In this first issue for 2023, we look at how injection moulding systems have evolved over the years. Now, with the growing popularity of all-electric models, plastic manufacturers are given the advantages of energy-efficient systems that meet their various requirements. This development has become both a challenge and opportunity for the machinery makers. 

Asia has been seeing rising demand for biopolymers and one major player has responded with a new polylactic acid manufacturing complex in Thailand. The facility will include production sites for lactic acid, lactide, and polymer that are designed to have both process and energy integration for increased efficiency of the manufacturing operation. Also, it will use the abundant, locally grown sugarcane as primary feedstock for the production process. 

Sustainability in flexible packaging has become one of the targets of companies in this industry and in this issue, we look at the trends in innovative materials that could help achieve this goal.