Plastics

This article covers the importance of dispersion technology for enabling carbon nanotube enhanced technology, including energy storage and composites. IDTechEx discusses the key applications requiring CNT dispersions, commercial successes and technical challenges.

Lignin, once largely burned for energy, is now being explored as a valuable input for a wide range of green applications. In this article, IDTechEx provides insight into three lignin extraction technologies enabling new applications. All are approaching commercialization.

White biotechnology refers to the use of biological systems for the industrial production of bio-based products, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower the carbon footprint of materials. This article covers main feedstocks and the molecules made via white biotechnology.

With plastic production having grown to 502 million tonnes in 2024, while being expected to continue to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 2.6%, the need for a sustainable intervention is evident. This article covers the development of biobased plastics from renewable feedstocks as a step towards circularity.

A future of sustainability that stretches across the planet, from CO₂-created diamonds and self-healing cities to deep ocean storage, could be reimagined with IDTechEx's large portfolio of sustainability market research. Finding new outlets for harmful gases, using robots to clean the streets, and opting for innovative methods to create clothing, food, and packaging could all allow the environment a chance to breathe.

Plastic leathers have been a longstanding vegan leather alternative; however, concerns around their petrochemical feedstocks, disposal, and microplastics are beginning to outweigh their low costs for some companies. With sustainability-focused projects on the rise across many sectors, newer types of leather, including mycelium, plant-based, microbial, and lab-grown, are beginning to emerge as more environmentally friendly options.

This article discusses the potential of alternative chemical feedstocks, such as lignocellulosic waste, to produce sustainable chemicals. Next-generation chemical feedstocks are a vital tool in the global effort towards decarbonization.

The multitude of battery chemistries available for different EV types means that a variety of safety materials to accommodate their requirements are also necessary. IDTechEx's VP of Research, Dr James Edmondson, presented at the Plastics in Electric & Autonomous Vehicles Conference 2025 - SPE Automotive Division on topics including evolving vehicle technology and materials, while Technology Analyst, Mika Takahashi, covered the wider EV sector.

White biotechnology, which uses engineered microbes to produce chemicals, materials, and fuels, is emerging as a key driver of the sustainable bioeconomy by offering lower-carbon alternatives to fossil-based manufacturing. Advances in genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and regulatory support are expanding their applications across industries, though commercial success depends on factors like scalability, process efficiency, and market acceptance of green premiums.

Due to the growing concerns surrounding the health of humans and the environment as a result of PFAS, regulations are being put in place worldwide. While many countries still have no restrictions on PFAS usage, other countries, specifically within the EU, are potentially facing a universal PFAS ban.