A study published in the Journal of Fluorine Chemistry highlights the distinct properties of perfluoropolyethers, a type of fluoropolymer, and argues that they should not be regulated under the same class as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. In this blog post, the American Chemistry Council explores the findings of the study, with an emphasis on how this type of research reinforces the need for science-based regulations. "We urge policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders to embrace a science-based approach that recognizes the clear distinctions among different types of PFAS," writes the ACC.

California lawmakers have passed SB 682, a bill that will ban the distribution or sale of food packaging containing intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl by 2028. The bill, which is headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom for review, expands on AB 1200 and includes additional restrictions for consumer products. The American Chemistry Council and many other industry groups have opposed the measure.

The Panama Canal Authority has announced significant infrastructure projects to address future droughts after a historic drought reduced vessel transits and imposed weight restrictions in recent years. Plans include a land bridge and natural gas pipeline to transport liquefied petroleum gas and other products without relying on the canal, as well as a dam to supplement Lake Gatun's water supply. The projects aim to ensure the canal's reliability and are crucial for US trade.

Import cargo volume at major US ports is expected to decline for the rest of the year after a near-record peak this summer, according to the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. The Global Port Tracker report cites the impact of tariffs, with retailers stocking up before increases. The report forecasts a 3.4% decrease in import cargo volume for the year.

Dow has introduced Dowsil EG-4175 Silicone Gel, a material for higher-voltage applications in solar inverters, wind turbines and electric vehicle batteries. The gel can withstand temperatures up to 180°C and features self-healing properties, vibration absorption and self-priming adhesion. "With its higher-temperature resistance compared to incumbent materials, this new silicone gel will enable our customers to design and manufacture higher-density IGBT modules with greater power system efficiency," said Dow's Cathy Chu.

Engineers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University have developed a strain of engineered Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria that causes microplastic particles to fluoresce green, making them easier to detect in water. This method offers a faster, more affordable alternative to traditional techniques such as Raman spectroscopy. "By acting as a rapid screening tool, it could transform large-scale monitoring efforts and help pinpoint pollution hotspots for more detailed analysis," says professor Song Lin Chua.

Your introverted team members have some great ideas, but their reflective nature means they stay silent during rapid-fire meetings, says executive coach Joel Garfinkle in this video. Garfinkle recommends coaching these workers on the importance of speaking up, not just for the company, but for their own career growth. "The message to introverted employees must be clear and direct: 'When you have a seat at the table, use it,'" Garfinkle writes.