Zhenhai's innovations move from lab to industry chain

On February 26, at the Ningbo Key Laboratory of Functional Materials located in Zhenhai, several researchers were conducting additive optimization experiments to address pain points in the rapid molding of rotational molding-grade polyethylene resin, aiming to help downstream enterprises in the industrial chain improve production efficiency.

"The laboratory focuses on the molecular structure design of polyethylene resin, working on performance enhancement and functional modification to support Zhenhai Refining and Chemical's innovative launch of rotational molding-grade polyethylene resin products. Currently, Zhenhai Refining and Chemical's rotational molding-grade polyethylene resin products have successfully replaced imports, with an annual production capacity of 80,000 tons and a 25% share of the domestic market," said Dr. Weng, a researcher at the laboratory.

It is reported that the laboratory has improved the resin's anti-aging, UV resistance, anti-static, and antibacterial properties, enabling Zhenhai Refining and Chemical's rotational molding-grade polyethylene resin products to meet the application needs of downstream industries. These products can be used in the production of infant toys, home furnishings, automotive diesel tanks, and more. The laboratory has also organized teams to conduct in-depth research on nearly 20 downstream enterprises in the industrial chain, identifying the latest demands such as shortening the molding cycle.

In the recently released list of 2025 Class A key laboratories by the Municipal Science and Technology Bureau, five key laboratories from Zhenhai were successfully selected, including the Ningbo Key Laboratory of Functional Materials. This brings the total number of municipal Class A key laboratories in the district to 12, accounting for one-sixth of the city's total.