Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence

Rethinking products - that is the approach of the Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy CCPE. From the selection of components and materials to the use of the product and recycling. The goal of the six Fraunhofer institutes that make up the cluster is the transformation to a circular plastics economy. Together, they are working on systemic, technical and social innovations that take into account the entire life cycle of plastic products. Plastics for industrial and consumer goods have a broad and optimized spectrum of properties and in many cases are virtually irreplaceable. They are indispensable for resource-efficient products due to their low weight.

Fraunhofer IAP is responsible for the Circular Polymers Research Department within the cluster and works closely with the Fraunhofer Institutes LBF, ICT and UMSICHT.

Circular bioplastics at Fraunhofer IAP

Fraunhofer IAP focuses on bio-based plastics. Such plastics make it possible to reduce the use of fossil resources and thus reduce the CO₂ footprint of plastic products. For example, modified polybutylene succinates are being developed as a substitute for plastic products containing polyolefins. Both petrol-based and bio-based raw materials are used here.

Thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPEE)

Another focus is thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPEE) made from bio-based furan dicarboxylic acid. The synthesis process developed at Fraunhofer IAP, which can be used industrially, produces initial sample quantities that can be used to investigate the basic properties. The aim is to adapt the crystallization behavior to commercial, petroleum-based TPEE types. This is an important prerequisite for using bioTPEEs in established applications.

Stereocomplex polylactide (scPLA) and PLA monomaterial composite

On the polymer processing side, fibers are produced from polylactide (PLA) that have an improved thermomechanical performance. The scientists at Fraunhofer IAP use the effect of stereocomplexation to produce multifilament yarns with a crystal structure that has a higher melting point (scPLA).

In cooperation with Fraunhofer ICT, these are being tested as reinforcing fibers in recyclable monomaterial composite applications. The thermomechanical recycling of fiber composites (organic sheets) was achieved for the first time in 2023. The recycling process is significantly simplified since the matrix and fibers of the composites are chemically identical.

After the production of scPLA and PLA multifilament yarns, a scPLA/PLA blended yarn fabric was produced, which was consolidated into self-reinforced test sheets at Fraunhofer ICT. These were then mechanically shredded and processed into free-flowing granulate at Fraunhofer IAP. This recycled material was then spun into new fibers while ensuring high process stability. The mechanical properties of the recycled scPLA fibers were in the range of the reinforcing filaments of the organic sheet. The basic recyclability of the scPLA/PLA organic sheet systems could thus be demonstrated in a targeted manner.

The transition from a linear to a circular plastics economy can only succeed using a multi-stakeholder approach. Therefore, Fraunhofer CCPE pools the expertise and infrastructures of six institutes of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and cooperates closely with partners from industry. Together, they work on systemic, technical and social innovations, focusing on the entire life cycle of plastic products.

They work on behalf of their customers and partners from industry and the public sector, developing, implementing and optimizing processes, products and systems until they are ready for use and for the market. Using their international network, they conduct cutting-edge research and contribute to the success of the economy and the well-being of society.

Go to the website of Fraunhofer CCPE.