Kingsport, TN (December 8, 2009) As retailers seek ways to reduce the energy used and waste produced across the supply chain, Eastman highlights techniques for sustainable fabrication of point-of-purchase displays and in-store fixtures manufactured with Eastman Spectar" copolyester.
During the extrusion process, Eastman Spectar" copolyester uses 3.5 times less energy than acrylic (PMMA). Eastman Spectar" copolyester is manufactured without bisphenol-A (BPA), halogen, lead and mercury. Combining these inherent attributes with sustainable extrusion and fabrication processes further decreases the environmental footprint of displays manufactured using Eastman Spectar" copolyester.
Eastman, which consults with distributors, extruders and fabricators of PETG copolyesters, offers the following techniques to enhance the eco-profile of point-of-purchase displays and in-store fixtures manufactured with Eastman Spectar" copolyester:
- Downgauging Eastman Spectar" copolyesters
toughness translates into material savings by enabling it to be
downgauged up to 20 percent compared to acrylic without sacrificing
durability.
- Thermoforming The design flexibility of
Eastman Spectar" copolyester allows retailers to create intricate
shapes for fixtures and displays, especially when the material is
thermoformed. This process contributes to an energy savings
of up to 20 percent in comparison to acrylic and
polycarbonate.
- Re-Grinding Reintroducing re-ground Eastman Spectar" copolyester trim scrap into a virgin stream results in material savings without sacrificing the materials inherent physical and visual properties. Knowing the recycle source (post-industrial or post-consumer) is advised. Work with a trusted partner to obtain contaminate-free, recycled PETG copolyester to ensure retention of physical properties and visual aesthetics.
Many retailers overlook the importance of material selection when designing point-of-purchase displays and in-store fixtures, says Ken Lilly, Technical Associate at Eastman Chemical Company. We work closely with our customers to help them save both time and energy by enhancing their production efficiencies, and ultimately, that translates into more sustainable end products for retailers.
For more information on sustainable fabrication techniques, visit www.eastman.com/spectar.