The interest in the plastics industry is expanding day by day. Yet, what does the plastics business looks like in recent years, and how can plastics companies get ready for the ever-evolving trends? Also with the rising popularity of entrepreneurship, many people are growing interested in starting a plastics business. Here at Intrepid Sourcing, we’ve taken a deep look at what the plastics manufacturing industry has in store, thus the compilation of popular FAQs in the plastic manufacturing sector.
Check out this article to learn more about the plastic industry trends and the popular questions surrounding plastic manufacturing.
What is the Current Plastics Industry Focus?
From 2020 to 2021, there is not much change in the focus of the industry. What we are seeing is a more notable highlight on biodegradable and sustainable plastics. Coming up next is a breakdown of the plastic industry trends in 2020 and 2021.
Plastic Manufacturing Sector Trends in 2020
In 2020, the production and demand for plastic manufacturing changed significantly. Some trends include:
- Production of biodegradable plastics increased. Today, most biodegradable plastics are produced using plant-based materials that are considered to easily decay when discarded. The market for biodegradable plastics is assessed to extend to around $12.4 billion by 2027. Marketing efforts in 2020 continue to bring awareness to the increasing benefits of biodegradable plastics, making more and more businesses to go green.
- Increased demand for reinforced plastics. In 2020, reinforced plastics remained a reliable alternative to metals due to its lightweightness and durability. As a result, they are becoming popular in the medical, construction, and military industries.
- Higher utilization of 3D printing (3DP) for creation productivity. The 3DP market proceeded with a quick development, especially for equipment producers and plastics prototype manufacturing. The market is divided into three main materials classifications: polymers (the biggest in 2020), metals (to lead in the gauge time frame), and pottery.
- The rise of Industry 4.0. Also recognized as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, 2019 saw the rise of keen innovation that allowed makers to use more self-governing machines, increase efficiency, and cut expenses. Designers can work on 3D models seamlessly in visual conditions, which means designers can create better plastic designs. These new “brilliant processing plants” help reduce mistake rates and dangers.
Plastic Manufacturing Sector Trends in 2021
2021 seeks to continue the trend of 2020 and take it to the next level with increased production efforts and awareness programs. This year, we are looking at:
- Increase in the production of recyclable products. This year we see an increase in the use of recyclable products to fuel growth.
- Rise of plastic use awareness. More and more countries are running awareness programs about the environmental impacts of plastic use.
- Increased use of plastic packaging. Producers are inclining toward cutting-edge plastic bundling to increase quality and reduce pollution.
What Enhancements in the Plastic Manufacturing Sector are We Focusing on?
In 2020 and the past, packaging production keeps on being the business leader. But we are also seeing bioplastics becoming more and more popular. We have also noticed the increasing demand for plastics in the food and beverage and healthcare industries.
What is the Significance of Bulletproof Acrylic Today?
Acrylic is one of the most recognized impenetrable plastic materials in 2020. Impenetrable acrylic sheet is regularly used in conditions where gunshots can break windows of homes, buildings, and vehicles. This material can take up to three rounds of 9mm shots and when discharged, will dissolve power equally across the whole windowpane. Bulletproof acrylic sheet is lightweight, durable, and crystal clear. Plus, it’s cheaper to produce, buy, and ship, which makes it a better alternative to bulletproof glass.
What are the Natural Effects of Landfills?
One alternative to handling plastic waste is to send it to a landfill. The modern definition of landfill is a disposal site for waste through burial, which usually happens today in developed countries where landfills are well-managed and effectively regulated. However, in many countries landfill sites are still poorly managed; In many cases, it is dumped in open landfills, pits, or dumps. Such facilities can pollute the environment and the ocean.
Therefore, there are expectations to collect and safely store waste in well-managed landfills. By large, this includes burying soil or different materials. However, such landfills still have negative ecological effects.
Which Role Does Plastic Play in a Pandemic?
The plastics industry is critical in the fight against COVID-19 and other diseases. Truth be told, the worldwide clinical plastics market is expected to develop from $25.1B in 2020 to $29.1B by 2021. This is clearly shown in the plastic clinical supplies and food bundling sectors. At present, there is a huge interest in crude plastic materials for use in assembling Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which includes single-use suits, gloves, and face shields, and mask.
