Tag

Chemicals

All articles tagged with #chemicals

Olin and Huntsman Merge to Create a $12B North American Chemicals Leader
business25 days ago

Olin and Huntsman Merge to Create a $12B North American Chemicals Leader

Olin Corporation and Huntsman Corporation announced an all-stock merger of equals to form OlinHuntsman, a roughly $12.5 billion revenue North American chemicals company with more than $400 million in identified cost synergies and integration benefits. The deal will create enhanced scale and vertical integration across upstream/downstream assets, with Ken Lane serving as CEO and Peter Huntsman as non-executive Chairman; closing is expected in the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals.

EU pushes multi-sourcing rules to curb China’s grip on critical parts
business1 month ago

EU pushes multi-sourcing rules to curb China’s grip on critical parts

The European Union is drafting rules that would require companies to source critical components from at least three different suppliers, with a cap of roughly 30-40% from any single supplier, in an effort to diversify away from China. Targeting sectors like chemicals and industrial machinery, the plan aims to counter Beijing’s export controls and reduce Europe’s trade deficit by leveraging free-trade networks to broaden sourcing, while signaling possible punitive tariffs on Chinese chemicals and machinery as the proposal advances in early-stage discussions ahead of May and June meetings.

Iran conflict lifts 15 S&P 500 stocks into double-digit gains
markets4 months ago

Iran conflict lifts 15 S&P 500 stocks into double-digit gains

Despite a broad market dip, 15 S&P 500 components have surged with double-digit gains since Feb. 27 as the Iran attack drags on, led by chemicals and energy names (e.g., CF Industries, LyondellBasell, Dow, Marathon Petroleum) and extending to software and crypto-oriented stocks. The materials sector has been the index’s strongest in this window, highlighting a selective rally amid geopolitical tensions.

Every Headphone Brand Fails Chemical Safety Test, New Study Warns
technology4 months ago

Every Headphone Brand Fails Chemical Safety Test, New Study Warns

A European study testing 81 headphone models from brands such as Bose, Panasonic, Samsung and Sennheiser, plus budget sellers Shein and Temu, found hazardous substances in every product. BPA appeared in 98% of samples and BPS in over 75%, with additional chemicals like phthalates, chlorinated paraffins, and flame retardants detected. Researchers urge banning endocrine-disrupting chemicals in consumer goods and pushing for greater transparency about product contents. While no immediate health risk is claimed, long-term exposure—especially with heat and sweat—could pose concerns.

Most headphones harbor hazardous chemicals that can migrate into the body
technology4 months ago

Most headphones harbor hazardous chemicals that can migrate into the body

A European study found BPA in 98% of tested headphones and its BPA substitute BPS in more than 75%, along with phthalates and other flame retardants; researchers warn these chemicals can migrate from headphone materials into sweat and be absorbed through the skin, potentially causing endocrine disruption and long‑term health risks, with no brand proven completely safe.

Rising Chemophobia Linked to MAHA's Role
health10 months ago

Rising Chemophobia Linked to MAHA's Role

Chemophobia, a fear and distrust of chemicals, has grown across political lines, fueled by misinformation and marketing tactics that promote 'natural' and 'clean' products. This fear leads to unnecessary health risks, distracts from real health issues, and is exploited by industries and political groups, ultimately harming public health and safety.

Kodak Faces Potential Closure Amid Financial Uncertainty
business11 months ago

Kodak Faces Potential Closure Amid Financial Uncertainty

Kodak, the iconic American photography company, warns it may go out of business due to over $470 million in debt, declining revenues, and financial struggles, despite efforts to focus on its chemicals and pharmaceuticals sectors. The company has a 'substantial doubt' about its ability to continue operating and is taking measures like pension plan cuts to stay afloat.

FBI arrests linked to Palm Springs fertility clinic bombing and related incidents
crime1 year ago

FBI arrests linked to Palm Springs fertility clinic bombing and related incidents

The FBI arrested Daniel Park at JFK Airport in connection with the May car bombing outside a Palm Springs fertility clinic, which injured four and resulted in the death of the bomber, Guy Edward Bartkus. Park allegedly sent bomb ingredients to Bartkus, who carried out the attack, motivated by anti-natalist beliefs. The investigation revealed online discussions and experiments related to the bombing, and Park was detained after traveling to Europe.

"States Consider Banning Popular Snacks Over Cancer Concerns"
health-food-safety2 years ago

"States Consider Banning Popular Snacks Over Cancer Concerns"

Several US states are considering banning popular snacks and candies due to cancer-causing chemicals in their ingredients, including cereals like Lucky Charms and Froot Loops, candies such as Skittles, M&M’s, and Swedish Fish, and snacks like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and Doritos. Chemicals like brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, and certain food dyes have been linked to cancer and behavioral problems, prompting states like California and New York to propose bans. The purpose of these bans is to pressure companies into changing their recipes, but the approach is currently enacted state by state.

"Garage Chemicals Linked to Increased ALS Risk"
health2 years ago

"Garage Chemicals Linked to Increased ALS Risk"

Storing volatile and toxic chemicals in garages, particularly in homes with attached garages, can increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by around 15%. Gasoline, kerosene, gas-powered equipment, lawn care chemicals, pesticides, paint, and woodworking supplies were identified as significant risk factors. The flow of air from attached garages into living spaces is believed to contribute to this heightened risk. Modern building codes aim to address this issue, and further research is needed to understand how these chemical exposures increase ALS risk.

"Potential Link Between Paints and Pesticides Exposure and ALS Risk"
health2 years ago

"Potential Link Between Paints and Pesticides Exposure and ALS Risk"

Storing volatile chemicals such as pesticides, gasoline, and paint in attached garages at home is significantly associated with an increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to a study by University of Michigan researchers. The findings highlight the importance of the "ALS exposome" and suggest interventions to minimize exposure and potentially reduce ALS risk by modifying storage practices in homes. The study surveyed over 600 participants and identified several residential chemical exposures linked to ALS risk and survival, emphasizing the need for further research to understand how environmental exposures contribute to the development of ALS.

The Brain-Damaging Potential of Common Household Chemicals
health2 years ago

The Brain-Damaging Potential of Common Household Chemicals

A new study suggests that chemicals found in hand sanitizers, disinfectants, glues, textiles, and household items may damage supporting cells in the brain during critical developmental stages. The study identified two chemical classes, including quaternary compounds used in hand sanitizers and organophosphates found in various household products, as potential culprits. These chemicals were found to kill or halt the maturation of oligodendrocyte cells, which are responsible for insulating neurons. The findings raise concerns about the potential impact of these common environmental toxins on brain health.

Household Chemicals Linked to Autism and Multiple Sclerosis, Study Finds
health2 years ago

Household Chemicals Linked to Autism and Multiple Sclerosis, Study Finds

A new study suggests that two chemicals commonly found in household products, quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) and organophosphate flame retardants, may be linked to the development of neurological disorders such as autism and multiple sclerosis. Quats, found in items like disinfectants and personal care products, were found to cause brain cell death, while organophosphate flame retardants, present in electronic devices and furniture, hindered the maturation of brain cells. The researchers hope their findings will lead to informed decisions regarding regulatory measures and behavioral interventions to minimize chemical exposure and protect human health.