Aimplas develops sustainable flame-retardant materials
Aimplas is developing flame retardants, varnishes and coatings intended to reduce heat release, fire growth and smoke generation in construction, transport and infrastructure applications.
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NIAS compliance reshapes polymer packaging controls
EU Regulation 2025/351 will introduce stricter NIAS control obligations from September 2026. Packaging supply chains will need stronger analytical methods, substance traceability and testing across compounding and conversion stages.
Clariant opens two additives R&D labs in China
Clariant has launched two R&D laboratories for its Additives business in China, located in Huizhou and Shanghai. The facilities extend local capabilities from application development to full synthesis and pilot-scale development.
BioROOTGUARD to develop biodegradable root protection film
The BioROOTGUARD research project aims to develop a biodegradable plastic film to protect young tree roots from cockchafer grubs and the invasive Japanese beetle. FKuR leads the consortium funded under Germany’s Sustainable Renewable Resources programme.
Cold Surface project targets cooler building façades
The Cold Surface project is developing prefabricated façade systems using photoluminescent materials to reduce heat build-up. The partners aim to lower envelope surface temperatures by up to 2 °C and cut cooling energy demand by 5% to 10%.
Neste fuels Tara Polar Station Arctic expedition
Neste will supply renewable diesel for the Tara Ocean Foundation’s first 18-month drift expedition in the Central Arctic Ocean. The fuel will support power generation, heating and propulsion during the 2026-2027 scientific mission.
Clariant and TUM celebrate a decade of catalysis excellence
Clariant and the Technical University of Munich marked the 10th anniversary of the TUM Catalysis Research Center and the Dr. Karl Wamsler Innovation Award. During the ceremony, Professors Tao Zhang and Frances H. Arnold were honoured, and the partnership was extended for another three years.
Oceanzyme investigates enzymatic recycling of marine waste
The Oceanzyme project is analysing new enzymatic recycling solutions for marine waste collected during passive fishing campaigns. The consortium aims to verify the potential for its valorisation and reuse, including in fisheries and aquaculture.
Aimplas to organize the HI!-Plastics seminar
Aimplas is preparing the first edition of the international HI!-Plastics seminar dedicated to advanced polymer materials. The programme includes five thematic blocks covering composites, fire resistance, functional materials, energy and industrial coatings.
Change of CEO at Sikora from July 2026
Sikora has announced a change in the position of chief executive officer. From July 1, 2026, Alaaddin Aydin will assume operational responsibility as CEO, while Dr. Christian Frank will focus on strategic activities and growth initiatives.
BMT analyses PET bottle deformation under altitude changes
BMT has presented a methodology combining stretch blow moulding simulation and physical testing to predict deformation of lightweight PET bottles under altitude-related pressure changes. The study also shows the effect of fill volume on packaging resistance to paneling.
PimP my PBF: Low Temperatures for High Powder Utilization Rates
SKZ and Fraunhofer IPA are working on a low-temperature PBF-LB/P process for plastics. The aim of the PimP project is to reduce powder aging, increase the share of material that can be reused, and improve the cost and resource efficiency of the process.
Aimplas receives ENAC accreditation for medical device testing
Aimplas has obtained ENAC accreditation to perform in vitro cytotoxicity testing for medical devices in accordance with UNE-EN ISO 10993-5. This expands the centre's capabilities in assessing the safety and biocompatibility of materials.
Does the packaging material affect perceptions of the product’s quality?
Studies cited in the material indicate that touch and the material properties of packaging affect the perceived quality, credibility and attractiveness of a product. In this context, carton is gaining importance not only for environmental reasons, but also for sensory and brand perception factors.
Aimplas and Fakolith develop BPA-free coatings
Aimplas and Fakolith are carrying out the SAFE-ED Coatings project to develop up to four coating systems with undetectable migration of endocrine-disrupting substances. The solutions are intended to address tightening regulatory requirements concerning BPA.
SKZ expands services in the elastomers field
Kunststoff-Zentrum SKZ is expanding its service portfolio related to elastomers. The scope of support includes material analysis, formulation development, and the assessment of sustainable alternatives for demanding applications.
Tarkett named SKZ research partner for 2025
SKZ has awarded Tarkett GDL S.A. the title of "Premium Research Partner 2025" for its research collaboration with EZD in Selb. The recognised projects focused on UV inkjet inks and more sustainable PVC plastisols for flooring applications.
SKZ accelerates permeability testing of plastic pipes
SKZ has developed a method for testing the permeability of plastic pipes that reduces measurement time from several weeks or months to just a few hours. The solution is relevant to quality assurance, testing costs and development work in the pipe industry.
Envalior assessed the environmental footprint of Tepex composite
Envalior has conducted a life cycle assessment for Tepex dynalite 104-RG600(x)/47% composite, critically reviewed by TÜV SÜD. The company has also developed a version of the material based entirely on sustainable raw materials, with an approximately 50% lower carbon footprint.
Groupe Rocher and Dassault Systèmes are improving the cosmetic formulation process
Groupe Rocher will implement Dassault Systèmes' virtual twin technology to improve the formulation of natural cosmetics. The solution is intended to reduce the number of laboratory tests and shorten the development time of new products by 20%.
TÜV SÜD verified LCA studies of Envalior products
An independent critical review conducted by TÜV SÜD confirmed the methodological soundness of life cycle assessments for selected Envalior material groups. The review covered, among others, PA6, PBT, thermoplastic composites and PPS.
Spectroscopic analysis of the ageing of plastics during mechanical recycling
The SpectralAIge project is developing a spectroscopic method for the reliable assessment of the ageing of mechanically recycled plastics. The solution is intended to support the analysis of PE, PP and PET and facilitate the industrial use of secondary raw materials.
SKZ expands its training, R&D and certification offer
SKZ, a German competence center for the plastics industry, offers training, research and development projects as well as testing and certification services. In Poland, the institute is represented by Dopak.
Evonik launches the Asia PAthletic Center for polyamides
Evonik has opened an Asia-based research and innovation hub focused on polyamide solutions for sports and consumer goods. The facility is intended to support application development, material testing, and a shorter path from concept to production.
COAT-Ips develops a heated anti-icing coating
The COAT-Ips project is developing an energy-efficient heated coating to protect aircraft against icing. The solution takes the form of a technical paint, can be repaired on-site, and is being developed by OMAR Coatings, AIMPLAS and INTA.
BMT improves prediction of PET bottle performance
BMT has developed a forming simulation method intended to enable more accurate prediction of wall thickness distribution and performance parameters of PET and rPET bottles before production begins. The solution combines material characterisation with virtual testing.
Aimplas increased revenue to EUR 26.7 million in 2025
Aimplas closed 2025 with revenue exceeding EUR 26.7 million, more than 300 R&D&I projects, and growth in the number of client and member companies. The centre also points to the development of laboratory services, training activities and environmental measures.
Borealis leads Austria's Technology Dashboard 2025
Borealis has been ranked first in Austria's Technology Dashboard 2025 of the European Patent Office, filing 115 new priority patent applications and confirming its long-term focus on innovation.
AutoRock project: artificial intelligence in extrusion control
In the AutoRock project, SKZ and Fraunhofer IIS are developing an inspection system for extruded profiles using X-ray computed tomography and artificial intelligence, enabling automatic defect detection in real time without interrupting the process.
Sikora presents new measuring systems at wire 2026
At wire 2026 in Düsseldorf, Sikora will present its complete portfolio of systems for quality control and cost optimization in cable production, including new measuring heads, X-ray systems, solutions for pellet purity inspection and software for monitoring process stability.
GCR and RIGK advance recycling of industrial packaging in Europe
GCR Plastic Solutions and RIGK have carried out advanced recycling trials of post-consumer industrial packaging from the PAMIRA and GVÖ systems, aimed at meeting future PPWR requirements for material quality, traceability and safety.
Kistler invests in Asia and plans a smart factory in Winterthur
The Kistler Group maintained a stable sales level of CHF 424 million in 2025 despite unfavorable exchange rates and an automotive slowdown, while preparing the construction of an automated sensor plant in Winterthur and strengthening its presence in Asia.
Finat develops common approach to label carbon footprint
Finat has completed a series of four workshops dedicated to developing a harmonised methodology for Product Carbon Footprint calculation for self-adhesive laminates and printed labels. Nearly 90 representatives from around 70 companies across the value chain took part.
MAAG Group and Sikora jointly at Chinaplas 2026
MAAG Group and Sikora will present an integrated portfolio of equipment for polymer processing, recycling, and measuring and inspection systems for pipes, hoses, and granules at Chinaplas 2026 in Shanghai.
Impact of plastic surface structures on color perception
The SKZ Plastics Center and the Institute of Psychology at the University of Würzburg have completed the OFHarmonie research project on the impact of plastic component surface structures on color perception. The results indicate the need for combined analysis of color, brightness, gloss and surface parameters.
Artificial intelligence in polymer design: the POLY-ML project
AIMPLAS, the Plastics Technology Centre, is implementing the POLY-ML project, where machine learning techniques are used to predict material properties based on composition and processing conditions, shortening development time and reducing waste.