The UK economy is said to have clawed its way out of its deepest recession since the 1930s, but are we out of the woods yet? Gary Price and Rachel Connolly talk to representatives from various technical communities about the difficult financial year that has passed and what may lie ahead.
Materials Congress 2010 – Materials for Extreme Environments and
Times is inviting papers until 31 March. To be held from 20-23
September in Kuala Lumpur, the technical programme will explore materials and processes that can meet industry and society demand.
The December special issue of Plastics, Rubber and Composites: Macromolecular Engineering contains 14 contributions reporting the latest research in the manufacturing, design and recycling of advanced polymer matrix composites.
A novel bi-component fibre using two different polymers may pave the way for a concrete that has the required impact resistance and flexural strength but without the need for steel fibre reinforcement. The technology is said to overcome the previous challenges of producing high performance concrete using polymeric fibres.
Adhesives and sealant manufacturers are overcoming the challenges posed by environmentally stringent legislation with new formulations and products. Rachel Connolly investigates
The recently published 2009:8 issue of the journal Plastics, Rubber and Composites: Macromolecular Engineering (PRC:ME) focuses on the time dependent behaviour of rubber. Guest edited by Dr James Busfield and Dr Martin Burke, the issue presents a selection of papers based on presentations at the meeting on this topic organised by the Rubber in Engineering Group of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining in October 2008.
A direct compounding process that makes the production of high volume and complex thermoset-based composite parts production easier may soon be available.
Water-efficient technology has vast potential and the associated tax relief can help manufacturers boost their bottom line. Water specialist Claire Sweeney, at UK sustainable business programme Envirowise, reports
The UK Carbon Reduction Commitment kicks in from April 2010. Alessandra McConville, Environmental Programmes Leader at EEF, the manufacturer’s organisation, provides guidance on the process of compliance.
