In focus: Ethyl Vinyl Ether (EVE)

Ethyl vinyl ether is a reactive, flammable, volatile liquid with a strong ether-like odor. Featuring two conjugated functional groups—an ether and an alkene—this molecule act as important building block, especially in polymer synthesis. Its applications span multiple industrial sectors, including semiconductors, coatings, inks, fragrances, adhesives, paints, oil viscosity modifiers and pharmaceuticals, with promising potential as a dietary supplement.

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In focus: Peppermint Microencapsulated Powder

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a common herb, also known as a hybrid mint. Its main components are oxygenated monoterpenes: alcohols, esters and ketones. Peppermint oleoresin microencapsulated powder is a white to off-white coloured powder produced from the seeds of the plant. In order to protect and maintain the stability of peppermint oil, microencapsulation is carried out through process  optimization using the coacervation technique. This technique helps limit the loss and degradation of flavours and aromas during processing and storage. It offers versatile applications across multiple industries — from food and beverages to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and textiles.

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Titanium dioxide loses EU carcinogen label after court ruling

Products containing titanium dioxide in the EU are no longer required to carry warnings about cancer risk, after the European Chemicals Agency (Echa) revoked its classification as a suspected carcinogen. The move follows a June 2025 decision by the Court of Justice of the European Union and means that safety data sheets, labelling and packaging requirements for titanium dioxide have been relaxed across industries including paints, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and food.

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In focus: 5-Methyl-3-vinyl-2-oxazolidinone

5-Methyl-3-vinyl-2-oxazolidinone (V-MOX) is a highly reactive monomer valued for its low viscosity, mild odor, and excellent reactivity. It is widely used as a reactive diluent in UV-curable inks and coatings, where it enhances adhesion, produces brighter colors, and improves safety compared to conventional diluents. In addition, V-MOX serves as a key building block in the synthesis of kinetic hydrate inhibitor (KHI) polymers, which are applied in oil and gas production to prevent hydrate blockages in pipelines.

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In focus: Zinc Ricinoleate

Zinc ricinoleate is the zinc salt of ricinoleic acid, a hydroxylated fatty acid derived mainly from castor oil (Ricinus communis). It appears as a white to slightly yellowish powder, waxy solid, or paste, depending on formulation. Its most valuable property is its ability to trap and absorb odor molecules such as amines, sulfides, and short-chain fatty acids, making it an essential ingredient in deodorant and odor-control products.

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In focus: 2- (tert – Butylamino) Ethyl Methacrylate

2-(tert-Butyl amino)ethyl methacrylate (TBAEMA) is a functional methacrylate monomer that contains a secondary amine group and a hydrophobic tert-butyl moiety, giving it excellent versatility in pH-responsive and adhesion-enhancing polymer systems.
It is valued in printing ink formulations for its ability to enhance adhesion, flexibility, and surface interaction.

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In focus: 1,1,2,2,3,3-Hexafluoropropane-1,3-disulfonimide Potassium Salt

Commonly known as potassium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (KFSI), the compound has a three-carbon backbone bearing six fluorine atoms and two sulfonimide (-SO₂F) groups. The molecule’s architecture lends it both high chemical stability and useful reactivity. Because of its excellent ionic conductivity and thermal / electrochemical stability, it finds use in advanced electrolyte formulations—for example in lithium-ion and next-generation batteries, in ionic liquids, and in other electrochemical systems.

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In focus: Colchicine

Colchicine is a naturally occurring alkaloid obtained primarily from the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) and related species. It has been used in medicine for centuries, especially for the treatment of gout and Familial Mediterranean Fever. In modern medicine, Colchicine is valued also in conditions like pericarditis, Behçet’s disease, and certain dermatological and cardiac disorders.

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In focus: 1-Butylimidazole

1-Butylimidazole is a versatile organic heterocyclic compound belonging to the imidazole family, where a butyl group (–CH₂–CH₂–CH₂–CH₃) is attached to the nitrogen atom at the 1-position of the imidazole ring. Its applications span organic synthesis, materials science, and bioactive compound development due to its tunable physicochemical properties and structural versatility.

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US-India Tariffs Updates

Donald Trump’s tariffs of 50% have come into force on most US imports from India. India’s giant generic pharmaceuticals sector and its electronics and petroleum products are exempt from the tariffs. Aluminium, steel and copper remain at 25%, but job-heavy sectors such as textiles, jewellery, seafood and leather are squarely in the line of fire.

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