Thomas Swan at 100
Thomas Swan & Co, the independent manufacturer of performance and speciality chemicals, is celebrating its centenary year during 2026.
Ineos warns the European Commission over the state of Europe's chemical industry
Chemical company Ineos has asked Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, to move quickly to protect the industry in Europe. In an open letter, chair Jim Ratcliffe notes almost 200 chemical plants have closed over the last five years.
Armouring CAR-T cells
One reason glioblastoma brain tumours are difficult to treat is because they dampen the immune response. A Californian lab has armed T cells with proteins to release near tumours to shake the immune system into action. The advance in mice could pave the way for brain cancer treatments that have been difficult to target with CAR-T therapy.
Pharma R&D in microgravity
US specialist in microgravity R&D, Redwire has opened a new state-of-the-art, vertically-integrated research and microgravity payload development facility in Georgetown, Indiana. The facility will serve as a global hub to expand its capabilities in space-enabled research, development, and manufacturing with a focus on pharmaceutical/biotech innovation.
The hunt for PFAS alternatives and recycling techniques
Evidence is growing that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals because of their extreme persistence, could be harmful to human health, wildlife and the environment. Researchers have responded to concerns and increasingly strict regulations by searching for potentially safer substitutes.
Why the critical minerals race has stepped up another gear
In August 2026, the US Administration announced $2bn in funding for critical mineral and battery-related projects, reflecting how securing the supply chains for these essential industrial ingredients continues to climb up the political agenda.