The mechanical recycling of plastics faces a variety of challenges, both technical and regulatory. From a technical point of view, questions arise regarding the availability of recyclates, possibilities for improving their quality, and their long-term properties in demanding applications. In terms of regulation, existing provisions must be observed and further developed, recycling quotas increased and recycling technologies promoted. The aim is always to minimize the environmental impact of plastic production, disposal and recycling. These challenges require new approaches and close cooperation between industry, research and politics. The seventh “Praxisforum Kunststoffrezyklate” (Plastics Recyclate Practice Forum) on March 26 and 27, 2025 in Darmstadt addresses these issues in the context of mechanical plastics recycling and has established itself as an industry get-together with high practical relevance. The program and online registration are now available.

International exchange in the plastics industry

The symposium, which will be held in English, offers participants the opportunity to exchange ideas in an international setting and brings together plastics manufacturers and processors, recyclers and users. In addition to a current review of the regulations and the market situation in Germany and Europe, the presentations at the practical forum will also focus on the possibilities for optimizing the quality of recycled plastics through adapted sorting and the use of additives, for both thermoplastics and biopolymers. In the context of these considerations at the material level, the advantages of offline and online analytics for evaluating material quality and monitoring processes will also be discussed. In particular, the focus here is on the possibilities of data-based approaches to material and process optimization based on machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence.

No use of recyclates without appropriate application

As in previous years, the focus is on various applications in the fields of packaging, disposal, consumer goods and automotive, as well as approaches and challenges for the simulation of plastic recyclates in the context of component development. In addition to the technical content mentioned above, the event is an established platform for the exchange between participants and offers excellent opportunities for new networks due to the different perspectives on the topic of mechanical recycling. New this year is the opportunity for companies to make themselves visible through sponsorship or to present themselves in a small exhibition area. The venue for the seventh “Praxisforum Kunststoffrezyklate” is the Welcome Hotel in Darmstadt.

Exclusive additional format: Fraunhofer #LBFDeepDive on March 25, 2025

A day full of expert knowledge and discussions about the aging of plastics throughout their entire life cycle is the focus of the one-day #LBFDeepDive event. Participants will learn how environmental influences affect material properties and what challenges arise for plastics recycling as a result. Participants will meet research experts from Fraunhofer LBF, exchange ideas, learn about innovative solutions for improving recyclability and material quality, and have the opportunity to discuss specific questions on this topic with various experts.

Interface between science and industry

As an application-oriented research institution and neutral point of contact, the Fraunhofer LBF forms the interface between science and industry and plays a leading role in the research landscape, particularly in the field of recyclates. Having organized numerous technology conferences and industry working groups, the Darmstadt-based research institute has been an integral part of the plastics industry for many years and has taken over the lead of the 2022 event from Hanser Verlag as an experienced and established partner.

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