circular economy

Commercially available poly(lactic acid) exhibits poor hydrolytic stability, which makes it impossible for use in durable applications. Therefore, a novel hydrolysis inhibitor based on an aziridine derivative as well as a novel stabilizer composition, containing an aziridine derivative and an acid scavenger, were investigated to improve the hydrolytic stability. To evaluate the stabilizing effect, the melt volume rate (MVR) and molecular weight were monitored during an accelerated hydrolytic aging in water at elevated temperatures.

In this report, the role various harmful chemicals have in the production of textiles and apparel are evaluated and five key Innovation Areas are identified. There are insights to accelerate the adoption of new safer technologies, and the work of over a hundred young innovative companies are highlighted.

The transition toward a circular bioeconomy demands innovative, sustainable, and efficient technologies for biomass valorization and pulping. Green chemistry strategies, particularly organosolvent pulping pretreatment, are emerging as pivotal solutions to unlock the full potential of lignocellulosic feedstocks. Organosolvent processes employ environmentally benign solvents to selectively fractionate biomass components, enabling the recovery of high-purity cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin with minimal environmental footprint.

This study presents a green and sustainable method for recovering high-purity silica from solid silicone by-products derived from industrial silicone oil manufacturing through alkali-assisted sol–gel synthesis, with and without thermal treatment. Sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate were used to evaluate the effects of alkali type, concentration, and calcination at 800 °C on silica yield, structure, and performance.

The document, developed by the African Circular Economy Network (ACEN), outlines South Africa’s strategic approach to transitioning towards a circular economy, emphasizing the importance of responsible and inclusive practices through initiatives like the JUST2CE project. It highlights the need for collaboration and innovative business models to enhance sustainability and resource efficiency across various sectors, ultimately fostering economic growth and social equity.