ARTICLES
- Emergence of lightweight and heat-resistant composites, increased use of fiber reinforced composites and evolution of novel materials are the factors contributing to the growth of the global medical composite materials market. Polymer matrix composites- viz: reinforced plastics and advanced composites, are used in the manufacture of medical prostheses and implants, surgical instruments, orthopaedic products and biocompatible implants. Information on biodegradable high-strength composites that could potentially replace metal in implants is also shared. To know about the developments in this sector, innovative technologies, high growth applications, growing regions, etc, read Developments in polymer composites to create opportunities for global medical composite market
- Antimicrobial coatings are used to protect surfaces from microorganisms including parasites, bacteria, germs and fungi, with applications that cover both human and surfaces. Growing demand for coatings in healthcare and medical device applications is expected to drive demand. Use of smart antimicrobials in non-healthcare settings will continue to grow in the future. Silver-based smart antimicrobials are the most popular selection and will continue to rise in popularity. However, health concerns regarding the use of silver in antimicrobial coatings coupled with high degree of regulatory intervention is expected to a key challenge for market growth. To know more about the major applications, regions with huge untapped potential, the dominating types, the largest growth region, market trends, challenges, etc, read
Smart antimicrobials market dominated by silver-based materials, to see robust growth until decade end
- The shelf life of pasteurized milk has increased from 7 days to 15 days with an innovative packaging solution achieved by incorporating silver-based nanoparticles with bactericidal, antimicrobial and self-sterilizing properties into the rigid plastic bottles used as packaging for the milk. A packaging material that consists at least 75% of raw materials from bioplastics – PLA, PVOH and adhesives, and a wax coating produced from olive leaves, leads to a significant increase in shelf life for fresh pasta and cheese. The packaging is easy to recycle, presents excellent mechanical properties, is biodegradable and protects its content from oxygen and humidity, thereby preventing the development of bacteria and fungi. Read more in Shelf life of pasta, cheese and milk increases with innovative plastic packaging
- Increased usage of plastic packaging films has led to ecological problems, and an increasing number of consumers are demanding that food-packaging materials be made of bio-based materials that are biodegradable and recyclable. Innovative food-grade packaging materials and/or technologies are being developed to meet these new trends. The incorporation and slow release of antimicrobial agents in packaging materials may provide a means of extending the bacterial lag phase, reducing microorganism growth rate and extending the shelf life of foods. Another innovation is a packaging made by enclosing food and liquid in an edible membrane. This membrane, which is comprised of a charged polymer and food particles, is in turn protected by a hard shell which can be broken away like an egg shell. Read more in Edible polymer film for meat packaging,deliciously edible food and beverage packaging
- An innovative film from bioplastics could eventually lead to their use in medical applications such as wound healing dressings, sutures, catheter tubes and drug delivery, as well as food packaging. A protein found in egg whites, demonstrated tremendous antibacterial properties when blended with a traditional plasticizer such as glycerol. Read more in Bioplastics made from egg whites show antibacterial properties when blended with traditional plasticizer
