Avax Plus supplies high-quality aluminum billets that meet the demands of the manufacturing and construction industries. Learn how our aluminum products provide the strength, durability, and precision necessary for successful production processes.
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Discover how industrial stretch films from Avax Plus can improve your packaging efficiency and protect goods during transport. Our durable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly stretch films are ideal for securing products in transit while reducing packaging waste.
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The Importance of Efficient Import and Export in Today’s Global Market
In an increasingly interconnected world, businesses rely on efficient and reliable import/export operations to maintain competitive advantage. According to industry expert John Carter, an international logistics consultant with over 20 years of experience, companies that streamline their supply chains and build strong networks are the ones that thrive in global markets.
“The key to success in the global marketplace is not just finding the right products but ensuring they arrive on time and in good condition,” says Carter. “Working with a company like Avax Plus that understands both the technical and logistical aspects of international trade can help businesses save time and money, while ensuring compliance with complex trade regulations.”
This is especially true for industrial products like aluminum billets and stretch films, where delays in delivery or quality issues can cause significant disruptions to production and supply chains. With Avax Plus’s proven track record and focus on customer satisfaction, businesses can rely on their expertise to handle both large and small-scale trade operations efficiently.
Carter adds, “By offering tailored solutions for logistics and sourcing, Avax Plus enables companies to expand globally with minimal risk, navigating everything from customs regulations to transport logistics.”
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Plastic is a common material used here at Xometry. We make thousands of parts out of plastic using CNC machining, laser cutting, 3D printing, injection molding and more. In this article, we will go in-dept into the world of plastic, exploring its composition, characteristics, types, applications, and advantages.
Plastic is a synthetic or semi-synthetic material typically derived from petrochemicals or substances such as cellulose or starch. The basic components are chemically treated to form long chains of molecules called polymers. These polymers can then be molded into various shapes using techniques such as injection molding, extrusion, or blow molding. Some plastics are also known as resins.
Plastic is a material that has become ubiquitous in modern society due to its durability, low cost, and manufacturability. There are many different types of plastics, each with unique properties and characteristics. Some of the most common types include polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, PET, polystyrene, and nylon. Plastics can be classified into two main groups based on their composition: thermoplastics and thermosets. Thermoplastics can be molded, melted, and remolded again, whereas thermosets cannot be reprocessed when heated.
Plastic was first discovered in 1839 when Charles Goodyear stumbled upon a method called vulcanization, which made rubber more resilient and elastic. Charles Goodyear’s invention was also one of the first polymer mixtures to be created. In 1855, Alexander Parkes discovered celluloid, otherwise known as Parkesine. This material is a combination of camphor/lime and cellulose nitrate. It was also the first thermoplastic that became flexible when heated and stiff when cooled. There have been several significant discoveries in the succeeding years, including the isolation of PVC in 1835 by French physicist Victor Regnault; John Wesley Hyatt’s creation of the first synthetic polymer (or industrial plastic) in 1869; and the introduction of transparent food packaging in 1900 by Edward Brandenberger.
Many polymers, both artificial and natural, are used to make plastics. Coal, natural gas, cellulose, starch, crude oil, and salt are a few of the most common constituents in the production of plastic. The polymerization and polycondensation processes, which both require specific catalysts, are the main methods for producing plastics. In a polymerization reaction, monomers such as propylene and ethylene are joined to form long polymer chains. Each polymer has a distinct size, structure, and set of properties that depend on the different basic monomers involved.
Plastics have a few unique properties that make them practical for a wide range of applications. Plastic materials are regarded as:
Plastic can come in many different colors and textures, depending on the type of plastic and how it has been treated or processed. Plastic is a synthetic polymer made from various organic materials that can be molded into almost any shape. Some types of plastic are clear and transparent, like those used in disposable water bottles, while others are opaque and available in a range of colors. Plastic can also have different surface textures, ranging from smooth and shiny to rough and matte. Some types of plastic have soft and flexible textures, while others are rigid. Figure 1 below is an example of a plastic custom part made using injection molding by Xometry:
There are a lot of different types of plastic available today and Xometry offers a lot of them. The most prominent categories that we see and use here at Xometry are defined and discussed below.
PET is one of the most produced synthetic plastic and is the most popular thermoplastic resin in the polyester family. It offers excellent chemical resistance to organic compounds and water and is easy to recycle. PET also has a high strength-to-weight ratio and is almost shatterproof. This material is found in many everyday items, including food and drink containers, and garment fibers.
ABS is a glossy, highly processable, flexible, strong, and impact-resistant material that is made by polymerizing styrene and acrylonitrile in the presence of polybutadiene. ABS plastic sheeting is relatively cheap to manufacture and is frequently used in the automotive and refrigeration sectors, as well as in items like boxes, protective headgear, luggage, gauges, and children’s toys. For more information, see our guide on Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS).
PVC, the third most common synthetic plastic polymer, can be made flexible or rigid. It is well known for its versatility in mixing with other materials. For example, foamed PVC sheets are ideal for store displays, exhibits, and kiosks. Rigid PVC is extensively used in construction materials, windows, bottles, doors, non-food packaging, and other products. Thanks to the addition of plasticizers like phthalates, the more flexible and softer version of PVC works well in clothing, plumbing supplies, medical tubing, and other related products.
Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer and also the second most produced synthetic plastic. PP is one of the most flexible thermoplastics, which contributes to its popularity. And despite this flexibility, it is stronger than PE. Polypropylene sheets are used to produce food containers, automobile components, medical devices, and laboratory equipment because they are affordable, strong, flexible, and heat- and acid-resistant. For more information, see our guide on Polypropylene (PP).
The most common plastic on the planet, polyethylene, comes in multiple densities. This results in plastics with distinct physical properties, so they function for a wide gamut of purposes. The four standard densities of polyethylene are LDPE, MDPE, HDPE (low-, medium-, and high-density polyethylene, respectively), and UHMWPE (ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene). The first three denote the relative number of polymer chains per unit volume and each is valuable for different purposes. MDPE is, for example, frequently used in shrink film, gas pipes, screw closures, carrier bags, and other products. UHMWPE, on the other hand, is not significantly denser than HDPE. This polyethylene plastic is significantly more abrasion-resistant than HDPE because of the unusually long polymer chains. UHMWPE goes into bearings, artificial ice skating rinks, hydraulic seals, and biomaterial for spine, knee, and hip implants due to its high density and low friction properties. For more information, see our guide on Polyethylene (PE).
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the four standard densities of polyethylene. Due to its ductility, polyethylene at this density is perfect for plastic bags, disposable packaging, transparent food containers, and shopping bags. For more information, see our guide on Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE).
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is another type of PE that is more robust than both LDPE and MDPE. It is used in items like plastic bottles, water and sewer piping, boat hulls, snowboards, and folding chairs. For more information, see our guide on High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE).
Polystyrene, better known as Styrofoam, comes in both solid and foamed forms. This plastic is used in egg cartons, disposable dinnerware, insulation, and drinking cups because of its low cost per unit weight and ease of production. While common, it is extremely combustible and releases toxic compounds when heated.
As a transparent thermoplastic material that is lightweight and break-resistant, acrylic is great for optical products and gadgets. Mirrors and plexiglass are typically made using sheets of acrylic. Among other things, PMMA is resilient against projectiles, resists UV rays and static electricity, and can accept bright dyes. There are countless applications for acrylic sheeting, which is seventeen times more impact-resistant than glass and polycarbonate sheeting put together. Moreover, it is easier to handle and create. For more information, see our guide on Acrylic or Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA).
Polycarbonate is a good engineering plastic that is strong, stable, and transparent. Its strength-to-weight ratio is 250 times better than steel’s and it has glass-like clarity. Transparent polycarbonate sheets are 30 times stronger than acrylic and are easy to work with, mold, and thermo- or cold-form. Polycarbonate plastic’s intrinsic design flexibility enables incredibly strong and impact-resistant construction. Unlike acrylic or glass, PC plastic sheets can be cold-formed or cut right away without needing to be pre-formed and manufactured. Polycarbonate plastic is used to make a variety of products, including greenhouses, CDs, sunglasses, police riot gear, and more. For more information, see our guide on Polycarbonate (PC).
Plastics can have a wide range of physical and chemical properties, depending on their chemical structures and how they are processed. However, some general physical and chemical properties are common to most plastics. These properties are given below:
Plastic has many different applications and we see engineers from many industries quoting plastic parts with Xometry. Some of the most common uses of plastic we have seen are listed below:
Plastics are often used in the production of toys because they can be molded into various shapes and colors. Plastic toys are durable and lightweight, so they withstand wear and tear.
Plastics are non-conductive, meaning they can protect electronic components and allow for easy assembly. This is why you find plastic in computer and phone cases and as the insulation on wires.
Plastics are used in various parts of automobiles, including dashboards, bumpers, engine parts, and interior panels. Since they’re both lightweight and durable, they reduce the vehicle’s weight and improve fuel efficiency.
Plastic is an ideal material to use for product packaging. Plastics are adaptable, hygienic, light, flexible, and durable. Packaging is thus responsible for the majority of the plastics used globally, coming in the form of vending packaging, baby products, protective packaging, containers, bottles, drums, trays, boxes, cups, and much more.
Plastics are used extensively in the medical industry, including, but not limited to, disposable syringes, IV and blood bags, prosthetic limbs, implantable devices, dialysis machines, heart valves, tubing, and wound dressing. Medical-grade plastics are sterile and biocompatible and can be easily molded into complex shapes. Plus, they’re often less expensive than traditional medical materials.
Xometry provides a wide range of manufacturing capabilities including plastic 3D printing, laser cutting, and injection molding for all of your prototyping and production needs. Start your instant quote today.
The content appearing on this webpage is for informational purposes only. Xometry makes no representation or warranty of any kind, be it expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or validity of the information. Any performance parameters, geometric tolerances, specific design features, quality and types of materials, or processes should not be inferred to represent what will be delivered by third-party suppliers or manufacturers through Xometry’s network. Buyers seeking quotes for parts are responsible for defining the specific requirements for those parts. Please refer to our terms and conditions for more information.
Industrial stretch film, also known as stretch wrap, is a crucial packaging material widely used in many industries for securing products during storage and transportation. It’s a highly stretchable plastic film that clings tightly to objects, ensuring they stay stable and protected throughout their journey. In this guide, we will thoroughly explain what industrial stretch film is, its types, applications, benefits, and important technical specifications such as thickness and size.
Industrial stretch film is typically made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), a highly durable plastic material known for its excellent stretchability, strength, and cling. This industrial stretch material is used to tightly wrap products, holding them securely in place to prevent any movement or damage during transit. The film’s elasticity allows it to stretch and return to its original form, providing extra protection and stability.
Understanding the key technical aspects of industrial stretch film is important to ensure that the right film is used for specific applications. Here are some of the main specifications:
There are several types of industrial stretch film, each suited for different needs:
Industrial stretch film is versatile and used across a variety of industries. Here are some common applications:
Using industrial stretch film offers several advantages:
To maximize the effectiveness of industrial stretch film, here are some best practices to follow:
Industrial stretch film is an essential tool for many industries, providing stability, protection, and cost-efficiency. By choosing the right type of industrial stretch film, applying it correctly, and considering technical aspects like thickness and stretchability, businesses can improve their packaging processes and protect their products during storage and transit.
Whether you’re wrapping pallets for shipping, bundling smaller items, or safeguarding products from environmental elements, industrial stretch film offers a versatile and reliable packaging solution. With the right film, you can ensure that your goods are safely transported and stored while reducing costs and material usage.
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While the range of advanced recycling technologies may vary widely, one thing the conference made clear is that there are many commonalities. Among them are challenges in sourcing feedstock and gaining market acceptance as well as the potential impact of global, federal, and local packaging regulations—challenges that are not unlike those faced by traditional mechanical recycling systems.Yet, if these hurdles are overcome, advanced recycling can unleash a new and abundant supply of virgin-quality plastics made from materials previously bound for landfill or incineration. Emphasized Suzanne Shelton, president and CEO of marketing communications agency ERM Shelton Group, in her presentation on how suppliers and brands should frame the concept to consumers, “Advanced recycling is a pivotal, critical tool in the shift from a linear economy to a circular economy.”
The simplest definition of advanced recycling is that it’s a process that breaks down plastic waste into its original components and uses those components to create new products. There are three categories of advanced recycling technologies—purification, depolymerization, and conversion, also known as pyrolysis (the main focus of the conference). Each one requires different inputs and results in different outputs. Feedstock for advanced recycling processes comprises plastic waste that is unable to be recycled through mechanical processes. Therefore, it complements mechanical recycling, providing another tool in the toolbox for enabling circular plastics.
As the conference presentations outlined, advanced recycling is being driven by several factors. Among them are the increase in plastic pollution; commitments made by CPG brands as part of Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment to reduce their use of virgin plastic materials; the growing list of states enacting EPR legislation that mandates the use of post-consumer recycled plastic content; and a growth in the global population and global wealth, which will result in more plastics in the economy.
“The demand for products that support circularity is growing, and it’s far exceeding the supply that can be met with mechanical recycling,” said Michelle Salim, NA advanced recycling commercial manager for ExxonMobil. “Society’s goal cannot be met without advanced recycling.”
Jon Konen, senior business development manager for Advanced Recycling & Bio Feedstocks North America at LyondellBasell, put some numbers to the problem of demand versus supply. According to data from LyondellBasell, there is a 50% gap between the amount of PCR retailers need to meet their 2025 goals and what’s available; for brands, the gap is 65%. “As you go beyond 2025, we tend to see these numbers grow,” Konen added. “There’s a huge shortage for both brands and retailers in meeting their recycled content obligations and what they said they would do.”
This gap is the result of significant challenges around the collection and sorting of materials that can be mechanically recycled, along with the substantial loss of packaging materials and formats that can’t be mechanically recycled, even if the challenges with collection and sorting were solved. These latter materials are ultimately sent to landfill or incinerated. Said Konen, “We need to work on that $70 billion of value that’s lost through lack of collection and reprocessing in the industry today.”
Another roadblock for brands attempting to include more PCR in their packaging is that some mechanically recycled materials can’t be used for direct food-contact or healthcare applications due to contamination. Instead, these materials are downcycled for use in non-packaging applications such as decking and park benches.
Because advanced recycling technologies either purify waste plastic materials or break them down into their chemical components for use in creating new resins, the PCR resulting from these processes is virgin quality. Said Brendan Adams, associate director of Government Affairs for The Kraft Heinz Company, “I pulled a quote from the Closed Loop Partners’ report, and they say that advanced or molecular recycling technologies can expand the scope of materials we can recycle, help preserve the value of resources in our economy, and bridge the gap between supply and demand for high-quality recycled plastics like food-grade plastics.
“It goes on to say that it sees advanced recycling as a vehicle to satisfy food-grade recycled content needs and complex packaging structures like flexible films, thermoforms, and other types of plastics.”
The gap between the amount of PCR needed and the amount that’s available has created a strong business case for investment, with 50 new advanced recycling projects kicked off in 2023 alone, Konen shared. Considering current investments, the supply of PCR from advanced recycling is estimated to be 10 million tons—still short of the 15 million tons of demand, just from packaging. “We see that [gap] driving further investment and what’s needed to move the industry forward,” he added.
LyondellBasell is currently building its first large-scale advanced recycling facility in Germany, expected to produce 50,000 metric tons/yr of its Circulen Revive advanced recycled polymers by 2026.
Meanwhile, in 2022, ExxonMobil began operation of its Baytown, Tex., facility, which can produce up to 40,000 metric tons of its Exxtend advanced recycled material. It’s also constructing a second plant, with startup scheduled for 2025. “That’s part of our plan to have more than a billion pounds of processing capacity globally by 2027,” shared ExxonMobil’s Salim
Despite chemical companies’ significant investment in advanced recycling technologies, some never get off the ground due to difficulties sourcing feedstock, much of which has never been sorted or collected before.
According to Carson Potter, product leader for AMP, a provider of AI technology for waste and recycling companies, AMP’s clients often follow a similar pattern where they develop their own conversion technologies or license the technology, testing it and validating it using high-quality feedstocks. After moving from a venture to a pilot scale and then to scale up, a number of them get stuck in the finance stage, realizing they now need enough feedstock to justify their facility.
“That’s where we start to see a lot of the unanticipated challenges accumulate,” he said. “Another point is that when a company starts to drive more volume to a facility, they need to look for more profitable materials, which don’t always equate to the cleanest, most concentrated materials.”
Shared Brian Schellati, director of business development and process engineer for Van Dyk Recycling Solutions, a supplier of turnkey sorting systems to waste haulers and recyclers, “To build a large-scale commercial facility, there’s not enough perfectly clean material to justify a plant. So you have to expect the input material to be contaminated, and you have to design the mechanical processing to handle that.”
He then recommended sorting systems for advanced recycling feedstock preparation—including bale wire removers, bale liberators, elliptical/ballistic separators, conveyors, and optical sorters, etc.—noting that significant mechanical processing of materials must must be done before they are sent through optical sorters so they are fed the right way, in the right size, and without fines.
Schellati focused on the characterization of materials and using flexible, modular equipment and AI capabilities to adapt to changing feedstock. “When you combine these things, you end up with a lower-cost sensor that can essentially update over time, provide you with a number of secondary characteristics, and ideally be employed liberally throughout the plant to give you a really clean idea of what’s going into the [advanced recycling] reactor and what supply quality you’re actually receiving.”
He also explained how tracking of all materials allows a company to extricate all of the value out of the non-target feedstock as well and resell those materials as commodities—in effect using “every part of the buffalo.”
He noted that “having that kind of data-driven mentality not only allows you to manage your feedstock strategy more effectively, but it also gives you a more advanced set of capabilities in terms of getting real-time daily and weekly operational status, understanding yield, understanding purity, also understanding if things are going wrong in your plant.”
Another speaker who emphasized the role data can play in driving advanced recycling was Rey Banatao, director, project lead for X, the Moonshot Factory, more commonly referred to as Google X. Founded by data and AI company Google, Google X is a research lab that develops and launches technologies to tackle some of the world’s most difficult problems. Driven by its chief sustainability officer, Kate Brandt, Google’s circularity mission is to maximize the reuse of finite resources across Google’s own product and operations, internally, “but most importantly, we want to enable others to do the same,” said Banatao.
Upon learning that the top sustainability search term is recycling—“over things like climate or electric vehicles or GHGs,” said Banatao—Google saw an opportunity to contribute to circularity.
“As we leaned in further, these are the three areas that were communicated back to us. First is obviously the waste industry is a data-sparse industry in our opinion compared to other areas we work in. There’s not a lot of information out there about the quality of waste, where it’s at, how to get your hands on it, and pricing, and where it ends up once it’s recycled. So the ability to identify information and follow that material through its lifecycle is important. Then we looked at the recycling technologies themselves, and that’s why we’re really interested in advanced recycling. There’s a lot of room for improvement.
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