Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy CCPEDr. Michael Großhauser works in the Research Department "Circular Additives and Compounds". His research focuses on the additivation of recyclates. Read more about it here and learn about his highlights around Fraunhofer CCPE.
What are you working on at the Fraunhofer CCPE? What creative ideas are you currently pursuing in your field of research?
My research topics are in the additivation of recyclates. In addition to sustainable stabilization, the focus is also on the functionalization and upgrading (flame retardancy, compatibilization, etc.) of recyclates so that they do not undergo downcycling but can be used in applications of equal or higher value.
Do you have a specific project example or why is this interesting for industry/society?
There is pressure to increase the proportion of recycled materials, particularly in electrical/electronics applications or the automotive sector (e.g. from legislation). The reliable adjustment of polymer properties (flame retardancy, long-term stability or UV stabilization) is therefore particularly important. We work closely with industrial partners in particular to achieve this goal.
In which way could Fraunhofer CCPE make the world a little better in the future?
By helping the industry to reduce CO2 emissions through their products even better, e.g. by improving the feasibility of the research results from the Fraunhofer CCPE.
Which invention in the field of Circular Plastics Economy are you personally hoping for?
The closed-loop system, which enables different plastics to be collected and recycled. This requires effective sorting, coupled with sustainable additives and processes, so that the recyclable materials can be turned into new products, which in turn are "designed for recycling" after their use.
What fascinates you about your work at Fraunhofer CCPE?
We are working on forward-looking topics today. However, these are also of interest to industry today and are necessary to ensure that future sustainability requirements (e.g. recyclate quotas) can be met.