Research & Development (www.polyformnext.de)
Impregnation is intended to ensure ESD protection for 3D-printed components
In a research project, SKZ and Diamant Polymer are developing a functional impregnation that gives additively manufactured plastic components permanently electrostatically dissipative surfaces. The goal is to maintain the ESD properties over the long term, even under mechanical stress.
read more...SoliD-Q at the SKZ (www.polyformnext.de)
Industry project networks recycling data for precise recyclate quality
The SoliD-Q cooperation project links sorting, processing and quality data in order to optimize the production of high-quality post-consumer recyclates in a targeted manner. The aim is to create a digital product passport that enables consistent and traceable quality assurance along the recycling chain.
read more...Textile recycling rethought (www.polyformnext.de)
Ideas competition: SKZ awards prizes for plastic components made from used textiles
The SKZ Plastics Center has awarded prizes in a Germany-wide ideas competition for innovative approaches to recycling old textiles. Pupils and students developed plastic components from old textiles.
read more...RezyPart research project (www.polyformnext.de)
AI evaluates recyclates in automotive engineering
A new research project is developing AI-supported software to predict the material properties of recycled plastics despite inhomogeneous quality and impurities. The aim is to enable the safe and efficient use of recycled materials in technical vehicle components based on data.
read more...Quality mark (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ warns against counterfeit SKZ certificates
The SKZ warns: Counterfeit SKZ certificates are increasingly appearing on the international market and give the impression of tested product quality, although no valid certification exists.
read more...SKZ and 3D Printing Academy (www.polyformnext.de)
Know-how for the additive manufacturing of tomorrow
As one of the future main sponsors of the 3D Printing Academy, the SKZ will contribute its plastics expertise to the learning platform in a digital and practical way.
read more...Camera-based measuring system (www.polyformnext.de)
AI-supported color measurement for recyclates
Correctly adjusting color values has always been a major challenge in the manufacture of plastic products. The increased use of recyclate makes this challenge even more difficult. Scientists at the SKZ Plastics Centre have therefore been working with industry partner Inno-spec to develop a camera-based measuring system for optimized colour formulation in plastics recycling.
read more...FFF process with reactive resin filaments (www.polyformnext.de)
Crosslinking filaments for temperature-resistant components
In the "Reactive Printing" research project by SKZ and Fraunhofer IFAM, new types of epoxy resin-based filaments are being developed for 3D printing that crosslink during the printing process. The aim is to produce high-performance components at lower processing temperatures and overcome the typical quality problems of conventional thermoplastics.
read more...Research project at the SKZ (www.polyformnext.de)
AI keeps an eye on the ageing of plastic
The SpectralAIge research project is developing AI-supported spectroscopic measurement systems to evaluate the ageing of plastics in the production process. The aim is to improve recycling processes and make the recycling of plastics more efficient and sustainable.
read more...SKZ Plastics Center (www.polyformnext.de)
Chemometrics for quality assurance of plastics
Chemometrics combines mathematical and statistical methods with chemical expertise to precisely analyze plastics and recyclates in terms of quality and composition. This technology, which is being further developed at the SKZ Plastics Centre, plays a key role in optimizing recycling processes and meeting growing sustainability requirements.
read more...Addmold for LSR (www.polyformnext.de)
Research into additively manufactured tools for liquid silicone
The SKZ Plastics Center and the Unipace (Polymer Application Center) at the University of Kassel launched a research project entitled Addmold for LSR in February 2025. The aim is to enable injection molding of liquid silicone using additively manufactured tool inserts for the first time.
read more...SKZ launches new research project (www.polyformnext.de)
Artificial intelligence to supplement incomplete crawl data
Material databases often only provide incomplete creep data for plastics. The SKZ Plastics Center is therefore developing new approaches in a research project to close these gaps with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) without additional long-term experimental tests.
read more...Industrial projects (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ at the Fakuma: Frisbees and magnifying glasses to take away
The SKZ Plastics Center will also be represented at this year's Fakuma. The SKZ experts will be covering topics such as plastics and process training, research and development services, plastics-related testing and management certification for companies in the plastics industry.
read more...Inline quality assurance of 3D printed... (www.polyformnext.de)
New possibilities in quality control
As a measurement technology integrator for component testing and process monitoring, the Plastics Center - SKZ meets the challenges within the plastics industry. This also includes quality assurance for 3D printing. Together with Optris, this has been optimized through the use of thermal imaging cameras.
read more...New skilled workers in the plastics industry (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ with a wide range of training courses to combat the shortage of skilled workers
Good training and further education gives employees the opportunity for further development. This is precisely why the Würzburg institute offers SKZ qualifications. The qualifications are aimed at both newcomers and experienced employees.
read more...Partner project: LSR using the 5-2-1 method (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ: Two complex silicone molded parts in just one tool
Five partners from the plastics industry have succeeded in producing two complex silicone molded parts in just one single tool. The tool - an example of successful cooperation in the plastics industry - is currently in use at the SKZ Plastics Center.
read more...Joint project (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ project optimizes venting of injection moulds
The venting of injection molds has always been a complex issue that has not yet been satisfactorily resolved. Inadequate venting can result in defects and weak points in the components as well as damage to the molds. In a joint project, industrial companies want to work together with the SKZ to develop a deeper understanding of mold venting.
read more...Easier to identify microplastics in water (www.polyformnext.de)
Detect particles in the flow
The joint research project "KoDeKa-Plast" between the European Center for Dispersion Technology (EZD) in Selb and the Institute for Laser Technologies in Medicine and Metrology (ILM) at the University of Ulm has been successfully completed. The researchers succeeded in efficiently detecting microparticles in water, identifying plastic particles and gaining insights into the release of microparticles.
read more...Rezy-Spezi project by SKZ and Plastship (www.polyformnext.de)
How the use of recyclate can be increased
In the Rezy-Spezi research project, the SKZ and Plastship have succeeded in identifying obstacles to the use of secondary materials in plastics processing. The two partners were also able to develop concrete proposals for the industry to increase the proportion of recycled materials in the future.
read more...Process monitoring at SKZ (www.polyformnext.de)
Quality assurance through digital monitoring of the injection molding cell
At the SKZ Plastics Center, interested parties have the opportunity to experience digital process monitoring live. For this purpose, an injection molding cell was equipped with the reference system, which enables the monitoring of various characteristic data.
read more...SKZ plans to establish an innovation network (www.polyformnext.de)
Development of PFAS alternatives for SMEs
Due to potential dangers, a ban on PFAS is expected for many applications. The SKZ Plastics Center is therefore planning to set up a ZIM innovation network to give small and medium-sized companies the opportunity to develop alternative materials - especially for technical components - in good time.
read more...Research (www.polyformnext.de)
Overcoming compounding limits
Compounding recipes are currently becoming increasingly complex, new materials and fillers are being tested and special process technology features are being developed. The SKZ Plastics Center is rising to this challenge: with the right knowledge in formulation and process development, even unusual compounds with additives such as microcapsules or enzymes are possible.
read more...Bio-based epoxy resins (www.polyformnext.de)
Successful completion of the OrangeOil research project
Orange peels provide valuable bio-based epoxy resins and can be a sustainable alternative to reduce the use of petroleum-based polymers. A project to improve the bioeconomy with the partners Kunststoff-Zentrum SKZ, Fraunhofer IMWS and TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center has now been successfully completed.
read more...Precycle project (www.polyformnext.de)
Bicycle pedals for more sustainability
Fiber composite components made of carbon fibers and epoxy resin have excellent material properties. Unfortunately, up to a third of the waste is produced during the manufacture of components. A research consortium now wants to change this with the Precycle project - the SKZ Plastics Center is also involved. The solution: bicycle pedals.
read more...SKZ interview on the PFAS debate (www.polyformnext.de)
"It can be assumed that a ban will come"
Many plastic products would be affected by a PFAS ban. In this interview, Dr. Andreas Köppel, Group Leader of Materials Development at the SKZ Plastics Center, explains what PFASs are, what difficulties they cause and what a potential ban would mean for companies.
read more...Educational opportunities at the SKZ (www.polyformnext.de)
Further training is more important than ever
Professional development is essential in order to manufacture high-quality products and implement operational processes efficiently and correctly. Especially in an age of skills shortages and ever faster changing technological possibilities, regular further training is a must and should be adapted to different needs.
read more...Cyclops: digitalization meets recycling (www.polyformnext.de)
Online tool facilitates the use of recyclates
Digitalization can massively promote the circular economy. Together with its partners, the SKZ Plastics Center has completed a project that will facilitate the use of recycled materials. Companies can use a tool to find and evaluate suitable secondary materials.
read more...New division at SKZ (www.polyformnext.de)
The cycle becomes concrete
Sustainability and the circular economy are playing an increasingly important role in the plastics industry. As a climate protection company, the SKZ Plastics Center has now expanded its activities in this area and established its own department with research and education topics.
read more...SKZ services for the injection molding... (www.polyformnext.de)
From test specimens to process optimization
In industrial operations, the workload is usually high. At the same time, there are complex tasks that have to be completed on the side. Unfortunately, there is often not enough time for this. The SKZ Plastics Center offers a cost-effective, external and qualified solution by providing services for industry.
read more...Thermal shock test (www.polyformnext.de)
The future of pipe testing
A globally unique test bench at the SKZ Plastics Center sets new standards in the temperature cycling testing of piping systems. The system saves up to 25 percent energy and delivers highly accurate test results.
read more...Terahertz measurements in extrusion
Foreign bodies in the plastic melt are a major problem in extrusion. Researchers at the SKZ Plastics Center have developed an adapter to couple terahertz sensors (THz) directly to the extruder and thus examine the melt inline for foreign bodies.
read more...Revise-Up research project (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ researches improvement of post-consumer recycling
The SKZ Plastics Center is participating in a project to improve post-consumer recycling. The main aim of the project is to use sensor technology to improve material flow analysis, thereby improving the sorting of plastic waste and reducing quality fluctuations.
read more...Integrative simulation of plastic components (www.polyformnext.de)
Anisotropic material models with AI
The companies Part Engineering and Aixtrusion and the SKZ Plastics Center have launched a joint project. The development of AI models to predict fibre orientation in test specimens and their effect on mechanical behavior is intended to automate the creation of anisotropic material models and simplify the use of integrative simulation.
read more...SuLiCo research project (www.polyformnext.de)
Software tool for lightweight plastic components
The SKZ in Würzburg is developing software to optimize the environmental impact of lightweight plastic components. The aim of the "SuLiCo" (Sustainable Lightweight Construction) research project is to optimize thecarbon footprint, resource efficiency and recyclability of lightweight plastic components by developing and distributing a database-supported software tool.
read more...Compounding and extrusion technology center (www.polyformnext.de)
New ring extruder at SKZ enables further research
A new ring extruder with 12 co-rotating screws enables the SKZ to research basic process engineering knowledge for this type of extruder. This research provides the starting point for application-oriented developments, e.g. in the fields of recycling and bioeconomy.
read more...SKZ research projects (www.polyformnext.de)
Competence focus on trend topic battery technology
Several SKZ research and education projects are concerned with battery technology. It is a key technology for mobility and the energy supply of the future. Plastics are key materials here. The SKZ in Würzburg is therefore conducting several research projects in this area.
read more...Fiber length distribution with SKZ software... (www.polyformnext.de)
Analysis with a new benchmark
The SKZ software Fiver is the standard for fiber length analysis: Now, after ten years, it is receiving an innovative extension, the Fiver V2 release, and is once again setting new standards, as it makes fiber length determination child's play.
read more...Optimization of injection moulding processes (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ expands simulation capacities
The SKZ Plastics Centre has expanded its capacities in the field of simulation and will in future use the 3D CAE technology Moldex 3D to optimize injection moulding processes.
read more...Magnetic measuring method as an alternative... (www.polyformnext.de)
Hot analysis for technical thermoplastics and thermosets
Experts from the SKZ Plastics Center and the Magnetic Resonance and X-ray Imaging (MRB) department at Fraunhofer IIS are investigating the use of high-temperature NMR up to 300 °C in a joint project. The aim is to accelerate the testing of technical thermoplastics and thermosets in particular.
read more...Injection molding machine (www.polyformnext.de)
New addition to the SKZ
The SKZ in Peine is to receive a new Arburg Allrounder 520 A injection molding machine. The machine has an all-electric drive and can process both thermosets and thermoplastics.
read more...Skills shortage (www.polyformnext.de)
Primary school teachers on STEM education at the SKZ
STEM education is still as important as it is expandable. The shortage of skilled workers in technical professions can already be felt. Under the title "Plastics - a sustainable material and recyclable material?", primary school teachers were guests at the SKZ Plastics Center at the beginning of December 2022, because children in particular are still curious about discovery.
read more...Further training (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ expands training program for additive manufacturing
The SKZ has further expanded its course portfolio in the field of 3D printing, offering online courses, and from 2023 a course to become an industrial technician in additive manufacturing (IHK), which the IHK Würzburg has launched together with the SKZ.
read more...Quality assurance of additively... (www.polyformnext.de)
Layer by layer
As part of a research project, the SKZ Plastics Center is developing a new inline measurement technology based on passive thermography for the non-destructive testing of 3D printed components.
read more...SKZ at the formnext 2022 (www.polyformnext.de)
Making the most of the possibilities of 3D printing
The wide range of additive manufacturing processes has arrived in everyday industrial life. However, there is often a lack of detailed knowledge in process engineering in order to exploit the possibilities. The SKZ wants to pave the way here at Formnext and provide customers and partners with the expertise to use the processes.
read more...New training rooms in southern Bavaria (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ expands capacities in the field of plastic welding
The SKZ is expanding its capacities in the field of welding training and is moving into new premises in Kirchseeon in southern Bavaria. The first courses are scheduled to take place in fall 2022.
read more...Medical technology (www.polyformnext.de)
Product and process safety at the next level
High standards must be met before medical devices can be manufactured. The SKZ Plastics Center offers plastics processors further training in the management system for medical devices in accordance with DIN EN ISO 13485.
read more...Cooperation between SKZ and Erema (www.polyformnext.de)
Recycling training course launched at SKZ
The recycling of materials in the field of plastics is now a topic that will play an important and lasting role in almost every processing company. In cooperation with Erema, the SKZ offers courses on this topic.
read more...MSR solution from Livarsa (www.polyformnext.de)
SKZ reduces electricity consumption by 4.7 percent
The SKZ Plastics Center has introduced a new energy efficiency solution at its headquarters in Würzburg with an MSR solution from Livarsa, which has led to a 4.7 percent reduction in its electricity consumption.
read more...Plastics Center (www.polyformnext.de)
Personnel changes in the SKZ Group
Dr. Thomas Hochrein will take over the management of product testing and certification as well as analytics in the SKZ Group, i.e. SKZ-Testing and its subsidiary ASO, from June 1, 2022. Dr. Benjamin Baudrit will take over the operational management of education and research.
read more...Further training (www.polyformnext.de)
5-day course: SKZ and DGQ qualify environmental managers
The Plastics Center - SKZ in Würzburg and the German Society for Quality (DGQ) have joined forces to provide further training for specialists and managers from the plastics industry. The Environmental Management and Environmental Protection Compact course starts on July 4, 2022.
read more...