POLYMERS Communique - 6.4 Apr - May 2020

A CUSTAGE I N I T I A T I V E April - May 2020 l Issue 6.4 l ` 150

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POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

CONTENTS

Apr - May 2020 l Issue 6.4

Business Beyond COVID-19

Alicia Cloeren, Director, Cloeren Incorporated, USA

Kudos to the plastics industry for playing such a pivotal role

Shailesh Sheth, Corporate Strategy Advisor, Management & Manufacturing Technology, Mumbai

in the fight against COVID-19. POLYMERS Communiqué (PC)

is proud to be a part of this industry. We, at PC, launched a campaign #Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics as its own initiative to spread knowledge when the industry really needs

it...that is now...amongst the prevailing ruin. The campaign is

live on all PC digital platforms as well. The team at PC got

together to bring out this issue, and put up yet another

compilation of content that fulfills industry needs in a

32

Kailas P., Vice Chairman & Managing Director (Executive

Dr. S. Sivaram, Former Director, CSIR-NCL, Honorary Professor and INSA Senior Scientist, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune

M. P. Taparia, Managing Director,

Shirish V. Divgi, Managing Director,

Josef Hochreiter, CEO,

Satish Godase, International Business, Board Director,

Y. R. Anand, Director, Unimark, Mumbai

Milacron India, Plastics Machinery Asia, Ahmedabad

Vivek Chaand Sehgal, Chairman,

Samvardhana Motherson Group, Noida

Vijay Merchant, Chairman, Polycraft Group, Mumbai

Ajay Shah, President - Polymer Chain, Reliance Industries Ltd., Navi Mumbai

Manish Chawla, Publisher,

60

74

Nu-Vu Conair Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad

Malini Hariharan, Market Development Director,

APAC, ICIS, Mumbai

Next Generation Recyclingmaschinen GmbH, Austria

Officer - Shibaura Machine, Japan), Shibaura Machine India Pvt. Ltd., (Formerly Toshiba Machine Chennai Pvt. Ltd.), Chennai

Ajay Tandon, President & CEO (Engineering & New Product

The Supreme Industries Limited, Mumbai

ALOK Masterbatches Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi

Markus Gschwandtner, Managing Director and CEO,

Jhankar Dutta, Managing Director, B&R Industrial Automation Pvt. Ltd., Pune

Brückner Servtec GmbH, Germany

Jigish N. Doshi, President, Plastindia Foundation, Mumbai

Vikram Bhadauria, Managing Director,

GUIDING LIGHT

Keith Pearson, Past President and General Secretary of World Packaging Organisation

manner that resonates with the tradition of PC. An Intitative Supported By

Sunil Jain, President, Rajoo Engineers Ltd., Delhi

Development), Uflex Ltd., Noida

POLYMERS Communiqué, Mumbai

DIP STICK

Rebooting the Manufacturing Sector Post Lockdown: VDMA CEO Panel Discussion

Rajesh Nath, Managing Director,

German Engineering Federation (VDMA) India Office

CRUCIAL POINT

Dealing With Medical Plastics Waste: An Aftermath of COVID-19

Prof. Prakash A. Mahanwar, Professor of Polymer

Manoj Praharaj Bhatnagar, Ph.D. (Tech.) Research

Department of Polymer & Surface Engineering, Institute of Chemical Technology (Formerly UDCT), Mumbai

Technology

Fellow, UGC-SRF, Polymer Synthesis Laboratory

NEXT GENERATION INJECTION MOLDING CONTROL office.in@br-automation.com | +91-20-41478999

A++++ A+++ A++ A+

ENERGY

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Printed and Published by

NYT CORNER OFFICE

86

POLYMERS Communiqué stands up to

demands of time. Business, the lifeline of

economy, will also see enormous change as all our lives would. By bringing expert opinions to the fore, and more, we try

Presented by POLYMERS Communiqué in syndication with The New York Times

100

and capture #Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics.

Together we can!

RESEARCH REPORT

POLYMERS Communiqué Survey Services

105

Good Distribution Network: Key for JIT Supplies

108

SIVaRAM SPEAKS

Molecular Recycling Technologies: Can Rubber be De-crosslinked?

Dr. S. Sivaram, Former Director, CSIR-NCL, Honorary Professor

and INSA Senior Scientist, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune

111

AUTO-MATE

Smart Technology for an Optimised Produce

116

50 55

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Multi-faceted Opportunities in Pharmaceutical Packaging with Plastics

Shailesh Sheth, Corporate Strategy Advisor

Management & Manufacturing Technology, Mumbai

24

Prof. (Dr.) N. C. Saha formerly Director at Indian Institute of Packaging N. K. Balgi formerly President & Director at Ferromatik Milacron India Pvt. Ltd. Pushp Raj Singhvi formerly Vice Chairman and Managing Director at Borouge (India) Pvt. Ltd. Rajesh Nath Managing Director German Engineering Federation (VDMA) India Office Rakesh Shah formerly Managing Director at Windmöller and Hölscher India Pvt. Ltd. S. K. Ray formerly Sr. Executive Vice President (Polymers) at Reliance Industries Ltd.

Printed at

Silverpoint Press Pvt. Ltd. A-403, TTC Industrial Area Near Anthony Motors Mahape, Navi Mumbai - 400709 District - Thane

Content Alliance Partners

Bhavesh +91-22-2520 4436 bhavesh@polymerscommunique.com

Indian Centre for Plastics in the Environment (ICPE), Mumbai

Dr. Naveen Malhotra, Senior HR Professional, Ahmedabad

News

Arvind Mehta Chairman and Managing Director Welset Plast Extrusions Pvt. Ltd.

World Acknowledges Plastics at the Time of a Pandemic

92

Editorial Advisory Board

S. K. Ray, Hon. Secretary & Member of Executive Committee

Rakesh Shah, RS Coaching and Consulting, New Delhi

USA Manisha +1-908-720-3510 manisha@polymerscommunique.com

Custage Marketing Solutions LLP 406, Vikas Centre, Dr. C. G. Road, Chembur, Mumbai 400 074, INDIA

Subscriptions

Indian MSMEs’ Life Beyond COVID-19

68

Vadodara D. S. Bhumra +91-81289 90887 devinder@polymerscommunique.com

Dubai Pritam +971-5548-32330 pritam@polymerscommunique.com

In series...

New Delhi Vijay +91-98100 15111 vijay@polymerscommunique.com

Advertising Sales - International

Sriman Banerjee, Head of Packaging Respiratory Category GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, Switzerland

Siddhant siddhant@polymerscommunique.com

Sameer Kudalkar, Head - Sales & Partner Development - Process & Factory Automation, B&R Industrial Automation, Mumbai

Asst. Editor

Mumbai Vinisha +91-88790 50327 vinisha@polymerscommunique.com

Deepak Shah, Managing Director,

Ravago Shah Polymers Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru

Jyoti jyoti@polymerscommunique.com

Hyderabad Vani +91-93924 28927 vani@polymerscommunique.com

LAST MILE

Chief Editor

Advertising Sales - National

Work From Home (WFH 2020)

Designed by

As a leadership publication,

Logged On from the Laundry Room: How the CEOs of Google, Pfizer and Slack Work from Home

Manish Chawla manish@polymerscommunique.com

Under the Cover

Revival and Growth of Businesses Post COVID-19 Lockdown HR Recovery Plan Through the Coronavirus Crisis

BUSiNESsTOONS

84

Weekend Delights

114

RETRO

58

Puzzzmania

119

Brushed -Up

107

Events

120

Printed and Published by Manish Chawla, and printed at Silverpoint Press Pvt. Ltd., A-403, TTC Industrial Area, Near Anthony Motors, Mahape, Navi Mumbai - 400709, District - Thane and published from 406, Vikas Centre, Dr. C. G. Road, Chembur, Mumbai 400 074, INDIA. Editor: Manish Chawla.

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Views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of POLYMERS Communiqué. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances and so POLYMERS Communiqué does not take any responsibility for any loss or damage incurred or suffered by any of its subscribers / readers / advertisers of this magazine. The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct but do not take any responsibility for the absolute accuracy of the information. Subject to Mumbai Jurisdiction. Some of the images used in this issue are from Shutterstock. The maps, if used, in this document are only a pictorial representation, not to scale and do not indicate any geographical boundaries.

No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing.

POLYMERS Communiqué reserves the right to use the information published herein in any manner whatsoever. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged.

Mind Speak Pushp Raj Singhvi

formerly Vice Chairman and Mana ging Director at Borouge (India) Pvt. Ltd.

The best that MSMEs can do is to ‘plan survival’ for this FY. Processing capa city being less than 40% with no hopes of busin ess from automotive, white goods and realit y, the only hope is flexible packaging. I’m not hopeful on infrastructure spending by government after this aftermath of lockdown.

The greatest favour one can pin on government support is non imposition of surcharge of 15% on impo rt of plastics raw material to inflict further injury to their already fractured working capital requirement.

Prof. (Dr.) N. C. Saha

formerly Director at Indian Institute of Packaging

- 90% As per a published report, about 85 Es. Post

Rajesh Nath

Managing Director (VDMA) German Engineering Federation India Office

nable Given the clampdown, it is unqubeestio choked,

that a number of MSMEs will perpetual possibly to the point of 6.33 crore closure. There are an estimated in nonunincorporated MSMEs engaged employing agricultural economic activities, ibute nearly 11 crore people. MSMEs contr close to 30 per cent of India’s GDP and The biggest rts. expo try’s coun the of half is cash challenge the MSME sector faces sympathetic flow. OEMs need to have a to provide outlook, find ways and means In terms them with liquidity support. public of ad-hoc relief measures, many emergency sector banks have introduced credit lines.

Rakesh Shah

formerly Managing Director Pvt. Ltd. at Windmöller and Hölscher India

Corona It is unlikely that there will be a postpervasive era very soon. Fear will be the most pay cut, feeling; fear of disease, job loss, cy, new closure of businesses, redundan MSMEs will technologies, travel and so on. cing their finan ; lems prob three ly main have eting, mark their ing ablish reest s, operation world a in ant relev g stayin all, and above movement where there will be much more working towards automation and increased they cater from home; many businesses that . Survival would suddenly no longer be there flexibility of will depend on the agility and banking the businesses, government and ge the chan to y abilit the and support, change the way they do business and/or business itself.

Pushp Raj Singhvi

Arvind Mehta

N. K. Balgi

formerly President & Director at Ferromatik Milacron India Pvt. Ltd.

MSMEs will have to remain agile in their product basket and, therefore, will remain constantly challenged to make decisions on resource allocation to gene rate revenue.

Rebuilding workforce with necessary skills will have to be the prior ity tasks.

The leadership team will have to deeply engaged in mainly productio n activity.

Managing the finance will also be a challenge, but remains bit lightened due to government announce d financial assistance. We are the people of undying spirit, so will emerge as winn ers in these challenging times.

Rajesh Nath

Rakesh Shah

N. K. Balgi

packaging companies are MSM be great COVID-19, though there will units opportunity for plastic packaging food and to cater to the huge demand of d face pharmaceutical industries, they woul r due to great challenges to fulfill the orde liquidity, huge shortage of manpower, ring unit, hygiene issues in the manufactu supply problem of efficient delivery and m. syste ent gem mana chain

Arvind Mehta

Chairman and Managing Director Welset Plast Extrusions Pvt. Ltd.

In India, many units are closed. Employers have to pay and have paid Marc h, April and May salaries, inspite of ‘no prod uction’ and ‘no business’. Interest burden on loans taken is just postponed. Labourers have migrated to their home. Banks are going to give money after their due diligence. Statutory due dates deferred by 3 months, but with no monetary relief. MSMEs today have to manage the current crisis and survive with incom ing fund flow. Friends, this is the ground reality. It will take significant time for MSMEs to recover from this situation.

S. K. Ray

ent (Polymers) at

formerly Sr. Executive Vice Presid Reliance Industries Ltd.

ly transit to Businesses would need to swiftthis, MSMEs

the ‘new normal’ for survival. In rnments would be no exception. While gove to provide across the globe are attempting t demand financial stimulus, significan and supply destruction in most sectors g huge chain disruptions are posin ecedented challenges. This calls for unpr and rejig agility to change the course survival for els mod ating oper nt curre th. and grow

S. K. Ray

Prof. (Dr.) N. C. Saha

Feedback The POLYMERS Communiqué magazine is a useful tool to keep yourself brus hed with the latest news and events in the polymer industry. It gives a good insight into the current and future m arket and prod uct trends and latest developments.

I would like to congra tulate the te am for the wonderful job they are doin g.

We keep ers industry. s and polym tic as pl e o get to th als t We abou / machines. lightening us technologies g uniqué is en in m ld m ou Co m S s ER astic ers.

POLYM olution of pl is global play ted on the ev doing vis-à-v e with new getting upda g industry is sin es oc products in lin pr s tic as tic pl as e pl bl an sta di In po m w e, co ed about the know ho biodegradabl dustry inform keeps the in od insight on go ué a iq t un ge m m we ERS Co Moreover, least, POLYM a but not the vance.

Sanjay Wadhwcs etc. well in ad policies. Last, rs fai de tra / es ni m ro m ct ra Ele og e pr nt Ela upcoming

Ankoor Patel

Mayur Polyfilm

s Pvt. Ltd.

e-ofagazine is on mmuniqué m

The POLYMERS Co en able to maintain the highest

s be ntent right its-kind and ha ty of its co in the quali t business es lat consistency of ur be it the flavo n; io pt ce industry in from interviews of coverage of readers its r fo s updates or er ch off agazine as su m is Th d, with ts. ge ar stalw hed and enga e to be enric nation bi m co a total packag ur lo d co key topics an of n Team tio g lec in se the editions. Wish in each of its d! ea ah themes used ys sful da y more succes Custage man Ishan Agarwal rporation Ltd. Indian Oil Co

POLYMERS Com muniqué is excellent plat an form to have an overview of the fast-c hanging plas tics industry.

Covering lat est trends an d brilliant articles of indu stry leaders an d sharing their journey helps inspire fresh minds in the industr y. The magaz ine not only helps to upke ep us with th e current dynamics, bu t also helps in seeding of fresh perspec tives for the ev er-evolving industry. Kudo s to the team .

uniqué MERS Comm ars. The ye of t co from the las ative and very inform magazine is polymer e th t abou gives insight pse of im gl ll as gives a industry as we g place kin ta ts en lopm various deve y. in the industr

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I am reading POLY MERS Comm uniqué magaz The content ine for the las of magazine t 1 year. is good with market trend a lot of inform s, key busines ation about s op po rtu nities, new te industry expe chnology upda rt opinions an d views on th tes, e polymer m I am happy be arket. coming a read er of your m continue this agazine and service in futu like you to re as well.

Celanese Chem

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News Digest

Continuous, Secure Monitoring of Machine Data from a Distance With B&R

Ampacet BIAX4CE™ portfolio for biaxially oriented polyethylene film applications supports the circular economy

With LogTunnel, data from machines

and cybersecurity guidelines. Machine

to plants and machinery in the field. all around the world can be archived in a central location. Any irregularities in

performance can be detected early to help maintain maximum availability.

LogTunnel is a feature of B&R’s secure remote maintenance solution. Secure

in on plants and machinery anywhere in the world from the office or on the

go. Even take control of it, if necessary as though one were right there on

site. Through continuous data logging, LogTunnel allows detection of faulty

components early and optimises service intervals. Set-up is a simple matter of

drag-and-drop and requires no special IT know-how.

A

24

temporarily

to

in accordance with all the latest IT builders

have

perform

remote maintenance - logging continues uninterrupted. Machine data can be

runtime

access

to

machine parameters from their entire

installed base. All access is logged in detail for later traceability.

Packaging With a Future, a Platform of which ENGEL is a Founding Member

E

NGEL

In

is

committed

to

greater

sustainability of plastics packaging. collaboration

companies moulding founded

with

from

packaging

industry,

machine

the

the

the

six

other

Austrian

injection

manufacturer

‘Verpackung

mit

Zukunft’ (Packaging With a Future)

platform. The aim of the initiative is improve

meaningful

The ongoing LogTunnel connection connects

Secure remote maintenance functions

to

Simultaneous Logging and Maintenance is not affected when a technician

ANL Packaging makes the recycling of dark coloured trays possible with their NIR detectable colour range which is CITEO approved

remains available for later analysis.

Secure Connection

&R enables machine builders to

remote maintenance lets one check Alpla expands PET recycling plant In Poland; the capacity for rPET (food grade postconsumer recycled PET) will be doubled from 15,000 to 30,000 tonnes per annum

the cloud or at a data centre, where it

B

establish a continuous connection

Agilyx Corporation, the leader in chemical recycling of post-use plastics back into polymers, chemicals and low carbon fuels, announces the licensing of its technology to Toyo Styrene Co. Ltd.

stored on a central database server, in

public

use

of

awareness

packaging.

of

The

companies are taking an active role in the development of a global circular economy for plastics packaging.

Reduce, Replace, Reuse, Recycle - these

are the tasks that must be fulfilled to ensure that packaging has the least

possible impact on the environment.

The seven companies which founded

the platform - Alpla, Greiner, Coca-Cola Österreich, Nestlé Österreich, Interseroh,

Erema and ENGEL - are already making important

contributions

towards

achieving this with their technologies.

LogTunnel offers continuous access to machine data and the ability to archive it in a central location.

Now the companies, which together cover a large part of the value chain, are joining forces in a network. “The

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

High performance Fully recyclable

Discover recyclable flexible packages with no performance compromises.

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The future of sustainable packaging. dow.com Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow

circular economy is an interdisciplinary challenge,”

Digest APK AG has a firm eye on the closing of packaging plastic cycles with the help of innovative recycling technologies; APK invests over a million euros in laboratory analysis for plastic recyclates

Berry Bramlage has unveiled a range of new closure designs (tethered closure) that meet forthcoming EU single-use plastic legislation

Domo and Ultrapolymers extend pan-European distribution partnership to include all Technyl® solutions

A-D

Stefan

Engleder,

this challenge and quickly take the first comprehensive steps.”

With their technological innovations and many joint projects, the seven founding members of the platform

are also establishing new standards

Insulated metal panel with a special joint that guarantees perfect air-tightness.

supra-regional

with telluric movements that may alter

for

sustainable

packaging

level.

In

at

an

a

open

dialogue with politicians, organisations the

a

public,

decisive

a

they

are

contribution

differentiated

making

towards

perception

plastics packaging.

of

Sandwich Panels Suitable for the Controlled Atmosphere There is a type of insulated metal panel on-site foaming to guarantee perfect air-tightness.

It is undoubtedly the best solution;

C

however,

Use of controlled atmosphere brings

solution is to use a special sealant

the life of fruit and vegetables. How

creates a hermetic environment. It

ripen by breathing different gases, so

to

slowing down of the ripening process.

follows the natural movements of the

Controlled

a cold-room.

ontrolled atmosphere is an evergrowing field of application for

insulated metal panels.

it

increases

the

cost

of

installation, and is available only on a few thicknesses of insulation.

The most practical and cost-efficient

various advantages, primarily increases

which is a particular type of resin that

does that work? Fruit and vegetables

closes all the gaps that allow gases

the controlled atmosphere ensures the

environment.

atmosphere

applications

include fruit storage facility, vegetable cargo

facility,

food

refrigeration,

food presentation.

preservation,

packaging

and

For such an environment to be effective, it must be as gas-tight as possible; in other words, the gases that are

outside must stay outside. The major challenge is sealing the joints; ideally, they should be perfectly sealed from the environment, however the ground

enter

a

controlled By

being

atmosphere elastic,

it

insulated metal panels in a life-span of

Nordson: BKG Pelletising Systems - The Complete Perspective With a Focus on Detail

A

well-cut

pellet

is

essential

for

many subsequent processes, since

smooth feeding and even melting have

a great influence on the final product.

A perfect pellet is the result of a wellproven pelletising system.

reality is different. Even the most

For almost 25 years, Nordson has been

dilatation of the metal sheets, with the

and

perfect installation must cope with the settling of the metallic structure and

26

the air-tightness of the joints.

that has a special joint which requires

Gandhi Automations on Controlled Atmosphere Storage With Tips for a Perfect Installation of Insulated Metal Panels

storage Dow launches fast curing silicone adhesive for reduced energy usage, greater assembly efficiency at any production volume

Dr.

together can we successfully master

and BASF introduces Luviset® 360, a new styling polymer for exceptional textures; the innovative product offers strong, flexible and long-lasting hold as well as low flaking

as

CEO, ENGEL Group, makes clear. “Only

providing customers with customised advanced

technology

for

pelletising systems, offering optimal

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Digest Evonik launches implantgrade PEEK filament for medical applications in 3D printing FlexiTube for Bio Creative and 4D bags.

i-mold has developed a line of compact rotary cooling units that facilitate the cost-efficient integration of rotating cores into injection moulds

results and the highest production

award for sustainability and FlexiTube

thermoplastic

gold awards for packaging excellence

efficiency for all materials that have behaviours,

even

for

the most demanding applications.

Nordson’s BKG® pelletisers Type AH and AH D with hydraulic blade pressure

KRAIBURG offers TPEs for direct contact with blood and body fluid applications in the medical sector

regulation are available for throughputs ranging from 2 - 35,000 kg/h and provide superior and constant cutting

quality for all viscosities. Designed for

maximum flexibility, one can combine them with any of the tempered water

Nouryon launches elastomeric cool roof coatings solution; the concept combines Nouryon’s Expancel® expandable thermoplastic microspheres, which reflect light, and its Levasil® colloidal silica, which improves the performance of the coatings

PolyOne announced the launch of ColorMatrix™ Amosorb™ 4020G, a nonnylon based, low-haze oxygen scavenger for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) rigid packaging

E-P

system in Nordson’s product portfolio.

With the BKG Master-Line, the entrylevel underwater pelletising system, the BKG Optigon, a self-cleaning tempered

water system with a large filtration area, or the BKG CrystallCut® for highly

economic PET crystallisation - Nordson offers turn-key systems exactly tailored to one’s needs.

UFlex Scoops 6 Awards at Flexible Packaging Awards 2020

T

for Bio Creative Labs (USA) won two and expanding the use of flexible

packaging, along with one silver award for technical innovation.

RadiciGroup and Rimplast Provide the Materials and Technology for Injection Moulding of Visor Frames

I

njection moulding as an alternative

to 3D printing for a quicker response

to health worker protection needs: this was

RadiciGroup’s

objective

in

donating its polyamide 6 material for the production of 3,000 frames for

protective visor face shields for medics.

The frames were moulded at Rimplast, another

Bergamo

company,

which

immediately made available its plastics moulding technology and specialists.

The initiative was started as a follow-up

to a project carried out by the young members

of

the

Interact

Bergamo

he world of packaging is limitless and

innovative.

packaging

Recently,

innovation

won

UFlex’ three

gold and three silver awards for its innovation at the Flexible Packaging Awards

2020

hosted

by

Packaging Association (USA).

Flexible

UFlex’s 4D bags with handle and FLEXPET™

F-STF

ultra

soft

super

durable BOPET film won gold and silver award, respectively for shelf impact.

The green film Flex Asclepius™, which

is a PCR-based BOPET film won silver

28

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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Club, who, during the last few weeks,

made 300 protective visor shields in

Digest SACMI labellers are designed to allow application of labels made from PCR (post-consumer recycled) materials

SIBUR to offer polyethylene grades that can be used in packaging for infusion solutions

collaboration with FabLab (3D digital printing lab at the professional training

association Patronato San Vincenzo in Bergamo). Using 3D-printing technology, the teenagers produced frames and attached them to PVC sheets to make

visor face shields for extra protection for

any workers who may come into contact with potential carriers of COVID-19.

N

Stratasys J55 3D printer gives designers affordable, office-friendly, full- colour 3D printing to validate new product designs quickly

mask

fabric

making

(FABREX)

lines

that

masks

would

comply

to

Teknor Apex offers newgeneration medical TPEs that provide excellent adhesion to a wide range of engineering plastics

extended

to

masks

regulatory

making

extrusion

complete

its

company

S-W

spun-bond

excellence

in

machine,

to

extrusion to build the melt-blown fabric ‘fabric

solution’...the Wasdell Group announced its acquisition of Planned Packaging Limited & Planned Packaging Films Limited (PPF), a specialist packaging supplier to the medical device and pharmaceutical sectors

its

to

in

do

first

side

of

the

for the 3-ply masks. The machines are

being made available as Rajoo readies

Rajoo

Engineers

Limited

to the fight against COVID-19. We are in a position to service industry

needs globally. Here, I also wish to acknowledge the stupendous efforts put by Rajoo’s team working efficiently even in this trying situation.”

The

dynamic

nature

of

healthcare

demands present different opportunities to the processing industry at different times.

These

solutions

from

Rajoo

can be easily adapted to address the changing demands with be it surgical;

drapes and wraps; sponges, dressings and wipes; bed linens; gowns - for contamination control and examination;

India

so...with

machines to create a

composite non-woven fabric

solution!

challenges the

team

faced

The by

engineering

were

only

compounded by the global

Taking

lockdown.

this

MASCON - Automatic N95 face mask making machine.

challenge

as

an

opportunity, Rajoo has also built a path-

breaking fully automatic N95 mask making machine capable of producing

1 mask every 2 seconds (i.e. 1,800 masks per hour). The automation ensures that

these masks are hygienic and produced

30

universal! Also, available are machines

we could contribute in our own way

non-woven fabric extrusion machine, Rajoo

their needs. The solutions offered are

proudly highlights, “I am happy that

Building on its close to a decade of making

mask making machine, depending on

Director,

manufacturing processes. in

mask solution from Rajoo or just the

Khushboo Chandrakant Doshi, Executive

needs using efficient and hygienic

experience

either procure the entire fabric-to-

already under execution!

(MASCON)

(respirators)

The industry has a choice, they could

demand. The first batch of orders are

from Rajoo offer solutions for creating N95

minimal human intervention.

itself to execute supplies for a spike of

Rajoo Unveils India’s First Integrated, Yet Modular, Non-Woven Fabric and Automatic N95 Mask Making Lines: Engineering Solutions to Address Needs of the Hour on-woven

with minimum wastage as well as

and many more. Infact, from a business perspective,

products

produced

from these machines also find uses

in sectors such as personal care and hygiene, home furnishing, agriculture, geotextiles,

automotive,

stationery etc.

filtration,

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

18 x 26 cm

Plot No. 147, 148 & 154, Devraj Industrial Park, Piplaj-Pirana Road, Piplaj, Ahmedabad-382405

GUIDING LIGHT #Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics #Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

An Intitative Supported By

Business Beyond

COVID-19

As a leadership publication, POLYMERS Communiqué stands up to demands of

time. Business, the lifeline of economy, will also see enormous change as all our

lives would. By bringing expert opinions to the fore, and more, we try and capture #Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics. Together we can!

32

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

An Intitative Supported By

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

W

ith COVID-19, it’s been a challenge of another kind. To deal with this challenge means to adopt to the new

normal that continues to evolve literally on a daily basis.

The rules of the game are thus going to change. I feel it is time

for Business 2.0. We have to adorn a new avatar...the thinking,

the strategy, the implementation will all have to be unlearned and relearned.

Relationships, credibility, trustworthiness, customer orientation, ethics to me are going to play a larger role than specifications, price and delivery.

From

Henceforth,

being

suppliers,

customers they

will

would

evaluate

need

to

vendors

be

differently.

repositioned

as

success enablers. So, the paradigm ‘perform or perish’ will change, temporarily though, to ‘adapt or perish’!

Yes, each one of us is battered and bruised; but I seriously think that each one of us will come out wiser and more capable to address challenges. We will now realise better how to respect each other, count our blessings, add meaning to business, revere nature and savour success.

Will

it

regards

be

difficult...yes

labour,

finance,

it

will!

logistics,

Will

the

demand

be

ground

worse

realities than

as

what

most think...yes it will! Will it take much longer for things to settle down...yes

it

will!

Are

we

capable

to

handle

this...yes

Is India well poised to bounce back quicker...yes we are!

we

are!

We all have taken a few steps back...but doesn’t going back help you with a better leap forward. That’s what we are getting towards...leaping into 2021. We would be capable of doing this because 2020 challenged us not to expose our weakness only, but to realise our strengths as well.

Even if we have to be at home for the next few weeks...it’s just fine! We all have it in us

to take challenges in our stride. Until then...

stay home and safe. You mean a lot to a lot of people!

Manish Chawla

Publisher, POLYMERS Communiqué, Mumbai Manish Chawla

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

33

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Markus Gschwandtner

Managing Director and CEO, Brückner Servtec GmbH, Germany

C

OVID-19 is - above all - a challenge for our humanity! Staying strong together is the choice of today, across nations, religions, races or beliefs. While we

struggle to stay safe and healthy with many constraints, we are able to see

our industry gets more attention than before. Plastics was, is and will stay the best choice of packaging material to keep food hygiene high and thus benefitting all of us!

Dr. S. Sivaram

Former Director, CSIR-NCL, Honorary Professor and INSA Senior Scientist, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune

Markus Gschwandtner

H

ow our enterprises respond to the post COVID-19 world will differentiate

the boys from the men. This crisis needs addressing at four levels. At

level 1, industries must address the immediate challenges of enforcing safety and confidence

of

returning

workforce

as

well

as

those

of

the

customers,

business partners and supply chain. At the next level, companies must efficiently manage cash and the knock-on effects of the pandemic. At level 3, companies

must have a plan to return the business to scale even as the virus continues to evolve. In the longer term, businesses must re-imagine a post COVID

environment of managing the businesses and be prepared for the consequent changes in social and regulatory environment as well as competition.

M. P. Taparia

Managing Director, The Supreme Industries Limited, Mumbai My Dear Plastics Fraternity Friends, At the very outset, I wish to convey my best wishes to each and every one

and their families to safely navigate through this pandemic which has impacted Dr. S. Sivaram

everyone on Mother Earth.

As we approach the opening of the economy, we all must feel deeply satisfied that plastic products have played the most crucial role in helping mankind

to safeguard themselves from this pandemic. Millions of people are protecting themselves

from

the

deadly

virus

wearing

face

masks

and

professionals wearing PPE gowns. All these are made from polymers.

all

health

As we emerge from the biggest ever home lockdown, we need to be ready

to restart our industry, get our workers back on the shop floor and restart production.

Demand will return, but there are lessons to learn!

We need to think how India can become a global sourcing hub for plastic

products and command a leading position in the plastics world.

Let us all re-draw our business plans and emerge stronger than before.

As they say, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” We, in the

plastics industry, are that group of the ‘tough ones’. We will help India emerge M. P. Taparia

34

stronger than before.

My best wishes to all!

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Shirish V. Divgi

Managing Director, Milacron India, Plastics Machinery Asia, Ahmedabad

W

hile the entire world is facing the heat of the pandemic, we have three important aspects to think and contribute. At personal level, we need to

observe all the disciplines, hygiene and 5S rules. At business level, all that we can do in the lockdown days is to reflect back and list down best practices

which we have done and plan to do, which can really motivate us when we come back to work. What we need most importantly is how fast can we bounce back. Detailed planning now can help us immensely. Third, and

most important, is our social responsibilities. This is the time where needy

and weaker sections need our support, help and contributions. Our PM and

all State CMs along with their entire machinery are doing a fantastic work

to get over the pandemic and get control over it. The least we can do is

adhere to their requests, rules and ensure social distancing. Not forgetting,

Shirish V. Divgi

we have to salute and respect our medical fraternity, police force and all the volunteers who are risking their own life for the nation to get safe.

Industries in India will definitely find their way back. The Indian industry and society are known for hand-holding and fighting back. Be it in family, sports

or industry, we value relationships, team work and collective wins. I think some simple rules will help us to get stronger and come back; not only to normal, but with flying colours at the global business levels are: NN

Be fit physically and mentally during the lockdown days by engaging in activities, planning and positive discussions. There are so many videos on

YouTube

like

Sadhguru’s

thought-provoking

videos

and

webinars

organised by associations that are worth listening with a note book and pen in hand.

NN

Make an exhaustive list on what worked and what did not work in the recent

past,

learning

from

them,

keeping

future

challenges

and

opportunities in mind, get ready with short-term and long-term goals with detailed action list to achieve them.

NN

Be in contact with all employees, customers and partners, and keep them

engaged with positive thoughts and discussions on how we can bounce back.

People have great thoughts and ideas if we listen to them.

NN

Things will definitely be difficult when we open up. Get ready with some

motivational activities and enlarged roles and responsibilities for the entire team.

Finally, plan the cash flows in detail with everyone contributing

NN

to it, at all levels. Businesses are built and survive on prudent cash flow strategies.

Team work and positive mindsets always wins!

Our Prime Minister is leading it and it is our responsibility to support him

and strengthen his vision by creating a great come back plan and making

it happen.

Josef Hochreiter

CEO, Next Generation Recyclingmaschinen GmbH, Austria

Josef Hochreiter

36

W

e will see shorter, less complex supply chains and CO2 fees to realise a

climate-positive circular economy as the ‘new normal’.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Satish Godase

International Business, Board Director, Nu-Vu Conair Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad

I

feel there will be changes in the way we operate our business in future; technology will hold key, automation will drive most of the manufacturing, internet will be a king and working remotely will gain importance. There will be emphasis on localisation and self-sufficiency.

As far as the plastics industry is concern, I am very optimistic that the use

of single-use plastic in personal hygiene, packaging, medical sector and

public utilities will grow and that will drive the plastics industry to an

upward path; but, at the same time, we have to find effective ways to

recycle these plastics.

Y. R. Anand Satish Godase

Director, Unimark, Mumbai

A

s for the industry, I think there are multiple things that need to be done and

may already be happening. Of course, much of it depends on what the

government will allow.

The large process industries like raw materials, I guess are running, as many of them cannot be stopped. The other industries, which have continuous processes

like extrusion, should also be allowed to work as soon as possible, as there is little manpower used and they can easily maintain social distancing.

Injection and other moulding processes can also be started, as they can

maintain good distance between employees. Companies who have invested in automation can do it even faster and better, as they would have lower

number of employees.

The MSME sector will have been the hardest hit, as they would have shut

down all revenue streams. For those who can manage, they should collaborate

while working from home. If companies are not already using such collaborative

Y. R. Anand

tools for working from home, they should start doing so immediately. They are easy to use and effective.

Most importantly, they should learn to preserve their cash. This is also a good

time to monetise a lot of assets and liquidate all unwanted and accumulated stocks and deadwood. Liquidity will play a major role for survival and growth.

I wish our industry comes out of the current deadlock quickly and effectively.

Vivek Chaand Sehgal

Chairman, Samvardhana Motherson Group, Noida

W

e all must focus on the restart as that is important; so, I hope everyone in their own fields are concentrating and focusing on getting back to

normal as quickly as possible. That is all what we are focusing on after the

safety of all concerned and good health of our teams globally.

Vivek Chaand Sehgal

38

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Vijay Merchant

Chairman, Polycraft Group, Mumbai

A

s I see it, the plastic units that may survive after 2 months of COVID-19 would

be the woven sector as it has become larger in unit size over years, units in

packaging films sector with 3-layer, 5-layer, 7-layer films and with high-speed printers and OEMs to automotive as well as industrial sectors like branded

pipes. As regards the 30,000 other units, SMEs are looking at a bleak recovery by June or July, 2020.

I would put it in 2 suggested actions, short-term and long-term.

In the short-term, since a very large section of our industry is primarily in

the SME sector (specially India), I feel, with its very limited operating margins,

it cannot survive a long spell of social isolation and shutdown, unless specific

support is provided by the 5 or 6 large petchem units in India. Units making home Vijay Merchant

goods like water bottles, lunch boxes, stationary goods, tapes, fancy toys and the like are doomed with FTAs to fail since quantities are tiny and will not soon be

considered economic size (Chinese and Thai scales will drive these small units out

if imports into India continue). Looking at their balance sheets, both banks and NBFCs will be reluctant to lend more. I feel this sector needs support in 4 areas immediately once lockdown is lifted. If not, rest assured, 25% of SMEs in

the plastics sector will close down forever and thousands of workers and owners of SSI will not be returning to work.

NN

Raw materials on reasonable ‘credit terms’, change age-old practice (not advance cheques with bookings).

NN

‘Power credit’ for a month more than what they get. No minimum charges for shutdown of 3 months.

NN

Rent postponement by landlords for 3 months.

NN

Buyers to pay the SSI units in 4 weeks or even earlier, and not 3 months.

In the long-term, with automation gaining momentum, with faster and more

efficient machines leading to lower cost per unit, we should encourage consolidation of units. Large petchem units should act as advisors.

Buyers like dairies, oil companies and FMCG companies should be cutting down on their special designs for each item; but insisting on standards, shapes,

threads, caps, fancy labels etc., thus promoting scale-up in production from a few

thousands per SME to several millions from each suppler in future (Take a lesson from auto giants like Volkswagen-Skoda-Porsche).

Alicia Cloeren

Director, Cloeren Incorporated, USA

F

or the first time in years, we are being viewed as a fundamental

industry that plays a vital role in protecting our medical heroes through

protective wear and stopping the spread of COVID-19 through barrier sheets

and films. In addition, we are seeing a re-emergence in single-use plastic as the

world shifts its focus to sanitation. Though business is expected to be volatile

throughout the crisis, we should capitalise on this moment responsibly with a

renewed focus towards consumer education on recyclability and the increased use Alicia Cloeren

40

of post-consumer recycled content. It is the plastics industry’s moment to show the world our true value during this critical time in history.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Sunil Jain

President, Rajoo Engineers Ltd., Delhi

C

OVID-19, though a crisis today, will surely throw open a world of opportunities for the plastic processing industry and thus the plastic

processing machinery manufacturers. It is absolutely essential to be able to keep our heads above water in this financial year. The survivors will then witness a boom as has never been experienced before. Our times are round the corner.

Shailesh Sheth

Corporate Strategy Advisor, Management & Manufacturing Technology, Mumbai

T

omorrow will not be the same as yesterday. World will change in ways we never imagined. Migratory labour will be slow in returning, if at all.

Sunil Jain

Supply chains will be disrupted too. Catch22? Cashflows are messed up in ‘lockjam’. Me owe you, you owe him, he owes them...long chain of transaction stream will need untangling. Will banks help? Million $ question with their

worry on NPAs. Catch22? Fear has possessed consumers. Cash hoarding is the result. So, lots of cash in the wallet, but unwillingness to spend. Catch22? What then

do we have on the otherside of COVID-19? Catch22? Coming out of this chakravyuh

will be the key challenge for companies. Silver lining? Yes! Initially, business may spike. Pent-up demand, you know. But then, true COVID after-effects will show.

Mother of all slowdowns. Try and concentrate on healthcare, pharmaceuticals, defence, aerospace, electronics and FMCG. Put automotive on the back burner for now. Then dig in like an ostrich.

Aha! Here is a game-changing possibility as India becomes an attractive

alternate destination for companies!

Keith Pearson

Past President and General Secretary of World Packaging Organisation Shailesh Sheth

I

f there is one thing we can say and that is that the future will never be the same, the reality of COVID-19 guarantees this. As always, packaging is proving to

have a positive influence on meeting the challenges of maintaining trust in

uncertain times. Packaging continues to provide protection in all aspects of the value chain, instilling trust for consumers by providing efficient and safe passage through the value chain. Consumers will rely more on packaging to provide hygiene for goods brought into their homes by offering information required to enhance trust. One of the challenges is the uncertainty of how long this pandemic will last and what are the changes that will follow this crisis.

The packaging industry has always been a barometer of a country’s GDP growth and economic health. COVID-19 virus pandemic will test every

fibre of global economic stability. The packaging industry will continue to

provide packaging that meets the challenges of dealing with uncertainty

and developing trust around hygiene considerations. Smart and intelligent

packaging will continue to play an important role in creating packaging that

deals with the hygiene and safe requirements of the pandemic. Designers will

continue to have at the forefront of their thinking of packaging that supports Keith Pearson

42

sustainability and the efforts of the circular economy, and packaging designed for COVID-19 protection.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Jigish N. Doshi

President, Plastindia Foundation, Mumbai I see the situation immediately after COVID-19 as a challenge first and then an opportunity. The next 6 months will no doubt be difficult; companies will be

working at lower capacities for probably most of this year. One suggestion to the MSMEs is to stretch the utilisation of your working capital and keep focus on your current capacity levels; this will help you tide over the current crisis with lesser discomfort.

Having said that, I must say that I am infact very bullish on the future of

the economy thereafter. The plastics industry would gain significantly...I can

visualise a booming market - be it domestic or exports. Labour will continue

to be our asset. And beyond plastics, I think India will come out stronger and

globally acclaimed for its ability, capability and transparent business practices. We

Jigish N. Doshi

will be a force to reckon with on a global level. To further enable business, I feel, land on long-term lease with subsidised electricity will give it a big boost.

Jhankar Dutta

Managing Director, B&R Industrial Automation Pvt. Ltd., Pune

W

ith some spare time at hand, the current situation could might as well

be an opportunity for many manufacturing companies to rethink their

digital strategies. Working remotely has become a part of everyone’s daily life

today. This can be effectively put into practice by manufacturing companies

in their operations with adoption of advanced automation technologies such as remote maintenance, monitoring and data logging possibilities.

With digital remote access, diagnosing and maintaining machinery and

equipment can be done remotely from anywhere in the world from your

office or home. This remote solution makes it easy to quickly respond to

unforeseen problems in addition to accelerating commissioning. Secure

remote access can also be applicable on production sites with robot installations.

Jhankar Dutta

Moreover, coupling this with predictive maintenance further magnifies the benefits.

Vikram Bhadauria

Managing Director, ALOK Masterbatches Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi

T

he Indian economy across sectors is currently grappling to answer one question: What does the future of our business / industry seem like over the

next few months? The foreseeable impact of this pandemic will continue to be unprecedented. However, it will see a silver lining in a few aspects as well.

Specifically with regards to the plastics industry, the impetus on cleanliness and hygiene will see an increased proliferation of plastic products.

From a manufacturing industry perspective, office structures will evolve as

public adapts the concept of social distancing in their lifestyles. As the sector

pertaining to the ‘essentials’ category resumes operations at a set capacity,

organisations will move towards leaner teams / manpower.

Lastly, given the inevitable decline in working capital owing to operational Vikram Bhadauria

44

stagnancy, the industry will resort to short- and long-term loans to normalise the chain of business.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Kailas P.

Vice Chairman & Managing Director (Executive Officer - Shibaura Machine, Japan), Shibaura Machine India Pvt. Ltd., (Formerly Toshiba Machine Chennai Pvt. Ltd.), Chennai

M

y pointers highlighted here could provide an indication on how things could pan out in coming times, covering a number of sectors relating to

the plastics industry.

NN

GDP growth with an optimistic estimate could be ~2% or it may stagnate.

There would be substantial reduction in GST collections in Q1 and Q2 and this could create strain on government spending. Banking and NBFCs will be

affected and there could be a rise in NPAs which may affect their lending

capacity and thus can affect liquidity position for industries.

NN

I feel there could be change in consumer spending behaviour post COVID-19.

There is chance of consumers cutting down on the non-essential spending, but the everyday essential items will still be a necessity and hence FMCG sector is

Kailas P.

expected to come out of the trouble very quickly.

NN

The low oil price levels and the associated reduction in raw material price for related industries like plastics, lubricants etc. may witness a positive impact.

NN

Pharmaceutical companies and hospitals may do well. Plastics moulders associated with the medical segment will flourish post COVID-19.

NN

Automotive sector was in slowdown phase before COVID-19 itself, and it got

further aggravated by this pandemic. However, there is a chance of more people resorting to personal transport and we can expect a revival of this sector by Q3 - Q4 of 2020-21 only.

NN

Companies may go in for more automation to reduce people dependency;

hence, the associated industries like robotics, AI, automation etc. may gain some traction.

NN

Because of the work from home possibility, the impact could be less on the IT sector and hence its revival chances are high and the existing projects may give them some relief. However, USA is one of the major customers for the IT

sector in India and the situation could change if new IT projects spending is affected in USA. NN

Going forward, there will be more thrust on work / learn from home and hence, the telecom companies (internet service providers) and the associated

hardware industry is expected to do well since more people will start to work from home and more educational institutes will implement online learning platforms.

NN

Specially for the plastics machinery manufacturers, it will be a challenging

year ahead as capital goods sector will face strain. Only few segments like medical and FMCG can see better scope and all other segments, especially automotive and packaging, will find it difficult to expand in this scenario.

Malini Hariharan

Market Development Director, APAC, ICIS, Mumbai

A

s countries around the world battle to contain the corona virus outbreak, plastics is leading from the front. From masks to ventilators

to personal protective equipment (PPE), plastics are playing a critical role. And

there is a lot more that plastics can do to help save lives and protect the Malini Hariharan

46

population. This is the time for the industry to work together to develop innovative applications and mend public perception about plastics.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Ajay Shah

President - Polymer Chain, Reliance Industries Ltd., Navi Mumbai

T

o overcome the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that the

industry collaborate, co-operate and work together as a team to strengthen

the entire ecosystem.

Businesses have to more effectively manage costs to ensure liquidity and access to capital. As an industry, we should create a charter to seek economic packages from the government, especially for smaller businesses.

I am confident that once we collectively overcome the short-term challenges,

there would be plenty of long-term opportunities for the entire polymer

value chain in India.

The entire Reliance Industries team is with the nation in this hour of crisis. We

will do everything to win this battle against COVID-19.

Ajay Shah

Ajay Tandon

President & CEO (Engineering & New Product Development) Uflex Ltd., Noida

T

his pandemic created by COVID-19 is unprecedented and probably one of the worst occurrences in the history of mankind. This is the fact which is not

hidden from over 7.5 billion people living on this earth. As it appears, this is not going to leave us in the near future, unless and until a definitive cure

is developed and executed across humanity. Till then, we may have to live with this virus, somehow minimising the adverse effects.

Coming to the economic front, this pandemic has undoubtedly shaken the

whole world as never before. Industry and trade of every country is going to

suffer very adversely hitting the economy, creating huge unemployment and

bringing back poverty, besides many healthcare issues.

Even though when the economic activity starts opening up with relaxations Ajay Tandon

etc., it may take minimum 3 to 6 months for the industry and trade to start standing on its feet. Capital goods industry is likely to suffer the most as it will

be the last in line to start seeing the signs of recovery and it could take 12 to

18 months for the same. However, some of the industries like pharmaceuticals, medical facilities and its equipment, agriculture, IT, telecom, food and packaging are and will be in a more comfortable zone. For instance, the impact on Uflex packaging business may be limited since it is under ‘essential services’; however, engineering business will suffer being capital intensive.

India, for sure, can be in a much more advantageous position if it grabs the opportunity by building major industrial infrastructural changes and its approach

to enhance and get into mass exports in a major way. The world is definitely looking towards India for the same and it is for India to perform. Undoubtedly a

very far-sighted and broad vision policies will need to be brought in by the government, besides the industry playing its efficient role.

Part 2 of this article will be featured in the upcoming June - July, 2020 issue.

48

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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THE BIG SMALL

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Indian MSMEs’ Life Beyond COVID-19

Keeping this contextual scenario in mind, let us come to the million $ question: What should I do to survive and

prosper? No easy answer is on offer anywhere. Yet, some

directions may already be visible. To win the race though, we will have to chase multiple parameters on several fronts. So, let us begin the chase...

Context Shailesh Sheth Corporate Strategy Advisor Management & Manufacturing Technology, Mumbai

50

India’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) represent our economy’s

spine. Why? Consider these: 6.34 crore MSMEs employ over 11 crore people,

contributes 40% of India’s exports and shares 29% of our GDP. Beyond these numbers, their geographical spread and useful links in the manufacturing value chain lend them strategic importance. Suffice to say that India’s industrial might will simply collapse if this spine is broken. Thus, the sharp focus on this sector.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

COVID-19

pandemic

has

hit

a

To win the race though, we will have to

sledgehammer blow to all industries,

chase multiple parameters on several

more so in the MSME sector. It has not yet ended. When will it end and

The secret of change

inflicted is anybody’s guess. Despite all

energies not on

how much damage it would have

is to focus all your

technological and scientific advances,

fighting the old, but

fronts. So, let us begin the chase...

Chase Cash Flow, Not Profit These are times of utmost liquidity

tightness. Money is gripped by fear.

on building the new...

mankind has been rendered helpless.

It wants to stay in the vaults, not

Socrates

Eventually, a vaccine would be found.

But its application on a global scale

circulate. Your P&L a/c is going to be hit in any case as demand will

will have its own challenges. This

take quite some time to pick up, if at

long tail phase out of COVID-19 lends credence to the dictum...“The other side

of COVID-19...world shall not be the

all. At least two fiscals, 20-21 and 21-22 volumes are easily 10 - 15 times larger

same again.”

than India’s, across sectors. Above all,

Making an impact analysis, we can

other

broadly say everyone will be affected, more or less. Looking at it sectorally,

the consensus that emerges among analysts is as given in Table 1.

it is more cost competitive than most Asian

compatriots,

including

India. Gautam Bambawale, our Former Ambassador to China says, “China will come out swinging at the West, while throwing carrots at the rest.” Period.

In terms of assessing risks of business,

Keeping this contextual scenario in

China factor. There is rising tide of

question: What should I do to survive

one has to consider the all-important virulent resentment against China. Lot of companies are said to be wishing to

exit China and shift their investments to other countries. Other cause is

massive disruption of supply chains due to Wuhan syndrome. So, companies dependent on Chinese raw materials and

components

may

suffer

from

uncertain future. However, there are

some other voices that feel otherwise.

They point out that China is the world’s second largest economy, now has

monumental infrastructure, is known as the ‘Factory of the World’ and its

mind, let us come to the million $ and prosper? No easy answer is on offer anywhere. That is why the longish

context above. Yet, some directions may already be visible. Let me share my thoughts on some of them. But

before I do that some prophetic words from

our

Hon’ble

Prime

Minister,

Narendra Modi, “We must understand that

the

world

has

fundamentally

changed post COVID-19. Now the world will be pre-corona, post-corona - just

like the case of the World Wars. And this

would entail significant changes in how we function.”

Table 1: COVID-19 Impact Analysis Low Impact Group

Mid Impact Group

Severe Impact Group

Pharmaceuticals +

Speciality Chemicals

Oil + Gas

Telecom

Real Estate +

Automotive + Automotive

FMCG

Banks + Insurance

Tourism + Civil Aviation

Defence + Aerospace

Shipping

Capital Goods

Electronics

Textiles

General Engineering

Solar Energy

Utilities

Consumer Durables

Healthcare

Construction

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Components

will most probably go on a downhill roller-coaster ride. Even analysts will treat these years as abnormal and long-term

credit

rating

may

not

suffer a negative blow due to lack of profits. So, watching P&L will be an exercise in futility. But

The world can

what will govern your ‘Back to Business’ cycle

will be your ability to finance

procurement

and will change;

but perish, it will

of essentials of your

not. Every crisis

to delivery. Working

challenges and

inputs,

from

design

capital will be a matter of

prime

concern.

So, watch cash flow

has two sides -

opportunities. So,

leave COVID-19

evening

behind and chase

and keep cash even

the ‘new normal’.

morning,

and night. Generate

if it means you have

opportunities in

to make sacrifices on

profit front. ‘Stay liquid, stay solvent’ ought to be your guiding mantra.

Chase Positivity, Not Fear The whole world has gone berserk.

More so the social media. We are really

seeing the ugly sign of technology platforms being grossly misused. Fake

forwards, speculative, scandalous posts abound. What will be its impact on an

investor’s psyche, on an entrepreneur’s

outlook, a lender’s perspective when they are bombarded daily with vivid

videos of fatalities, body bags, migrants cut to pieces and the virus hitting his next door neighbour? When he

51

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

literally comes close to shaking hands

differentiator

The resultant impact will create a

to tango with the fast-

with the Yamaraja (Lord of Death)? sense of fear. Will this fear permit further

investment,

increased

risk

taking? To chase positivity in such a situation is difficult. But it has been done before.

Mankind will find a vaccine. Will defeat

corona. Hum the hymn...“Tum mujhko

kab tak rokoge?” (R. D. Tailang, Amitabh Bachchan). How long will you be able to stop my progress?

of

casual

labour,

some

walking hundreds of miles, job left

behind and future at home uncertain, creates an unprecedented crisis. Who will build the highways, swanky multi-

storied mansions, ports, dams, our entire infrastructure and production

juggernaut? The gems and jewellery sector in Surat, ceramic hub of Morbi,

textile hub of Thirupur and so on witness

factories,

mills,

workshops

waiting to be started post lockdown. No

one to work there. Will normalcy return?

market

market

segmentation

Consumer

disruptions pose for

the

labour

available

the

Mountain

Mohammed.

to

Set

up

states

from

where

migrants originate.

Chase Flexibility, Not Focus So

far,

the

management has a

sharp

core the

Now,

52

been

7

popular to

focus

maintain

competence.

knitting

post

on

as

your

Stick

they

corona,

to

say.

the

that the world has fundamentally

What

changed post COVID-19. Now the

world will be pre-corona, post-corona -

just like the case of the World Wars. And

is

this would entail significant changes in how we function.

model to respond?

How quickly can I the

business

and

Japan, not come up with a single

occur? This VUCA scenario (Volatile,

last decade or more? Relating this

to

respond

as

game-changing

when significant changes / disruptions

and development to achieve systems

flexibility to be successful in such

that do not kill creativity. Give space

an environment.

for innovation and failure as much as

Chase Innovation, Not SOPs last

decade,

to performance and results. A fine

process-

balance indeed. But that is what

driven organisations have been the

CEOs will be doing, not working nuts

buzzword. But I don’t have the answer

and bolts.

to one question, why is it that the

Chase Agility, Not Fragility

most process-driven nation on earth,

2

Speed of response in a fast-changing

world will be of crucial importance.

You will not remain in business today

Chase Positivity, Not Fear

Call of Duty

6

the

looking at. So, invest in people, training

need great amount of organisational

the

in

the ultimate synergy is what one is

friends, will be the ‘new normal’. We

Over

product

phenomenon to the needs of flexibility,

Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous)

Chase Agility, Not Fragility

mantra

We must understand

all

business

Chase Your Core Values, Not Business@anycost

satellite units in those

will

right

CEOs.

Chase Cash Flow, Not Profit

1

locally and finally, move

Narendra Modi

technological challenges

humane working conditions for

skilled

forces.

new

on the table. Answer lies in creating

chain that can afford more

Some prophetic words

from our Hon’ble Prime Minister,

preferences,

and

Will they return? Again, put million $

migrant labour, go up the value

be

ability

changing

model

The shocking scenario of criss-cross

will

company’s

tweak

Chase Skills, Not Head Count migration

your

if you do not know tomorrow’s

3

developments ability to

Chase Innovation, Not SOPs

5

yesterday.

anticipate

disruptions

Chase Skills, Not Head Count

your

enable

This

changes

earlier

competition.

you /

than

Build

inherent resource strength to be able to do this

4

Chase Flexibility, Not Focus

will

or

else organisational

fragility will harm the company

when

comes to shove.

push

Chase Your Core Values, Not Business@ anycost Now. One of my fears. In the

chaotic

aftermath

of

COVID-19,

will we short-change business ethics?

Pursue

‘survive

at

any

cost’,

by

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

whatever means policy? Sales matter.

crisis has two sides - challenges and

prices

behind and chase opportunities in the

Get

order

pressure,

by

anyhow.

Cut

aggressive,

taking

undue

vendor’s

existential

advantage

of the weak position he is in? This

opportunities.

So,

leave

COVID-19

‘new normal’.

will really be a short-sighted policy.

PS: The article was penned

the short-term, but it may severely

announcement

and

10% of GDP and Finance Minister’s

before

damage

financial package equal to

your

bleed

demotivate

long-term

your

your

brand.

own

prospects

It

would

people

five

Prime

I hope that the ability

May improve your performance in

session

Minister’s of

long

to find another way, to

the

build a product, run a

detailing

company, run operations a

and impact your viability. A pirate

the same. I like what I heard

To my mind, this will be the test of

of my article, ‘Indian MSMEs’

So, come what may, hold your core

course,

ship

never

finds

a

safe

harbour.

better way will emerge as an

of

outcome of the current crisis.

Ratan Tata, Chairman, Tata Sons

because it perfectly fits the title

maturity of India’s corporate sector.

Life

Beyond

values dear.

sectors

Conclusion

beyond, to articulate measures that

more contributing to our progress? It

convert COVID-19 challenge into an

transformed India. This is where it

has

of

COVID-19’.

measures

economy,

It,

to

of

mitigate

industry

and

people most affected. It also goes way

These are seven chases that must be won. In the end, it must be noted

that mankind has fought many such pandemics, some obliterating entire

civilisation. The world can and will

change; but perish, it will not. Every

would enable these same sectors to opportunity. The breathtaking span

it covers is really unique. When did

you ever hear of sectors like fisheries, bee keeping, animal husbandry and

is a vision of the ‘new normal’, a

goes to envision life beyond COVID-19.

Thus, everything in the article remains

valid and has to be read with the changed context.

ESTD. 1988

An Indian Italian Joint Venture

High Impact Strength

Acrylic Impact Modifier for

PVC Window Profiles PVC Pipes & Fittings Vinyl Sidings & Fencing Years of excellence in Polymers

Plastic is not a villain PVC Doors and Windows save trees

PARACRYL 3055 IM

Haryana Leather Chemicals Ltd.

www.haryanapvc.com

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

1405 B, Signature Towers, South City-I, Gurugram-122001 T : (+91) 78279 52522 | E : info@leatherchem.com

53

ROLE MODEL

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

World Acknowledges Plastics

At the Time of a Pandemic The field of pandemics has benefited from the family

of plastic materials. It would have been impossible to

achieve this monumental gain without a material

foundation like plastics.

The world is now better prepared to face the

challenges of COVID-19.

In the Face of Adversities At different times in history, humanity

faced pandemics of varied proportions.

The devastating ‘Plague’, also known as ‘Black Death’, struck in 1346 wiping

out over 75 million people from the face of the earth. The global population then was less than half a billion. The ‘Yellow Fever’ in 1793 with deadly

vengeance also claimed a fair share of

Since then, monumental progress has

been made in the areas of medicine,

treatment and healthcare infrastructure making us better prepared to face a pandemic. At the beginning of twenty-first

century,

we

had

‘Bird

Flu’, ‘Swine Flu’, SARS, MERS and few other relatively less virulent epidemics

which paled in comparison to Plague, Yellow Fever or Spanish Flu in terms of

the global population.

In 1918, the infamous ‘Spanish Flu’ claimed over 50 million lives when

the population was 1.8 billion. An

estimated 12 million Indians lost their lives. While the ‘Spanish Flu’ did not originate in Spain, the name stuck.

At the dawn of twentieth century, S. K. Ray Hon. Secretary & Member of Executive Committee Indian Centre for Plastics in the Environment (ICPE) Mumbai

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

we had poor diagnostic tools, limited prognostic healthcare

skills

and

infrastructure

rudimentary to

counter

these pandemics. And, yes, we did not

have the support of advanced family of materials like plastics.

COVID-19 test kit.

(Source: The Irish Times)

55

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

PPE and sampling.

(Source: Sciencemag)

these products are made from plastics today due to their superior performance and low cost.

Fast Forward to COVID-19 We

are

witnessing

unprecedented

a

global

proportion.

The

pandemic rapidity

of

with

which it has spread, and the absence of any

effective medicine has posed huge challenges.

During treatment, there is extensive use of plastic products. IV bottles and

tubes, blood

bags, disposable syringes for

Personal protection equipment.

human

fatalities.

The virus has overwhelmed healthcare workers (Source: Shutterstock)

Amongst

the

recent

pandemics, Swine Flu in 2009 had probably been the severest with an estimated 0.3 million lives

lost

when

the

global

population

was

6.8 billion. COVID-19 in 2020 is now challenging the capabilities of 7.8 billion in fighting a pandemic.

and infrastructure at all the hotspots across the globe. Lead time necessary to develop a vaccine has further complicated the matter. Till such

time we have it, other preventive steps and symptomatic management of the illness has become imperative.

As a result, countries across the world have adopted risk mitigating steps to slow down, if

collection of

Prevention is the first step in management of

not arrest the spread. This includes aggressively

as well as for

vaccination

hygienic

blood samples administering medication

use plastics.

Disposable masks, caps and gowns are made from plastics.

a disease, including a pandemic. It involves

testing for the presence of the virus, promoting

protective

distancing and wearing protective gears.

to

barriers

promote

against

immunity,

transmission

using

and

encouraging

physical

isolating the source of the pathogens. India’s

At the diagnostic stage, kits used for sample

debilitating disease that strikes the young, is

largely made from plastics. Healthcare workers

track record in prevention of polio, a deadly commendable. Oral polio vaccine developed by

Albert Bruce Sabin, the Polish American medical researcher, and commercialised in 1961 helped eradicate this menace in India. Thanks to the

humble plastic ampule made with polyethylene, replacing glass, that helped reach the vaccine to

remotest part of the country and administered to millions of children susceptible to the deadly virus.

At prevention stage, disposable syringes are used in many cases to administer the vaccine. Face

masks are effective barrier to air-borne viral infection. For protection against deadly vectors like

mosquitoes, chemically treated nets are used. All

56

practices,

collection, handling and detection of virus are

involved at these stages also need to be protected with masks, gowns and other protective gears largely made from plastics.

During treatment, there is extensive use of

plastic products. IV bottles and tubes, blood

bags, disposable syringes for collection of blood samples as well as for administering medication

use plastics. Disposable masks, caps and gowns are made from plastics. All these help the patient, and protect the doctors, healthcare workers and

other care givers. There are numerous products

made from plastics that play a critical role in meeting the challenges posed by a pandemic.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

the pandemic is its impact on common citizens, particularly from the economically weaker strata.

Physical distancing and isolation to arrest the

spread has locked down a large size of population away

from

their

them

mitigating

homes.

Plastic

packaging

and containers have helped deliver food to possible starvation.

the

pain

of

hunger

and

As we acknowledge the contribution of plastics

in fighting this pandemic, there is also a critical Ration for distribution.

step that needs to be taken. It is the safe and (Source: Shutterstock)

Advances made in medical science and technology have been the crucial arsenal in our fight against

pandemics. This field has benefited from the family of plastic materials. It would have been impossible to achieve this monumental gain without

a

material

foundation

like

plastics.

The world is now better prepared to face the challenges of COVID-19.

One of the unfortunate fall-out in our fight against

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

responsible

disposal

of

waste

that

we

are

generating during this fight against the menace.

Government has issued guidelines for management

of bio-medical waste at hospitals and testing centres. It mandates use of plastic garbage bags

and bins for safe handling and disposal of waste.

Similarly, waste generated at the relief centres need

to be managed in a scientific manner to mitigate

its adverse impact. All these would help us win over the pandemic. And win we will in all fronts, including management of plastics waste.

57

1

8 8 9

Dr. Shreekant Diwan Head - Business Development, Baerlocher India Additives Pvt. Ltd.

The ‘Not-Out’ man; this 1988 picture was when Shreekant was working as Technical Executive for Cable Corporation of India. His big innings of close to 3 decades was with the country’s largest petrochemicals set-up; his new innings is now with Baerlocher India Additives. He sure would carry his bat through!

Change being the only constant, we thought it

would be wonderful to capture this and freeze

‘time’. We associate with the ‘current look’ of

our industry colleagues and would it not be

exciting to know of their persona, decades

ago. That’s what we did, had them dig deep into their archives and share this just for your ‘read’... or should we say ‘see’!

1

A visual delight!

99

3

Vimalesh Gupta Chairman and Managing Director, Vibgyor Poly Additives Pvt. Ltd.

A fresh graduate in 1993 from the Nizam College, Hyderabad, Vimalesh has had streaks of achievement to his credit; association activities for industry benefit have formed an inseparable part of his journey this far.

58

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

1

99

0

Manish Mehta

1

Managing Director, Reifenhauser India Marketing Pvt. Ltd.

2 7 9

Sales has always been close to Manish; this 1990 picture was during his sales stint at Padmatex Engineering. His business acumen finds wide acclaim in the industry today and a big reason for his stupendous success.

N. Chandrakant Founder Chairman and Managing Director of PIMCO Machines Pvt. Ltd.

1

A visual treat to see close to 50-year old photograph of Chandrakant Bhai. An engineer then (production engineer, just after graduation) and an engineer yet (successfully engineering solutions for plastics recycling at PIMCO).

98

0

Vimal Sipani Managing Director, Klene Paks Ltd.

Vimal was just out of graduation in 1980; identifying packaging as an opportunity, he today stands tall spearheading Klene Paks with his trademark composed demeanor.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

59

DIP STICK

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Rebooting the Manufacturing Sector Post Lockdown

VDMA CEO Panel Discussion

Every big crisis is a test of

leadership. We must have faith that a V-shaped recovery is

plausible. Hence, we should retain our confidence, keep calm, communicate with our people and our partners.

Foresee and try to understand the risk and readjust our businesses.

The Issues Along with an unprecedented human toll, COVID-19 has triggered a deep

economic crisis. The global economic impact could be broader than any that we Rajesh Nath Managing Director German Engineering Federation (VDMA) India Office

60

have seen since the Great Depression. The big difference now is that unlike the

financial crisis of 2008, which could be surmounted by creating demand, here we have the issue of both, demand and supply which is a unique situation. The virus has shut down production and disabled critical components of the supply

chain as a result of which production halts - which will lead to layoffs occurring

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

An Intitative Supported By

VDMA Webinar: CEO Panel 1

2

3

4

5

6

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

VDMA India Flash Surveys on Coronavirus 2020 Results Dear Readers, Along with the CEO conclave summary, this article

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Rajesh Nath, Managing Director, German Engineering Federation (VDMA) India Office Nitin Vyas, Managing Director, BEUMER India Pvt. Ltd. K. V. Suresh, Managing Director, ZF India Pvt. Ltd. Sriram Kannan, Managing Director, CLAAS India Pvt. Ltd. Rashmikant Joshi, Managing Director, Festo India Pvt. Ltd. Vivek Bhatia, Managing Director and CEO, thyssenkrupp Industries India

also carries the graphical outcome of two flash surveys carried out by VDMA India in April, 2020 to gauge the impact of corona virus on the business in India from the companies across 35 sectors of the mechanical engineering industry.

and, in turn, would lead us to a vicious cycle. Infact,

global trade is predicted to see a huge fall ranging from 20% to 35% as per current projections of Organisation

for

Economic

Development (OECD).

Co-operation

6%

and

The GDP growth in India is expected to shrink to around 1.5% to 2.0%. COVID impact has resulted

The crisis has

in tighter credits and cash flow constraints. It is

taught us the risk

a question of survival for many. Manufacturing

of dependence

companies will have to take steps to recover after

this challenging period and be ready to take a leap when situation starts returning to normal.

countries, and may thus give

At the present moment, the balance has to be

struck between the imperatives of preserving the importance of health, economy and society.

Naturally, the overriding consideration has to be that of health of the population, which should

be followed by the economic requirements, such that the impact on social conditions are not of negative nature.

The Forum In this context, VDMA India organised a webinar on 17th April, 2020 on the topic, ‘CEO Panel Discussions

Yes (n=222)

No (n=15)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=237

India Pvt. Ltd. and Nitin Vyas, Managing Director, BEUMER India Pvt. Ltd.

into how to prepare for the present challenges and

business globally and in India, is clearly visible

Lockdown’ with an aim to provide some insights

The negative effect of COVID-19 pandemic on

future requirements. The discussion was moderated

as industrial activities have come to a complete

members: Rashmikant Joshi, Managing Director,

Festo India Pvt. Ltd.; Vivek Bhatia, Managing Director and CEO, thyssenkrupp Industries India; K. V. Suresh, Managing Director, ZF India Pvt.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

localisation.

Ltd.; Sriram Kannan, Managing Director, CLAAS

The Outcome

The panellists comprised of the following VDMA

way to more

Do you already feel any significant disruption in your operation as a result of the spread of the corona virus?

on Rebooting the Manufacturing Sector Post

by Rajesh Nath, Managing Director, VDMA India.

on other

94%

standstill. When the panellists were asked what is the present scenario at their company and manufacturing units, the panellists mentioned that

due to the lockdown presently, the manufacturing is shut and the supply chain is disrupted, except in some essential cases; as for thyssenkrupp, they

61

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

72% 58% 37% 26%

21%

22%

Production stop (partial/ coverage) (n=46)

Other (n=47)

12% Reduction of overtime/ working time accounts/ holidays (n=126)

Reduction of temporary work/ permanent employment relationships (n=80)

Hiring freeze (n=157)

Short-time work (partial/ coverage) (n=57)

Staff reduction (core workforce) (n=27)

What steps would you need to adjust capacity? (multiple answers possible)

are working on some orders catering to the power

sector from one of their plants with necessary permissions. Also, Festo is working with skeletal

13%

staff, as they are catering to the essential sectors like

26%

food and bio-pharma. Here social distancing and necessary safety and health precautions are being

followed. Otherwise most of them are working from

25%

home and are utilising this time for training sessions on products and technology to their customers.

When asked what are the near-term and long-

36%

term implications of the lockdown for their

organisations, the panellists are looking forward to reopening of activities. They are gearing up

and would follow guidelines of health and safety

Work from home (n=191)

Awareness Creation (n=134)

the guideline from their Head Office is much more

CSR Activities (n=66)

Operational Safety Measures (n=136)

of workforce. Infact some like CLAAS mentioned stringent. In the long-term, they see that issues of

supply chain and logistics will persist and that of cash flow and liquidity will arise and need to be addressed properly.

28%

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=237 Survey 2: What measures are being taken on account of COVID-19 by your organisation? (Multiple answers possible)

32%

29% 13% 8%

8%

12%

71%

Yes (n=155)

No (n=62)

up to 10% (n=12)

over 10 to 20% (n=43)

over 20 to 30% (n=48)

over 30 to 40% (n=19)

over 40 to 50% (n=12)

over 50% (n=18)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=217 Survey 1: Are you considering reducing your investment plans for 2020? To what extent are you considering the cuts? (Right)

62

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

84.54%

83.51%

4% 11%

53.61% 40.72%

19.59%

Managing costs (n=162)

Weak demand (n=164)

Weakening Rupee (n=104)

85%

Manpower shortage (n=38)

Potential for significant impact to our business and operations. (n=167)

Non availability of funds (n=79)

Limited to specific regions in our business. (n=22)

An isolated challenge not greatly impacting our business currently. (n=8)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=194

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=197

Key challenges that you foresee impacting your business?

(Multiple answers possible)

What is your organisation’s current level of concern related to COVID-19 ?

When asked how are they to recover loss of man-

44%

days and what is their stand regarding wage 33%

payment to blue and white collared workforce

during this lockdown, the panellist mentioned that they have been keeping in line with the

government guidelines and have been paying

22%

the wages and salaries to their employees.

However, since it is perceived that liquidity is going to be a challenge in the time to come, some panellists mentioned that they may ask their

1 - 3 months (n=48)

3 - 6 months (n=95)

More than 6 months (n=71)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=214

for earned leaves.

When the panellists were asked if they feel that this crisis has given vent to the feeling that

globalisation may pave the way for regionalism,

Expected time to normalcy.

26.80%

50%

workers to work overtime or on Saturdays or apply

27.84% 17.53%

50%

11.34%

7.22%

Yes (n=97)

No (n=97)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=194

Decrease up to 10% (n=7)

10% to 20% (n=26)

20% to 30% (n=27)

30% to 40% (n=17)

40% to 50% (n=11)

9.28%

More than 50% (n=9)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=97

Is there any estimated impact on the export of your company? If yes to what extent? (Right)

64

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Flash Survey 1

Flash Survey 2 50.00%

44.39%

40.00% 33.18%

22.43%

10.00%

1 - 3 months (n=48)

3 - 6 months (n=95)

More than 6 months (n=71)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=214

1 - 3 months (n=19)

3 - 6 months (n=95)

More than 6 months (n=76)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=190

After the extension of lockdown what do you feel about the expected time to normalcy?

they said that due to supply chain disruption,

that they will support with their supplies after

term. Moreover, the crisis has taught us the risk

that many SME and MSME suppliers would

this is a possibility; however, only for a short-

of dependence on other countries, and may thus give way to more localisation.

the operations restart. However, they foresee

have a tough time to stay afloat and would face challenging time.

MSME contributes 6% to manufacturing GDP

The million-dollar question on everyone’s mind

lockdown, several MSMEs survival is at stake. The

When the participants were asked how they were

and 34% to India’s manufacturing output. With

panellists were asked that as large organisations, how do they support MSME suppliers? In reply to which, most of the panellists mentioned that they have not kept any payment of their vendors outstanding and have cleared them upfront, thus

helping the SMEs fighting liquidity and hoping 74.74%

is how to reorganise and reboot post lockdown. planning to take the organisation forward with reference to manpower, demand creation and cash

flow management, they said that the government here has an important role to play in demand

creation. Investment in sectors like infrastructure will

infuse

demand

in

related

sectors

and

sub-sectors. The impact of COVID-19, as mentioned

by BEUMER, is that it is not going to be uniform across industries. Further, this can lead to adoption

68.04%

of new technology and would give impetus to

sectors like healthcare, infrastructure, information 24.23% 12.89%

Manpower requirement (n=25)

Demand creation (n=145)

Cash flow management (n=132)

All the above (n=47)

Number of evaluable feedback messages n=194 What would be the priority of your business post lockdown? (Multiple answers possible)

66

technology, pharmaceutical, e-commerce, medical equipment,

agriculture,

food

packaging, amongst others.

processing

and

Finally, Rajesh Nath concluded the discussion

saying that every big crisis is a test of leadership.

We must have faith that a V-shaped recovery is plausible. Hence, we should retain our confidence, keep calm, communicate with our people and our partners. Foresee and try to understand the risk and readjust our businesses.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

NEW NORMAL

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Revival and Growth of Businesses Post COVID-19 Lockdown

S

ARS-CoV-2, popularly known as Corona or

COVID-19, has played havoc on the whole world forcing over half the world population

to lock themselves up in their homes, well-nigh stopping economic activity, especially affecting manufacturing,

aviation,

hospitality,

tourism,

automotive and many other sectors, and causing business revival anxieties among people. On the flip side, there will also be excitement about the new possibilities and opportunities.

The significant issues are the resulting economic

strain

unemployment,

across

the

psychological

globe,

stress,

shortage of products across the board, fear of moving out and close contact with people and uncertainties about

the emergent mores of life and trends.

There has been a lot of talk about

In order to sail through these very difficult times when we are likely to see high mortality of businesses coupled with job losses and deep

financial crunch, you need

to be agile and frugal. This

calls for very careful planning,

close monitoring of trends,

preparation for changed behaviours

post lockdown and conservation

of your resources with utmost care.

how the world will change in many

Rakesh Shah RS Coaching and Consulting New Delhi

68

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

ways and a new world with which

been used to. Many others won’t. Now

become the one we will need to

for the changes that are inevitable,

many of us are not very familiar, will inhabit.

People

are

talking

about

profound changes in lifestyles and workplaces. These are things much more impactful than they may appear

at first cursory view. New clichés are

coming into parlance, the most beaten one being the ‘new normal’, and there

is also some doomsaying. The positive and optimistic view of course is and

should be, that the current catastrophe will

offer

many

opportunities

to

businesses as well as for mankind to

is the time for companies to prepare at least in the shorter run, and many that will determine the long-term success of businesses.

If you don’t already have a plan in place during lockdown, you

would rather have one in a hurry,

lest you are too late. The following

will certainly change for a long time to come.

Social Distancing NN

heal itself and the earth. There may

be lessons and opportunities evolving from these huge visions.

The Changed Look Many

things

will

change

at

the

workplace and the way we organise

NN

work now. People have been working

the ‘normal’ way of life we have

their smartphones when a serious

processes in the organisation.

a distraction. The positive side of

people taking a sneak peek at

organisation as well as internal

matter is on the table, thus allowing this, however, is that in a video

Employees who can work from

conference you can see all people’s faces at the same time, whereas in a

meeting this is not possible. Several people talking at the same time can be prevented.

require

getting

more

and

NN

and

more

via

video

offices,

sharing

of

fear of infection.

Meetings will need to be conducted more

the

for workers for quite some time for

managed through digital platforms.

NN

Within

workstations will be discomforting

more functions of the organisation

through invention of suitable

gradually begin to return to

need several changes in workplace

long as it lasts, however, it will

will

threat of COVID-19 is overcome

at the least, many things will

fully present. This is similar to

video conferences, thus not being

say, once or twice a week. This

the

treatments, or its management

that it will be a lifelong norm. So

for a fairly long time. It is not likely

workplaces for particular reasons,

manufacturing, hospitality, security Once

may try to multitask during the

be required to report to their

presence of the workforce, such as others.

Social distancing will be observed

encouraged to do so. They may

there are jobs that require physical

many

touch, hug or bump. Participants

remote locations will need to be

from home where they can. Then

and

ger ay no lon sinesses m u b y n a M will lifestyles the new exist and s it portun ie to the op e give birth uge. Som lievably h e b n u re that a by e created ities will b opportun lescence. the obso

NN

In a manufacturing locale, it may be

conferencing tools. While many

much harder, especially in a country

some will have initial discomfort,

are still largely conventional and

eye contact and an occasional

machine control are yet to come

people will adjust to this easily,

like

India

where

technologies

being used to physical vicinity,

robotics and centralised multiple into widespread use. It may be a

good idea to have one operator

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

69

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

run several machines. That would

home, there can be things

automation on the shop floors and

that

happening

need greater sophistication and

operator

capacity.

skill-sets

will

decorum

be

NN

4.0 practices being adopted. This

and

Business Travel sales no

understand the

personnel

longer

without

big difference

travel

between

may

more

downsizing

travel NN

be

l

conservatively

get used to saving

weighed seriously.

minor issues on phone

should be

time

and

resolving

will

retraining them

teams

for different roles

invite

vendor

only

when

necessary and closer

could be viable.

to decisions.

This may open

l

many treasures

as

NN

Sales

will

need

to

Working from Home and Remote Locations NN

70

When people are working from

humane approach with decent and sincere promises for better times would help to assuage the hurt.

NN

A great deal of people will want to

Films and Flexibles

to

have

positive their

management

constant,

open

needs

communication

employees

difficult period.

through

and

with this

Empathy will be very helpful to reduce

the

stress

among

the

existing employees caused by the long lockdown. Where necessary,

coaching and other interventions may be necessary.

management of the distribution

of essential goods, food and medical care. o Most

flexible

packaging

probably quite profitably almost

In order to mitigate the problems, top

production, was recognised by

companies have been working,

Some people may leave jobs to take

the

NN

Plastics Processing Industry NN

the government as critical to

decide to go for self-employment.

in the changed environment. find increasing application.

and sympathetic negotiations and

some orientation and possibly some

up ‘safer’ jobs. Some others may

be

Remote service and installation will

need to be encouraged. Delicate

o Plastics processing, specially film

Personnel Issues - Engagement, Empathy, Planning

reoriented to operate successfully NN

the employees, voluntary cuts would

need to be in a certain ‘workplace’

above reasons.

time for information forces

able to afford full pay cheque for all

very

go to work for one or more of the

will become shorter.

NN

is

support such as coaching.

NN

waiting

it

not fulfilled. These people will need

This may mean that

increase

people,

discipline and they may feel their

the speed of work will

that are hidden.

many

to tardiness or lack of personal

and video calls. They

Upskilling or

For

work. Not doing so can lead them

Prospects will also

good employees

Since many organisations won’t be

includes ‘getting ready’ to go to

remain.

potentially very

of business during the lockdown.

people

important to have a routine which

to face interactions will

some of your

Traditionally,

survive the financial shock of loss

will

to collaborate.

meet people and face

Preserving

workplace,

Pay cuts may become necessary post lockdown as companies must

departments with which they need

planned, the need to

and rightsizing.

NN

working relationships across the

will

While

walking

have been advised to develop

and

compelling

justification.

efficient

disappear.

Management

of

are sometimes critical to a happy

disruption in production.

very carefully

possibility

organisational relationships, which

funding, coupled with temporary

l

The

to another colleague to develop

and manpower, and involve major

team should

common

around the office and going

will need radical changes in facilities

The management

and

is absent.

up for that.

We will probably see more of Industry

to

discipline of the workplace

required. One would need to gear NN

seem

being business-like, as the

Suitable

also

would

esses e busin nd agil a e v re ti a Innov to captu hance c e th e y and will hav ies earl ortunit p p o e ities thes portun ets. Op rk a m e es lead th usiness many b in e li o als new ove to g to m wantin lobally. g ally or n o ti a n ns, locatio

them

compromise the sense of

a great deal of data processing and programming

around

throughout

the

lockdown

period. India moved fast to take second position in the world

as a supplier of PPEs. Masks are

now

almost

industry item.

a

cottage

o It appears that the demand

for flexibles will harden in the foreseeable future, accompanied

by some shift towards larger

packages as people may want to be better stocked.

o Healthcare and medical supplies, including pharmaceuticals, will

also be centre stage for a while.

We think it may not be a very

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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Lohia Corp Limited D-3/A, Panki Industrial Estate, Kanpur-208022, INDIA.

T : +91 512 3045100

I

E: sales@lohiagroup.com

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

long spell. Long-term demand

the industry has had a period of

opportunities

above the pre-pandemic level.

it is felt that it will benefit from the

created by the obsolescence. Products

will,

however,

remain

well

The investments will need to be returned quickly.

The

problem

of

disposal

of

the

masks and other medical and civil waste has already begun to become a

serious

concern.

The

anti-plastic

crusaders are already becoming vocal.

The advantage of image correction of

the

plastics

industry

got

from

is

too

the COVID-19 is likely to be quickly squandered.

Government

busy with firefighting on so many fronts. The onus is largely on the plastics industry to protect itself past

the crisis. They need to huddle together, be innovative and daring, and work out strategies to control the damage without delay.

NN

strong

will

create

demand

a

sustained

growth for two to three years

before it stabilises. Vaccination, blood sampling and parenteral

medication will also present a sustained growth. o Hygiene

sector,

including

sanitiser businesses, will show good

growth

in

few quarters. o Bottles

of

small cars and two wheelers in a big

way. Due to the sagging economy, it may take two to three quarters to show up strongly.

the

home

next

products,

Some

which

will

that

are

unbelievably

opportunities

satisfy

the

will

new

be

needs

caused by more people being more

homebound such as entertainment, information

technology,

stressbusters markets.

etc.

will

enjoy

Innovative

fitness,

and

great

agile

businesses will have the chance to capture these opportunities early and

Upskill, Retrain, Redeploy Conserve Your Strength

lead the markets.

On the other side, there will also be

a need to reduce the workforce or downsize. This will inevitably be a very painful and difficult task. In some

cases, it may be unavoidable in the interest of the larger body of employees.

A good strategy would be to evaluate

in depth the internal processes of the

the apparently redundant employees should be made.

The management team should very

Opportunities

also

lie

in

many

businesses wanting to move to new locations, nationally or globally. You need to be ready to grab any such

opportunity that may be within your reach. Plan which businesses you should

get in touch with now, before they have chosen another partner. Carefully check the match of your talent pool, facilities, finances, work culture etc. and

have

a

well-thought-out

and

attractive proposition ready, and then move quickly.

carefully understand the big difference

Conserve Your Cash

Preserving some of your potentially

operations,

between downsizing and rightsizing.

In order to quickly ramp up your

very

the following:

good

weighed

retraining

employees

seriously.

them

for

should

Upskilling

different

be

or

roles

could be viable. This may open many treasures that are hidden. A properly organised effort would be required

and high level of commitment from

NN

you

Investment

would

in

technology.

information

NN

Investment in automation.

NN

Investment in employees.

NN

Investment

in

need

new

product

development, if required.

both, the management and employee,

back to their demand levels

such plan. Such a strategy will also

will be linked to the revival

major assets when the business gets

In order to sail through these very

sense not to lose them now in view of

see

come

will be key to the success of any

in relatively short time and

help to retain some people who will be

of

back on track, and it may then make

products

FMCG

strategising

will

companies to

now

re-establish

their logistics and remove the bottlenecks that have arisen in their supply chains.

Automotive Industry

products

of

large

variety.

Though

NN

Resources

to

survive

until

business is back on track.

the

difficult times when we are likely to high

mortality

of

businesses

short-term hardships.

coupled with job losses and deep

Look for New Opportunities

and frugal. This calls for very careful

financial crunch, you need to be agile

Some companies’ offerings may no

This is a major consumer of plastic

72

term. This may prompt them to buy

huge.

cleaners, surfactants and other similar

NN

crowded public transport in the near

in-depth SWOT / skill-set analysis of

o Pharmaceuticals, drug delivery etc.

fact that people would like to avoid

company now. At the same time, an

Rigid and Semi-rigid devices

struggle much before the pandemic,

longer be relevant. Many businesses may no longer exist and the new lifestyles

will

give

birth

to

the

planning, close monitoring of trends, preparation for changed behaviours

post lockdown and conservation of your resources with utmost care.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

CRUCIAL POINT

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Dealing With Medical Plastics Waste An Aftermath of COVID-19

Plastics has actually played

an important role in making

healthcare workers confident

of dealing with such dangerous

infectious disease like COVID-19.

As per latest World Health

Organization (WHO) estimates, the world will consume 89

million masks, 30 million gowns,

1.59 million goggles and 76 million

gloves in a month’s time alone due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A

t the time of writing this article, mankind is staring

at one of the biggest disasters of all times. With over

Prof. Prakash A. Mahanwar Professor of Polymer Technology Manoj Praharaj Bhatnagar Ph.D. (Tech.) Research Fellow, UGC-SRF, Polymer Synthesis Laboratory

Department of Polymer & Surface Engineering, Institute of Chemical Technology (Formerly UDCT), Mumbai

74

5.5 million people already infected with COVID-19

and over 3.4 lakh deaths spread across all the continents, the entire human population is fighting so hard to bring under control this apocalyptic calamity as the numbers relating to

infection and death are rising higher and higher, day after day.

India has fared well in this pandemic due to pre-emptive steps taken by our Government keeping in mind well-being of the citizens of the nation. Much of the credit goes to the ‘Corona Warriors’, a term coined by our Prime Minister which include

everyone from all walks of life like the doctors, paramedical staff, sanitation staff, policemen, government employees

etc. SARS-CoV-2 is a deadly virus that spreads by dispersing

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

in air in the form of tiny droplets from coughing or sneezing which may also settle on solid surfaces. The transmission of virus takes place in

Face shield or goggles

humans by coming in contact with the infected

N95 or higher respirator (When respirators are not available, use the best available alternative, like a facemask.)

Face shield made of PET sheet while goggles made of PC

person or surface, especially when one touches the nose or face.

In these dire times, it would be erroneous to

Respirator containing PP non-woven fibres

undermine the contribution of ‘plastics’. Yes,

you read it right. Plastics! Let’s see how this

One pair of clean, non-sterile gloves

material whose manufacture and use have been

a subject for worldwide debate by self-proclaimed environmentalist has actually played an important

role in making healthcare workers confident of

Gloves made of latex or nitrile rubber

dealing with such dangerous infectious disease

Isolation gown

like COVID-19.

Gown made of PET non-woven fabric

Plastics Used in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Health regulatory bodies worldwide like Indian

Council of Medical Research (ICMR), World Health Organization (WHO) and United States Centers for

Figure 1: Various plastics used in PPEs. (Part of image adapted from CDC brochure [2])

Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have laid

550.9 tonnes of medical waste are generated daily

workers. They chiefly consist of using personal

Management Rules - 2016 (BMW - 2016) laid down

gloves, coveralls, safety goggles, face shields, foot

Change. These projections were made prior to the

made of plastics. A variety of plastics including

plastic bio-waste generation will surge several

like low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene

COVID-19 crisis. A United Nations Environment

terephthalate (PET) and polycarbonate (PC) are

plastic bio-waste is generated per hospital bed

plasma transfusion from COVID recovered patients

down strict protocols to be followed by healthcare

that are disposed off as per the Bio-medical Waste

protective equipment (PPE) like masks (respirators),

by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate

cover and hair cover. Amazingly, all these PPE are

COVID-19 episode. It is only fathomable that the

some commodity and some engineering plastics

times due its indispensable use during the

(PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nylon, polyethylene

Programme (UNEP) estimates about 0.5 kg of

used to make various PPEs. In the last few days,

per day during the COVID-19 crisis [4].

has been found to help in the treatment of

Regulations for Disposal of Bio-medical Plastics Waste in India

from recovered patients using the process of

In view of corona virus related surge of bio-waste,

plasmapheresis are made up of polyethersulfone

released guidelines for handling, treatment and

even PP [1]. Also, Tyvek™, a product made by

during treatment, diagnosis and quarantine of

polyethylene (HDPE) is widely used for making full

having COVID-19, in line with the Bio-medical

are exposed to highly contaminated environments.

also

According to a study conducted by ASSOCHAM

bags to be transported to a Common Bio-

infected patients. This blood plasma is collected used

for

the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has

(PMMA)

or

safe disposal of bio-medical waste generated

Dupont consisting of flash spun high density

patients who are confirmed or suspected of

body suits that cover head to toe for workers who

Waste Management Rules of 2016. However, it

plasmapheresis.

(PES),

Such

membranes

polymethylmethacrylate

(Associated Chamber of Commerce) and Velocity,

India is going to generate 775.5 tonnes of medical

waste per day by the year 2022 at a Compounded Annual

Growth

Rate

of

7%

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

[3].

Currently,

calls

for

segregation

and

labelling

of

COVID-19 related waste into separate containers / medical Waste Treatment and Disposal Facilities (CBMWTF). According to the 2016 rules, any healthcare facility must either set up an onsite waste

segregation and disposal facility or else send the

75

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

segregated waste to CBMWTF. According to 2017

standards and protocols approved before use

operation and 28 new facilities under construction in

granted approval for using plasma pyrolysis and

for treating BMWs. During 2010 - 2013, CPCB has

Government statistics, there are 198 CBMWTF in

dry heat sterilisation for treating wastes [6].

India alone. Also, the number of healthcare facilities using

common

management

and

Incineration is the most widely used technique

treatment

for sterilisation of plastic bio-medical wastes

facilities are 1,31,837 while 21,870 healthcare

since the 1990s, but has its shortcomings. Besides

facilities have their own on-site waste treatment

completely destroying the material which was

facilities [5]. To prevent confusion over various

intended to be sterilised, this process generates

types of waste generated at healthcare facilities,

air polluting effluents such as particulate matter,

the new BMW rules calls for segregation of waste

dioxins, polychlorinated benzenes etc., which

into 4 colour-coded categories, out of which waste

are known carcinogens. In the newer emission

consisting of contaminated plastics are placed

standards for bio waste incinerators, the limit

in ‘Red’ category. The rules call for them to be

There are

several groups in Germany,

Spain, Austria

and Switzerland

who are actively

reclaiming plastics by shredding them and

remoulding the

plastics into face shields, masks for ventilators

and handles that

allow one to open a door without touching.

for particulate matter has been reduced to

firstly autoclaved or microwaved, followed by

50 mg/nm3 and residence time of material in

shredding the plastics into chips which are then

sent to registered recyclers for energy recovery of

incinerator has been capped at 2 seconds. This is to

making [6]. In today’s context, home quarantining

at sustained high temperatures.

plastics to make fuel oil or alternatively for road

ensure reduction in formation of dioxins and furans

of patients has proved to be an essential step

Methods to Recycle and Reuse Biomedical Plastics Waste

to reduce community transmission of the fatal

disease. This results in potentially contaminated PPE being generated at the household level too.

Recycle - Reuse - Reduce has been the mantra

The BMW rules call for the people managing the

for reducing plastics waste accumulation in the

quarantine camps / centre to call the CBMWTF to

environment. Just like conventional plastics, bio-

collect the bio-medical waste from their premises.

medical plastics waste too need to be recycled to

The previous 1998 BMW rules stipulated for any

prevent accumulation of contaminated plastics in

healthcare facility or Common Bio-medical Waste

the environment. But, before bio-medical plastics

Management and Treatment Facility desirous

waste is recycled like conventional plastics, one

of using any new innovative technology for

step of processing is extremely essential. They

disinfection must firstly approach CPCB to get

need to be sterilised to neutralise all the bacteria

General Waste

Infected Plastics

Infected Waste

Glassware

Sharps

Kitchen Waste, Paper & Tissues & Water Bottles & Cans

Syringes, Gloves & Plastics Waste

Soiled, Anatomical, Chemical Liquid, Cytotoxic, Laboratory Waste, Expired & Discarded Medicines

Antibiotic Vials, Metallic implants, Glassware Material Except Cytotoxic

Needles & Cut Glasses

Disposal

Plasma Pyrolysis / Incineration

Auto Claving

Incineration

Auto Claving

Common Treatment Facility

Mutilate Secured Land Filling

Secured Land Filling

Figure 2: Segregation of hospital bio wastes.

76

Deep Burial

Re-Cycler

Sharp Pit

(Source: Google image search)

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Together for a sustainable future!

Innovative Pelletizing Solutions for Plastics Recycling

Versatile system - one machine suitable for all polymers

Optimized flow paths eliminating dead zones

Advanced die plate and cutter hub design - leading to the perfect pellet Enhanced dryer design reduces resin moisture significantly

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Figure 3: Bio-medical waste management facility in Himachal Pradesh.

(Source: Wiki Commons)

Figure 4: PPE kept for drying after disinfection.

and viruses that they come in contact with when

processes mostly involve the use of chlorine

CoV-2 can remain alive on PPEs upto 4 days after

and chlorine dioxides [9]. This is a slow process

handling infected patients. Studies show that SARS-

The COVID-19 pandemic is

being fought with full might by all

the united brains

in this world. New technologies are

being developed in order to

enable PPEs to be disinfected and re-used upto 5

times during their life cycle.

initial contact [7]. For the purpose of sterilisation, several methods have been described in scientific literature earlier demonstrating very good efficacy

at disinfection. However, their applicability on such a large scale still proves to be a challenge.

generating compounds like sodium hypochlorite since the PPEs have to be dismantled before they

are exposed to chlorine, alcohol or ethylene oxide vapours. Besides, since the chlorine and alcohol

solutions are mostly applied in the form of a mist, the PPEs remain wet and need an additional

process of drying. The metallic components of

Thermal Processes Several thermal based systems involving low

heat (93° C to 177° C) generated by steam and

PPE also have to be protected from the corrosive chlorine mists.

microwave are in use. It is well-known by polymer

Battelle CCDSTM (USA) have developed a system

microwave result in deterioration of the properties

vapour phase for decontaminating PPEs. They offer

scientists that exposure of plastics to heat and of the plastics used for the manufacture of

PPEs. Besides, use of microwave for such large volume of waste requires high capital and there is

always a danger of the plastic or the contaminant degassing and forming some toxic plumes during the process. Medium heat processes make use

of temperatures in the range of 177° C to 540° C, causing pyrolysis of the plastic molecule. This

process too is energy intensive and products formed from pyrolysis seldom find any suitable

application. High heat processes involve using

plasma for deterioration which is both, highly energy

of using concentrated hydrogen peroxide in complete pickup of contaminated PPEs and drop

at the healthcare facility after decontamination.

They decontaminate 80,000 PPEs at a time [10].

This technology has been approved for use by USFDA and already deployed for use in the US

cities of New York, Seattle, Ohio and Washington DC [11]. Also, Lynntech has perfected use of ozone

for disinfection of plastics. Although this is a quick method that does not leave behind much residue,

but the plastics are more susceptible to damage due to use of ozone.

intensive and exposure to plasma completely

Advantage of using chemical systems is that due

This process increases the carbon footprint of

the decontamination process, the mist is able to

incinerates the plastics into carbonaceous products.

the waste processing centre, besides polluting the atmosphere with various metal oxides and halogenated gaseous by-products [8].

As

opposed

to

thermal

processes,

to the nature of the fine mist generated during

permeate through multiple layers of the fine fabrics

such as those used in respirators so that the extent of decontamination is higher. Although, common

plastics like LDPE, HDPE and PP do not undergo

Chemical Processes

78

(Source: www.battelle.org)

chemical

any major damage with chlorine exposure, yet condensation polymers like polyesters, nylons and

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

also rubbers undergo damage and deteriorate in a few cycles.

viruses [15]. Data has shown that 90% of captured

Use of Ionisation and Energetic Radiation Ionising radiation such as electron beam cause

damage to the DNA of any living organism and

essentially neutralises it. However, it should not be used in case of mixed streams containing metals.

This technique is one of the costliest methods described here and requires a containment system consisting of several feet thick concrete bunker,

making it difficult to set-up in a short span of time [12]. The use of ultraviolet light for disinfection of the PPE wearing healthcare worker has been a topic

of interest for scientists. Especially, pulsed xenon ultraviolet light has been shown to be effective during doffing of worn PPE [13].

aerosols are trapped on the first layers of respirators [7]. This technique although very suitable for fast throughput of disinfection and

lower initial costs, but may have questionable efficacy

especially

in

PPEs

having

complex

geometries. Besides, the degrading effect of UV-C

on plastics is well understood and would render the PPE useless due to mechanical degradation.

Can 3D Printing Technique Help in Recycling?

In 2016, a young Indian start-up company called

Protoprint, started by the environmental engineer, Sidhant Pai in Pune showed that high density

The ultraviolet light spectrum consists of three sub

polyethylene

(HDPE)

obtained

from

recycled

320 nm) and UV-C (200 - 280 nm). Out of the 3,

printing [16]. One of the world’s largest market

as they are strongly absorbed by RNA and DNA,

forecasted that worldwide 3D printing material

photodimerisation process which results in the

2021. As per latest World Health Organization

classifications: UV-A (320 - 340 nm), UV-B (280 -

bottles can be transformed into filament for 3D

UV-C rays have the highest germicidal properties

research company, Markets and Markets has

leading

market will reach USD 1.4 billion by the year

to

molecular

structural

damage

via

inactivation of the virus.

Since SARS-CoV-2 has been only recently identified,

there is lack of data on the survival of the virus

when exposed to different conditions. However, in absence of data on SARS-CoV-2, they have been

treated similar to SARS-CoV-1 by many authors [14].

UV-C is effective against SARS-CoV-1, but efficacy has been subject to many factors such as inoculum

size, culture medium, geometry and size of material

used in PPEs resulting in highly inconsistent

What is a PPE KIT? Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is specialised clothing or equipment worn by doctors, nurses and paramedics. PPE acts as a barrier and prevents the healthcare worker from coming in contact with an infectious agent or body flid that may contain an infectious agent.

Figure 5: Requirement of PPE in one city of India.

80

findings. At 360 mJ/cm2, SARS-CoV-1 had the

highest UV D90 among nearly 130 different type of

(WHO)

estimates,

the

world

will

consume

89 million masks, 30 million gowns, 1.59 million goggles and 76 million gloves in a month’s

time alone due to the COVID-19 pandemic [17]. This undoubtedly forecasts shortage of

PPE in the COVID-19 hotspots of the world. In

the pre COVID world, most of the manufacturing of PPEs was centred in China. Since this virus originated from China, the manufacturing of

PPE was hit and this affected supply of PPEs to other parts of the world.

Daily requirement in Delhi Delhi government has placed an order for 1.2

lakh kits,

which arrives in batches of

3,000 - 4,000 daily or every second day

KIT has gloves, gown, shoe covers, head cover, mask, respirator and eye protection

3,000

Current stock in godown

(Hospitals also have some stock)

4,000

27,000

Provided by Centre (with DRDO for disinfection at present)

4,000

Promised by individuals / private companies

(Source: TOI, some weeks ago)

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Quality in its purest form.

With passion, we develop future-oriented inspection and sorting devices for the quality assurance of plastic pellets, such as the PURITY SCANNER ADVANCED. – Online inspection and automatic sorting for pellets of any kind – Detection of metallic and organic contamination as well as cross contamination as small as 50 μm on the surface and inside the pellet – Professional Data Analysis Management (PDAM) for statistics, visualization and data logging

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

www.sikora.net/purityscanner

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Figure 6: Ventilator valves made by the Italian 3D printing company.

In this challenge against the virus, ventilators have played a very important role in treating critical COVID-19 patients who have developed

use

these articles.

of

recycled

plastics

to

produce

pneumothorax by helping them breathe and

To Sum...

Amidst this chaos created due to shortfall of

full might by all the united brains in this world.

allowing the lungs to drain fluids and heal itself.

The COVID-19 pandemic is being fought with

ventilator components, a 3D printer company,

New technologies are being developed in order

Isinnova in Italy, designed and printed numerous life-saving printing.

ventilator

They

components

manufactured

a

using

critical

3D

valve

required for connecting the patients to the

ventilator machines when the OEM could not supply the replacement valves in due time [18].

Several online blogs have already started providing designs for those who have 3D printers to enable

them to manufacture the head band for the face shield.

It

has

proven

to

be

very

easy

to

manufacture the head band to which only a flexible transparent sheet needs to be attached to complete a fully functional face shield [19].

At the same time, there are also several groups in Germany, Spain, Austria and Switzerland who are actively reclaiming plastics by shredding them and

remoulding the plastics into face shields, masks for

ventilators and handles that allow one to open a door without touching [20].

It is advantageous to use processes like injection

moulding over 3D printing which is several times faster to manufacture components for face shields, while 3D printing is useful to manufacture intricate parts like ventilator valves that would be

difficult

and

injection moulding.

costly

to

manufacture

via

The Gran Canaria Workshop in Spain has been reported to have made a prototype of face

masks used for ventilator machines. They have

82

made

to enable PPEs to be disinfected and re-used upto 5 times during their life cycle. The amount of bio-medical plastics waste generated during this period will be unfathomable. Face shields

and goggles will show least potential for reuse due to deteriorating optical properties after disinfection, while other PPEs can be reused

and recycled easily after use. Compared to conventional municipal plastics waste, bio-medical waste is required to be segregated at point of generation i.e. the healthcare centres, making it

easier to recycle them by conventional recyclers.

The only added step of disinfection though increases the processing costs, but can help in

ensuring adequate supplies of PPEs are available

to healthcare workers worldwide in times of shortage of raw materials. In the aftermath of

COVID-19, manufacturing sector will have to diversify manufacturing of essential supplies from

countries like China so that our country can be selfsufficient in PPE supplies which has proven to be an important tool in battling the infection. There is desperation faced by countries all throughout the

world for enough quantity of PPE. Recycling of PPEs can solve the supply issue at the moment and also

prevent the bio-medical plastics waste from landing in the landfill and persisting in the environment.

References 1. Bohler J., Donauer K., Koster W., Schollmayer

P., Wieland H., Horl W., Biocompatibility of four

POLYMERS CommuniquÊ l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Figure 7: 3D printed head band used to make face shield.

Figure 8: Recycled plastics injection moulded into face shields.

Figure 9: Face masks made by Gran Canaria.

plasmapheresis membranes in patients treated

10. Available on www.battelle.org, accessed on

479-485, 1991.

11. Available on https://www.npr.org/2020/03/30/

for hypercholesterolemia, J. Nephrology, 11, 2. Available

on

https://www.cdc.gov/

coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/COVID-19_ PPE_illustrations-p.pdf, Accessed on 27-4-20.

28-4-20.

823803831/technology-to-clean-and-reuseppe-is-being-deployed-to-hotspot-hospitals, accessed on 28-4-20.

https://economictimes.

12. Available on Emmanuel J. Non‑Incineration

healthcare/india-to-generate-775-5-tonnes-

Washington, DC: Health Care without Harm;

3. Available

on

indiatimes.com/industry/healthcare/biotech/

of-medical-waste-daily-by-2020-study/ articleshow/63426284.cms?from=mdr, Accessed on 27-4-20.

4. Available

on

https://www.unep.org/news-

and-stories/story/healthcare-waste-what-do-it.

Accessed on 28-4-20.

Medical

Waste

Treatment

Technologies.

2001, accessed on 28-4-20.

13. Jinadatha C., Simmons S., Dale C., Disinfecting personal protective equipment with pulsed

xenon ultraviolet as a risk mitigation strategy for health care workers, American Journal of Infection Control, 43, 412-14, 2015.

5. Bio‑Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016.

14. Gorbalenya AE, Baker SC, Baric RS, et al. The

Part II, Section 3, Sub‑Section (i), Government

related coronavirus: classifying 2019-nCoV and

Published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary,

of India Ministry of Environment, Forest and

Climate Change. Notification; New Delhi, the 28th March, 2016, available on www.dhr.gov.in, accessed on 27-4-20.

management in India: Critical appraisal. J Lab Physicians; 10:6-14, 2018. evidence

summary

naming it SARS-CoV-2, Nat Microbiol.; 5(4): 536-544, 2020.

15. Kowalski WJ. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation handbook UVGI for air and surface disinfection.

6. Datta P, Mohi GK, Chander J. Biomedical waste

7. Rapid

species Severe acute respiratory syndrome-

on

SARS-CoV-2

Heidelberg, New York: Springer-Verlag; 2009.

16. Available

on

https://3dprint.com/155010/

protoprint-recycled-filament/, 28-4-20.

accessed

on

17. Available

available on https://www.medrxiv.org/content/

18. Available on https://www.thehindubusinessline.

10.1101/2020.04.02.20051409v1, accessed on 27-4-20.

28-4-20.

www.who.int,

on

survivorship and disinfection, and a reusable PPE protocol using a double-hit process,

on

accessed

com/news/science/how-3d-printing-helpedsave-patients-lives-in-an-italian-hospital-

8. Nema SK, Ganeshprasad KS. Plasma pyrolysis for

amid-coronavirus-crisis/article31090602.ece,

9. Blasio A., Disinfection of personal protective

19. Available on https://newbo.co/building-face-

patients, American J. of Infection Control, 43,

20. Available on www.dezeen.com, accessed on

medical waste., Curr Sci; 83:271‑8, 2002. equipment

for

management

1372-81, 2015.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

of

Ebola

accessed on 28-4-20.

shields, accessed on 28-4-20.

28-4-20.

83

B u s in es sToon s

More than just ordinary, BusinessToons take content to another level in POLYMERS Communiqué.

Reading this, some may laugh, some may smile, some may read it and just put the magazine on the

side. In either case, it has achieved its intent to help you unwind and reset your mind...make it fresh, as green as it can get; essential isn’t it...as possibilities with polymers are endless...circular nevertheless!

84

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

85

NYT CORNER OFFICE

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Logged On from the Laundry Room How the CEOs of Google, Pfizer and Slack Work from Home

As Chief Executives hunker down during

the pandemic, home offices have become corporate headquarters.

“Nobody prepares for this”

Chuck Robbins, the Chief Executive of Cisco On

Chuck

Thursday

Robbins,

morning,

the

Chief

Executive of Cisco, signed on to a company-wide video conference from his home office in Silicon

Valley. The connection was stable, but the quality was not great.

David Gelles Columnist and Business Reporter NYT Corner Office Presented by

POLYMERS Communiqué in syndication with The New York Times © 2020 The New York Times Company

86

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

“I tell you,” he said in an earlier interview, “this

“We’re making sure that most of the information

whole teleworking thing - as much as we sell it to

is

cent of the time.”

surface them higher across all our products,” he

our customers, I’m not sure I want to do it 100 per In

addition

conference

to

Chuck

featured

Robbins,

several

the

mental

video

coming

journalistic

from

expert

organisations,

organisations

and

are

trying

and

to

said via a Hangouts video call.

health

At the same time, Google is seeing a spike in

questions from Cisco employees grappling with

and has most of its employees working from

professionals, who spent an hour answering the stress of working from home during the coronavirus

this,” he said.

outbreak.

“Nobody

prepares

for

Cisco, which makes networking equipment, has

seen demand for its Webex video conferencing system spike. In response, it has redeployed

teams to focus on making sure big customers can

conduct

everyday

meetings remotely.

chats

and

board

Still, it is a stretch. “None of this technology was

designed to support the entire world working

from home,” Chuck Robbins said. “The Webex teams haven’t slept in days.”

As the coronavirus sweeps the globe, even Chief Executives - who normally flit from meetings to

conferences in chauffeured SUVs and private jets have been confined to spare rooms.

From there, they are working to keep their business afloat as the stock market plummets; managing supply chains upended by travel

restrictions and labour shortages; and trying to keep their employees healthy and sane.

“It’s a miracle you can run a company this way” Artfully

demand for its G-Suite and Hangouts products, home as well. “It’s a miracle you can run a company this way,” he said.

Sundar Pichai, like so many, is also having to navigate the home front. “The day-to-day juggling of all this stretches all of us,” he said. “It was not easy to help my teenage daughter to understand what is going on.”

“It is a high stress environment right now”

Adena Friedman, the Chief Executive of Nasdaq Adena the

Chief

Friedman,

Executive

of Nasdaq, made the

decision

weeks

ago:

Key personnel at the stock

exchange would be split into two teams.

Each week, one team would work from home

and the other would work from the office. Over the weekend, the office would be cleaned. In the event that one team got sick, the other team could run the company.

During her rotations away from the office, Adena

Sundar Pichai, the Chief Executive of Alphabet

Friedman has been working from her primary residence in Chevy Chase, Md. - along with her

At an undisclosed location

in Silicon Valley, Sundar

husband and two sons, both in their 20s, all of whom are also working from home.

Pichai, the Chief Executive

Adena Friedman follows the same routine each

home office. Soaring ceilings.

peloton, eats breakfast and gets to work. During

decorated

of Alphabet, has a very nice two-tone

bookshelves.

A

seating area. A really big plant. It’s the kind of

home office you would expect the wealthy Chief

Executive of one of the world’s most powerful technology companies to have.

From there, Sundar Pichai is monitoring the

myriad ways that Alphabet - which includes Google, YouTube and more - is responding to the

coronavirus crisis. Paramount among his concerns, he said, is ensuring that disinformation is kept in check.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

workday. She wakes up at 5:30 a.m., rides on her the day, she is monitoring the steady decline in the markets, trying to ensure that banks - which

also have most employees working remotely -

are clearing trades, and taking meetings with executives who are also at home.

“What’s been really fun is to peer into the personal lives of your colleagues,” she said in a

telephone interview. “Sometimes a kid will walk into the room. My dog has been barking all day.”

When Adena Friedman gets hungry, she runs

87

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

downstairs and makes herself a peanut butter and honey sandwich, then races back to her office for more calls. “It is a high stress environment right now,” she said.

“All hands from the laundry room”

Stewart Butterfield, the Chief Executive of Slack For

Stewart

Butterfield,

“It feels very strange”

was bad time to have spotty

internet service. He was stuck

at home in San Francisco amid

the shelter-in-place orders, and

had an all-company video conference to

host. But with his home internet wonky because

of construction, there was just one room that had a decent connection. “I did the all-hands from the laundry room,” he said in a telephone interview.

Slack, the messaging company, has experienced a sharp spike in usage in recent weeks, as much

as 30 per cent above previous highs of messages sent per day. “We’ve seen an incredible surge in new sign-ups that has tracked pretty closely to the countries that have been affected,” he said.

Stewart Butterfield contends the new demand

has galvanised the team. “It was probably the most productive week of work in the company’s history,” he said.

Albert

Bourla,

Chief

the

Executive

of

drug maker Pfizer, was

happy when the bickering

the

Chief Executive of Slack, it

Albert Bourla, the Chief Executive of Pfizer

began.

His

college-aged

daughter had moved back home to Scarsdale,

N.Y., after the coronavirus closed schools around the country, and she was already at it with her mother.

“I had missed the fights between my wife and my daughter,” he said in a telephone interview. “I’m happy to see it once more. The day starts with a fight and ends with a fight.”

When not delighting in his reunited family,

Albert Bourla is grappling with the immensity of the

challenges

confronting

Pfizer,

a

global

company that is also a critical cog in the healthcare system. “My mind right now is spinning a thousand times,” he said. “It’s not only that I feel

responsible for the 90,000 people of Pfizer. I feel a responsibility to bring a solution to this crisis.”

Pfizer is ramping up production of medicines that might be needed to treat patients suffering from COVID-19, the disease caused by the

But Stewart Butterfield said he was aware that it

novel coronavirus. It has also begun aggressive

wears off,” he said. “We don’t want people to

antiviral treatments.

might not last. “The adrenaline rush eventually

research into a vaccine for the virus, as well as

burn out.”

Albert Bourla saw the crisis coming somewhat earlier than others. Pfizer’s offices in Asia were

affected by the coronavirus months ago, and Albert Bourla said the novelty of remote working quickly wore thin for workers there. “After a couple of weeks there was a fatigue of working from home,” he said. “It feels very strange.”

Gregg Renfrew, the Chief Executive of Beautycounter

“I don’t have all the answers”

Gregg Chief

Renfrew,

Executive

Beautycounter,

the of

was

trying to work from an

apartment

Stewart Butterfield, the Chief Executive of Slack, on a Zoom meeting with Robby Kwok, a Senior Vice President.

(Credit: Stewart Butterfield via The New York Times)

88

Palisades

in

the

neighbourhood

Pacific

in

Los

Angeles, but her husband kept interrupting her video calls.

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#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Beautycounter, a private company that makes

Also: His father-in-law is staying with him, and

stores. Instead, it does most of its business

To cope, Marc Benioff, a Buddhist, has been

makeup and shampoos, doesn’t sell through through a network of consultants - mostly women who sell to their friends and associates.

Gregg

Renfrew

has

been

trying

her

best

to manage the disruption wrought by the coronavirus

-

fortifying

her

supply

chain,

increasing the production of some essential

items and postponing some product launches.

But the pressure to keep the company running is

intense at a time when many small business owners are facing an existential crisis.

“I have 50,000 people whose livelihood depends on us,” she said in an interview via Zoom. “And I have to acknowledge that I don’t have all the answers.”

In one of the earlier weeks, in recognition that

his mother comes over for dinner every night. meditating more.

Salesforce employees are also feeling the strain.

Marc Benioff said an internal survey revealed that

36

per

experiencing

cent

mental

“We’re starting a daily mental health call”

Marc Benioff, the Chief Executive and Cofounder of Salesforce On a conference call the other day, Marc Benioff, the

Salesforce Chief Executive

and Co-founder, made an

insensitive

remark.

Describing

how the company was meeting customer demand

during the coronavirus crisis, he said, “We have a full Chinese menu of options for our customers.”

The blowback was swift, with employees around the country reprimanding him via email.

“I am learning new levels of sensitivity,” Marc

Benioff said via FaceTime from his home office

in San Francisco, where he is holed up amid the region’s shelter-in-place order.

force

challenges

was

these

health call, to encourage daily prayer meditation and mindfulness.”

Giovanni Caforio, the Chief Executive ‘We all of Bristol Myers Squibb have to make

trade-offs’

Giovanni

Caforio,

the

Chief Executive of the

drug maker Bristol Myers

Squibb, was monitoring the

coronavirus long before most Americans. Giovanni

Caforio is Italian, and his brother, who works in

a hospital in Rome, told him weeks ago that the virus was serious. “I know first-hand three people in the I.C.U.,” Giovanni Caforio said in a telephone interview. “Two in Milan and one in Rome.”

Now Giovanni Caforio is running the company from his home in Princeton, N.J., where his wife

and two children are also trying to keep up with

their responsibilities. His wife manages a nonprofit that provides food to the underprivileged.

His college-aged son came back from Scotland after school was cancelled. And his daughter is a

senior in high school. “She is not getting a prom or

a graduation ceremony,” he said. “We’re adapting to a new reality.”

Giovanni Caforio said Bristol Myers Squibb’s supply chain, which is sourced from the United States and Europe more than China, was holding

Marc Benioff apologised, but the gaffe wasn’t

up well so far. But he acknowledged that new

employees, he is juggling professional demands

around the globe.

particularly surprising. Like most of his 50,000 and personal life from home.

Marc Benioff, already a rampant networker, said

the volume of inbound communication he is receiving surpasses anything he has experienced

before. “It’s everything from working with our management team to planning the fiscal year,” he said. “I’m having to adjust what my priorities are.”

90

work

admit it,” he said. “We’re starting a daily mental

told company employees to take Friday off. “We she said. “Then we can come back and get to work.”

his

health

days. “And those are the ones who are willing to

everyone was feeling a bit frazzled, Gregg Renfrew all need to figure out how to manage everything,”

of

disruptions were possible as the virus spreads

Giovanni Caforio knows it is a stressful time, and is trying to be empathetic with his work force.

“Some of our employees working from home were feeling almost guilty,” he said. “They were

struggling about how to balance their personal needs with how to help the company. Right now, we all have to make trade-offs.”

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

PATH BREAKING

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

HR Recovery Plan Through the Coronavirus Crisis

The article provides insights on how

organisations can respond, and what happens next as regards the role of

HR in the current crisis.

T

he world has changed dramatically in the last few weeks since the onset and impact of COVID-19 virus. A rare disaster, a coronavirus pandemic, has resulted in a tragically large number of human lives being lost. As countries

Dr. Naveen Malhotra Senior HR Professional Ahmedabad

92

implement necessary quarantines and social distancing practices to contain the

pandemic, the world has been put in a great lockdown. The magnitude and speed of collapse in the activity that has followed is unlike anything experienced in our lifetimes.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

COVID-19 pandemic is now no longer only a

to respond to crises; promote rapid problem

market and economic crisis that is having a huge

conditions; organise a network of teams which

global health crisis, but it is also a major labour

impact on people. COVID-19 virus has been a game-changer and a disruptor. It’s unprecedented, and has forced us to relook at the way we live

and the way we work. As companies navigate the

ongoing COVID-19 crisis, there are a number of

key issues corporate leaders should be thinking

solving and execution under high-stress, chaotic would include an integrated nerve centre covering four

domains,

namely,

workforce

protection,

supply-chain stabilisation, customer engagement and financial stress testing. Regardless of their functional scope, effective networks of teams

display qualities of being multidisciplinary and are

about, as well as steps they can take to not only

designed to act. HR leaders and senior management

reshape their business and plan for recovery.

the human tragedy as a first priority. Offering an

sequence of events of enormous scale and

effect on employees and other stakeholders,

of uncertainty that gives rise to disorientation,

further,

react to severe business shocks now, but also

have to demonstrate empathy and deal with

Indeed, the outbreak has had an unexpected

optimistic, realistic outlook can have a powerful

overwhelming speed, resulting in a high degree

inspiring them to support the company’s recovery;

a feeling of lost control, and strong emotional

leadership should ensure to maintain transparency

disturbance this puts extraordinary demands on

and provide frequent updates.

HR leaders. Further, the humanitarian toll taken by COVID-19 creates fear among employees and other

Looking at the Workplace Post Lockdown

stakeholders. The massive scale of the outbreak

and its sheer unpredictability makes it challenging for HR executives to respond. Recognising that a company faces a crisis is the first thing HR

communications

shouldn’t

stop,

HR

India has been in lockdown since 25th March, and

since then there has been only one agenda to getting back to the normal, post-lockdown.

leaders must do. It is a difficult step, especially

Businesses need to think about the future; also

suddenly, but grow out of familiar circumstances

and months. We need an exit strategy or post

during the onset of crises that do not arrive that mask their nature.

Considering few priorities for business as well

in the current scenario, the next few weeks

shutdown plan that protects our well-being even as it bolsters our economy.

based on perspectives and experiences from

However, understanding the India scenario, I

I have tried to spell out certain responses which

not have a post lockdown strategy to manage

other countries where COVID-19 first impacted, HR leaders should consider for smooth and stressfree recovery as dealing with the coronavirus crisis

and its aftermath could be the imperative of our times. For some organisations, near-term survival is the only agenda. Others are peering through the

fog of uncertainty, thinking about how to position them once the crisis has passed and things return to normal. The question is, what will ‘normal’ look like? While no one can say how long the crisis will last, what I find on the other side will not look like the normal of recent years.

It is impossible to know what will happen. But it is

possible to consider the lessons, both distant and

recent, and on that basis, to think constructively about the future. I believe that the following elements will be important in shaping of the next

normal - and for that, HR leaders will need to work on their attitude, mindsets and behaviour; organise

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

feel that over 70 per cent of the companies will people and work.

Post COVID-19 Scenario COVID-19 has completely changed the way

organisations work and operate. Today, more and more organisations are using digital platforms

to operate and conduct business. All these new changes

have

made

businesses

contemplate

how to do business without physically seeing or meeting each other.

I see this as an opportunity to increase flexibility for employees and reduce the overall cost per

employee. This swift change in operations of business due to ongoing pandemic doesn’t mean that no one is hiring. There are companies which

are hiring, some are even increasing their need for new employees. The COVID-19 pandemic is quickly

changing how every organisation is attracting,

93

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

recruiting and retaining employees in their virtual

An SOP for post lockdown restart for multiple

The major advantages of this are reduction in

opening phase, email confirmation from employees

teams, making remote work as the ‘new normal’. cost per employee in terms of facilities cost and increase in the flexibility provided to employees.

Post lockdown, remote working policies will no longer be a perk, but will be fully embedded

within the company culture. There will be a need

to quickly redesign and scale the organisation’s IT infrastructure and operations to support this new way of working.

Returning businesses to operational health after a

phases has to be laid down. Before a day of on health and travel history, pest control and

fumigation of the entire premises, transportation, a designated area for quarantine facility in consultation with medical experts, adequate supply

of sanitisers and masks should be planned and

procedure for the same to be laid down. In terms of business continuity, the organisation would also have to: NN

efficient completion of the desired work on the

severe shutdown would be extremely challenging.

Clear, transparent and timely

communications are necessary

when creating a platform to reshape the

business and to secure ongoing support from

supply

chains

face

disruption

in

multiple

first time.

The primary concerns at the moment is ensuring productivity and engagement; it is tough to engage employees who are working from home. This can

take a toll on the mental and physical health of a

suppliers,

I feel multiple engagement initiatives need to

investors and regulatory

authorities.

stress that the lockdown has imposed upon all.

be undertaken by organisations such as fun activities, physical challenges all with the goal to

help enhance motivation, energy, enthusiasm, relationship-building and trust-building. Also, with overall well-being on the mind, employees should

be supported by specialists, if need be, to provide on-call guidance in case any employee wants to reach out.

I also suggest that companies should roll out a

‘Restart Manual’ on how they plan to restart their operations after the COVID-19 lockdown. For

example, planning various measures for ‘starting from home to work’ journey where health status of

each employee would be assessed, ensuring social distancing and safety at pick-up points, alternate seating in pick-up transportations, commutation walk path, and locker room usage, staggered canteen timings, sanitising common touch points

etc. Temperature check would be necessary before pick-up and entering the work premises with compulsory usage of masks.

94

Discuss

with

contractors

on

status

of

availability of manpower and if not, plan labour

slowed down, even demand across industries has slumped - we saw negative oil prices for the

Ascertain that the customers are informed on the plans of reopening.

NN

geographies. It is not just that production has

person, especially with the added uncertainty and

creditors,

NN

of the impact of coronavirus mean that global

customers,

employees,

first day.

Most industries will need to re-activate their entire model, even as the differential scale and timing

Earmark teams for specific tasks for timely and

availability with numbers.

NN

Liaison and discuss with suppliers on their stock

position and capability to supply on day one and gradual ramp-up.

Safe and Sustainable Restart Digital workforce and design will be essential components post lockdown and will play a vital part in success, growth and innovative outlook.

One of the crucial requirements would be

developing a digital workspace connecting all employees. Employees need to learn and implement teamwork and strategies, which is a must for modern work experience. Further, it is important to

keep the consumer / customer and the employee at the centre of all the decisions. Companies will

have to be innovative in their thinking to ensure supply without compromising on cost and safety

of their colleagues. Companies should take the entire ecosystem around the factories, local

administration, suppliers and trade partners along with them when restarting operations.

Plan for Recovery Now, Not Later The COVID-19 crisis was impossible to predict with conventional wisdom and forecasting tools.

However, there are many lessons that companies

can learn and carry forward once the crisis has

passed and they’ve had a chance to analyse their response. In the meantime, companies should be

making decisions and taking actions during crisis with recovery in mind. When the crisis is over, it

will be clear which companies have the resilience

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

and agility to reshape their business strategy to

potential impact on financial performance and

companies should re-evaluate how robust their

the impact is material and former budget

assess how long the impact may continue. If

thrive in the future. Once the situation is mitigated,

assumptions and business plans are no longer

business management was facing the crisis, and

relevant, companies should revise them to

then analyse options to become more resilient

remain agile. Where the business is significantly

against future disruptions.

impacted, companies will need to consider

Reshape Strategy for Business Continuity Most

businesses

are

likely

to

minimum operating requirements, including key

experience

significant disruption in their business and will

Once the situation is mitigated,

companies should re-evaluate

how robust

their business management

was facing the

crisis, and then

workforce,

vendors,

business plans.

crisis, supply chain challenges were significant

Communicate With Relevant Stakeholders

crisis has spread to Europe and the U.S., many

Clear, transparent and timely communications are

disruption as well as significant shifts in consumer

the business and to secure ongoing support from

consumer and retail, to manufacturing, life sciences

and regulatory authorities.

for companies with exposure to China. As the

more companies are experiencing operational

necessary when creating a platform to reshape

demands and behaviour impacting sectors from

customers, employees, suppliers, creditors, investors

to automotive.

Customers

To help address these challenges, companies

Companies will want to keep customers apprised

Evaluate short-term liquidity. Companies will

contractual obligations cannot be met as a result

discipline that allows them to predict cash flow

to maintain open lines of communication to

They’ll also want to maintain strict discipline on

mitigate punitive damages or liabilities associated

receivables and managing inventory build-up.

Employees

should: NN

analyse options

to become more resilient against

future disruptions.

of supplier or production disruption, it is important

pressures and intervene in a timely manner.

revisit timelines. Such proactive action will help to

working capital, particularly around collecting

with disrupted customer obligations.

proactively intervene to lighten the working capital cycle.

NN

Just as companies need to monitor their in-

find

the

balance

between

caution

maintaining a business-as-usual mindset.

and

some of their customers, suppliers, contractors

with suppliers regarding their capability to deliver

monitor the pressures that may be impacting

Companies need to maintain regular contact

or alliance partners. In particular, companies will

goods and services during the COVID-19 crisis

Consider alternative supply chain options.

Companies that source parts or materials from suppliers in areas significantly impacted by COVID-19, will want to look for alternatives.

Organisations that operate with transparency and

open

communication

have

inherent

advantages when events require quick actions to react and reshape.

NN

to

Suppliers

suppliers that may be impacted.

NN

For employees, communication plans should try

house vulnerabilities, they also will need to

want to stress test their tier one and tier two NN

of any impacts to product or service delivery. If

want to instill short-term cash flow monitoring

Additionally, it’s important to be creative and

Companies will want to stress-test financial plans for multiple scenarios to understand the

96

of

how the COVID-19 crisis affects budgets and

face business underperformance throughout the

duration of the COVID-19 crisis. At the start of this

dependencies

location and technology. Therefore, determine

and their recovery plans, so that the company can consider alternative supply chain options in a timely manner.

Creditors and Investors Companies

will

want

to

review

terms

and

conditions on loan contracts to identify sensitive debts and avoid vital technical debt breaches.

These reviews will have the added benefit of

giving companies a chance to proactively manage the dialogue and communications with creditors

regarding any necessary amendments to existing terms or refinancing arrangements.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Maximise the Use of Government Support Policies Companies

government

Just as companies need to monitor their in-house

vulnerabilities,

should

and

monitor

organisational

nation-wide

opportunities

for support and how they may best serve the individual circumstances of their situation. It is important to note that government support may

differ based on jurisdiction and sector. Companies will need to identify and understand each offer of

they also will

support and determine which ones are best for

the pressures that

Build Resilience in Preparation for the New Normal

some of their

Once companies have solidified strategies based

need to monitor

may be impacting customers, suppliers,

contractors or

alliance partners.

their organisation.

on stress tests and communicated any new directions with relevant stakeholders, they will

need to execute based on revised plans while

monitoring what continues to be a fluid situation.

Senior management should report any material deviation from the plan in a timely manner so that their companies can take additional action to avoid further negative impact.

Once

the

COVID-19

outbreak

is

controlled,

companies

will

want

to

review

and

renew

business continuity plans (BCP). They’ll want to

assess how existing BCPs are working. If there are deficiencies, companies will want to identify

root causes, whether it’s timeliness of action, lack of infrastructure, labour shortages or external environment issues. Companies will then want to consider putting new internal guidelines in place

based on lessons learnt, as well as solid contingency plans to build resilience and better respond to future crises.

Conclusion The coronavirus pandemic is testing the leaders of

companies and organisations in every sector around the world. Its consequences could last for longer

and present greater difficulties than anyone

anticipates. The prolonged uncertainty is all the more reason for HR leaders and senior management to embrace the practices described in this article.

Those who do, will help establish or reinforce behaviours and values that can support their organisations and communities during this crisis, however long it continues, and prepare them well for the next large-scale challenge.

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POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

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RESEARCH REPORT

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Work From Home (WFH 2020): A POLYMERS Communiqué Survey Results Declared

W

ith COVID-19, the globe faced an unprecedented situation. Truly VUCA! The changes that needed to be adopted to

were immense. WFH seemed like a dictionary word. An enforced new normal. The employers and employees were in a state of flux! It was imperative to assess the impact of WFH. The situation was not conducive...and yet, POLYMERS

Communiqué in its customary elegance, went about to serve this industry amidst these challenges.

The readers of POLYMERS Communiqué are a genre of its own, and we believe they deserve quality and timely information; at a time when they need it the most. Thus, this survey. An objective achieved by POLYMERS Communiqué! WFH 2020 asks these questions to processors and suppliers both and opinions could differ and, for the first time, provide cross tabulated responses for a still better reader connect. Ghar se toh kya? Kaam toh karna hi hai!

Read and know all that you ever wanted to as regards a collated opinion of our own industry pertaining to ‘Work From Home’.

It’s happening for the first time, it’s happening because of POLYMERS Communiqué.

Industry surveys from POLYMERS Communiqué are crafting a new niche for itself and providing the readers a very valued insight into this fiercely competitive market. The responses would serve as a general guide; you would, however, need to evaluate, validate and map responses for your business in specific. Have a read...

50 - 75%

33.33%

Survey Basics

0 - 25%

25 - 50%

Productivity percentage working from home...

Maybe one of the most debated questions... while the pattern of responses don’t radically differ...the suppliers look like believing that they

had a better productivity than the processors.

Response Tabulation: Cross Tabulation

l

14.29% Processor’s Side

75 - 100%

31.17%

Infact, a significant 26% of suppliers felt that they achieved productivity of even 75 - 100%!

In both cases, however, it came out at close 0 - 25% to 50% of the respondents left that the

100

Format: Electronic

l

23.81%

28.57%

productivity was only up to 50%!

Sample Size: 119 (42 processors, 77 suppliers)

l

50 - 75%

24.68%

25.97%

75 - 100%

Supplier’s Side

18.18% 25 - 50%

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Higher productivity

Work satisfaction

42.86%

50.00%

Flexible schedule More time with family

90.48%

52.38%

30.95%

33.33%

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

(Percentages total beyond 100 due

Higher efficiency

to multiple choice answers)

Higher productivity

Independence

25.97%

29.87% Work satisfaction

Processor’s Side

More time with family

Working from home...the big advantages... and processors) are spot on! Flexibility,

36.36%

61.04%

Flexible schedule

77.92%

68.83%

Here both the communities (suppliers

Higher efficiency

Independence

more time with family and independence have emerged as the 3 star performers.

Strangely, productivity rates the lowest

Supplier’s Side

in advantages...so technically, is it a disadvantage?

Yes

Maybe

No

16.67%

35.71%

47.62%

No

Will few days working from home be an acceptable approach...

A big ‘yes’ from both sections (suppliers and

processors).

What

a

change

circumstances bring. Who ever thought

Maybe

Yes

18.18%

25.97%

our industry would be so unanimous in

this regard. By compulsion or by choice,

a lot of ‘maybes’ will also move to a ‘yes’!

Processor’s Side

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Supplier’s Side

55.85% 101

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

Collaboration and communication issues

An Intitative Supported By

Feeling out of the loop

64.29%

57.14%

64.28%

Distractions of home

Staying motivated

Processor’s Side

40.48%

47.62%

26.19%

Lower productivity

False accusations of being slack

Working from home...the big disadvantages...

(Percentages total beyond

Here both the communities (suppliers and processors) are spot on as well!

100 due to multiple choice

Distractions, collaboration issues and feeling out of the loop have been

answers)

ranked as the biggest disadvantages. To bring out another point, a larger

number of processors felt that staying motivated was a challenge when compared to suppliers...not sure why...a feed for thought for all of us!

Feeling out of the loop

Collaboration and communication issues

68.84%

67.53%

68.83% Distractions of home

Yes, it is a concerning issue

No, it is not a concerning issue

Supplier’s Side

31.17%

35.06%

Lower productivity

Security checks have been put in place

False accusations of being slack

Yes, it is a concerning issue

28.57%

No, it is not a concerning issue

Staying motivated

Security checks have been put in place

Security issues in working from home...

The processors are more concerned

about these issues than suppliers. An

extension being that the supplier side

21.43%

35.71%

(maybe technology providers) has put security checks in place. This seems as an opportunity for the security

solution providers. Close to a third of

25.97%

29.87%

the respondents in each case do not

42.86% 102

consider security as an issue.

Processor’s Side

Supplier’s Side

44.16%

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Yes

Processor’s Side

23.81%

An Intitative Supported By

No Maybe

35.71%

40.48%

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

Yes

11.69%

No Maybe

Is working from home at lower salaries a part of the new normal...

40.26%

48.05% Supplier’s Side

Over 24% of the processors say ‘yes’, while close to 12% of the suppliers say ‘yes’. As expected, a big chunk on both fronts are undecided. Apparently a

lot would clear up when the economy opens. A

point to note My Lord, every 4 out of 10 respondents on an average have said ‘a clear no’ too...not sure how many of these are employers and how many employees...keep guessing!

Work happening from home was a fine balance of both, activity and intelligence, as it would have happened on a regular office day

Work happening from home was more activity (execution) based, intellectual aspect suffered

50.00%

Processor’s Side

14.29%

35.71%

Work happening from

Work happening from home was a fine balance of both, activity and intelligence, as it would have happened on a regular office day

41.55%

Supplier’s Side

home was more mind (intelligence) based, execution suffered

Work happening from home was more activity (execution) based, intellectual aspect suffered

24.68%

33.77% Work happening from

Any change in approach when working from home?

A majority of the processors as well as suppliers felt

home was more mind (intelligence) based, execution suffered

that intellectual aspect did not suffer. Infact, they

reiterated that work had a fine balance of execution and intellectual as on any other normal working day.

Kudos to the spirit of this plastics industry...it adapted this big change with open arms!

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

103

#Business Beyond COVID-19 for Plastics

An Intitative Supported By

Innovation in work processes

66.67%

A modified and more robust business approach

45.23%

47.62%

40.48%

Independent style of functioning

(Percentages total beyond 100 due

to multiple choice answers)

Processor’s Side

Newer and optimised job profiles

Innovation in work processes

61.04%

Opportunities in this lockdown The time was different, the environment was different, the needs were different...

so innovation in processes was the result.

Independent style of functioning

48.05%

55.84%

Over 60% of processors and suppliers

left that innovation in processes was their biggest gain. So it seems that all of

us, though battered and bruised, will still

35.07%

come out as better warriors and fight our way through.

Would prefer to resume office

Newer and optimised job profiles

A modified and more robust business approach Still excited to work from home

Supplier’s Side

Still excited to work from home

Would prefer to resume office

Way forward...home or office?

The verdict is out...bass ho gaya! The

industry is restless to go back to work.

28.57%

On the other side, an approx. 30% would still

prefer

home...may

be

personal

challenges of family, maybe phobia to get

35.06%

back to work, maybe fear or maybe happy with this new normal.

71.43%

Processor’s Side

64.94% Supplier’s Side

In its continued initiatives to serve the industry, we at POLYMERS Communiqué enjoyed putting 104

together this survey, hope this read benefitted you. The Research Bureau signing off till next time...

LAST MILE

Good Distribution Network Key for JIT Supplies

“As regards business processes, I anticipate a 50% reduction of

middle-men in organised trade

like prime and virgin polymers,”

elucidates Deepak Shah, in dialogue with POLYMERS Communiqué.

Deepak Shah Managing Director Ravago Shah Polymers Pvt. Ltd. Bengaluru

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

105

Q. The most challenging phase of your journey from Shah Polymers to Ravago Shah Polymers...

packaging is also a big sector, but needs specialisation to suit each one’s requirement.

The most challenging phase was to search, identify and recruit the right talent for the job and

We’ve initiated

also open up offices and

expect this to normalise by

Q. How is Ravago Shah Polymers preparing to operate post COVID-19, what are the bottlenecks you foresee?

mid-July or August.

The way I see it, I anticipate

a 50% reduction of middle-men

in organised trade like prime and virgin

We’ve initiated steps to reduce costs and downsize our inventory and storage capacities.

I foresee difficulty in fund collection from

customers due to the cascading effect (OEMs

to Tiers to SMEs). I expect this to normalise by mid-July or August.

Q. Circular economy and the actions that are already under way or in the pipeline?

India

has

already

invested in specialised plant and machinery to sort, clean and recycle in the most

efficient manner. We have a few projects in the pipeline with paint, drum and pipe units

who

are

speciality

compounds

Q. What is your take on the changing role of the middle-man in trade today?

effect (OEMs to Tiers to SMEs). I

challenging phase.

to

and additives.

customers due to the cascading

I felt it was the most

manufacturing

filled

difficulty in fund collection from

easy this may sound,

beginning

polymers,

and storage capacities. I foresee

8 locations. However

are

focus on biodegradable

and downsize our inventory

expanded from 2 to

Manufacturing

We

steps to reduce costs

warehouses, which we

Ravago

Q. Any unchartered areas that you plan to foray into in the coming years?

interested

in closed-loop recycling. Recycling of film

polymers. However, in the recycling business, I see their involvement doubling as there’s a

lot of untapped potential to source / collect recyclables.

Q. An excellent CRM and a distribution network form the two cornerstones of organisations. What are your thoughts on the same?

CRM has immensely helped us organise our

supply chain and logistics. It has helped us in actively keeping track of our customers and their forecasts, and also connected us

seamlessly with our 8 warehouses across India.

India is a large country with many clusters, so

setting up a good distribution network is key for JIT supplies.

Education is the most powerful weapon

which you can use to change the world.

Educate Every Child...

106

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

With this section, we just wish to highlight to you how paintings can add so much warmth to your home and office. Seeing them framed on a wall only helps...just another initiative to assist readers of POLYMERS Communiqué; painting snapshots...brushed up!

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

107

SIVARAM SPEAKS

Figure 1: Discarded used rubber tyres.

Molecular Recycling Technologies

Can Rubber be De-crosslinked?

While the developed process is an efficient chemical

pathway for de-crosslinking rubber with the principles of circularity elegantly achieved, it nevertheless, will

require more fine-tuning before it becomes viable for

R

commercial use.

ubber tyres are ubiquitous for human mobility. The discovery of pneumatic tyres along with the internal combustion engine in the early part of the

twentieth century stroked the revolution in human mobility. Today, rubber

tyres are an integral part of every form of transport, from the lowly bicycle to the

Dr. S. Sivaram Former Director, CSIR-NCL Honorary Professor and INSA Senior Scientist Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune

108

wide-bodied jet aircraft. Approximately 3 billion tyres were produced worldwide in 2019, a large portion of which ended up in landfills and dumps after use.

Used Tyre Disposal and Its Business Scenario in India The end-of-life issues of rubber tyres pose a considerable challenge in waste

management. Tyres are built for reliability and long-term use. Consequently, great advances have been made in tyre technology in terms of both, materials and

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

design, to provide consumers with worry-free safe driving for several thousands of kilometres. The robustness in design as well as the complexity by which various materials are put together in a tyre

also makes it one of the most difficult materials to

recycle. Thus, disposal of a used tyre is an unsolved problem in waste management across countries of

the world. It is therefore not surprising that global trade in waste rubber has doubled in five years, to

one million tonnes per annum corresponding to an equivalent of 200 million tyres per annum. India, alone, adds 100 million tyres to the waste streams every year (Refer Figure 1).

Global trade in

Automobile tyres are the classic example of a high-

waste rubber

volume, man-made product derived from non-

has doubled in

renewable petroleum resources that is designed

five years, to one

for single use; they do not fit the desired paradigm

million tonnes

of reduce, reuse, recycle. Some old tyres are used

per annum

as fuel in the cement industry or ground into rubber crumbs and used for road paving by

mixing with asphaltene. These are inefficient ways to utilise a non-renewable resource.

Figure 2: Charles Goodyear, the discoverer of rubber vulcanisation using sulfur.

corresponding to

rubbers using sulfur (a process called vulcanisation),

India is one of the largest destinations of used tyres

which is used even to this day. This process

million tonnes of waste tyres from other parts of

The sulfur-sulfur bonds that bridge chains of

pyrolysis units, which converts them into furnace

properties of the final rubber article. They provide

around 300 to 500° C under limiting oxygen

and dynamic properties. Dynamic properties are

and gases. The liquid is an oil (40 - 45%) and is sold

e.g., the movement of a sidewall of a running tyre.

powder (30 - 35%) and steel wires (15 - 20%). The

movements rapidly form cracks and, ultimately,

India has close to 650 licensed tyre pyrolysis units,

of crosslinking renders the rubber elastic and

illegal units. Most of them have inadequate facilities

loss of its dimensional or physical properties.

an equivalent of

200 million tyres

per annum. India,

from the world. India annually imports close to 0.6

converts rubber into an industrially useful product.

the world. Much of these waste tyres are sent to

rubber molecule strongly influence the physical

100 million tyres

oil [1]. Tyres are first shredded and pyrolysed

a balance of properties such as heat resistance

streams every year.

conditions to produce a mixture of liquids, solids

important for flexing movements of the rubber

as furnace oil. The solids are mostly fine carbon

Without

gases are oxides of carbon, nitrogen and sulfur.

will make the rubber product fail. The process

mostly in the SME sector and several hundreds of

capable of being deformed repeatedly without

for handling toxic emissions nor protecting the

It has been thought that de-vulcanisation or

workers against fine particulates of carbon. It is

believed that 40% of the licensed pyrolysis units are not complying with the norms laid out by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Based on an observation by National Green Tribunal (NGT)

made in April 2019, CPCB, in December 2019, asked all states to close down tyre pyrolysis units which

are

not

complying

with

the

extant

CPCB rules. NGT has also asked CPCB to place restrictions on import of scrap tyres.

In 1844, Charles Goodyear (Refer Figure 2) accidentally discovered the process of crosslinking

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

good

flexing

properties,

alone, adds

to the waste

these

de-crosslinking of rubber will not be easy to accomplish. This is inspite of the fact that the S-S bond is not very strong (bond strength of about

280 kJ/mol or 60 Kcal/mol), about 40% weaker

than a C-C or C-H bond. Furthermore, S-S bond is known to be cleaved under reductive conditions.

Principles of Circularity Elegantly Achieved Michael A. Brook and co-workers from McMaster University, Canada now report a simple method

to reductively cleave the S-S bond in crosslinked

109

S

S S

S Si Used Rubber

Si

O

H

B(C6 F5)3

S +

Si

O

Si S

Si

O

Si

S New Elastomer

Uncrosslinked

Figure 3: Reductive silylation of S-S bonds in crosslinked rubbers to silyl thio ethers using hydrosilicones and B(C6 F5)3 as a catalyst.

(Source: Prof. Michael A. Brook, McMaster University).

India is one

of the largest

destinations of

used tyres from

the world. India

annually imports close to

0.6 million tonnes of waste tyres

from other parts of the world.

rubber using silane reagent as a reducing agent

The process is clean, uses mild operating conditions

The silane-boron catalyst combination cleaves

again in the rubber industry. The principles of

and tris-pentafluoro phenyl boron as a catalyst [2]. the S-S bonds selectively, liberating the rubber molecule in an un-vulcanised state. The chemical

process first involves cutting tyres into sections

and then forming powdered crumbs from them, followed by a mild, rapid reaction produced by heating this material with the silane / catalyst at 100° C for 45 minutes resulting in the recovery of the available organic materials in the form of a

pale-yellow oil. The remaining substance, such

as inorganic carbon, silica, metal and polyester

cord fibres, are readily removed by filtration (Refer Figure 3). They demonstrate the utility

circularity are elegantly achieved.

The process, nevertheless, will require more finetuning before it becomes viable for commercial

use. The catalyst used is expensive and requires a

loading of about 10 wt.%. The rubber surface area

plays a role in the efficacy of reaction with cryogenic grinding giving the best results. The reaction uses a solvent to dissolve the silane and the catalyst.

Additional chemical steps are required to free the

oil from the bound thio silyl ether groups after the reaction.

of this method by de-crosslinking a variety of

Nevertheless, this work is significant. It defines an

tread as well as sidewall materials. The technique

a rubber, a material which otherwise has been

materials such as car tyres, inner tubes and truck works well with all rubbers - natural rubber,

EPDM, polybutadiene rubber, butyl rubber and

polyisoprene. The yield of the organic product

efficient chemical pathway for de-crosslinking considered as chemically intractable.

References

can be as high as 90% by weight. The liquid oil

1. Pyrolysis of waste tyres - A Review, P.T. Williams,

with a high molecular weight fraction, about

2. Dissolving used rubber tyres, S. Zheng, M. Liao,

shows a broad molecular weight distribution one million and a low molecular weight fraction, around 10,000.

110

and can generate products, which can be used

Waste Management, 2013, 33(8), 1714.

Y. Chen and M. A. Brook, Green Chemistry, 2020, 22, 94.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

AUTO-MATE

An integrated factory automation solution plays an important role to support manufacturers optimise

process, assess line health, improve

efficiency and support quick

decision-making.

Smart Technology

T

he plastics industry is growing with

innovations

taking

for an Optimised Produce

centre-

stage. Fast-tracked globalisation and swift

technology changes have brought with it extensive changes and abundant opportunities for the plastics

industry

manufacturers

are

to

grow

improving

globally. their

Today

machine

standards with best technologies by constantly

upgrading their production methods. With growing demands, manufacturers around the globe aspire

to build next-generation smart factories to stay ahead in the competition.

Figure 1: A single comprehensive factory automation solution gives a holistic view of the overall process and support in decision-making.

Figure 2: Ease of access to OEE parameters, energy consumption, asset monitoring and production data at your fingertips.

Sameer Kudalkar Head - Sales & Partner Development - Process & Factory Automation B&R Industrial Automation Mumbai

POLYMERS CommuniquÊ l April - May 2020

111

An effective maintenance strategy supported by intelligent condition monitoring solution ensures equipment reliability, and thereby increases factory availability for mass production.

Today, it has become one of most important KPIs in the industry to assess performance

of

factory.

any

and MSMEs is to adopt to the changing

shift in technological advancements.

Focus is to maximise capacity utilisation,

increase productivity, enhance quality

and, at the same time, reduce losses due to downtime. Process downtime of a few minutes can lead to huge loss in terms of material and money. In

addition, the critical task is to bring the lines back to normal pace in the shortest

time possible. Investing on individual

systems to control processes, manage utilities and monitor line maintenance

has been an increasing burden on

manufacturers. Therefore, an integrated factory automation solution plays an

important role to support manufacturers

optimise process, assess line health, improve efficiency and support quick decision-making.

Factory

automation

system

monitors

the shop floor and

provides the possibility to connect data to IT systems or cloud. The data gathered is utilised to calculate OEE

industry

operational

is

evaluating

parameters

to

control, optimise and create efficient Energy

parameters

have

special mention in the list. It is essential

to understand usage of energy in order

to reduce consumption. Therefore, it calls for an efficient and integrated

energy monitoring solution that can identify, evaluate and exploit energy consumption levels.

Energy

is

individual machine and processes. It

overview of all monitoring activities at

available their

to

the

fingertips.

management

Various

trend

charts provide a visual display of the monitored

machines

and

utilities.

It enables factories to connect and integrate

all

possible

components

in the shop floor, and monitor them 24/7. It helps factory managers achieve

higher productivity and OEE, while also reducing wastage, inventory costs and

losses. Any variations in the process

can be raised as warnings and logged for analysis. Factory automation system provides

comprehensive

trending

and

historical

reporting,

data.

The

The

data

Accelerate Performance Using a Single System

smartphone

The demands from global markets

information, such as OEE ratings for

on quality. To achieve a competitive

plastics

various

for each machine. A comprehensive

reports can also be accessed using a

are increasing with an added focus

The

factories.

every machine on

However, the biggest challenge for SMEs

Save Big With Less Energy

regarding

or

tablet.

availability,

productivity

and quality is converted into valuable the management.

allows manufacturers to gain a detailed picture of the energy consumption

and take targeted action to optimise it.

The

system

tracks

progress

of

energy and material flows, such as electricity, power, pressure, oil, water

and steam, both in production and

in all ancillary processes. It helps to identify origin of consumption and logs them as a report in real-time.

The reports build a solid foundation for

manufacturers

consumption

to

pattern

identify and

the

take

measures to optimise energy usage and achieve better results. Factory managers

can

measured

values,

automation

use

system

an

to

existing

process

eliminating

the

need of a dedicated controller that

usually adds to cost and complexities in plants.

the

benefits can be gained through having

Efficient Health Monitoring of Machines in a Factory

acquisition, monitoring, analytics and

is

monitor

production

performance

level.

One

of

at

the

most followed method to monitor performance is by calculating OEE

(Overall Equipment Effectiveness) of a factory. OEE is analysed by measuring

three important components, namely machine availability, product quality and

productivity. It can be done for either independent machines or the entire

factory. The parameters give visibility

to factory managers on the number of products manufactured that are defectfree against capacity of production line.

112

factory

keeps

With

to

comprehensive

solution

level of production efficiency, factories need

a

monitoring

continuous track of consumption in

automation solution, many business a single system for process control, data long-term storage. The system offers

seamless communication between shop

floor systems and IT systems, thereby

monitoring integrated utilities, inventory management,

finance

management,

infrastructure automation, operations and sales into a single system. The flexibility and modularity give freedom to scale up at any time with minimum cost, time and effort.

The key focus in a production facility to

increase

the

efficiency

and

reduce stoppages. The prevention of

stoppages has great positive effect on the OEE and thereby, operational performance. Machines in a factory are expected to operate 24/7. This

places a lot of stress on moving components. Moreover, in a country

such as India, the temperature at many places rise to high levels in summers.

Moving

components

in

machines

POLYMERS CommuniquÊ l April - May 2020

suffer from vibrations, shock, and wear and tear, leading to failures. It ultimately results in breakdown and

bringing production to a standstill. Maintenance adopt

either preventive measures such as planning schedules according to running hours or reactive measures that

is after failures. Loss of production because of such unplanned stoppage will inevitably lead to additional costs. This calls for efficient maintenance practice that

can sense failure in machines on the shop floor well in advance and helps to take corrective action(s) to

avoid stoppages. Factories are interested in adopting predictive

maintenance

over

the

conventional

methods such as reactive maintenance and preventive maintenance. help

A

condition

overcome

such

monitoring

challenges

and

solution

will

adopting

an

integrated approach helps factories saves immense capital costs.

Condition

monitoring

solution

as

an

integral

component of factory automation system enables machine operators in preventing failures by analysing vibration

data from critical points in production on a real-time basis. The measured data helps to identify patterns and

predict issues before they happen. The system allows

monitoring the asset health, optimising maintenance activity and provides real-time alerts relating to operational

risks. The data is made available in reports as well as graph for maintenance personnel to perform root cause

analysis. It ultimately helps manufacturers to lower maintenance

costs,

maximise

uptime

and

improve

production throughput. An effective maintenance strategy supported by intelligent condition monitoring solution

ensures equipment reliability, and thereby increases factory availability for mass production.

Right Partnership for a Smart Factory The plastics industry is in a constant pursuit to meet consumer

demands

by

improving

productivity,

reducing losses and becoming more profitable using an

integrated

approach.

To

achieve

this

level

of

integration, there is need of a single, robust, modular and comprehensive automation solution. With major crux

of the plastics industry being supported by MSMEs and SMEs, it becomes important for them to identify and adopt an appropriate solution in their production facility

to maximise capacity utilisation, increase productivity and enhance quality, with minimum cost and effort.

Collaborating with the right automation partner is the key for the plastics industry to cater to new age requirements partnerships

and

will

stay

help

efficient and smarter.

competitive. them

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

make

Moreover, their

such

factories

Weekend Delights Friday night to Monday morning, a time to unwind, rejuvenate and be geared to face another grueling week. Each one of us use this ‘my time’ is different ways. And why not, weekend is a time for expressing ourselves. We all have known the personalities featured here as astute business stalwarts; as life is more than just business, we at POLYMERS Communiqué, have started this section called ‘WEEKEND DELIGHTS’. Live life...

Pradeep S. Randhawa Managing Director

Mann & Hummel Filter India Pvt. Ltd.

I look forward to my weekends, wherein I try my best to be on the golf course.

Golf is a great sport which allows you to remain competitive in a healthy and calm atmosphere.

Spending time with friends on the golf course is a stress-buster.

Vipul M. Panchal

Managing Director

Panchal Plastic Machinery Pvt. Ltd.

My weekend is pretty sorted and simple. Usually during the weekend, I help my wife with cooking and I spend time with my family. Family time includes sharing what we feel, playing cards and dumb charades game. And sometimes, I spent my weekend with my friends at a farmhouse cooking together and have a little party. As I’m a melomaniac, I love to listen to music, which rejuvenates me.

114

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Anand Prahladbhai Panchal Partner

N.A.Roto Machines and Moulds India

I prefer getting a break from my daily routine to maintain my mental and physical health with doing new things apart from my daily lifestyle. Usually on Sundays, my day begins with preparing breakfast for my family. After breakfast, we go to the club and spend some time to play indoor games with children. After that we have delightful lunch at home. And in the evening, after hi-tea, we go out for dinner and sometimes a movie too.

This is how I spend my weekend and boost myself for the coming work days.

Bharat Vyas CEO

PLASTIVISION INDIA 2020

Weekend is something I always look forward to. And when it comes to activities, it always is the best time to unwind, relax and just be with myself.

Over a period of time, I have realised that it works also as stressbuster when I indulge in my favourite daily and weekend cycling activity, be it in Mumbai or in the foot hills of a Switzerland snowcapped mountain. I simply love it.

In the present-day lockdown situation, I have found in me a good cook and doing household chores, the activities I look forward to add in my weekend activities.

A blessing in disguise...I believe...

Rajesh Jain

Managing Director

Arihant Gold Plast Pvt. Ltd.

I try to do a few things over the weekend; yoga and pranayama are a big must.

It gives me immense clarity of though, speech and shows the way of living within yourself and with all in the outside world.

As regards cycling, I got to do a 1,000 kms ‘Tour of the Nilgiris’ and look forward to practicing it with friends during Mumbai weekends.

It’s been a year that I am learning to sing, learning all the ‘sur’ combinations from ‘Sa to Sa’!

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

115

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Multi-faceted Opportunities in Pharmaceutical Packaging

with Plastics

In tomorrow’s pharmaceutical packaging,

amongst most materials, plastics packaging through innovation has an important role

to meet the consumer needs in providing

access, convenience, safety and delivering to the digital age consumers.

Sriman Banerjee Head of Packaging Respiratory Category GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, Switzerland

P

lastics packaging has always been important

in the pharmaceutical industry for providing safety and shelf-life throughout the life cycle

of product consumption. However, over time, the importance has only increased due to a variety of factors as part of either regulations, consumer preferences or new products.

Pharmaceutical products are divided into two main types: NN

Rx products with doctor prescription.

NN

OTC products as retail.

OTC products can be further classified as: o OTC Pharmaceutical (Western Medicine) o Naturals / Food Supplements

Some articles don’t have a shelf-life. Over the next issues, we will pick a select few for your ready-read in our recently launched ‘Archives’ section. Article published on an as-is basis.

116

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

Changes Witnessed by the Global Pharmaceutical Industry

Preservative Free

Globally, every year, there are more than 10 Rx to

are being introduced for such pharmaceutical

The switches have only increased over the last

preservatives, the shelf-life needs to be provided

Consumers

Rx to OTC Switches

are

having

a

preference

of

preservative-free products; also new regulations

OTC switches happening in most of the countries.

products

5 years as more and more medicines are deemed

by the packaging.

to be safe to be consumed in the OTC space.

Aging Consumers

What this means is, the product will now be

Worldwide, the demography is changing with a

to compete with other similar products and

higher

available at the retail shelves and will now need brands. It also means that the product needs to

have a competitive pricing. This is where plastics play an important role, either in substituting of

in

many

markets.

In

absence

of

higher percentage of aging consumers. This means use

of

existing

products

by

aging

consumers and/or development of new products specific to the needs.

traditional materials (metals / glass to plastics)

Consumers, Regulations and Industry Usher the Change

cavitation moulds. As it is the OTC space, there are

Given the above scenarios, tomorrow’s plastics

and anti-counterfeit (covert and overt) which

new requirements as laid out by consumers,

and

/

or

increasing

productivity

with

high

specific requirements in terms of tamper-evident

packaging needs to transform itself to meet the

needs to be incorporated in the pack.

regulations and industry. Few of the things to come are as described with reference to polymers

Advent of Generics Due to expiry of patents of many of the pharmaceutical

products

and/or

government

and processing.

With the advent

of the digital age, consumer wants a pack that can

communicate

either on pack

Barrier Polymers

or connecting

intervention, generics are playing an important

Going forward, barrier to moisture and gas will

However, to go generic in most cases also implies

products. This could be either due to stability

devices. This is

supply chain requirements for penetration into

through plastic

role in providing access to medicines globally.

be the key to provide shelf-life to pharmaceutical

reduction in cost of goods.

guidelines or a new active ingredient and/or

ICH Conditions for Shelf-life The ICH guidelines introduced few years back was to standardise stability conditions globally

for all climatic zones. For climatic zones 3 and 4, this

means

potential

requirement

of

higher

barrier properties to meet the desired shelf-life, which translates to the use of high barrier or

new geographies. Plastics have a potential to

provide cost-effective barrier through single or in combination of materials. Some of the examples would be COC, PCTFE etc.

the

dispensing means many of the simple packaging metered dose forms and classified under regulatory devices

are

component assembled made out of plastics.

multi-

NN

pharmaceuticals,

particularly

use

and

as

a

Devices are the new kid on the block

metered dose dispensing. Due to the nature

of the mechanism, engineering polymers like MBS, silicones etc. are being introduced and

on

means the use of pharmaceutical grade low

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

its

is transforming itself into applicators or

finding its place in the devices space.

extractions. The latest being USP 661. This extraction polymers.

Polypropylene

finding

and many of the traditional packaging

There are continuous updates to plastics in safe with

are

material of choice for sterile applications.

Regulatory Updates on Extraction use

conditions.

polyethylene

formats are being converted to devices as in the

G iven the preference to preservative-free

radiation so as to be able to be used under

Consumer preference for convenience and ease of

of

ink or printed

sterilise either through steam or gamma

Packaging to Devices

Most

labels either

through printed

products, polymers need to be able to

multilayer plastic materials.

guidelines.

made possible

electronics.

Speciality Polymers NN

with smart

NN

Aging consumers require better grip and that can be provided by the use of soft touch

117

of plastics packaging in the key

areas of:

Devices Applicators

and

metered

dosing

convenience and driving compliance.

for

Ergonomics For better grip for aging consumers, either through materials like

TPE,

PP

etc.

and have a huge

potential.

design

or

materials

or

Access Providing access to wider population of society through low count packs, either through sachet or

unit dose blister. Additionally, barrier materials to

Commodity Polymers Due to products going generic

and/or Rx to OTC switch, there is

support shelf-life and drive penetration.

Safe Packaging

a requirement to replace traditional

Providing safe products to the consumer through

suitable plastic materials to make the product

counterfeiting is becoming a requirement in most

materials like glass and metals with

affordable as well as provide economies of

scale in the manufacturing process. This would

mean extensive use of commodity polymers like polypropylene, polyethylene, PET etc. However, it

is not the standard grades, but modified grades for pharmaceutical use etc.

packaging in the age of tamper-evident and antimarkets with a focus on OTC products.

Preservative-free Plastics packaging plays an important role in preservative-free products by either providing barrier property or sterilisation or through a

combination of design and material solutions like

High Cavitation Mould and In-mould Assembly

one-way valve systems.

Given the changing scenario of the industry on account of switches, generics and providing access,

the volumes in the industry will grow requiring high cavitation moulds and high speed machines to bring economies of scale. Additionally, the requirement of multi-component either on devices

assembly as well as two components moulding

Smart Packaging With the advent of the digital age, consumer wants a pack that can communicate either on pack or connecting with smart devices. This

is made possible through plastic labels either through printed ink or printed electronics.

Convenience

e.g. overmoulding of TPE on PP capable to provide

People are increasingly seeing convenience of use

be done either through stack or cube moulds.

time in commuting or out of home. It could be a

New Age Additives

fulfill the need.

soft touch for better grip is here to stay. This can

as well as on-the-go format, given people spend

small pack or a carry pack or a purse pack that can

Additives are increasingly playing an important role right from stabilising the product to providing

To Summarise

the pack. Some of the additives used are silica

longer and healthier. In the new world, there is

anti-counterfeit

solutions

and

decorations

to

desiccant, infrared detector, silver ions etc.

Innovations Line the Future Given the above, what does innovation look like

in the pharmaceutical industry in the future? With

the above scenarios, we can foresee requirements

118

product

combination of both.

Today, patients and consumers want to live little time to be sick and individuals are taking steps to keep themselves healthy. Amongst most

materials, plastics packaging through innovation

has an important role to meet the consumer needs in providing access, convenience, safety and delivering to the digital age consumers.

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

It’s time to pause, it’s time to re-energise, it’s time for PUZZZmania! Some are easy, some are tough, some are answered and some are not, and some are just fun, so please don’t shun, till all are done so that you have won; thanks a ton!

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

119

Events Indoplas

PLASTPOL

ArabPlast

12th Die & Mould India International Exhibition

2nd - 5th September, 2020

6th – 9th October, 2020

9th – 12th January, 2021

28th April - 1st May, 2021

TAIPEI PLAS 2020

7th Plastasia 2020

Interplastica

NPE 2021

9th - 13th September, 2020

12th - 15th October, 2020

26th - 29th January, 2021

17th - 21st May, 2021

Jakarta International Expo (JI Expo), Kemayoran, Jakarta, Indonesia

24 International Fair of Plastics and Rubber Processing PLASTPOL, Targi Kielce, Poland th

Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE

Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, India

Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, Taipei, Taiwan

BIEC, Bengaluru, India

Expocentre, Krasnaya Presnya, Moscow, Russia

Orlando, Florida, USA

VietnamPlas

27th Fakuma

PLASTINDIA

T-PLAS 2021

23rd - 26th September, 2020

13th - 17th October, 2020

4th - 8th February, 2021

22nd - 25th September, 2021

Messe Friedrichshafen, Germany

Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India

IPLEX’20

Plast Eurasia Istanbul 2020

CHINAPLAS 2021

Plastfocus 2022

New dates awaited

2nd - 5th December, 2020

13th – 16th April, 2021

5th - 9th March, 2022

Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Adlux Exhibition Centre Kochi, India

120

Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center, Istanbul

Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center, Shenzhen, China

BITEC - Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Bangkok, Thailand

India Expo Centre, Greater Noida, Delhi NCR, India

POLYMERS Communiqué l April - May 2020

every time is good time with

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