Category: Story

NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of Applied Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: APLT) securities between January 3, 2024 and December 2, 2024, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 18, 2025.

So what: If you purchased Applied Therapeutics securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

What to do next: To join the Applied Therapeutics class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=32500 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 18, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs’ Bar. Many of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Details of the case:   According to the lawsuit, statements made during the class period were false and/or materially misleading because they concealed and misrepresented the clinical trial protocols and procedures that Applied Therapeutics had in place. Therefore, defendants provided investors with the false impression that protocol and good clinical practices were being properly followed. The lawsuit alleges that, in truth, Applied Therapeutics was not adhering to trial protocol and good clinical practices which, in turn, created an exceedingly severe risk that the trial data would be rejected by the FDA in the context of a New Drug Application. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Applied Therapeutics class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=32500 call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor’s ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

——————————-

Contact Information:

        Laurence Rosen, Esq.
        Phillip Kim, Esq.
        The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
        275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
        New York, NY 10016
        Tel: (212) 686-1060
        Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
        Fax: (212) 202-3827
        [email protected]
        www.rosenlegal.com

---

Tags

Applied Therapeutics


NASDAQ: APLT


Class Action

SALT LAKE CITY, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the Supreme Court prepares to hear arguments on January 10 regarding TikTok’s future in the United States, TREND emerges as a robust alternative for creators and users seeking platform stability. The Court’s decision to review whether the mandated ban violates First Amendment rights comes as TikTok faces a January 19, 2025 deadline to separate from its Chinese parent company or cease U.S. operations, potentially affecting 170 million U.S. users.

“While the Supreme Court deliberates TikTok’s fate, creators need a reliable platform that prioritizes their success and privacy,” says Joel Otterstrom, TREND’s founder and CEO. With over 25 years of e-commerce expertise, including developing the first Hosted Shopping Cart, Otterstrom has spent three years building TREND as a privacy-focused, creator-first platform.

TREND distinguishes itself through multiple revenue streams for creators, including:

• Industry-leading 46% direct revenue sharing, surpassing competitors
• Integrated e-commerce through individual TREND Shop pages
• Live selling capabilities with real-time audience interaction
• Platform-wide tipping features on all video content
• Brand collaboration tools with performance tracking

The platform’s innovative approach combines elements from Reddit, Instagram, and TikTok, featuring a unique community-driven voting system that democratizes content promotion. A dedicated commercial content feed separate from entertainment ensures creators maintain creative freedom while maximizing monetization opportunities. Unlike TikTok, TREND maintains strict data privacy standards under American ownership, with transparent data handling policies and no foreign government access.

“Creators shouldn’t wait for the Supreme Court’s decision to secure their digital future,” Otterstrom adds. “By joining TREND now, content creators can establish their presence and begin building their audience on a platform that prioritizes both their creative freedom and earning potential.”

TREND is available for download from major app stores and at trend.app.

Media Contact:

Angel Jane
[email protected]
(385) 275-6961
https://www.trend.app/
https://x.com/TrendAppend
https://t.me/trendappend

About TREND:

TREND is a next-generation social media platform combining advanced content discovery, multiple monetization streams, and robust privacy protections. Founded by e-commerce pioneer Joel Otterstrom, TREND provides creators and users with a secure, feature-rich environment for content creation, sharing, and monetization.

---

Tags

social media


tiktok


creator

Related Links

• Download Trend App

Computer Numerical Control programming is at the heart of modern manufacturing providing the precise control necessary for machining tools to produce complex parts efficiently. However, for beginners, CNC programming can often seem complex and daunting, posing a significant barrier to entry. Fortunately, there are specific hacks and strategies that can significantly streamline the programming process, improve accuracy, and enhance overall productivity. By implementing these techniques, even novices can navigate the intricacies of CNC programming with greater ease and confidence. This blog will delve into three essential hacks to help you crack the code when programming a CNC machine. These tips simplify the learning curves, optimize your workflow, and ensure you achieve the highest level of precision in your manufacturing projects.

Hack 1: Optimize Tool Path Strategies

Optimizing tool paths is one of the most crucial aspects of Computer Numerical Control programming. Tool paths determine how the cutting tool moves through the material to achieve the desired shape. Efficient tool path strategies can significantly reduce machining time, minimize tool wear, and improve the final product’s surface finish.

1.1 Use Adaptive Clearing

Adaptive clearing is an advanced tool path strategy that adjusts the feed rate and tool engagement to maintain consistent cutting conditions. Unlike traditional roughing strategies that use a constant feed rate, adaptive clearing dynamically changes the feed rate based on the tool load. This results in faster material removal, reduced tool wear, and improved machine stability.

To implement adaptive clearing, you can use CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software, which supports this feature. Modern CAM software, such as Fusion 360, Mastercam, and SolidCAM, offer adaptive clearing options. By selecting this strategy, you can optimize your roughing operations and achieve better overall performance.

1.2 Minimize Retracts and Air Cuts

Retracts and air cuts are non-productive movements where the tool is not in contact with the material. These movements can significantly increase machining time. To minimize them, carefully analyze the tool path and eliminate unnecessary retracts and air cuts.

Using CAM software to reduce non-productive movements, you can fine-tune the tool path parameters. For example, you can adjust the lead-in and lead-out strategies, optimize the entry and exit points, and use efficient linking moves between tool paths. Minimizing retracts and air cuts can shorten cycle times and enhance productivity.

1.3 Leverage High-Efficiency Milling (HEM)

High-Efficiency Milling (HEM) is a technique that combines high cutting speeds with low radial engagement to achieve higher material removal rates. This approach reduces the cutting forces, heat generation, and tool wear, allowing for faster and more efficient machining.

HEM is particularly effective for machining hard materials and complex geometries. To implement HEM, use CAM software and follow the recommended cutting parameters for your specific material and tool combination. By leveraging HEM, you can save significant time and improve the overall quality of your machined parts.

Hack 2: Master G-Code Customization

G-code is the language used to control CNC machines. While most CAM software generates G-code automatically, understanding how to customize and optimize G-code can give you greater control over the machining process. This also allows for fine-tuning of the Computer Numerical Control programming.

2.1 Use Subprograms and Macros

Subprograms and macros are powerful tools that can simplify complex machining operations and reduce the size of G-code programs. A subprogram is a separate G-code file that can be called from the main program, allowing you to reuse common machining sequences. Conversely, macros are custom commands that perform specific tasks, such as tool changes or coordinate transformations.

By using subprograms and macros, you can modularize your G-code, making it easier to read, edit, and debug. This approach also helps to reduce errors when programming a CNC machine and improve the maintainability of your CNC programs.

2.2 Optimize Feed Rates and Spindle Speeds

Optimizing feed rates and spindle speeds is essential for achieving the best machining performance. While CAM software provides default values, fine-tuning these parameters based on the specific material, tool, and machine capabilities can yield better results.

Consider conducting test cuts and analyzing the results to optimize feed rates and spindle speeds. Use cutting data provided by tool manufacturers as a starting point and adjust the parameters based on the observed performance. Additionally, a feed and speed calculator can help determine the optimal values for different machining conditions.

2.3 Implement Dwell Times and Peck Drilling

Dwell times and peck drilling can improve the accuracy and quality of specific machining operations. Dwell time is a pause in the tool movement to allow for chip evacuation or heat dissipation. At the same time, peck drilling involves intermittent retracts during drilling to clear chips and reduce the risk of tool breakage.

By incorporating dwell times and peck drilling into your G-code programs, you can enhance the performance of drilling, tapping, and other operations that require precise control. This results in better hole quality, longer tool life, and reduced risk of tool damage.

Hack 3: Enhance CNC Programming Verification and Simulation

Verifying and simulating CNC programs before actual machining is crucial to avoid costly mistakes, reduce material waste, and ensure the accuracy of the final product. Modern Computer Numerical Control programming tools offer powerful verification and simulation features to help you identify and resolve potential issues.

3.1 Use Advanced Simulation Software

Advanced simulation software provides a virtual environment to visualize and test CNC programs. These tools can simulate the entire machining process, including tool movements, material removal, and machine dynamics. Using simulation software, you can detect collisions, gouges, and other errors before running the program on the machine.

Popular simulation software options include VERICUT, NCSIMUL, and CAM-specific simulators like those in Mastercam and Fusion 360. By incorporating simulation into your workflow, you can gain confidence in your CNC programs and minimize the risk of costly errors.

3.2 Perform Backplotting and Dry Runs

Backplotting is the process of analyzing the tool path by plotting it in a graphical form. This lets you visually inspect the tool movements and identify potential issues. Most CAM software provides backplotting features that can help you validate the tool path and ensure it follows the intended design.

Dry runs, also known as air cutting, involve running the CNC program without actually cutting the material. This allows you to verify the tool movements, check for collisions, and ensure the program behaves as expected. By performing backplotting and dry runs, you can catch errors early and make necessary adjustments before machining the actual part.

3.3 Utilize Machine-Specific Post-Processors

Post-processors are software components that translate the generic tool paths generated by CAM software into machine-specific G-code. Using the correct post-processor for your CNC machine is essential to ensure that the G-code is compatible with the machine’s controller and capabilities.

If the default post-processor does not meet your requirements, you can customize or create a new post-processor. Ensuring the G-code output is optimized, reduces the risk of errors and improves the efficiency of programming a CNC machine.

Summary

Mastering Computer Numerical Control programming requires technical knowledge, practical experience, and the right tools. By optimizing tool path strategies, mastering G-code customization, and enhancing program verification and simulation, you can significantly improve your operations.

Implementing these hacks will streamline your programming workflow. Additionally, it can help you achieve higher-quality machined parts with fewer errors and reduced cycle times. As you continue to develop your skills and explore advanced techniques, you will be well-equipped to tackle even the most complex CNC programming challenges.

Remember to:

Optimize Tool Path Strategies: Employing effective tool path strategies, such as adaptive clearing and high-efficiency milling (HEM), along with minimizing retracts and air cuts, can significantly enhance CNC machining efficiency and precision. These strategies work by reducing overall machining time and minimizing non-cutting movements, leading to smoother and more accurate operations.

Master G-Code Customization: Customizing G-code is crucial for optimizing CNC machining processes. This involves using subprograms and macros, and adjusting feed rates, spindle speeds, dwell times, and peck drilling cycles. These customizations not only simplify operations but also reduce programming time and improve hole quality and precision, resulting in more efficient machining.

Enhance CNC Program Verification and Simulation: Utilizing advanced simulation software, backplotting, and conducting dry runs are essential steps to ensure CNC program accuracy. These practices help prevent costly errors and enhance the reliability of the machining process. Additionally, using machine-specific post-processors tailors the code to your CNC machine, further improving its reliability and performance.

Choose the Right CNC Machine: Opting for a DATRON CNC machine can greatly simplify programming and operation. Its intuitive software interface, known as next Control, along with advanced features, makes the machine user-friendly. The integrated CAM system, user-friendly controls, and pre-set tools facilitate easy operation for beginners, leading to faster setup times, fewer errors, and increased productivity.

By integrating these hacks while programming a CNC machine, you can unlock new levels of efficiency and precision, ultimately leading to better outcomes in your manufacturing projects.

Contact DATRON Dynamics today to learn more about how our CNC machines can simplify your CNC programming process! Our expert team is ready to support your machining goals and bring your manufacturing to the next level of possibilities!

NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C., a nationally recognized stockholder rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Humacyte, Inc. (“Humacyte” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: HUMA) in the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina on behalf of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired Humacyte securities between May 10, 2024 and October 17, 2024, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). Investors have until January 17, 2025 to apply to the Court to be appointed as lead plaintiff in the lawsuit.

Click here to participate in the action.

The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, the Complaint alleges that Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that the Company’s Durham, North Carolina facility failed to comply with good manufacturing practices, including quality assurance and microbial testing; (2) that the FDA’s review of the BLA would be delayed while Humacyte remediated these deficiencies; and (3) that, as a result, there was a substantial risk to FDA approval of ATEV for vascular trauma; and (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants’ positive statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

If you purchased or otherwise acquired Humacyte shares and suffered a loss, are a long-term stockholder, have information, would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Brandon Walker or Marion Passmore by email at [email protected], telephone at (212) 355-4648, or by filling out this contact form. There is no cost or obligation to you.

About Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C.:

Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is a nationally recognized law firm with offices in New York, California, and South Carolina. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in commercial, securities, derivative, and other complex litigation in state and federal courts across the country. For more information about the firm, please visit www.bespc.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

Contact Information:

Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C.
Brandon Walker, Esq.
Marion Passmore, Esq.
(212) 355-4648
[email protected]
www.bespc.com

---

Tags

Humacyte


HUMA


class action


complaint


Brandon Walker


J. Brandon Walker


Bragar Eagel & Squire


lawyer


lawsuit


investor


securities


Class Action

What is PVC tarpaulin? A tarpaulin (otherwise called quilted tarpaulins) is a waterproofing, protective, and fire retardant garment that has several uses. Some are used for housekeeping and some are for emergencies, it depends on the type of material and the design. PVC tarp have many uses and this article will give you an idea about their most common uses.

· Visit website: https://jumtarps.com

 

What is PVC tarpaulins made of? PVC tarp are made of various types of plastic film, including polyester canvas, fibreglass, nylon, and vinyl. PVC can be coated with many types of fabrics like nylon or cotton for aesthetic and weather protection. PVC fabric is resistant to mildew and it is almost impossible to puncture it. Due to these properties, PVC is highly versatile and used in many different applications, from protecting homes to protecting businesses.

 

PVC Tarp: The Best Buy PVC Tarpaulin

 

What makes a good PVC tarpaulin? The fabric used in making this garment must have excellent strength and durability, and also it should feel sturdy and comfortable to the touch and the wearer must be able to easily stretch and bend the fabric with his hands. The design of the tarpaulin should allow free movement of air within the enclosed area, without any gaps at all.

 

Why should you buy PVC tarpaulins rather than canvas or tarps? First of all, they are much more affordable and don't tear as easily as fabric and mesh tarps do. If you have a project where you need to cover a lot of ground, then it's better to use tarpaulins. They are very lightweight and easy to carry in construction or gardening projects because they're often made of one piece. This makes them easy to transport even when one person is carrying them.

 

As far as materials go, polyester is probably the most commonly used in making PVC tarpaulins, although other types of fabric and coated canvas are also used. The reason why polyester is favoured over other materials is that it's both lightweight and highly waterproof. It also has excellent breathability, so it's very comfortable to wear. Another reason polyester is preferred over other materials is because it's both durable and long-lasting.

 

Canvas and tarps are heavy and bulky, so you have to weigh them first before you decide which one to buy. Both canvas and tarps are widely used as tarps, but there are differences between the way they're constructed. For instance, the woven canvas is heavier and is more tightly woven than polyester, which makes it weaker and less resilient. You can even get thick canvas and tarps that are stronger than polyester.

 

Your choice of materials is also important when buying a new PVC tarpaulin. You might prefer a certain type of fabric because it is lighter and more moisture resistant. However, another advantage of the woven type is that it's more fire retardant. Woven cotton is also great because it doesn't collect moisture like polyester, which makes it ideal for camping. Finally, if you don't want your tarp to rust, you can choose iron tarpaulins, which are highly water repellent and rustproof.

 

A key consideration when choosing a tarp is whether it is suitable for use in damp weather. For example, fabric coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) has excellent water resistance, while polyester has poor water resistance. It's important to check the material you're going to purchase for its water resistance first, before moving on to other aspects of the tarp. Also, don't buy PVC tarpaulins that have double stitches, as this will only provide minimal protection and will be unable to handle heavier snow and ice. When shopping for a new tarp, look for a product with all the qualities you need for your application, and don't skimp on protection.

The chemical company BASF is suffering from rising energy prices and cost pressures. Some plants have already been closed, and more could follow at its largest site. In addition, management is planning to spin off individual divisions.

The chemical company BASF does not rule out the possibility of shutting down additional plants at its main site in Ludwigshafen but will continue to rely on its home base on the Rhine. “Further measures to adjust plants are currently being reviewed and will be implemented step by step as necessary,” said site manager Katja Scharpwinkel, without providing details. The majority of the plants are competitive in their respective markets. “However, our results also show that some plants and production lines are no longer generating sufficient returns due to a lack of competitiveness or structural underutilization.”

Some measures have already been implemented, such as the closure of the plants for adipic acid, cyclododecanone (CDon), and cyclopentanone (CPon), which were announced at the end of August. The goal for Ludwigshafen is to be “a leading, sustainable chemical site for Europe and a strong pillar for BASF’s success.”

Comprehensive Measures Package

In addition, the group will adjust its structures outside production in Ludwigshafen and significantly reduce costs through a comprehensive package of measures, Scharpwinkel emphasized. As previously announced, BASF aims for ongoing total savings of around 2.1 billion euros annually by the end of 2026. “The Ludwigshafen site will be leaner but stronger. It will have a better competitive position in the European market and will be able to operate successfully in the medium and long term.”

BASF Plans to List Its Agricultural Division

The world’s largest chemical company plans to list its agricultural division on the stock market. This was announced by CEO Markus Kamieth during the presentation of the new strategy of the DAX-listed group in Ludwigshafen. By 2027, the business will be spun off into separate entities. Subsequently, conditions will be created to bring a minority stake in the division to the stock market in the medium term.

In the coming years, the chemical company will focus on strengthening its core businesses and growing profitably, Kamieth explained. Through corporate restructuring, cost-saving measures, and lower investments, operating profit is expected to rise significantly in the medium term. Adjusted for special effects, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) should range between 10 and 12 billion euros by 2028. In 2023, BASF earned just under 7.7 billion euros operationally, a decrease of nearly 29 percent compared to the previous year.

However, BASF may not be able to pay as much dividend as in recent years. The direct profit share is expected to remain at a minimum of 2.25 euros per share in the coming years, the DAX company announced. For 2023, BASF paid 3.40 euros per share. The annual dividend total will be around two billion euros in the coming years, it added. Between 2025 and 2028, a total of around eight billion euros is expected to be distributed. This will be complemented by share buybacks, which are expected to be pursued by 2027, amounting to about four billion euros.

Minister Schmitt: “Industrial Deal” at the European Level

Rhineland-Palatinate’s Minister of Economic Affairs Daniela Schmitt said that the current developments at BASF show how challenging the economic situation in Germany is. “It is very clear: Any additional burden on our economy is one too many. We need to reduce and simplify regulations. This applies to all political levels – EU, federal, and state,” the FDP politician told the German Press Agency. “Alongside a commitment that we also want to be a strong industrial location in the future, we urgently need an ‘Industrial Deal’ at the European level.”

Everything that now further burdens the economy, reduces value creation, and destroys secure, good jobs must be stopped, Schmitt stressed. “Especially now, the breadth and depth of industrial value creation at the location Germany must be secured overall.” The consequences of federal energy policies, “which unfortunately have been oriented for far too long without a medium- and long-term strategy,” are now being felt. “Germany needs a reliable and affordable perspective for energy-intensive companies.”

Works Council and Union: Strong Criticism of BASF Management

The exclusion of redundancies at BASF’s Ludwigshafen headquarters must be extended until 2030, demands the works council. The management’s course is causing great concern. The chemical union IG BCE and BASF’s works council have sharply criticized the new strategy of the Ludwigshafen-based chemical giant. The DAX company’s management is primarily concerned with saving costs. That alone is not enough as a concept for a successful future and the protection of the sites. The focus must be on investing proactively to advance the modernization of European sites.

“Due to the many cost-saving programs, BASF employees feel powerless. For them, it is a time of great uncertainty,” said BASF works council chairman Sinischa Horvat. The planned restructuring does not help. The works council is now focusing on negotiations to extend the site agreement at the Ludwigshafen headquarters. This agreement currently excludes redundancies until the end of 2025. The exclusion of redundancies must be extended until 2030, Horvat demanded.

Roland Strasser, head of the Rhineland-Palatinate/Saarland district of the Mining, Chemical, and Energy Union (IGBCE), said the employees “of the most important and largest” company in Rhineland-Palatinate are not only concerned about their own future. “They are also asking: What will happen to the region? What are the implications of these decisions for the entire value chain? And: Is BASF evolving into a management holding company?” Strasser emphasized: “Instead of constant spinoffs, cost-saving programs, and new strategic realignments, the company needs a bold, determined plan for the future of sustainable chemical production.”

Companies: Processes Made More Efficient

The Federation of Entrepreneurs’ Associations (LVU) expressed concern about jobs at the entire industrial site of Rhineland-Palatinate. “Acute measures, particularly lowering energy prices, are urgently needed,” said LVU Managing Director Karsten Tacke in Mainz. As an above-average energy-intensive industrial location, Rhineland-Palatinate is still far from being competitive again. “In addition, it is high time that the long-standing promises of cutting red tape are finally followed by action.”

Tacke emphasized that the attractiveness of Rhineland-Palatinate as a location would only increase if companies are quickly “freed from the many unnecessary reporting and documentation obligations.” Furthermore, the overall number of regulations and prohibitions should be permanently reduced, and all political levels must seriously ensure that their own administrative procedures and processes are made more efficient.

Source: dpa

There is currently much discussion about the use of raw materials containing PFAS in coating systems and their possible alternatives. Byk has now made a decision: no more PFAS-containing materials in its product portfolio until the end of 2025. We talked to Dr Stefan Mößmer, Managing Director of Byk Marketing & Commercial. Interview by Dr Katrin Vogt.

You are taking a big step by switching to a PFAS-free product portfolio by the end of 2025. What were your reasons for going completely PFAS-free?

Dr Stefan Mößmer: This contributes to our overarching sustainability strategy of proactively replacing harmful chemicals with more environmentally friendly and ideally renewable product technologies. We at Byk are aware of our obligation to offer a large proportion of our new developments with sustainable additives in the future. With a clear cut, which we communicate transparently and at an early stage, we not only show that we are innovation leaders, but also want to make it easy for our customers to phase out PFAS-containing products in good time by offering differentiated alternatives and showing new, sustainable and more environmentally friendly ways of formulating them.

The requirements for alternative materials are high. What are your current challenges in developing these alternatives?

Mößmer: Our broad technology platform in our Research & Development division allows us to develop more environmentally friendly additives with alternative, fluorine-free building blocks and offer them to our customers, which achieve a similar spectrum of effectiveness in many applications. Our end-use colleagues are working closely with our customers on PFAS-free, future-orientated formulations. We benefit from the fact that Byk prioritised considerable research efforts early on to replace perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl-containing products with more environmentally friendly alternatives.

Are you interested in this topic, want to find out more and exchange ideas? Then join us at the EC Conference Understanding PFAS and Reformulating PFAS-free Coatings on 18 – 19 Nov 2024 in Cologne, Germany.

How do you see the future of PFAS materials? Will the coatings industry be able to completely dispense with PFAS in the near future?

Mößmer: I believe that the coatings world will switch completely to PFAS-free materials in the not too distant future. We at Byk are actively accompanying this process and supporting the switch to alternative, effective and therefore (more) sustainable product solutions. As with many developments and trends, our partners participate by switching their formulations at an early stage. In addition, adapted PFAS-free products and in some cases new developments are not only more ecological, but also more effective alternatives.

Researchers have developed a coating that provides cotton fabrics with stretchable, transparent superhydrophobic properties, enhancing both mechanical and chemical stability for underwater insulation applications.

Achieving both stretchability and excellent transparency of superhydrophobic surfaces simultaneously is a major challenge. The researchers utilized three acrylic monomers 1H,1H,2H,2H-heptadecafluorodecyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate to polymerize flexible, transparent, low surface energy random copolymers (PHMK) as the coating. The coating has excellent transparency (90.2 %) and the coated elastic cotton fabric exhibits superhydrophobicity (WCA = 160°) even at the tensile strain of 0–300 %. The water droplets on the surface can bounce repeatedly in a stretched state.

---

Event Tip: Fundamentals of Functional Coatings

Dive into the world of functional coatings designed to offer specialized properties such as anti-fouling, anti-ice, easy-to-clean, and drag reduction. This tutorial will cover fundamental principles, materials selection, surface modification techniques, and case studies across different applications. Join us online on 03 Oct 2024 for the EC Short Course “Fundamentals of Functional Coatings” and explore how these coatings are transforming industries worldwide.

---

The coating has excellent chemical and mechanical stability and maintains superhydrophobicity under various treatments such as in various organic solvents and HCl (pH = 1) immersion, 20 washing cycles, the Martindale abrasion test 1000 times, and the tape peeling test 600 times. In addition, the coated cotton fabric also has excellent underwater thermal insulation performance, which has great potential application in fields such as life jackets. 

Source: Progress in Organic Coatings, Volume 185, December 2023, 107890