Plastics

Despite six rounds of negotiations to establish a global plastics treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution, talks reached a stalemate last month. This highlights the urgent need for the development of efficient microplastic capture technologies to tackle microplastic pollution. IDTechEx looks at the emerging technologies to capture and filter microplastics, covering physical, chemical, and biological processes, and the players at the forefront of developing these solutions.

This new report, "Thermal Management For Data Centers 2026-2036: Technologies, Markets, and Opportunities", covers in-depth technical analysis of different cooling technologies for data centers, including air cooling, single-phase direct-to-chip cooling, two-phase direct-to-chip cooling, single-phase immersion, two-phase immersion, and microfluidic cooling.

Thin film solar cells could be the answer to changing up the photovoltaic market, providing an alternative means of harnessing solar power to the long incumbent heavy and rigid silicon panels. This article covers materials, benefits, and expected growth within the market.

In-mold electronics (IME) can allow for surfaces or 3D structures to become functional, with embedded electrical components, to streamline and increase performance capabilities. This article covers some of the main benefits to developments within IME, along with some of the main applications and market forecasts.

Webinar: Growing Scrutiny on Microplastics and Evolving Regulations Presenter: Dr Shababa Selim, Senior Technology Analyst, IDTechEx Date: Thursday 18 September 2025

IDTechEx's new report "Biomanufacturing Specialty Chemicals 2026-2036" examines the role of white biotechnology in producing specialty chemicals, focusing on food additives, cosmetic and personal care ingredients, pigments, and enzymes.

The breakdown of plastics treaty negotiations in Geneva today marks a significant blow to both global environmental governance and the plastics sector. IDTechEx Technology Analyst James Kennedy has made the following comment.

Natural chemicals, machine learning that can advance enzyme engineering, and bioplastic food containers are just some of the benefits of sustainable chemical technology. This article covers some of the sustainable technologies of the future, explored in IDTechEx's research.

Microplastics have emerged as a major environmental concern, prompting growing public awareness and increasing regulatory pressure. In response, industries are turning to innovative technologies and sustainable alternatives. IDTechEx explores global regulations and cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of this rapidly evolving space.

As the microplastics regulatory landscape develops, industries and decision-makers require accurate, forward-looking insights to stay competitive. IDTechEx's dedicated report "Microplastics 2025: Regulations, Technologies, and Alternatives" offers comprehensive analysis of current trends, the shifting regulatory landscape, and emerging technologies tackling microplastic filtration and capture. The report also evaluates promising material alternatives and delivers critical insights into market trends, ongoing challenges, and the future outlook for stakeholders navigating this emerging field.