Top 4 Plastic Industry Trends for 2019

The plastic industry is one of the most evolving businesses in recent times. The application of plastics can be found in almost every sector such as medical, aerospace, automotive, packaging, household appliances, construction and many more. Several trends have emerged in 2018 and they continue to be refined and amplified. Given how technology and innovative minds are shaping the industry, it is very important to keep up on the most recent trends. Let us take a look at the plastic industry trends for 2019.

1. Rising Demand for Reinforced Plastics

The global reinforced plastics market is anticipated to reach $16 billion by the end of 2019. These plastics have been widely used in the automobile industry because they offer a great alternative to metal components. In addition, they are now gaining popularity in the construction, medical, military, and marine sectors owing to their versatility, lightweight and durability.

2. Increased Production of Biodegradable Plastics

Th Biodegradable plastics industry is expected to be worth $6.12 billion by 2023. Biodegradable plastics are made from plant-based raw materials that allow for a natural decomposition process. These plastics are gaining popularity and traction since they’re all based on natural plant and vegetable extracts. They aid in green practices through benefits such as safer disposal, energy-efficient manufacturing and decreased toxic emissions.

Along with developing bioplastics, solutions for making thermoplastics biodegradable are coming to production as well. Prodegradant concentrates in the form of metal compounds, such as cobalt stearate, are now being added to plastic to promote faster disintegration and oxidation of plastics.

3.Use of 3D Printing for Production Efficiency

3D printing is tremendously improving various aspects of plastic manufacturing and will continue to remain a catalyst for reimagining options for plastic parts. With desktop 3D printers already on the rise, multiple plastics manufacturing companies are investing in the research and development of advanced plastics for 3D printing. This overall result is more durability, higher-quality and consistent plastic materials that enable the widespread adoption of the technology.

4. The arrival of Automation and Industry 4.0

There is a rising demand in the plastics industry for cost savings and process simplification. This demand is now being met by automation. Industry 4.0 is another rising trend in the plastics industry. It is a name given to the current trend of data exchange and automation incorporated in manufacturing technologies. It provides increased opportunities for the integration of machine control and robotic technologies in order to:

• Multiple downstream operations integrated beside the press with the use of automated cells.
• Simplify programming, facilitate maintenance and make manufacturing cycles faster.
• Substitute traditional ways of manufacturing with robotic initiatives for faster and precise programming.

Having a clear understanding of how the plastics industry is evolving will help manufacturers and people working in the plastics industry to capitalize on trends and ensure that the end-products perform as intended. If you are in the plastic industry, then Plastivision is a great platform for you to showcase your product range and network with industry professionals. Book your booth today!