Ralf Benack, CEO KraussMaffei Extrusion, offers a preview of the company’s K 2025 showcase, highlighting developments from the new extrusion and recycling technology center in Laatzen. The company will present innovations focused on increasing machine output, improving energy efficiency and uptime, and enabling high-quality processing of recycled materials. Key technologies include a new PVC pipe head designed to handle up to 100% recyclate, a twin-screw extruder for petrochemical applications built on BluePower technology, and advanced solutions for economically viable recycling.
At EMG Pre-K, Ulrik Aunskjær from Palsgaard A/S presented Einar 987, a new amine-free anti-fouling additive for PE and PP. Made from renewable, food-grade raw materials, the product offers full food-contact compliance and replaces ethoxylated amines, which raise regulatory concerns — especially in medical applications. Einar 987 ensures effective performance at low dosage, supports continuous production, and is already approved by several polymer producers.
Thomas Brackemeyer from Envalior spoke at EMG Pre-K 2025 about the company’s direction ahead of K 2025. He explained that Envalior was formed two years ago through the merger of DSM Engineering Materials and Lanxess High Performance Materials, and now serves over 4,000 customers globally with a broad portfolio of engineering plastics, including polyamides, polyesters, and specialties such as Stanyl PA46 and Arnitel.
Brackemeyer pointed to three key forces shaping the industry today: geopolitical uncertainty, fast-moving technological change, and the growing demand for sustainability. In response, Envalior plans to showcase several innovations at K 2025, including a new high-performance PBT for e-mobility, new applications for Stanyl PA46 in electric motors, and an extended Arnitel range for consumer goods like athletic footwear.
He also underlined the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability through low-carbon materials, bio-based content, and both mechanical and chemical recycling, all supported by Envalior’s global engineering services and local market presence.
Carmen Mundt from Kuraray Europe presents the company’s priorities for K 2025, including sustainable solutions for the automotive, packaging, hygiene, and medical sectors. Kuraray will showcase ISCC PLUS-certified materials, highlight its mass balance approach, and promote collaboration across the value chain. Key innovations include Eval EVOH products designed around the “Four Rs” (reduce, recycle, redesign, resource) and liquid rubber for tires, helping improve energy efficiency and reduce rolling resistance - especially for electric vehicles.
João Sousa from Paques Biomaterials presents the company’s K 2025 debut, where it will showcase Caleyda - a biodegradable PHA biopolymer made using organic side streams. Produced through a patented microbial process, the polymer leaves no microplastics behind and biodegrades in all environments. Applications include agriculture, construction, and packaging - especially in sectors with high risk of plastic leakage. As a first-time exhibitor, the company also aims to explore industrial partnerships and technologies that can support its scale-up journey.
Holger Lieder, Executive Board Member at SIKORA AG, outlines the company's priorities ahead of K 2025. Sikora focuses on CO₂ reduction through smart measuring systems and software that help minimize material usage, scrap, and ensure tight production tolerances. At the K Show, the company will present solutions for pipe and sheet measurement as well as pellet inspection. As the plastics sector grows in importance for SIKORA, K 2025 is becoming the company’s most significant trade show platform.
Haihong Ren from Wanhua Chemical’s Performance Polymers SBU outlines the company’s upcoming product launches and decarbonization strategy ahead of K 2025. Wanhua will officially introduce two new materials to the global market: a bio-based TPU and a high-performance soft-touch polymer for medical applications — both previously launched in China. He also details the company’s climate roadmap, which includes peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2048. Key measures include energy efficiency improvements, heat recovery systems, and the development of sustainable materials such as PCR-based plastics and bio-based polyols. For Wanhua, the K Show is a strategic platform to enhance brand visibility and strengthen ties with customers across Europe.
Thomas Franken, Director K - Plastics & Rubber at Messe Düsseldorf, describes the K Preview as the final stage of their global promotional tour for K 2025. Over the past months, the team visited more than 40 countries to present the show’s key themes, structure, and exhibitor highlights. Held in Düsseldorf, this three-day media event gave journalists an exclusive first look at what’s to come in October-starting with machinery and equipment manufacturers, followed by innovations from raw material suppliers.
Dr. Hans-Peter Hauck, COO of Röhm, shares the company’s focus for K 2025. Röhm will highlight the versatility of Plexiglas in both traditional and modern applications - from rear car lights and B-pillars to light guides, appliance covers, and sustainable design innovations.
The company will showcase how it continues to reinvent Plexiglas for improved flowability and sustainability, demonstrating its relevance in daily life and industry. Dr. Hauck emphasizes the importance of K as a unique opportunity to connect with the entire value chain - from designers to OEMs - and to engage directly with customers who bring the brand to life.
Martin Bortenschlager, Director Engineering Silicones EMEA & LATAM at Wacker Chemie, outlines how the company will address key industry megatrends at K 2025, including the energy transition, e-mobility, sustainability, and digitalization.
Wacker will present a new silicone material for more efficient production of high-voltage insulators, as well as a fire-resistant coating for battery components in electric vehicles. In the area of sustainability, the company will introduce a bio-based silicone grade suitable for food-contact applications without the need for post-treatment - supporting automation and resource conservation. As part of its digitalization efforts, Wacker will also showcase a flexible silicone laminate that functions as a sensor, ideal for use in wearables and smart devices.
During the EMG Pre-K event, Abdul Rahman Al Tamtami from OQ highlighted the company’s progress since its last K show appearance. He emphasized OQ’s commitment to delivering a complete polymer solutions portfolio and strengthening its presence in Europe. One major achievement is the reduction of delivery lead times from 32 to just 6 days, thanks to localized warehousing.
At K 2025, OQ will introduce 17 new polymer grades focused on food safety, water management, sustainability, and energy efficiency. Visitors are warmly invited to discover these innovations at Hall 6, Stand A23—where OQ promises engaging technologies and real-world applications.
At the EMG Pre-K event, Cihan Cabuk announced the launch of 17 new polymer grades from OQ, a global producer based in Oman. The new materials address key challenges in food safety, energy efficiency, and water management. For the first time, OQ introduces PP copolymers, expands its range for rigid and flexible packaging (including recyclable solutions), and offers new rotomolding materials for water storage. It’s a major step toward becoming a full polymer solutions provider.
