Research Division Plastics

Changing the world with plastics

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Plastics are unique substances: they do not take a great deal of resources, energy or CO2 to produce and they can be molded into any shape necessary. They can be flexibly adapted for countless applications in all kinds of fields, with an excellent price-performance ratio. With plastic, groceries can be packaged safely, hygienically and durably. Plastics save energy when used for transportation and construction. They are available worldwide and can be made from renewable raw materials. On top of that, they can be used in a variety of ways even after their service life has ended. However, plastics also bring to mind environmental issues, from microplastics to marine pollution. Researchers in the Plastics division at Fraunhofer LBF are aware of these challenges. That is why they’re developing tailor-made, sustainable, durable and environmentally friendly applications for plastic, from molecules through to formulations and physical and chemical characterization, all the way to components for thermoplastic, duromer and elastomeric materials. Plastic additives such as antioxidants, stabilizers and flame retardants, many of which originate in nature or are inspired by nature, are especially important for this research. 

Research in cooperation

Realize industrial collaborative projects with us! With our know-how, we give you a head start to optimize your own research and development individually and precisely.

Expertise and achievement

 

Lightweight design

Lightweights that pack a punch


Integrative simulation, additive manufacturing and other innovative manufacturing processes

 

Using renewable resources in plastic applications

Everything organic?

 

Additives

The missing vital ingredient

 

Digitalization

Sooner or later, it will impact us all

 

Recycling

Recycling is for more than just making park benches

 

Elastomer technology

High-performance materials for dynamic applications

 

Plastics in thermal management

Let us get you to your comfortable temperature: Efficient thermal management

 

Troubleshooting

Tracking down damage

 

Characterizing plastics

Tailor-made measurements and tests

Opportunities for collaboration in research and development

Are you a small or medium sized company, a large company or a start-up?

 

Are you interested in joint R&D projects?