For plastics, particularly recyclates, to be used in demanding, highly stressed components, their property profile must be optimized and adapted to each technical product. Then, they function reliably and can be manufactured efficiently and affordably.

Recyclable components are essential for sustainable product design

Fraunhofer experts will demonstrate how recyclates can be analyzed and optimized early in the product development process, even before series production begins. Visitors will also learn how to identify and adapt alternative plastics to specific applications for demanding components in various industry segments, such as transportation, electronics, construction, and packaging.

A highlight at the stand is an innovative battery housing made of plastic that is 35 percent lighter than aluminum, CO₂-neutral over the entire life cycle under certain conditions and prepared for a second life of the battery cells. This example demonstrates how Fraunhofer LBF develops sustainable lightweight construction solutions with a holistic material concept — from molecular structure and additives to stabilization and application-related testing, such as flame retardancy and media compatibility.