SPE: Inspiring Plastics Professionals

11/05/2026

What happens to wind turbine blades when their service life comes to an end? This featured study explores how recycled glass fibers can get a second life through pyrolysis–oxidation processing.

The researchers identify processing conditions that effectively remove resin and surface contaminants while retaining—and even improving—the fibers' mechanical performance. The findings offer promising insights into more effective recycling of composite materials and turning wind energy waste into valuable resources!

🔬 Check out the Editor’s Choice article:

11/04/2026

ANTEC® Call for Student Posters - Have polymer research you’re proud of? Working on the next big plastics breakthrough? SPE is looking for your student poster that showcases your work at ANTEC® 2027.

ANTEC® 2027 is now part of the technical education program at NPE2027—produced by the PLASTICS Industry Association—and this is your opportunity to get in front of the plastics industry at the largest plastics trade show in the Americas.

Why submit your poster?

Get your work noticed by industry professionals, researchers and potential employers.
Build your network and make connections that could lead to internships, jobs or future collaborations.
Share your ideas with people developing and applying new technologies.
Build your professional reputation as you begin your career in plastics.

Student Poster Reception at NPE2027

And there's more! Connect with fellow students, researchers and industry professionals at a dedicated reception celebrating student research, solutions, and innovation. Details announced soon!

With more than 51,000 plastics professionals expected at NPE2027, this is a rare chance to share your research with an audience that reaches far beyond the classroom and lab.

You’ve done the research. Now share it with the industry.

11/04/2026

Future scientists at work! 🧪✨ Recently, a 5th-grade Girl Scout troop from Glencairn Elementary School in East Lansing earned the SPE Wonders of Polymer Science Patch while exploring one of the fun concepts in polymer science: crosslinking polymers to create a non-Newtonian fluid, better known as slime! The girls learned how polymer chains connect to form a material that behaves differently under pressure, making science both hands-on and memorable.

A special thank you to Amy (Meyers) Stephen of The Materials Group for leading the experience and inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. Amy has also been a longtime volunteer with the SPE Jr. Researcher program, generously sharing her expertise and enthusiasm with young learners.

We’re grateful for volunteers like Amy who help bring polymer science to life and show students the exciting possibilities within materials science and manufacturing.

11/03/2026

Know someone making an extraordinary impact on the plastics industry? It's time to give them the recognition they deserve! SPE is seeking nominations for Fellow of the Society, one of the organization's highest honors. This prestigious distinction celebrates members whose outstanding achievements have advanced plastics engineering, science, technology, or industry leadership.

Strong nominations highlight career-defining accomplishments, individual contributions, and meaningful industry impact—from technical innovation and sustainability to manufacturing, education, and beyond. Help us recognize the people moving the plastics industry forward! Submit a Fellow nomination today. https://www.4spe.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageID=10250

11/02/2026

Join us for a comprehensive workshop series focused on the dual pathways of plastic recycling: mechanical and chemical processes. This four-session series will provide participants with a thorough understanding of the current challenges, innovations, and future directions in plastic waste management.

84 countries and 22,500+ members strong. SPE helps plastics professionals by strengthening their skills through networking, events, training, and knowledge sharing.

10/30/2026

Are you looking for an opportunity to help guide SPE, support members, and collaborate with professionals in the plastics industry? If so, SPE is now accepting nominations to serve on the SPE Executive Committee. If you would like to be considered, this is your invitation to place your nomination. Nominations close end of business day, November 20, 2026.

10/29/2026

Nominations are open for the SPE Honored Service Member (HSM) Awards. HSM recognizes those SPE members whose volunteer service has made an exceptional impact on the Society, its members, and its objectives.

NOMINATION DEADLINE - November 16, 2026

10/28/2026

10/27/2026

Processing conditions shape polymer structure and performance. Connecting processing with analytical techniques such as rheology and spectroscopy can reveal how materials respond from formulation through scale-up and production.

10/26/2026

Connections That Move Your Business Forward - Once every three years, NPE2027 brings the global plastics industry together. Reconnect with people you know, meet those you need to know, and build relationships that go beyond the show.

On the show floor and beyond, one conversation could lead to your next big idea, supplier relationship, or business opportunity. View networking opportunities: