Sustainability

Results (192)

• 25.07.2023

  The green side of asparagus: a new approach to bioplastics production

  Interview with Maximilian Bergholz, research associate at the Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites (IfBB) Exclusively for K-MAG Copyright: IfBB 19.07.2023 Asparagus season has officially been over in Germany for about a month now – but at the Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites (IfBB) in Hanover, it is still going strong. The "SpaPlast" research project shows how asparagus peels can be used as a filler for bioplastics. The project is funded by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection. Maximilian Bergholz. Copyright: IfBB Maximilian Bergholz, a research associate at the institute, tells K-MAG in this interview about how these otherwise unused peels are converted into a valuable raw material. We talk about the background to this idea, the manufacturing process and the potential benefits of the asparagus bioplastic. Mr. Bergholz, how did the idea of producing plastic from asparagus peels come about? Maximilian Bergholz: As popular as asparagus is as a culinary product, its peel has been insignificant until now - even though it makes up around a quarter of the entire spear. In Germany alone, for example, around 30,000 tons of asparagus peels are returned to the fields every year, where they rot without any additional benefit. In fact, according to Statista, asparagus production is about 120,000 tons per year in Germany, a quarter of which is peel. The idea behind SpaPlast came from the fact that asparagus fiber is chemically similar to wood fiber, one of the most common fillers in polymers. With the asparagus peels, therefore, a residual material is used that is already there anyway, so that wood can be saved as a raw material. Can you use any type of asparagus peel for this? Bergholz: Generally speaking, yes. Even though trials have so far been conducted exclusively with white asparagus, the use of green asparagus is also imaginable. However, due to slight differences in cellulose, hemicellulose and pectin content, adjustments in further processing may be necessary. Both green and white asparagus peels could have potential as a sustainable material source. Copyright: IfBB Approximately how many kilos of asparagus peels are needed to produce one kilo of plastic? Bergholz: Wood-filled plastics such as the so-called wood-plastic composites achieve a filler content of 50 to 80 %, which is also realistic for flour made from asparagus peels with suitable extruders. Accordingly, 500 to 800 grams of dry asparagus peels are required to produce one kilogram of plastic compound. However, because freshly harvested asparagus peels have a water content of over 90 %, this estimate must be increased tenfold to 5 to 8 kilograms. Can you explain the manufacturing process in more detail? What special techniques or procedures are used in the process? Bergholz: At the beginning there is the collection of the asparagus peels and rapid drying before the peels would start to mold. If possible, drying should be done with waste heat from a large plant to keep costs low and the overall balance ecologically positive. The dried peels are ground to a particle size of about half a millimeter in diameter before being incorporated into the melted plastic matrix in the extruder. Does the bioplastic made from asparagus peels have any special properties or advantages compared to other bioplastics? Bergholz: One of the biggest advantages of asparagus plastic is that, as a residual material, it does not take up any additional land. As an alternative to wood flour, this can lead to a relief of the wood market as well as counteract overforestation. In addition, there is a suspicion that asparagus peels lead to eutrophication, at least to a small extent, when they are spread on the field, without being able to quantify their nitrogen content. The extent to which they improve the material properties of the plastic has yet to be evaluated. However, initial trials suggest that they are in no way inferior to wood-filled plastics. Where has the asparagus bioplastic already been used so far? Bergholz: So far, the project is still to be regarded as a feasibility study, although on the basis of the promising initial results, the aim is to develop it further until it is ready for the commercial market. A view of the extrusion lines at the IfBB. Copyright: Ulf Ostländer What advice would you give to people in the industry who are now interested in this topic? Bergholz: There is already a lot of interest in SpaPlast. In addition to various media, asparagus companies, manufacturers of peeling machines and the wood processing industry have become aware of the project. We advise interested partners to get involved in the development of logistics concepts at an early stage so that the material can be transported efficiently from decentralized asparagus farms to central processors, where it can be dried at least as efficiently. If this challenge succeeds, the result will not only be an innovative bioplastic, but also new sales channels for all involved. What do you wish for SpaPlast in the future? Bergholz: For the future of SpaPlast, opportunities for further process and material development are desirable in order to fully exploit the potential of the project. Work on the use of asparagus as a residual material will continue at IfBB. Nastassja Lotz (Editorial team K-MAG) More around Circular Economy

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• 25.07.2023

  "Chemical recycling is still in its infancy, but has huge potential"

  Interview with Jochen Schofer, Head of Sales of the Recycling Business Unit, Coperion GmbH Copyright: Coperion 16.08.2023 Mr. Schofer, what contribution can chemical recycling make to the circular economy? Jochen Schofer: In principle, it can make a big contribution. But it only works properly together with mechanical recycling. And it will only work if the circular economy is accepted not just in Germany or Europe, but throughout the world. In many parts of the world however, there are still either only fragmented waste collection systems, depositing systems and similar systems, or none at all, that are able to generate a sufficient waste stream for recycling. At the moment an increasing number of large corporations are jumping on the chemical recycling bandwagon, all of them operating internationally. There is hope that they will contribute considerably towards the implementation of the necessary infrastructure in all parts of the world. Chemical recycling has huge potential. The results that have been achieved so far are very promising. Nevertheless, chemical recycling is still in its infancy, while mechanical recycling is already established. Chemical recycling has particular potential because there are many plastics that cannot be processed mechanically, and more and more will be added. For example, in the construction sector, think of the many mixed plastics that are released when a house is demolished, or in the automotive industry. That is precisely why chemical recycling has to make a big contribution to the circular economy. Copyright: Coperion In which areas is chemical recycling superior to mechanical recycling? Schofer: The major advantage of chemical recycling over mechanical recycling is that it can be used to recycle all types of plastic. You no longer need a single type of material stream, as you do with mechanical recycling – for example, only polyethylene or polypropylene. Chemical recycling can also be used to recycle composites. However, the prerequisite is that you have a large material stream, because only then can the process be operated economically. Some large plants for chemical recycling with throughputs of up to 25 tonnes per hour are already being planned. Which recycling method does the machine manufacturer Coperion primarily rely on? Schofer: As a machine builder, we have made it our goal to support the plastics industry as best we can on its path to a circular economy. We develop solutions for chemical recycling, mechanical recycling, and even for many other processes, such as solvent-based recycling. Here, two different polymers are separated from each other, and the solvent is degassed in the extruder. We offer technologies for processing all plastic material streams, for well-sorted as well as poorly sorted ones. But the question is whether you put the energy into pre-sorting or, in the case of chemical recycling, into processing the oil quality afterwards. Because the worse the product to come out of the reactor, the more processing it requires. Here, too, it's all about economic efficiency in the end. Because the chemical recycling process is very energy-intensive, it is advisable to focus more on the upstream steps in the case of high throughputs. For smaller plants, it may also make economic sense to invest in processing the recovered oil. Exhibitors & products around recycling Recycling plants Separating and sorting systems for waste Size reduction equipment (crushers, shredders, grinders) Compounding lines Recyclates Were there any technological challenges? Schofer: As pioneers in processing technology for virgin plastics, we have modified our product range in such a way that we can also serve the recycling market with innovative solutions. In recycling, we deal with contaminated materials, low bulk weights or high moisture contents. Therefore, we have made many developments, adjustments and optimisations to our technologies. Especially for chemical recycling, for example, we have developed a new technique that makes it possible to reliably degas chlorides directly in the extruder. Will the waste problem be solved through the circular economy? Both systems, mechanical and chemical recycling, are not silver bullets. Both make a great contribution to solving our waste problem, but much more needs to be done. Above all, product design should completely avoid poorly recyclable plastics. Because if more and more poorly recyclable plastics enter the market, they threaten to end up being burned instead of recycled. A great contribution would therefore be to simply not produce and use the poorly recyclable plastics in the first place. That should be our first goal for a functioning circular economy. Source VDMA More around Recycling

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• 25.07.2023

  Unwinding in high quality: Continuously detached and recycled thermoplastic carbon fiber tapes with a new recycling approach

  Copyright: Fraunhofer IPT 17.08.2023 The sales market for plastic products is growing. At the same time, however, the environmental impact of non-degradable plastics is increasing and requires new recycling strategies. At the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT in Aachen, researchers have developed a novel recycling process to recover the fiber composite material of used pressure tanks in a peeling process and reuse it for new lightweight products. The aim is to recycle fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) without any significant loss of product quality. The Fraunhofer team has now succeeded in doing so in the "Tankcycling" research project: Over 90 percent of the mechanical strength properties are retained in the recycled material. Exhibitors & products around recycling Recycling plants Separating and sorting systems for waste Size reduction equipment (crushers, shredders, grinders) Compounding lines Recyclates Fiber-reinforced pressure tanks – light and stable Since hydrogen is regarded as the energy storage medium of the future and since this odorless gas has to be stored under high pressure, its use in trucks or automobiles inevitably entails the question how to store it safely. This is achieved when hydrogen is stored in high-quality pressure vessels made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics. These pressure vessels must be highly resilient and at the same time lightweight and corrosion-resistant so that they are suitable for electromobility. In the wake of the energy transition, the demand for high-quality hydrogen tanks has increased. In principle, however, other liquids or gases can also be stored in fiber-reinforced pressure tanks. Recycling carbon fiber reinforced tapes by unwinding Such pressure tanks are manufactured in a laser-assisted tape winding process: In this process, thermoplastic glass- or carbon-fiber-reinforced tape is wound over a base body made of plastic, the so-called liner. The unidirectional (UD) tape that covers the pressure tank cannot be reused in the conventional life cycle of the pressure tank and ends up in hazardous waste dumps. The recycling process patented by Fraunhofer IPT (DE 10 2016 117 559 A1), which it continued to develop in the "Tankcycling" project, makes it possible to remove the UD tape from the liner in a peeling process. In this way, this tape can be reused for other products that are also manufactured with the tape winding process. The Fraunhofer IPT researchers have developed a plant prototype with various modules: the tape passes through one in the recycling process before it is stored onto a spool at the end in another. Recycling in mini format: The tank recycling module can be connected to a robot head In downstream tests, the scientists checked the mechanical load-bearing capacity of the recycled material and the original material. Here it was shown that the recycling process did not reduce the quality of the material significantly. Destructive standard tests demonstrated that the recycled material had lost only five to ten percent of its mechanical quality compared with the virgin material. Based on these findings, the researchers were able to define the requirements for the recycling process and develop a tank recycling module. This module represents a further development of the recycling process, which was developed on a stationary test rig. In its miniaturized format, the tank recycling module can be attached to a robot arm. This innovation allows pressure tanks with their complex three-dimensional geometry to be fully recycled. In addition, the recycling process and subsequent rewinding of the tape can be automated in this setup. Reducing material consumption and environmental impact The recycling process with its implementation in the tank recycling module efficiently explores the limits of what is technically feasible while saving energy, material and costs. By recycling the fiber-reinforced plastic tapes, the process contributes to advancing the sustainable production of future thermoplastic fiber composite products that can be manufactured using the tape winding process. Source Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT More around Recycling

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• 25.07.2023

  HDPE plastics from post-consumer flows

  Copyright: Interzero 05.09.2023 Recycling service provider Interzero has developed a process to significantly improve how HDPE plastics are reused. Its patented process allows the viscosity of the recycled material to be controlled; it consequently allows blow-moulded products to be manufactured using 100% light packaging material sourced from post-consumer flows. This material had previously only been suitable for use in extrusion processes. A chemical modifier controls the viscosity of the recycled material during the mechanical recycling process, i.e. a special combination of additives modifies the flow properties of the recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) during processing in such a way that they become comparable with those of virgin plastics. This option allows a leap from the previous extrusion quality to a quality that's suitable for blow-moulding and that may be used to manufacture bottles. The effort required for re-sorting waste polyethylene lightweight packaging, such as the types of waste disposed of in yellow bins in Germany, is eliminated as is the need to add primary plastic that meets the so-called PCC (post consumer commercial) or PIR (post industrial) classifications. Exhibitors & products around recycling Recycling plants Separating and sorting systems for waste Size reduction equipment (crushers, shredders, grinders) Compounding lines Recyclates Fiber-reinforced pressure tanks – light and stable Interzero's sorting plants separate waste packaging from yellow bins and yellow sacks in Germany into different material groups. The patented process was developed at Interzero's Centre of Excellence for Plastics Recycling in Maribor, Slovenia. This centre is the only research facility in the EU that possesses government accreditation in accordance with the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 laboratory standard and that has specialised in the development and analysis of recycled plastics. "We're able to draw on many years of experience and expertise in the development and analysis of plastics at this location," explains Markus Müller-Drexel, CEO at Interseroh+, which is Interzero's recycling alliance. The laboratory has developed steadily in recent years and is now entering the market with an expanded range of services. Five laboratories that boast modern technical equipment that's used for assessing material qualities – from mechanical, thermal, chemical and rheological properties to migrations, sensor systems and colour – are also equipped with material-processing machines and an NIR separator for simulating the behaviour of packaging during sorting. Significant savings in manufacturing Rupar Plastika in Slovenia is one of the first companies to use the new recycling process. The new development delivers significant savings in virgin materials and thus in petroleum and CO2 emissions for Interzero and its customers. The energy saved during sorting also means that CO2 emissions are even further reduced. This means better utilisation of the capacities at sorting plants in the face of ever-increasing volumes of used packaging. Manufacturers are also able to keep the standard equipment that they use to make new recycled products using blow-moulding processes. Slovenia-based Rupar Plastika is one of the first companies to take advantage of the new process. The company manufactures hollow plastic parts, including bottles and closures, for well-known manufacturers and employs a range of different plastic processing technologies, including extrusion blow-moulding, injection stretch blow moulding, injection blow moulding and injection moulding. "It's often necessary to adapt production lines to the use of new types of plastics. Interzero's new process means that such modifications are no longer required. That's both a huge time and cost benefit," says Rok Miklavčič, Head of Production and Sales at Rupar Plastika. Source Tightly Packed Magazine More around Recycling

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• 25.07.2023

  Challenge accepted: PET recycling in Myanmar

  Interview with Ottavio Previero, Marketing Manager for SOREMA div. PREVIERO N. Srl a socio unico Exclusively for K-MAG Copyright: SOREMA 10.08.2023 Before new processes are established, an analysis of the current situation is usually carried out. For the recycling of PET bottles in Yangon, Myanmar, the Italian manufacturer SOREMA and the local recycler Commercial Plastics Co. did just that. After conducting washing and recycling tests on bottles collected there, SOREMA designed a flake production line with a capacity of 2,200 kg/h to recycle the material supplied by the customer and produce new bottles for beverages. Copyright: SOREMA In an interview with K-MAG, Ottavio Previero talks about what makes recycling the collected bottles difficult, what solution SOREMA offers for this and how the cooperation went. What are the challenges of PET bottle recycling in Yangon, Myanmar? What solution did you develop for this? Ottavio Previero : The material analysis, conducted at SOREMA's RRC laboratory, verified that most of the incoming bales of material from the local market collection, consists of small bottles between 330 cc and 1000 cc with an elevated level of contamination from PVC labels, sand, and abrasive materials. Effective removal of PVC labels has been brilliantly achieved with a combination of delabeler, wet elutriator, and material sorter. This technology achieves the highest standards required by major brand owners for their rPET. As the SEA market is rapidly evolving from PVC labels to PP labels, we would like to emphasize the importance of SOREMA technology, which removes label glue with high efficiency. How does recycling work with the machine you developed? Previero : The machines have been carefully built with high-quality components, starting with the prewash module for label removal and optimal cleaning of the material surface. This technology prepares the material for better bottle sorting and reduces the overall wear and tear on the entire line, without compromising the lifespan of the delabeler, whose first maintenance is scheduled only after months. Exhibitors & products around recycling Recycling plants Separating and sorting systems for waste Size reduction equipment (crushers, shredders, grinders) Compounding lines Recyclates To what extent do you contribute to greater sustainability with cooperation? Previero : The engineering team of CPC worked closely with SOREMA's design, production, and installation teams and the collaboration was exceptional, both in terms of clarity of information and support in managing the recycling process. Sustainability, working side by side, is achieved because post-consumer PET bottles from collection throughout Myanmar are reused, once recycled, in high percentages in the production of new PET bottles. With SOREMA's plant, the client has thus provided an industrial-scale solution to the problem of plastic pollution in Myanmar. Elena Blume (Editorial team K-MAG) More around Recycling

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• 25.07.2023

  Circularity and Digitalization: The Next Material Frontier for CMF Designers

  Chris Lefteri interviews Thomas Franken, Director of the K Tradefair Exclusively for K-Mag Copyright: Lefteri Thomas Franken Chris Lefteri: Hi Thomas, thanks for being here. How are the preparations going for the K Show? Thomas Franken: Preparations for K are in full swing, as you can imagine. We have already started to prepare some of our halls where our big exhibitors are placed, especially with the big machines. We are using the entire exhibition center here at Messe Dusseldörf which translates to roughly 180,000 square meters net exhibition space, which is the equivalent of 25 football pitches. That’s sometimes easier to get an idea how big the show is! Chris Lefteri: That's incredible. And you're starting to build the K Show three months before, more or less? Thomas Franken: Yes, because we have the big machines in some of the bigger halls like hall numbers 17, 16 and 15, we always have to install extra air conditioning, so for that reason we start roughly three months in advance. Copyright: Lefteri Chris Lefteri: The K Show happens every three years which is a good amount of time for you to be able to overview the big changes in the industry. What do you see as the current and future trends, for example, within sustainability or technology, AI that you think are going to become more significant? Thomas Franken: The most important topic currently is the circular economy, which has been evident in the last two or even three editions of the show. And digitalization is part of the circular economy because we always know from the industry that you cannot do the circular economy without digital and AI solutions. I’m also very interested in the reputation of plastics from a sustainability point of view and the responsibility our industry holds in terms of taking care of our people. I’m also very interested in the shortage of skilled workers. We have always been interested in exploring how to attract young talent to the industry, but it has never been the highest priority. For the 2025 edition however it is becoming one of the hot topics. This will be mirrored in our program as for the first time we have a lot of things to attract young talents to the industry. This is something that is quite new and not seen in the previous editions. Chris Lefteri: You mention digitalization, sustainability and circularity. Is there an example of something that you want to highlight as a subject? Thomas Franken: For sure, we have a lot of exhibitors, especially from the recycling sector, coming up with new solutions, like tracking materials, sorting materials, etc. Here AI is one of the key enablers to make the circular economy for plastics happen. I think it's very important to see plastic waste as a resource in the future and not just material for landfill . So, the question then becomes how to really sort the waste. I think the industry has been collecting data for a while and it’s now able to really make use of this data with AI. The digitalization is really the enabler to make the circular economy happen. Some of the exhibitors have already announced that they will have some new solutions for especially these kinds of things, let's say, using AI solutions in technology to make circular economy happen. Chris Lefteri: Recycling must be one of the big areas in terms of exhibitors that has been growing? Thomas Franken: Yes. That's the case. As you can see from the layout of the exhibition, we have three different colours and almost two-thirds of the exhibition is in blue, which is technology. We have tried to place all exhibitors coming up with recycling solutions in halls 9 and 10, creating a clear segmentation. This is for sure a growing part of the show and also a growing part in the industry - more and more exhibitors are coming up with new solutions and innovations. Copyright: Lefteri Chris Lefteri: Yes, for me, processing innovation is one of the most interesting areas. When I'm walking around scouting for exhibitors to visit for my design tour, you have to really look quite precisely to find some material innovation. Obviously, in the previous years, there's always been the new materials, let's say new waste streams that are being used as fillers. In previous years, there's always been the new materials, let's say new waste streams that are being used as fillers. But also the exhibitors that have really got my interest were those with the processing innovation and I think this year recycling is going to be the area that I'm going to focus on. It's the big raw material suppliers that have, let's say, new grades of circular materials or bio-based materials, but I think these are quite well known. The recyclers however are less media-interesting and they are harder to find. Thomas Franken: You're right there. And I think even the recyclate’s are somehow a new type of new material and will be used more and more in the future with different kinds of application. Yet it is hard I think how to have a clear standard or quality of these recyclate’s because you don't always know where they're coming from. It is different to if you use natural resources such as oil for example. This is becoming one of the tough questions in the industry – it is the industry’s job to keep the quality and also find more and more applications, where you can use them. Chris Lefteri: I notice the K Show has the slogan The Power of Plastics. So why did you choose that? Thomas Franken: Yes, as you know, for each edition of the K Show we have key themes, chosen as interesting topics and discussion points in the industry. For K 25 however we wanted to frame these three hot topics for the first time with the slogan. The three hot topics are Circular Economy, Digitalization and Caring about People and for that reason we created the slogan, The Power of Plastics. It’s meant to underline, or sum up the important role of plastics in shaping the future and where the industry is heading to. Chris Lefteri: For me, The Power of Plastics is about understanding the value, the opportunity and the scale that plastics have. It's very easy to be drawn into catchy stories about, let's say, unusual waste streams but actually, the biggest opportunity is through plastics. Let’s say, for example, one single plastic is used to make an entire product? This has much more opportunity for impact because I can recycle it and it's a stream of material that already exists. Yet, plastics is something that people almost don't see as being the opportunity to solve the problem. And what I love about the K Show is, it is finding these very, very niche suppliers who do something really quite incredible that for me as a designer, I interpret in my own way and say, “Oh, but you could use it for this instead!” And they've never thought about it like that. Thomas Franken: You're right. I think people always see plastic as a problem. But without plastics, you cannot really answer the questions in the future. Plastics will play an important role in answering and finding solutions for the challenging times we might have in the future. There are so many real solutions with plastics, if you think about reducing CO2 emissions with lighter vehicles, or using less energy. For instance, packaging is one of the biggest applications for plastics, but plastic packaging is also helping to reduce food waste, which is a positive thing that needs to put more to the public. This is The Power of Plastics tries to underline. Plastic is also helping to solve these questions and matters in future and the easiest answer people find at the moment is to say, “Well, plastic is a problem, and we have to avoid plastic,” but plastics will play an important and essential role in the future. Without plastic, it's not possible to. Chris Lefteri: Yes. But like you said, it's these secondary benefits of plastic, like packaging that keeps food for longer, that people forget to look at and see the opportunities and the benefits. What I would like to see, what I hope to see, is what kind of new materials are coming through, like technology that can analyse traditional plastics to formulate bio-based compounds based on existing technologies, using AI. And I think this is where I'm really keen to look this year, to see where that level of technology is going to impact and how, for example, AI is used, for example, in modeling technology to create surface effects or surface functionality, for example, stay clean or water resistance or something like antibacterial. I mean where AI isn't just about the chemicals, but about the surface and creating textures that have some added functionality. For example, the lotus effect as a natural texture. So that's for me where I'll be looking. I'm trying to really look past the, I wouldn't say greenwashing, but “Hey, come on, you've got to back this up!” You've got to show me something a little bit more because I'm going to be quite particular in making sure that they deliver if they say something. I also believe it isn't just about problem solving and functionality, it's also about aesthetic and the story of materials, this is where the opportunity lies as a CMF designer. I go to the Milan Furniture Fair in April every year, because this is where we see the trends. This is where we see the aesthetics. If I then go to the K Show, I can put these two things together. I'd say that’s the power of the K Show actually. Thomas Franken: Yes, I also think the material producers and the processors, and the kind of products they're showing, are really interesting for CMF designers. Chris Lefteri: How should people best prepare when visiting the K show? The only thing I personally can say in terms of preparation is to just keep a bottle of water in your bag and wear the most comfortable shoes you have because I don't want to stop. I mean, really, when I go, I don't stop. I don’t stop for breaks because there's no time for me and I'm very determined, I'm very much on a mission. For me, it's not just a casual thing. I really want to soak up as much as possible and by the end of it, I'm absolutely, absolutely exhausted. That brings to me the question of the Matchmaking tool to make the visit efficient, which seems like the perfect tool to help with this? Thomas Franken: Yes, what makes trade show so special is that you want to see as much as possible in the short timeframe people often have. I think you can get some general orientation with our exhibitor database and the mapping. We offer a lot of services on our homepage and also in the apps you can browse our exhibitors so that you can find out the exhibitors you want to visit and then ask the system to make the best tour. Chris Lefteri: That’s great! So you have a tool that allows me to find the most efficient route between the exhibitors? I didn't know that that existed. Is that on the app or is that on a website? Thomas Franken: It's on both. If you log in as a visitor for the show you can just browse the exhibitor database, choose all the exhibitors you would like to visit and then you can also see where they are placed and then – it’s like on Google Maps – you can plan a route for visiting all the destinations you would like to see. We also have our new matchmaking tool where you can get in contact with our exhibitors. The main aim of this system is to bring together our visitors on one side and exhibitors on the other side, even in advance before the show starts. You can say, “Well, I'm interested in different parts of the industry and I would like to find innovations for a specific topic.” And then the system will give you suggestions and recommendations of some exhibitors. If something is really interesting for you, you can even get in contact with the company before the show starts. Chris Lefteri: Yeah, fantastic, fantastic. Thomas Franken: This is also available in the app because for sure you don’t want to bring your laptop with you everywhere. If you already arranged meetings with some of the exhibitors, you can directly see it in your app because it's linked to your profile. Chris Lefteri: Yes, when I'm giving talks about resources that designers can go to in order to understand and research materials, even if it's in Asia, where they're not likely to travel to Düsseldorf, I highlight the opportunities that the website has in terms of finding resources and inspiration so you don't necessarily have to go there because there's also a lot of information that's on the website. It's a very rich tool. Here's another question for you. What are you personally looking forward to? Thomas Franken: There are many things I'm really looking forward to, because as you can imagine, if you're preparing a massive show like K, more than two years in advance, everything is in preparation for the final opening moment. This is the most important and exciting point for me, especially on the first day when we're opening the gates and you see that people from all over the world are coming together, it really is an incredible atmosphere. Everyone is really motivated and curious to discover what's new in the industry. Chris Lefteri: Yes, I think you touched on something, which is the feeling that it has. And on the opening day, like you said, literally people are flooding into the halls. That’s something that I should have asked at the beginning: what's your general feeling from the plastics industry? We talked about technologies and advancements and trends, but you have a very unique position because you're talking to many exhibitors visiting different countries. So, in capturing the mood of the plastics industry, what do you think the mood is? Thomas Franken: Especially right now, economically speaking, the situation is more challenging than maybe in the past. But something really special in the industry, is that everyone is really optimistic about the future. Everyone wants to be a part of shaping and setting the course for the future for our industry. Copyright: Lefteri Chris Lefteri: There must be new types of business models that are developed, let's say, as a result? One, for example, that I worked with, was a company who evaluate the circularity potential of a compound, and they give you a scorecard, like a traffic light. Apart from the recyclers, are there new types of companies that you see have been set up? New types of exhibitors? Thomas Franken: We see that there are a lot of exhibitors coming up with digital solutions for the industry. And maybe also, as you just mentioned, with evaluating these new materials and the recycling part. Especially if I look into the Start-Up Pavilion, you see that the young and dynamic companies are always coming up with new solutions from the digitalization part and also the circular economy. Chris Lefteri: Yes. So again, like you said at the beginning, this connection between the digital and the circular, this is where there is opportunity for new things. Thomas Franken: Is there anything you're really looking forward to? Chris Lefteri: I love German food, I love a beer and a good traditional German meal, which is something I always look forward to! In terms of the K Show, it is this moment of unexpected discovery. Of seeing opportunities that the exhibitor doesn't always see, but through my lens as a designer, as a material CMF designer, I can interpret. Yes, and also being able to get a sense of where the industry is, where plastics is going in the future. So, my last question for you, which is something that I've asked everybody that I have interviewed: what's your strongest memory of a material from childhood, and why? Thomas Franken: I think it's quite funny. I’m thinking of a material like foam or something like that. Something you can really change the shape of, but then it comes back to its original shape. I always thought that was interesting because wood for instance, you can cut it down, but it stays as it is. Foam on the other hand you can really change but then it always goes back to its original form. It was something I remember that was quite special for me when I was three or four years old. Chris Lefteri: Was it a toy? Thomas Franken: I think it was maybe bath sponge, it was in the shape of a boat or something and you could play with it, you could squeeze it, you know, you could put the water in it, but then it always came back to the original design or form. Somehow, I remember that I really liked these kinds of things. Chris Lefteri: Good. Good. Then that's it. Thank you for our conversation. Really looking forward to the K Show! Thomas Franken: Same. Thank you! Author: Chris Lefteri | K-Mag Chris Lefteri is a materials expert, author and industrial designer. Since 2006, he has been advising companies worldwide at the interface of materials innovation, CMF and design strategy. His books and lectures shape the global discourse on the conscious use of materials in design and industry. In K-Mag, he writes about the role of materials as drivers of sustainable product innovation. More around Sustainability

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• 25.07.2023

  Biodegradable Geotextiles for Natural Bank Protection

  Fraunhofer UMSICHT demonstrates how plastics contribute to the environmentally friendly stabilization of waterways Exklusiv für K-Mag Biodegradable geotextiles stabilize river banks in the initial phase of revegetation – an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional rockfill. Copyright: BAW 29.10.2025 Stable bank protection is essential for the protection of waterways, but traditional methods such as rockfill are considered to be less than natural. Fraunhofer UMSICHT has now teamed up with partners to develop a geotextile that is both biodegradable and technically resilient. The combination of PLA and natural fibers combines ecological compatibility with functionality. In this interview, project manager Pia Borelbach explains how the material works, why it is suitable for widespread use, and in which applications it has potential beyond hydraulic engineering. Sustainability of Biodegradable Geotextiles Pia Borelbach from Fraunhofer UMSICHT led the "Bioshoreline" research project, which aimed to establish sustainable bank protection using biodegradable geotextiles. Copyright: Fraunhofer UMSICHT What are the special material properties of the geotextile you have developed? Pia Borelbach: The geotextile we have developed has specific material properties that ensure both ecological compatibility and technical resilience. The banks of waterways are subject to high hydraulic loads, especially from shipping. Our geotextile meets the minimum mechanical requirements specified by the BAW, effectively retains the soil and at the same time remains sufficiently permeable to prevent excess water pressure under the geotextile. These properties were successfully demonstrated over a period of three years in a field trial on the BAW test track on the Rhine. The geotextile fleece consists of a combination of polylactic acid fibers (PLA) and natural fibers. The PLA fibers ensure long-lasting stability, while the natural fibers degrade more quickly and release root channels to ensure good root penetration. It is also designed to biodegrade completely in the soil over the long term. Samples taken after three years on the Rhine showed the PLA fibers beginning to degrade. In further sampling after five and ten years, we will continue to monitor biodegradability under waterway conditions even after the end of the project. Although root penetration was possible with willow mulch, the geotextile impaired root and shoot formation. Therefore, in 2024, an optimized geotextile was installed at another location on the test section under willow spreader mats and seed mats. We do not yet have any test results for this. Due to its slow biodegradation, the new geotextile provides sustainable protection for the banks while also supporting biodiversity in sensitive water zones. Copyright: BAW Industrial Production of Sustainable Geotextiles Which industrial manufacturing processes are suitable for the production of geotextiles – and how realistic is scaling up for widespread use? Borelbach: For geotextiles, there are generally different manufacturing processes for nonwovens, woven fabrics, and others, depending on the requirements for the textiles. Due to the required filter effect, high weight per unit area, and combination of PLA and natural fibers, Bioshoreline geotextiles were manufactured as carded nonwovens, which were mechanically bonded using needles. The PLA staple fibers used are already part of the product range of project partner Indorama Ventures Fibers Germany GmbH, and the natural fibers used are also available on the market. The nonwovens were manufactured at project partner BNB Brinkman GmbH & Co. KG on an industrial plant. There are therefore no obstacles to scaling up for widespread use, either in terms of raw materials or manufacturing technology. The fleece made of PLA and natural fibers enables targeted rooting. Copyright: BAW Advantages of Biodegradable Geotextiles for Bank Protection What specific sustainability advantages do geotextiles offer compared to traditional bank protection systems? Borelbach: Traditional bank protection for waterways is technical revetment, i.e., stones or concrete, due to the hydraulic load. Geotextiles enable a more natural design of waterway banks through the integration of vegetation, which promotes the creation of diverse habitats for plants and animals typical of banks, thus increasing biodiversity. In addition, biodegradable geotextiles are more environmentally friendly because they decompose in the soil after their useful life and, unlike conventional plastic geotextiles, do not leave any permanent residues. Greened banks also contribute to long-term improvements in water quality by effectively binding and absorbing pollutants and nutrients, reducing the risk of eutrophication and supporting a healthier aquatic ecosystem. The innovative geotextile combines technical resilience with ecological compatibility – and is completely biodegradable. Copyright: BAW Areas of Application for Biodegradable Geotextiles Which industries and applications beyond bank construction could also benefit from the use of biodegradable geotextiles? Borelbach: Biodegradable geotextiles offer a wide range of applications beyond bank construction. They are particularly useful where temporary stabilization is required and a permanent installation would not be practical or environmentally friendly. This could be, for example, slope stabilization, where planting later takes over the erosion control function. Or temporary construction roads, especially for projects such as the construction of wind turbines. These roads often run across agricultural land and are only needed for the duration of the construction project. Once the project is complete, the degradable materials allow the soil to be easily returned to its original use without causing permanent environmental damage. Biodegradable geotextiles could also play an important role in environmental and renaturation projects in the future. The portrait was generated by AI. Author: Elena Blume | K-Mag Elena Blume has been writing for various industry magazines for eight years and joined the K-Mag editorial team in 2021. She is particularly interested in topics related to innovative plastics solutions that contribute to sustainability and address current challenges relevant to industry and society. At a glance An interdisciplinary research team led by Fraunhofer UMSICHT has developed a biodegradable geotextile that meets technical requirements in hydraulic engineering and is environmentally friendly as it is made from plastic (PLA). It enables natural bank protection. More around Sustainability

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• 25.07.2023

  K 2025 Recap: These Were the Top Topics in the Plastics Industry

  Fascinating technologies, strong momentum, and a positive atmosphere – K 2025 inspired visitors with its motto, "The Power of Plastics!" Exklusiv für K-Mag K 2025 was once again the meeting place for the global plastics and rubber industry this year. Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann 22.10.2025 K 2025 once again demonstrated why it is considered the world's leading trade fair for the plastics and rubber industry. For eight days, Düsseldorf became the center of an industry that is looking resolutely to the future – with innovative solutions, global networking, and a clear focus on sustainability, digitalization, and social responsibility. Under the motto "The Power of Plastics! Green – Smart – Responsible," more than 3,200 exhibitors from 66 nations presented their innovations along the entire value chain – accompanied by strong special shows, forums, and an impressive internationality: 73% of the more than 175,000 trade visitors came from abroad. The VDMA's "Power of Plastics Forum" focused on the role of mechanical engineering in the circular economy. Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann Shaping the Circular Economy Hardly any other topic has moved the industry as much in recent years as the development of a functioning circular economy for polymer materials. The vision: materials with PCR content that are on par with primary raw materials in terms of quality – easy to use, safe to apply, and economically viable. One highlight was the VDMA forum "The Power of Plastics," which showed how mechanical engineering and technology are playing a key role in the circular economy – for example, in the manufacture of recyclable products and the reprocessing of plastic waste. To the video tour of The Power of Plastics Forum! The key topics of the circular economy, digitalization, and promoting young talent were not only discussed, but also developed further in concrete projects. Thorsten Kühmann, Managing Director VDMA Experience smart solutions live: Robotics was a major topic in the halls of K 2025. Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann Embracing Digitalisation Digital transformation opens up not only technological but also economic opportunities for the plastics and rubber industry – from smart factories and data-driven processes to new business models. Numerous exhibitors at the trade fair demonstrated how AI, automation, and digital platform solutions increase efficiency, ensure quality, and conserve resources. To the video on artificial intelligence! Caring about People People were at the center of many formats – whether as young talent, courageous founders, or shapers of tomorrow's industry. In the Start-up Zone, young companies presented their solutions for the plastics industry of tomorrow. Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann Start-up Zone: Fresh impetus for the plastics world Innovation became tangible in Hall 7.0: The K 2025 Start-up Zone brought young, creative companies together with an international audience of experts. Whether smart recycling solutions, digital platforms, or bio-based materials – the ideas on display impressed with their fresh perspectives and high practical relevance. For many visitors, the zone was a real attraction – and for the start-ups, a springboard into a globally networked industry. To the video about the Start-up Zone! The Women in Plastics networking event sent a strong signal for greater diversity in the industry. Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann Women in Plastics: Creating visibility, strengthening diversity With the new "Women in Plastics" format, K 2025 offered a stage specifically for female professionals for the first time – with a keynote speech, panel discussion, best practices, and networking over snacks and drinks. The goal: to make role models visible, share experiences, and highlight career opportunities. To the video about Women in Plastics! The Young Talents Lounge by GKV was a contact point for young professionals and offered guidance for starting a career. Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann Young Talents: Shaping career paths The Young Talents Lounge by GKV , Career Day , and the Young Talents Tour made K 2025 a launch pad for careers in the plastics industry. Interactive formats, talks, and live demos brought young talents into conversation with companies and universities. To the video about Young Talents! The Young Talents Lounge is the place for everyone who wants to shape the plastics and rubber industry of tomorrow. Dr. Oliver Möllenstädt, Managing Director GKV The special show "Plastics shape the future" provided a forum for discussions on the circular economy, climate protection, and responsibility. Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann Special Show "Plastics shape the future" The official special show organized by Plastics Europe Germany and Messe Düsseldorf was once again a crowd puller. Under the title "Plastics shape the future – shaping the circular economy together," it showed how the industry is actively working on solutions for a sustainable plastics system – for example, through chemical and mechanical recycling, digital product passports, and bio-based materials. To the video tour of the special show "Plastics shape the future"! Many visitors came with specific questions – especially about the circular economy. The trade fair remains a valuable source of inspiration for innovation and cooperation along the entire value chain. Dr. Christine Bunte, Managing Director PlasticsEurope Deutschland After the trade fair is before the trade fair: The next K will take place in Düsseldorf from October 18 to 25, 2028. Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann Outlook K 2025 impressively underscored the role of the plastics industry as a shaper of the future. The hot topics were not only discussed on stage, but also made tangible in products and solutions. With its highly international character, high proportion of decision-makers, and strong special shows, the trade fair was able to confirm its leading position as the industry's premier platform. The next K will take place in Düsseldorf from October 18 to 25, 2028 . Will you be there? All videos from K 2025 – from feature reports and exhibitor interviews to tours – are available for viewing on K LIVE! The portrait was generated by AI. Author: Elena Blume | K-Mag Elena Blume has been writing for various industry magazines for eight years and joined the K-Mag editorial team in 2021. She is particularly interested in topics related to innovative plastics solutions that contribute to sustainability and address current challenges relevant to industry and society. At a glance K 2025 showcased the innovative strength of the plastics and rubber industry, with a focus on the circular economy, digitalization, and talent. Numerous videos and images document the highlights. Next date: October 18–25, 2028. More around Sustainability

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• 25.07.2023

  Mechanical PU Recycling: A New Path for Rigid Foam?

  Researchers at the Institute for Plastics Technology (IKT) are developing processes for recycling polyurethane rigid foam, thereby enabling the production of insulation panels with recycled content Exclusively for K-Mag Rigid polyurethane foam is often used as insulation material in the construction sector – and ends up in waste incineration when it is no longer needed. Researchers at the IKT want to change that. Copyright: mitifoto – stock.adobe.com 19.11.2025 Rigid polyurethane foam is used wherever insulation, lightweight construction, and stability are important. But until now, its life has usually ended in the waste incineration plant. A team at the Institute of Plastics Technology (IKT) at the University of Stuttgart wants to change that: a new process should make it possible to mechanically recycle PU rigid foam and return it to new products as a filler – an approach that is more energy-efficient than previous processes and could enable the closing of material cycles. In K-Mag, Lukas Fritsch, research assistant in the Processing Technology Department at the IKT, talks about the challenges, potential, and next steps. Lukas Fritsch, research assistant in the Processing Technology Department at the Institute for Plastics Technology (IKT) at the University of Stuttgart. Copyright: IKT What is the challenge with PU recycling? Lukas Fritsch: Polyurethane (PU) is a thermoset – in other words, a plastic that cannot be remelted. For this reason, PU has mostly been thermally recycled or chemically broken down into its basic components. Mechanical recycling would actually be the simplest and most energy-efficient form of recycling. However, this has only been possible to a limited extent so far: The waste material is processed into flakes, granules, or powder and used, for example, as filler for cushions or toys. Returning it to its original area of application – such as the production of new insulation panels from recycled PU – has not yet been realized. How does your approach to PU foam recycling work? Fritsch: In our research project, we want to integrate mechanically recycled PU rigid foam as a filler in the production of new goods. To do this, the recycled material is mixed with the two starting components, polyol and isocyanate, during the processing stage. However, conventional mixing units are not designed for high filler content. That is why we are using a twin-screw extruder that was developed specifically for this application. This allows us to process significantly higher filler content than was previously possible. In the project, PU recyclate is processed into new rigid foam blocks using a twin-screw extruder. Copyright: IKT What technical hurdles remain? Fritsch: The biggest challenge is to enable a continuous process with consistently high reproducibility and mixing quality, despite possible fluctuations in dosing and varying particle sizes in the recyclate. The prototype must therefore be precisely tailored to the process. At the same time, we need to investigate which filler proportions can actually be processed effectively. The goal is to produce insulation panels that meet industrial standards. In preliminary tests, we are examining how the recycled particles affect the properties of the PU foam and how these can be improved through process optimization. Finally, scaling up to an industrial scale is on the agenda – this poses both process engineering and material challenges. In which industries or applications do you see potential? Fritsch: Basically, we see potential applications wherever PU rigid foam is used. There is particularly great potential in the construction sector – for example, in the manufacture of insulation panels. Here, we can reduce the proportion of new material and close material cycles. We see further applications in refrigeration and air conditioning technology, for example for insulating cooling containers, as well as in the automotive and transportation industries. However, it is not only users who would benefit from successful implementation, but the entire value chain: PU processors can offer more sustainable products, raw material manufacturers can adapt their systems to new applications, and machine builders can expand their portfolios with new plant technologies. What does it take to turn research into practical application? Fritsch: The decisive step is to transfer the process from laboratory scale to industrial scale. To do this, the process must be transferred to larger plants – with the aim of ensuring stable production with consistently high product quality. It is also important to collaborate with industrial partners who can integrate the process into existing processes. In this context, economic efficiency and competitiveness must also be evaluated and possible approvals for safety-relevant applications clarified. And last but not least, market acceptance of the new process is crucial. This depends above all on the consistently high quality of the PU foams with recycled content. Exhibitors & products around recycling Recycling plants Separating and sorting systems for waste Size reduction equipment (crushers, shredders, grinders) Compounding lines Recyclates The portrait was generated by AI. Author: Elena Blume | K-Mag Elena Blume has been writing for various industry magazines for eight years and joined the K-Mag editorial team in 2021. She is particularly interested in topics related to innovative plastics solutions that contribute to sustainability and address current challenges relevant to industry and society. At a glance The IKT is developing a process for mechanically recycling rigid PU foam. With the aid of a twin-screw extruder, recycled material is to be incorporated directly into new insulation panels – this is more efficient than previous methods. The aim is to achieve a scalable process with industrial applicability. More around Sustainability

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• 25.07.2023

  Plastics Europe Germany: Circular Economy Not a Trend, but a Duty

  Managing Director Christine Bunte talks about the EU's Clean Industrial Deal, new packaging regulations and the role of the plastics industry on the road to climate neutrality Exclusively for K-Mag 08.09.2025 How can the European plastics industry become climate neutral while remaining competitive? Christine Bunte, Managing Director of Plastics Europe Germany , provides insights into the EU's strategic decisions in a video interview. The focus is on the Clean Industrial Deal, new packaging requirements and specific targets for recycling and the use of recycled materials. Why companies need to act now – and where the industry is still not being given sufficient consideration. Video by DSTNCTVE The portrait was generated by AI. Editor: Elena Blume | K-Mag Elena Blume has been writing for various industry magazines for eight years and joined the K-Mag editorial team in 2021. She is particularly interested in topics related to innovative plastics solutions that contribute to sustainability and address current challenges relevant to industry and society. More around Sustainability

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• 25.07.2023

  Sustainability meets innovation: The rediscovery of plastics in the textile industry

  Plastics interweave sustainability with advanced functionality Exclusively for K-Mag Plastics are indispensable in the modern textile industry due to their versatility and properties. Copyright: Mint_Images 27.03.2024 The textile industry is in the midst of a green transformation, with sustainability and recycling taking centre stage. This change is being driven by a growing awareness of the environmental impact of textile production and consumption. Plastics, particularly synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon, are ubiquitous in the industry due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. However, the long-term ecological consequences of their use are increasingly becoming the focus of public and scientific debate. Home textiles made of synthetic fibres are dirt-repellent, easy to clean and hard-wearing. Copyright: puhimec Versatile and innovative: plastics in the textile industry Plastics have proven to be indispensable in the modern textile industry by enabling a wide range of innovative products and revolutionising the functionality of textiles. In the home textiles industry, for example, synthetics offer solutions that are not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing. Synthetic carpets that repel dirt and are easy to clean and hard-wearing furniture covers that retain their appearance for years are just a few examples of their versatile applications. Their adaptability allows designers to experiment with a variety of textures, colours and patterns to suit different interior styles. In the sports and leisure segment, synthetics have revolutionised clothing through the development of microfibres and other advanced materials that are lightweight, comfortable, breathable and waterproof. These properties are key to keeping athletes dry and comfortable in a variety of climates. In addition, synthetics enable bright, durable designs that meet aesthetic market demands. Plastics are also indispensable in the manufacture of outdoor equipment such as tents, rucksacks and shoes, thanks to their durability and resistance to environmental influences. In the world of technical textiles, plastics are also paving the way for ground-breaking innovations in areas such as medicine, construction and the automotive industry, from implantable devices and wound dressings to materials that reinforce structures and increase the efficiency of vehicles while providing safety and comfort. It is impossible to imagine the outdoor sector without plastics. They can be found in tents, rucksacks, shoes and clothing. Copyright: Pressmaster Industry caught between progress and responsibility However, the widespread use of plastics in the textile industry has also been criticised by environmentalists. They point to problems such as microplastic pollution that accumulates in the oceans and the challenge of disposing of plastic products, which often end up in landfills or are incinerated, leading to further environmental pollution. The high consumption of crude oil for the production of plastics and the associated CO2 emissions are also viewed critically. Organisations such as Greenpeace and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are therefore calling for a more responsible use of plastics, including the promotion of recycling and the development of sustainable alternatives such as bio-based plastics. This criticism underlines the need for the textile industry to find innovative solutions that not only improve the functionality and aesthetics of products, but also minimise their environmental footprint. Projects such as the European Union-backed WhiteCycle endeavour to develop effective recycling methods for textiles, and companies such as Patagonia and Adidas are leading the way with initiatives to use recycled and sustainable materials. When recycling textiles, the main challenge is to separate the fibres from each other and preserve their quality during the recycling process. Copyright: myjuly Road to sustainability: recycling and bio-based alternatives The challenge of making plastics sustainable has led to innovative advances in recycling and the development of bio-based materials. Modern recycling processes, such as mechanical recycling and chemical recycling, transform end-of-life textiles into new fibres, reducing the consumption of virgin materials and lowering the environmental impact. Projects such as WhiteCycle aim to optimise the recycling of polyamide and polyester fibres in order to establish an efficient Circular Economy in the EU. A key challenge is to maintain fibre quality during the recycling process while implementing efficient separation and purification technologies. Through advanced chemical depolymerisation processes that break down plastics into their monomeric components, WhiteCycle enables the creation of a truly circular process that reduces the need for virgin material and helps to reduce environmental impact. The project brings together a wide range of stakeholders from industry, research and environmental protection to achieve these goals. The success of WhiteCycle could have a far-reaching positive impact on the textile industry by paving the way for more sustainable production and consumption models. Synthetics have revolutionised the sports and leisure segment. In the form of microfibres, they make clothing light, comfortable, breathable and waterproof. They also enable aesthetic and durable designs. Copyright: Nestea06 At the same time, bio-based plastics are gaining in importance as they offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional, petroleum-based materials. These renewable raw materials, which are derived from plants such as corn, sugar cane or cellulose, reduce CO2 emissions and can be biodegradable if treated appropriately. Companies such as BASF and Covestro are leading the way in the development of such materials, which not only reduce environmental footprints but also offer new properties for specific applications. Exhibitors & products around recycling Recycling plants Separating and sorting systems for waste Size reduction equipment (crushers, shredders, grinders) Compounding lines Recyclates Innovative projects and partnerships The textile industry is looking forward to a bright future through innovative projects and partnerships that combine sustainability and functionality. This includes, for example, the HSBI transfer project INCAMS, also known as InCamS@BI. An innovation campus for sustainable solutions at Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences. It focuses on research and development in the field of the circular economy, in particular on sustainable materials research to optimise plastics and their reuse. The project promotes the exchange between science, business and society through innovative formats and an interdisciplinary team to develop research-based transfer structures. INCAMS will receive 8.8 million euros in funding from 2023 to 2027 as part of the federal-state initiative "Innovative University". Research projects such as those conducted by the DITF are paving the way for a more sustainable textile industry in which plastics will play a major role. Copyright: sedrik2007 The German Institute of Textile and Fibre Research (DITF) has also made impressive progress with the development of recyclable, flame-retardant textile flooring, demonstrating that environmental sustainability does not require a compromise on functionality. The challenge in developing recyclable, flame retardant textiles is to find and develop materials that enable these properties without the use of harmful chemicals. Traditionally, flame retardancy requires the use of chemicals that can make recycling difficult or contaminate the recycled materials for further use. The DITF has researched innovative solutions where both the structure of the textile and the choice of materials are optimised to provide natural or environmentally friendly flame retardant properties without compromising recyclability. A new era in textile production The integration of plastics into the textile industry with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation promises an exciting future. The combination of advanced recycling technologies, the development of bio-based materials and the realisation of innovative projects is ushering in a new era of textile production. These developments exemplify the industry's commitment to tackling environmental challenges while improving the functionality and aesthetics of products. The textile industry is proving that through creativity, research and technological advances, a more sustainable and responsible path is possible. Stephan Weiner More around Circular Economy

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• 25.07.2023

  System technology for a green future: energy efficiency in the plastics industry

  Interview with Rüdiger Dzuban, Head of Marketing & Management Assistant, ONI-Wärmetrafo GmbH Exclusively for K-Mag In-house cooling system for supplying cooling water to various production areas. Winter relief minimises the power consumption of chillers and the waste heat is used as free heating energy. Copyright: ONI-Wärmetrafo GmbH 20.03.2024 The plastics industry faces the challenge of harmonising efficiency and sustainability without compromising on performance. With a unique portfolio of products and services, ONI-Wärmetrafo supports plastics processing companies in becoming more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, which is of immense importance, especially in times of rising energy prices. Rüdiger Dzuban. Copyright: ONI-Wärmetrafo GmbH In an interview with K-Mag, Rüdiger Dzuban talks about the relevance of heat recovery and energy optimisation systems for the plastics industry, what the biggest challenges currently are and how they can be tackled. Mr Dzuban, at first glance ONI is not a classic K exhibitor, but at second glance it is a very important service provider for the plastics industry. Can you briefly describe why you have been exhibiting at K in Düsseldorf for many years and how the plastics industry benefits from this? Rüdiger Dzuban: By developing the world's first heat recovery and energy optimisation systems for plastic injection moulding machines in the early 1990s, we pioneered energy efficiency in the plastics industry. This was also the starting signal for us to use the K trade fair as a platform for marketing these systems. Our company's development shows that this has been successful over the years. Having started with three people in 1983, we are now the German world market leader with almost 500 employees and a unique portfolio of products and services. Today, we offer companies in the plastics industry an unrivalled range of particularly efficient plant and system technology. In view of the massive rise in energy prices and the Energy Efficiency Act passed last year, our range of services is in high demand. This means that plastics processors can find system technology from cooling systems to heat recovery, ventilation and clean room technology to dynamic mould temperature control, all geared towards the efficient and sustainable use of energy. And as we now supply customers in over 70 countries around the world with our systems, they also come to K in Düsseldorf time and again to find out about the latest ONI developments. In addition, it is also the place where the foundations are laid for valuable business contacts, which are established through trust-building dialogue in face-to-face meetings. Injection moulding machines and the ventilation system are supplied with cooling water from the container centre. The free waste heat from the cooling water and exhaust air is reused for heating - replacing primary energy sources such as natural gas or heating oil. Copyright: ONI-Wärmetrafo GmbH In recent years in particular, sustainability and energy saving have become top priorities in the plastics industry. Where do you currently see the biggest challenges and how should they be tackled? Dzuban: In my opinion, you have to look at both the ecological and the economic aspects: Ecology: plastics in the environment, microplastics in food, plastic image, recycling, circular plastics economy. Economy: consumer behaviour, energy prices, location costs or government regulations. Energy prices and other costs have risen massively. Reliable political statements are needed on where the journey is heading. There will only be a significant improvement if people's uncertainty is reduced. The energy companies should lower energy prices and their disproportionately increased profit margins should be siphoned off through taxes. The bureaucratic burden should not only be reduced through announcements, but also in everyday practice. If plastic does not become a recyclable material and the shipment of plastic as a problem material remains high as a result, we will have to pay a price that we cannot even imagine in our wildest dreams. The spectrum ranges from the costs of collection and disposal to the costs caused by damage to health. We need a price for plastic that is 5 or even 10 times higher than before. This makes it very likely that no more plastic will be disposed of in the environment. Exhibitors & products around machinery & equipment Machinery and plant for processing Post processing machines & downstream equipment Machinery & plant for finishing, decorating, printing and marking Welding machines Process automation To all exhibitors in this category Then it will be worthwhile for everyone to collect plastic in the yellow bin, because every kilogramme of recyclable material represents an attractive monetary value. Recycling will become a significant economic factor and recycling rates will increase dramatically for all types of plastic. Furthermore, in my opinion, a small group of experts who are not pursuing a political interest and who are able to point out lines of development and provide a corresponding action plan are needed to develop solutions. For Germany, the biggest challenge that all stakeholders and politicians must face is: "How do we make Germany an attractive and competitive location?" We will only have laid a good foundation if promising products, systems and concepts are developed here that are in demand worldwide. If we ensure that the location is competitive in order to produce such plants and systems and that our expertise is of value to customers worldwide, we will be well equipped for the future. Large 3-module containerised cooling system with three highly efficient, water-cooled chillers. One chiller is designed as a heat pump that supplies both heating and cooling energy for production in winter. Copyright: ONI-Wärmetrafo GmbH How do you assess the topic of energy-saving technology in the global plastics industry? In your opinion, which countries are already leading the way and which have the most catching up to do? Dzuban: Wherever energy costs have played a subordinate role in the past (as they have for us in the past), the topic of energy efficiency and sustainable energy utilisation has simply been neglected. In the meantime, the European energy price picture has changed drastically. As a result, this issue has become much more important in all European countries, with the exception of Scandinavia (hydroelectricity) and France (nuclear power). Nevertheless, as with us, it takes a certain amount of time for such a wheel to start moving. The improvement in the efficiency of machines and systems through optimisation measures can be demonstrated very well by measuring energy consumption before and after optimisation. Copyright: ONI-Wärmetrafo GmbH In the meantime, Germany has taken on an absolute pioneering role with regard to the use of energy-saving technology because energy prices have "gone through the roof", energy-saving measures are being promoted and climate and environmental targets are also being demanded by automotive companies from their plastics processors. This is particularly true for the plastics processing industry. For every plant we supply, whether as a refurbishment or new construction project, we provide a reliable profitability analysis and an overview of achievable savings through individual measures or holistic energy-saving concepts as early as the concept phase. In Austria, Switzerland and Poland, the topic of energy-optimised plant technology has been playing an increasingly important role for some time (and in the Czech Republic since the tripling of industrial electricity prices last year). In our view, France and Italy have the greatest need to catch up (despite very high energy prices). Elena Blume (Editorial team K-Mag) More around Climate Protection

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