Future Links December 10th
Today our news roundup from the printing industry covers Stratasys’ partnership with Science Center Singapore, adidas new shoes printed with ocean plastic, the commercial success of Canon’s imagePRESS C800/C700 series, the expected growth of the sustainable packaging market, a massive industrial printer being funded on Kickstarter, packaging with natural extracts and PPB’s new aluminum composite material.

Stratasys partners with Science Center Singapore
3D Printing is definitely growing and there is certainly a need for the next generation of engineers and scientists who can work with and advance the technology. 3D printer manufacturer Stratasys is now partnering with STEM Inc, a unit of the Science Centre Singapore, established in January 2014 that is dedicated to igniting students’ passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Through the partnership, students of all ages will have access to 3D printing technology.
More at 3ders
Adidas 3D prints shoes with ocean plastic
The increasing amounts of plastic waste polluting the world’s oceans have been recognized as a problem. Now, there are some efforts to alleviate the problem. Sports clothing company Adidas has launched a new concept shoe made with ocean plastic materials and nets typically used to catch fish. The concept shoe consists of an upper section made with ocean plastic content and a midsole, which is 3-D printed using recycled polyester and gill net content.
More at Plastic News
Canon Solutions sells 1000th imagePRESS C800/C700
Canon Solutions America has announced that Astro-Dynamic Print & Graphic Services, a Warminster, PA-based multifaceted print provider, has purchased the Canon imagePRESS C700 color digital press. This landmark purchase marks the 1000th imagePRESS C800/C700 series sold by Canon Solutions America’s Enterprise Services and Solutions division.
More at Printing News
Sustainable packaging market to reach more than 300 billion USD
Sustainable packaging has been identified as one of the most important industry trends. Now, a new report by Research and Markets puts some numbers behind the observation. In its report titled ‘Sustainable Packaging Market – Global Forecast to 2020’, the market researchers state that the sustainable packaging market is estimated to reach 303.60 billion USD by 2020, with a projected CAGR of 7.17 percent from 2015 to 2020.
More at PR Newswire
Massive industrial 3D printer is being funded on Kickstarter
So far, many 3D printing projects on Kickstarter were meant for hobbyists and home use. The Aon, a massive industrial 3D printer, is different. It is built for businesses like 3D printing service bureaus, manufacturing companies, engineering firms and companies that need machines capable of consistent rapid prototyping. The printer’s most prominent features include dual, independent printing toolheads that can work in unison, or completely independently.
More at 3D Print
Packaging with natural extracts extend fruits’ shelf life
Often, nature provides the best solutions. This was the case when inventors looked for novel ways to extend the shelf life for delicate fruits and berries through packaging. The company Sirane came up with Dri-Fresh ABV pads that contain a blend of natural bio-flavonoids and organic acids. The components work together to naturally enhance the fruit’s own protective defenses.
More at Packaging Europe
PPB launches aluminum composite materials
PPB has launched its first range of premium aluminum composite materials (ACM) targeted at digital printers, signmakers and fabricators. According to the company, proBond Premium, which is manufactured from a 5005 alloy, is suitable for all signage and fabrication applications and is available in a range of colors. It is sold with a 10-year warranty.
More at Print Week