developing equipment that supports sustainable practices. Our energy-efficient solutions not only help reduce carbon footprints but also offer significant cost savings to our customers.
For example, our new line of energy-efficient chillers utilizes eco-friendly refrigerants and advanced heat exchange technology. These chillers deliver superior cooling performance while consuming less energy, thus promoting sustainability. Similarly, our granulators are designed to maximize regrind quality and minimize energy use, encouraging recycling and reducing material waste.
Customer-Centric Approach
Understanding and addressing customer needs is paramount at Nu-Vu Conair. We collaborate closely with clients to comprehend their unique challenges and provide tailored solutions. This customer-centric approach ensures that our products are not only innovative but also practical and effective in real-world applications.
Our comprehensive after-sales support and training programs further reinforce our commitment to customer satisfaction. By offering ongoing technical assistance and ensuring that clients are well-versed in the operation and maintenance of their equipment, we help customers achieve maximum productivity and return on investment.
Unmatched Reliability
Nu-Vu Conair’s Uptime Guarantee ensures rapid customer support and part replacement within hours, 24/7, ensuring continuous operation for our clients. This commitment to reliability and customer satisfaction sets us apart in the industry.
A Legacy of Excellence
With about two decades of industry experience, Nu-Vu Conair has built a legacy of excellence and quality. Our team of experienced engineers and technicians is at the forefront of innovation, continuously exploring new technologies and methodologies to enhance our product offerings. This relentless pursuit of excellence has earned us numerous accolades and a reputation as a trusted partner for plastics processors worldwide.
Future Prospects
Receiving the Modern Plastics India Award is a significant milestone for Nu-Vu Conair. This recognition validates the hard work, creativity, and vision of our entire team. It also serves as a catalyst for future innovation and growth.
Looking ahead, we are committed to continuing our journey of technological advancement and sustainability. Our new custom-built greenfield facility on a 75,000 sq. ft. plot of land will be ready soon. It not only showcases our continuous growth but also enhances our ability to provide better customer experiences.
We plan to invest further in research and development to introduce groundbreaking solutions that will shape the future of plastics processing. Additionally, we aim to expand our global footprint by entering new markets and forging strategic partnerships.
For more information about Nu-Vu Conair and our range of innovative auxiliary equipment, please visit www.conairgroup.in or email at marketingindia@conairgroup.com.
The world’s largest event dedicated to plastics recycling, Plastics Recycling Show Europe returns to the RAI Amsterdam from 19-20 June. “PRS Europe is set to be bigger and better event than ever in 2024 with over 450 exhibiting companies and organisations,” said Matt Barber, Global Events Director at Crain Communications. “We have a great mix of long-established and first-time exhibitors, with over 125 exhibiting for the first time this year.”
More than 60 speakers covering all the key issues facing the plastic recycling value chain in Europe and beyond will set the scene in the conference’s two theatres. Emmanuelle Maire, Head of Unit “Circular Economy, Sustainable Production and Consumption”, DG Environment, European Commission, and Tom Hesselink, Partner Transaction Services & Private Equity, Simon Kucher, will join Ton Emans, Plastics Recyclers Europe’s President, to kick off the conference.
Throughout the two days, participants will get the chance to examine in-depth all the latest political, legislative, market and technological developments in plastics recycling. The recently passed Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will be under the spotlight with a dedicated session. Further sessions will explore measures to achieve recycled content targets and look at the latest advancements in chemical recycling. Running in parallel, panel discussions will promote the debate on possible strategies for enhancing and harmonising collection and sorting, design for recycling, and the latest updates on the advancement of plastics circularity on a global scale. Dedicated plastic streams focus sessions will tackle the challenges, issues and opportunities in the recycling of PET, PO films, PVC, HDPE, PP and ELV & WEEE. The winners the Plastics Recycling Awards Europe 2024 will be announced on 20 June, with all finalists being showcased in the exhibition.
“PRS Europe is an unmissable event for the industry in Europe, attracting each actor of the plastics recycling value chain,” said Ton Emans, Plastics Recyclers Europe President. “It is the perfect platform to explore cutting-edge technical innovations, track commercial developments, and stay up to date with the legislative landscape for plastics circularity.”
The mechanical engineering company with production plants in Austria, Germany and China looks back on a highly productive year.
Austrian Starlinger & Co Gesellschaft m.b.H. reports positive results for the fiscal year 2023/2024: The globally active mechanical engineering company has achieved the highest turnover in the company’s history to date at just under 400 million – a doubling of turnover since 2016.
“One of the reasons for our economic success is our diversified machine portfolio,” explained Angelika Huemer, Managing Partner of Starlinger. “On the one hand, we supply woven sack production machinery to the woven plastic packaging market, on the other hand, we manufacture recycling systems for a wide range of plastics. As an export- oriented company, we deliver to countries all over the world and can compensate the recession in one region with the economic upturn in another.” In the past fiscal year, Starlinger achieved an export ratio of 99.43 %. For its export activities, the company has been awarded the Austrian Export Prize twice already.
Sustainable plastic packaging – from production to recycling
Starlinger has made a name for itself on the global market as a manufacturer of systems for the production of woven plastic bags since the early 1970s. After delivering the first recycling systems for production waste from woven polypropylene sack manufacture in 1987, the division Starlinger recycling technology was founded in 2002, followed by the division Starlinger viscotec in 2005. Both divisions focus on the recycling and refinement of plastic waste and constitute important pillars of the company. “Our aim is to create closed loops for as many plastic products as possible and thus avoid downcycling,” said Harald Neumüller, CSO of Starlinger. “When a PET bottle becomes a PET bottle and a woven sack becomes a woven sack again, we have achieved our goal.”
With its circular solutions for woven plastic packaging, the company is a pioneer in this field. Starlinger sack production systems are designed to process high shares of recycled input materials. Woven sack producers thus have the opportunity to create sustainable dry bulk packaging such as big bags or sacks for cement, grains and animal feed by adding recycled materials and complying with DfR (Design for Recycling) specifications.
Sustainability is also a top priority within the company itself. The CSR department ensures an environment- and employee-friendly workplace and implements projects such as photovoltaic systems and health at work. Starlinger also participates in the UN Global Compact, the world’s largest sustainability initiative for companies, and follows its principles for responsible business practices.
Employer with an international profile
With eleven foreign branches and over 1000 employees worldwide, Starlinger serves customers in more than 130 countries. Around 600 employees work at the two plants in Weissenbach an der Triesting alone. "As one of the largest employers in the Triestingtal region, we are committed to our employees, because each and every one of them contributes to Starlinger’s economic success. Of course this also applies to our plants in Upper Austria, Schwerin and China,” said Angelika Huemer. “Well-educated specialists are essential in mechanical engineering, which is why we pay particular attention to our apprenticeship training,” she added. Starlinger educates apprentices in the fields of electrical engineering and metals technology and also provides extra trainings such as English lessons. From the age of 18, apprentices also have the opportunity to take part in machine assemblies abroad.
Jomar and Baumüller Push the Boundaries of Manufacturing Innovation
In the ongoing battle against environmental degradation, pioneers emerge in every industry. In the Pharmaceuticals sector, Jomar Corp. and Baumüller stand out as leaders, reshaping the future of manufacturing with a green ethos.
The evolution of Pharmaceutical products isn’t solely about their composition but also the methods employed in their creation. Jomar Corp. and Baumüller are spearheading this change with an emphasis on innovation, laying the groundwork for a sustainable tomorrow. Together, they’re not just crafting medical containers; they’re sculpting the landscape of Pharmaceuticals through their eco-conscious approach.
Jomar’s legacy as a premier injection blow molding machine manufacturer speaks volumes. Machines installed over four decades ago continue to operate flawlessly today, a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Renowned for its intuitive design and energy-efficient technologies like the Vertical Plastifier, Jomar sets the standard for sustainability and productivity. Its relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction ensures optimal performance for renowned manufacturing brands worldwide.
Complementing Jomar’s endeavors, Baumüller specializes in delivering intelligent servo-drive solutions for intelligent injection blow molding machines. Its focus on maximizing efficiency and performance and conserving energy aligns seamlessly with Jomar’s vision for eco-friendly manufacturing. Together, they signify a significant stride towards infusing green principles into the injection blow molding industry.
Through the integration of Baumüller’s digital motion control technologies, Jomar aims to achieve several pivotal objectives:
Environmental Impact & Sustainability: Leveraging Baumüller’s expertise, Jomar strives to enhance its machines’ eco-friendliness by incorporating more recycled materials and minimizing energy consumption.
Cost Efficiency: By harnessing digital innovations from Baumüller, Jomar’s machinery will optimize throughput while reducing operational costs, delivering enhanced economic benefits to end-users.
Supply Chain Resilience: Predictive maintenance solutions utilizing machine learning and data intelligence will bolster the reliability and performance of Jomar’s machinery, ensuring smoother operations and minimizing downtime.
“We are delighted to partner with Baumüller to bring servo-drive digital technologies to
injection blow molding machines manufacturing Pharmaceutical products. Jomar aims to design and manufacture long-lasting, high throughput, efficient, greener machines, which we are achieving with Baumüller’s solutions and expertise”, says Ron Gabriele, Jomar Corp’s Global Sales and Marketing Manager.
Diego Areces, the CEO at Baumueller-Nuermont Corp., is equally excited about the partnership’s potential. “We are excited to collaborate with Jomar to integrate our servo drives and automation technology into their machines. Together, we aim to continue bringing sustainability to the Pharmaceuticals market through digital technologies and Industry 4.0. Jomar has demonstrated to have the same corporate values as we do; therefore, our common purpose drives our exciting relationship”.
The collaboration between Jomar Corp. and Baumueller Group heralds a new era of innovation and sustainability. Together, they bring their expertise and enthusiasm to the forefront, aiming to introduce revolutionary solutions that elevate customer experiences and foster a greener future. This partnership signifies a significant milestone, driven by a shared commitment to positively impacting industry practices and the environment.
“An educational initiative for OPC UA must be launched”
Industry interview withTony Marchelletta, National Sales Manager Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery N.A.
Does Sumitomo Demag already offer its customers injection molding machines with an OPC UA interface?
Yes, it has been available in some of our higher-end models for a few years now. Especially those that are manufactured in Europe. Last year, we also added OPC UA to our standard Japanese-built SE-EV-S model, which we mainly sell in the US. It has always had an Ethernet connection, and now we simply transfer the data automatically via the OPC UA interface.
Where does OPC UA offer the greatest improvement over other interfaces?
I think at its core it’s about standardization. Many third-party providers have had a wide variety of plant monitoring systems for decades, but each has its own proprietary way of communicating and transmitting data. For us as an OEM, it has always been a challenge to keep our software engineers and also our hardware engineers up to date so that we always have the right interface for the machine. I think everyone was hoping that we would finally have a common language, a way to communicate not only with the injection molding machines but also with the periphery equipment and automation.What challenges does the widespread of OPC UA face in the USA?
The biggest challenge is the large number of machines that we or our customers have to deal with. Machines come here from all over the world. From Europe, India, Taiwan, China, Japan, Korea. There is no real common ground. Not even in the interfaces. The same applies to the installation of plant monitoring systems or ML systems. They are all still rooted in their respective methods. And then the machines and systems are of different ages. I have customers who operate machines that we built over 30 years ago. They are still mechanically sound. The customer wonders why they should replace them. It’s a different story with brand new machines. Ten years ago, I had a customer who wanted to use OPC UA in his plant. He was very enthusiastic about the possibilities and wanted to be prepared for the future. But he also had the luxury of building a brand new plant network. Ten years ago, this customer was quite alone in his knowledge. Another obstacle to the slow spread of the new interface is that although there is now a lot of talk about OPC UA, hardly anyone can actually do anything with it. The benefits are not yet apparent.
Will the major control system providers also jump on the OPC UA bandwagon?
Definitely. If they don’t, it could be disastrous for them. Sooner or later, OPC UA will become the common language. Not everyone in the world speaks Siemens, not everyone speaks Rockwell, but everyone will be able to communicate with OPC UA. Control manufacturers will still be able to offer unique technologies. I think there will still be some differentiators that can protect their interests.
How likely is it that the acceptance of OPC UA will increase in the United States in the medium term?
It would make our lives as OEMs easier if OPC UA were already a universally accepted protocol. But I think it will still take some time. There are many systems that are simply not able to communicate with OPC UA. There is still a lot that is unknown, especially in the North American market. Everyone has heard of OPC UA, but no one really knows what it is. What can it do? What can you do with it?
I think there definitely needs to be a big educational initiative here. The first step would be to inform the plant managers and motivate them to get involved. But they often don’t have the employees they need. It’s a lot of work, especially when many devices have to be connected to the one protocol.
That’s why it will be a while before OPC UA is widely implemented at plant level here in North America.
Could the NPE be a good place to start with the education initiative?
Yes, absolutely. It’s the definitive show in North America for our industry. There will be a lot of visitors, the largest audience is here. That’s why the NPE is a great platform and a great channel to spread the message of OPC UA. Of course, you still have to go to the companies later and explain to the people there in personal discussions how they can integrate OPC UA into their plant system in concrete terms. But the start has been made with the NPE.
A Bio-Based Alternative to Tio2: Finnish Startup Company Focuses on Birch Bark
Finnish startup company Innomost has launched Betuinno.Betulin, a sustainable and biodegradable ingredient made from birch bark that is ideal for replacing synthetic white pigments, such as titanium dioxide, in the surfaces, coatings and beauty industries. PPCJ spoke to CEO Sami Selkälä about its potential benefits compared to synthetic pigments
Birch bark ingredient and scrub made of it
Q. Firstly, can you give a brief overview of Betuinno.Betulin – what does it do and how did the idea for Betuinno.Betulin come about?
A. The development of Betuinno. Betulin was inspired by the nature’s own unique multifunctionality. If you walk around in a Finnish forest, the most abundant white colour you see in the forest is the white colour of the birch bark. We started to study what is the white pigment of the birch bark and we found out that the white colour is due to highly pure betulin. Betulin content of the birch bark is about 25-30% in the outer bark of the birch. We did a lot of research and process development to isolate and produce highly pure white betulin from forest industry side streams.
The result of the development work was a simple, energy efficient process to produce white pigment grade betulin. Betuinno. Betulin is a 100% natural, non-nano, multifunctional white pigment. Besides being a pigment, Betuinno. Betulin is water repellent, antioxidative, antimicrobic, upcycled and a sustainable alternative to synthetic white pigments. Unlike synthetic white pigments, Betuinno. Betulin is biodegradable and non-toxic. Produced from upcycled birch bark from certified forest industry side streams, it is environmentally friendly and has a low carbon footprint. Betuinno. Betulin matches the whiteness and reflectivity of synthetic white pigments.
Q. What are the main challenges that you face when creating bio-based alternatives to chemical pigments?
A. Existing chemical pigments businesses have very large volumes and to create a real alternative to existing pigments, you need a reliable sourcing for the raw material. We have solved this problem by having a strategic relationship with a large forest industry company, Metsä Group, one of the biggest birch wood processors in Europe.
Q. It seems as though you mainly cater to the beauty industry at the moment. Do you have plans to move into the coatings sector and have you tested Betuinno.Betulin in coatings formulations yet?
A. We have commercial beauty industry customers since 2018 and today our products are used on three different continents. The launch of Betuinno. Betulin supports our international growth plans in various industries. To support the launch of a new ingredient together with a growing client base globally, the two existing investors, Metsä Spring and Innovestor, have invested an additional €1.4M in Innomost. The new investment is enabling us to expand into coating applications as well.
Q. This pigment is designed to replace TiO2. The regulations surrounding TiO2 in the EU were repealed last year and paint manufacturers no longer have to declare it as carcinogenic. Do you think there is still an appetite in the coatings industry for TiO2 replacements?
A. Consumers of today want to use natural, renewable and sustainable products that are good for them and for the environment. Our innovations enable our customers to replace environmentally harmful ingredients with bio-based, non-toxic and a safe to use option. We answer to the market demand for sustainable, bio-based and biodegradable alternatives for existing materials in the market. Our pigment is multifunctional and gives more to the formulation that just pigment.
Q. What benefits does Betuinno.Betulin offer paint manufacturers over TiO2?
A.Betuinno.Betulin is a bio-based, upcycled and sustainable alternative to synthetic white pigments. Unlike synthetic white pigments, Betuinno. Betulin is biodegrable and non-toxic. Produced from upcycled birch bark from certified forest industry side streams,it is environmentally friendly and has a low carbon footprint. Betuinno. Betulin matches the whiteness and reflectivity of synthetic white pigments. Betuinno. From the technical point of view, betulin is an organic material, hydrophobic, antioxidative and antimicrobic.
Q. And finally, do you have any plans to create bio-based alternatives for any other coatings ingredients?
A. Birch offers almost endless possibilities for innovative new products. Our current range of bio-based and sustainable products from birch is only the beginning of our company’s innovation potential and growth opportunities in the global market. We are looking at different options in coatings, such as fillers, binders and dispersants, where there is a natural advantage to use birch-based ingredients.
The coatings industry is facing many challenges, some of which can very well become opportunities”: PPCJ speaks to ChemQuest’s latest Vice President, Sharon Feng
Sharon Feng has recently been appointed as a Vice President at global consulting firm ChemQuest, having worked for companies such as Bayer MaterialScience, Lanxess and PPG. The numerous leadership roles she has undertaken span a diverse range of areas, such as emerging coating technologies, EHS, supply chain, innovation, R&D, and most recently Feng served as Technical Director for Corporate R&D at PPG Industries. PPCJ spoke to her about her extensive career in the coatings industry and her plans for her new role with ChemQuest
Q. How did you come to be at ChemQuest and what attracted you to the company?
A. I have known ChemQuest throughout my career either as a client of their extensive market studies or from colleagues who worked with and for ChemQuest. I have always been impressed with the calibre of the experts they have on staff and by the in-depth insights they provided on market dynamics and megatrends in those markets.
Q. How will your extensive expertise translate into your role at ChemQuest?
A. I would like to have opportunities to use my expertise/experiences across value chains in various end-user markets to help our clients develop growth strategies informed by megatrends, unmet market needs, and disruptive technologies. I will also help our M&A clients by providing insights on the technological valuation, IP assets assessment and growth potential to aid their due diligence process. In addition, helping our clients develop roadmaps to take a new technology/product to market success will also be very satisfying to me.
Q. What will be the first thing/s you focus on in your new role?
A. Similar to any new role I’ve taken in the past, I am looking forward to first learning about the teams I will be working with, the company culture and the best practices that will enable me to quickly become an effective contributor. Learning has always been my passion, and I am glad that this new role provides plenty of opportunities to expand my knowledge and experience.
Q. What do you think are the main challenges and opportunities in the coatings industry at the moment?
A. I firmly believe that the coatings industry is facing many challenges, some of which can very well become opportunities. I think that one of the biggest challenges that coatings R&D is facing is the demand for accelerated innovation. Developing a new material and/or a new product in the coatings industry traditionally requires very long cycle times, partially due to the extensive testing protocols required by some end users. Those who can figure out how to increase the speed to market will enjoy significant competitive advantage.
The second major challenge is how to attract and retain talent. After the pandemic, the ability to offer remote or even just hybrid working arrangements became a major benefit. Due to the nature of the work, chemical R&D mostly still requires working on site.
Q. What do you think are the biggest trends in the coatings industry at the moment, in terms of what companies want to develop and what they want to achieve?
A. Several megatrends, such as climate change, sustainable growth and emerging AI applications, demand new approaches, new materials and new solutions from the coatings industry. Each company, in alignment with its own business growth strategy, will have different answers to this question.
In general, everyone would like to offer innovative solutions to unmet market needs due to the disruption from these megatrends. Some examples include the reduction of energy intensity/carbon footprint of coating applications/processes and coating solutions that can support sustainability goals, such as the increased use of renewable raw materials and improved recyclability.
Q. Looking ahead, what do you think the big trends in R&D will be in the next decade or so?
A. The biggest question mark should undoubtedly go to the impact from AI. How can such a tool/approach be used to enable better and faster innovation, as well as improved efficiency? What are the impacts of these AI-assisted innovations on our current organisational structure, workflows, people, and culture? What can our current workforce do to upskill and stay abreast of this rapidly evolving technology? Discovering the best path forward will be challenging.
Did You Know That Rice Bran Waxes Can Replace Carnauba Waxes?
Carnauba wax, derived from palm leaves, has long been considered as the gold standard for delivering key properties like hardness, scratch resistance, and gloss in coatings. However, with increasing supply constraints and sustainability concerns, formulators are actively seeking alternatives1 . At Clariant, we recognize the need for alternatives driven by customer demands as well as our responsibility to address environmental challenges. We strive to make a meaningful impact in the industry all while maintaining our focus on meeting the diverse needs of our customers.
The power of Licocare rice bran waxes
Licocare RBW Vita offers an innovative bio-based solution that retains the shine, durability, and formulation potential associated with carnauba while aligning with sustainability preferences. This renewable carnauba alternative achieves exceptional performance qualities through 100% plant based sourcing.
Our upvalued rice bran waxes offer high-performance solutions at the same time as addressing the key sustainability mega-trends transforming the coatings industry. They are not just renewable based, but also non-food competing, contain no microplastics or PFAS chemicals, and have a remarkable renewable carbon index exceeding 98%. Clariant’s rice bran waxes can already be found in automotive coatings, furniture coatings, and protective coatings such as in cell phones.
Its lighter color enables flexible adaptation across color-sensitive applications. Produced through controlled industrial processes, our consistent quality avoids production adjustments needed with natural waxes. With a broad portfolio and wide variety of solutions, Licocare RBW Vita offers formulators a choice of characteristics like polarity, hardness, and melting point to select the optimal product for their care products, emulsions, coatings, and plastics.
Licocare RBW Vita simplifies the substitution in existing carnauba-based coatings thanks to an extensive portfolio offering a wide choice of characteristics (polarity, hardness, drop point, particle size) to fit diverse applications like care, emulsions, coatings, plastics, and many more. You can expect high performance in the following key areas:
• Outstanding scratch resistance and slip
• Excellent formulation stability
• Neutral transparency that prevents discoloration
Ray Gonzales, Head of Global Marketing Coatings & Adhesives.
“With Licocare RBW Vita, we bring meaningful, high-quality solutions to coatings applications while reflecting our sustainability values. These bio-based rice bran waxes represent the future of coatings.”
Whether seeking to overcome supply chain hurdles or improve sustainability, Licocare RBW Vita unlocks the next generation of renewable coatings while minimizing any necessary compromises. Carnauba-like functionality and beyond is possible with rice bran wax.
Ready to elevate your next formulation?
Visit our dedicated rice bran wax landing page to learn more about the power of Licocare RBW Vita and contact our experts, who will help you achieve sustainable success.
Sources at PIU said that AICTE approval right from the inception of the program resonates their commitment to quality education from which student who aspires to study engineering at PIU will be benefitted immensely. PIU will not only provide world-class Plastics & Polymer Engineering academic programs but also focus on strong research & development on Sustainability & Polymer recycling.
H.E. Dr. Raghunath Anant Mashelkar (Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, Padmasri)
Throughout the two days, participants will get the chance to examine in-depth all the latest political, legislative, market and technological developments in 
A. We have commercial beauty industry customers since 2018 and today our products are used on three different continents. The launch of 
