About Duan

Duan Hao, Master's Degree and major in Materials Science, now service as Director of R&D Market Development in Fine-blend polymer. He has a strong multidisciplinary background in polymer physics, chemistry and process engineering. He has worked in fine-blend polymer for more than 15 years, focusing on the research and development of functional polymer materials by reactive extrusion and polymerization, and their applications.

 

About Fine-Blend Polymer

Fine-blend® was established in 1996 as a manufacturer and supplier of additives for high performance functional polymers. We have focused on this area to provide valuable solutions and options for our customers. Our mission is "better for the earth, better for children" and we aim to develop high performance functional polymers with sustainability in mind.

 

How can additive technologies improve the quality of recycled plastics?

The main problem in recycling polymeric materials is the degradation caused by ageing during the recycling process and the introduction of other impurities during the recycling process, all of which damaged the properties of the material. Thus, the development of additive technology to repair properties is key to making recycled materials widely available. For materials degraded during the recycling, such as polyester and nylon, we can repair their molecular weights and molecular chains with chain extenders to meet the requirements of recycled materials. For other materials mixed impurity in the recycling process, we can use compatibilizers to improve their morphology and enhance the mechanical properties of the recycled materials. In this way, recycled polymers can meet the requirements of compounding in the same way as virgin materials.

Why is it important for plastics producers to move away from PFAS?

This is mainly from the point of view of harm to the human body and sustainable development considerations. Although it cannot be completely replaced in terms of function at the moment, we can fulfil most of the functions. It is essential for us to collaborate and work towards this cause!

 

Besides developing additives to improve recyclate quality, what other technologies, practices, or techniques are you using to advance sustainability and environmental protection?

In addition to developing additives to improve the quality of recyclates, we are focusing on biodegradable materials to improve their mechanical properties, which can replace traditional petroleum-based polymers. In addition, in developing new products, we are focusing on functional replacements for substances that are currently hazardous to the human body or the environment, such as PFAS. We are also focusing on improving the stability of modified polymers to increase their reusability and reduce recycling.

What can visitors expect to learn from your exhibition stand?

We will be showcasing our products in recycled, biodegradable and sustainable application with detailed technical and application information. For some products and application we will also be happy to share some of our detailed case studies.

 

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Duan Hao will be speaking on Day 1 at the Plastics Recycling World Expo Theatre.