Elastomers in Focus: SKZ Expands Services for High-Performance and Sustainable Applications
The Kunststoff-Zentrum SKZ is strategically expanding its service portfolio in the field of elastomers, providing companies with comprehensive support ranging from in-depth material analysis to the development of sustainable applications. Leveraging extensive materials expertise and state-of-the-art testing technologies, the institute unlocks new potential for high-performance, cost-efficient and resource-saving elastomer systems.
Blending liquid silicone at SKZ: The Würzburg Plastics Institute is expanding its services for high-performance and sustainable applications in the field of elastomers. (Photo: Luca Hoffmannbeck, SKZ)
Enhanced expertise in analysis, development and sustainability
Elastomers are indispensable materials in numerous everyday applications and key industrial sectors. Thanks to their high elasticity, resilience, and resistance to a wide range of stresses, they are widely used in seals, tires, hoses, medical products, and technical molded parts. By tailoring their properties to specific requirements, elastomers play a crucial role in the functionality of modern polymer applications.
Expanded testing and analysis portfolio for elastomers
Against this backdrop, SKZ brings together its longstanding expertise in research, development, and industry-oriented implementation. Companies benefit from an expanded range of services that combines established testing methods with advanced approaches to material characterization.
These include rheological investigations to assess processing behavior, dynamic mechanical analysis to characterize viscoelastic properties, as well as aging and resistance tests under application-relevant conditions. In addition, SKZ supports the development and optimization of new elastomer formulations and the evaluation of sustainable material alternatives.
Holistic material development for sustainable elastomer solutions
A particular focus is placed on the holistic consideration of materials and applications. Emphasis is on the targeted optimization of material properties, the identification of additional processing potential, and the integration of increasing environmental requirements.
As a result, companies receive not only reliable analytical data but also concrete, application-oriented recommendations for optimizing products and processes.
SKZ strengthens industry partnerships in elastomer technology
“Requirements for elastomers are continuously increasing—both in terms of performance and sustainability,” explains Thomas Zimmermann, Head of Networked Materials at SKZ. “Our goal is to support companies in developing innovative and economically viable solutions. Our interdisciplinary approach enables us to effectively link material development, processing, and application.”
SKZ expands elastomer expertise for industry and research
By further developing its service portfolio, SKZ reinforces its role as a partner for industry and research in the field of elastomers. Customers benefit from a combination of scientific depth, practical implementation, and a comprehensive network across the plastics value chain.
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