Research plays a decisive role in the further development of plastics, be it in the research of new bioplastics, innovative recycling technologies or sustainable material combinations. But how do companies in the plastics industry manage to put these scientific breakthroughs into practice?
The answer to this lies in well thought-out cooperation between research and industry, which transforms innovations step by step into marketable solutions.
In this article, we take a look at how this transition is succeeding and the role played by close cooperation between science and industry.
Exchange between research and industry
The path from the discovery of a new material to its industrial application begins with an intensive exchange between researchers and industrial partners.
Scientists present their latest research results and show how they can contribute to solving current challenges in the plastics industry. Engineers and manufacturers analyze these results and examine how they can be used in real production environments. This dialog is essential, as the requirements of industry often have a different focus than pure research.
It is not just technical data and properties that are discussed. Market requirements, production capacities and sustainability criteria also play a decisive role.
Only when all the relevant factors have been put on the table can the next steps be taken to transfer the research results into practice.
Technological transfer to prototypes
Once the initial ideas and approaches have been discussed, the next step is the development of prototypes. These prototypes are not just theoretical models, but are tested under real conditions.
The aim here is to find out whether the newly developed material or process actually meets the requirements of the industry:
- Can the material be processed in existing production lines?
- Can it withstand the stresses and requirements of the end product?
The subsequent feasibility tests are crucial for identifying and eliminating potential weaknesses at an early stage. In this phase, the research is transferred from the laboratory to practice and subjected to a realistic evaluation. This is where it is decided whether the project can be pursued further or whether adjustments need to be made.
The industrialization of the idea of mass production
Once the feasibility tests have been successfully completed, the industrialization phase begins. This means that the material or technology is adapted so that it can be produced on a large scale.
Efficiency and cost-effectiveness requirements play a major role here. Companies must ensure that the innovation not only functions technically, but is also profitable on an industrial scale.
This phase often requires close cooperation between engineers and the company’s production departments. Processes have to be optimized, machines adapted and new production lines developed. This is also the point at which the commercial success of the innovation is put to the test.
Strong partners for all levels
The successful implementation of research results in practice requires a clear strategy, close cooperation and the willingness to invest in new technologies and processes.
With our expertise in the development and implementation of innovative plastics solutions, we at MEDIAN support companies in successfully transferring scientific discoveries into practice.
Whether it’s new materials, sustainable solutions or innovative production processes – we support you from the initial idea to the successful market launch. Together, we pave the way to mastering the challenges of the future and ensuring competitiveness.
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