Developers at Ford Motors have engineered a soy-based foam to replace traditional plastics in seat cushions. Ford first began using the sustainable technology beginning in 2008, and since the technology has taken over in all North American vehicles produced by the company. With about 300 pounds of petroleum based plastic in every vehicle, Ford was able to keep costs down while petroleum prices rose using the soy-based foam.
For more information see “Beyond the Bean – Dec 2014 issue”
A truck driver shortage that plagued shippers in the 4thquarter of 2014 has carried over into the new year. The problem has lead to carriers being more likely to increase wages and hire more inexperienced drivers. Over 90% of carriers expect wage increases of 6-10%, and although 80% of the industry is open to hiring inexperienced driver only 33% is currently.
Read more at Bulk Transporter.
A Russian chemistry experiment is being run on the International Space Station to create polymer walls that form shells in the weightlessness of space. The experiment is being conducted in a contained glovebox with two hardening processes to ‘set’ the end structures. Not only does the experiment demonstrate this method of creating polymers, it also improves computer models and furthers education in physics and chemistry.
Read the full story at ESA.
Although a federal mediator has been sent to help with disagreements, West Coast ports are still continuing to experience delays. International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) both sent out press releases earlier this month blaming each other for the delays and disagreements. On Jan. 16th, an industry coalition, including the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD), sent a letter to ILWU and PMA to encourage a quick resolution between the two parties.
These port delays affect the economy deeply, and ports throughout the country are feeling the backlog as traffic is diverted on alternate routes.
Last week, a group of local Boy Scouts visited ChemCeed’s facility to learn about chemistry in order to earn their science badge. ChemCeed’s vice president, Rolly Enderes, showed them lab equipment and taught them about exothermic reactions.
Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs) are a versatile chemical for formulating in a wide variety of manufacturing industries, from cosmetics to plastics. The properties of PEGs make them useful for enhancing solvency, lubricity, and hygroscopicity. While useful in production processes as mold release agents, lubricants, and anti-static process aids, PEGs are also chemical intermediates in the production of anti-foaming agents, thickeners, and resins. In particular, high-molecular weight PEGs (such as PEG 8000), can be used in agriculture as part of insecticides and herbicides; as a plasticizer, binder, carrier, and lubricant in ceramics; drilling fluid intermediate and ingredient in mining; as a mold release agent for rubber and elastomers; and in formulations for soaps, detergents, and toilet bowl cleaners.
The University of Wisconsin’s Mechanical Engineering department has found a way to use 3D printers to make 3D music scores for the blind. The 3D music scores are in its early stages and the engineers have to overcome some hurdles like how to mass-produce them.
For more information:
Despite the chemical industry’s heavy protesting and lobbying, NYC finalized its ban on polystyrene food and beverage containers. The city’s Dept. of Sanitation claims that the polystyrene foam is not recyclable or reusable. Chemical manufacturers of these products are arguing that polystyrene is indeed recyclable. Other cities that also has banned the use of polystyrene foam include Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco. Washington DC has also banned the use of this material.
For More Information See: http://cen.acs.org/articles/93/web/2015/01/New-York-City-Bans-Expanded.html
