Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy CCPEControlled biodegradability
Biodegradable plastics such as polylactide (PLA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS) offer an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional materials. But how can we ensure that they remain stable during use and degrade quickly and completely afterwards? Fraunhofer CCPE researchers develop customized additives for you and analyze the degradation behavior of plastics under realistic conditions. Discover how we accelerate and control the degradation of polymers – for a sustainable future.
Our range of services: Acceleration and control of plastic degradation
Through the targeted use of selected additives, we offer you the opportunity to significantly accelerate the degradation process of plastics. At the same time, suitable stabilizers ensure high processing stability and enable control of the long-term stability of your materials. Our research focuses on sustainable solutions based on biogenic resources that replace environmentally critical substances. Fraunhofer LBF has many years of experience in the development of additives, including stabilizers and catalysts, which in combination specifically control the degradation of the above-mentioned plastics.
Analysis of degradation behavior under realistic conditions
In order to research the degradation behavior of plastic products during their useful life under conditions that are as realistic as possible, Fraunhofer UMSICHT has developed special test stands:
- Soil degradation stand: Enables the artificial aging of films and other products on soils under the influence of UV radiation, controlled humidity and temperature.
- Freshwater test facility: offers the possibility of testing the degradation behavior of plastics in freshwater environments.
These test facilities make it possible to analyze and evaluate property changes of plastics during aging due to environmental influences.
Your advantage
For plastic products that could end up in the environment, it is crucial to understand the effects of environmental influences on the material properties and to know the expected degradation processes over time. With the technologies and methods developed at Fraunhofer LBF and Fraunhofer UMSICHT, we support you in improving the environmental compatibility of your plastics. By optimizing the degradation behavior of your products, we are jointly making an important contribution to a more sustainable future.
Our services at a glance
- Development of customized additives to accelerate the degradation of plastics
- Use of suitable stabilizers for optimal processing and long-term stability
- Research into sustainable material solutions based on biogenic resources
- Conducting realistic aging tests
- Analysis and evaluation of material properties during the degradation process
- Consultancy and support in optimizing your plastic products in terms of environmental compatibility
Contact us to find out more about our range of services and how we can work together to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for your plastic products. The team at the Fraunhofer CCPE is at your side with expertise and state-of-the-art technology.