Latest polymer technologies for packaging
Visitors to NPE2012 will discover the newest polymer technologies for packaging according to organiser The Plastics Industry Trade Association. In many cases, visitors from the packaging industry will be able to observe commercial-scale production of film, thermoformed sheet, bottles and containers. NPE2012 will take place 1-5 April 2012 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, US after 40 years in Chicago.
The improved economies and logistics of this new venue have encouraged many exhibitors to bring more machinery to the show, much of it to be operated on-site, according to event chairman John Effmann of ENTEK Manufacturing: “Polymer technologies for the packaging and web converting industries will be everywhere at NPE2012. Packaging is the largest single resin user worldwide and the fastest-growing sector of the plastics industry in developing countries. In the US one-third of all resin shipped each year is used for flexible packaging, bottles, cosmetic jars, shrink wrap, dairy tubs, egg cartons etc.”
Since most of the 2000 exhibiting companies include either packaging producers or web converters among their clientele, the trade show portion of NPE2012 will present these professionals with new equipment, materials, software, and services. Highlights of specific interest to packaging professionals will include:
– Bioplastics and sustainability will be prominent themes throughout, embracing not just a special multi-exhibitor Emerging Technologies Pavilion but also developments highlighted on the show floor and in many conferences including three SPI Business of Plastics sessions .
– The 2nd International Plastics Design Competition. Open to entrants from around the world, categories include packaging and sustainability. Entries may be submitted online.