Project: CLEAR – Reliably detecting foreign substances in plastic melts
The plastics industry faces intense pressure to innovate: rising quality standards, the need for more efficient processes, and increasing recycling rates. As the use of recycled materials grows, so does an additional challenge: foreign materials in plastic melts. These can not only compromise product quality but also pose a risk of machine damage, production downtime, and increased scrap.
To date, there has been no practical solution for reliably detecting foreign objects during processing. This is precisely where the new SKZ pioneering project comes in: Together with you, we are bringing an innovative testing system that detects foreign substances in plastic melts from the laboratory into the production process—initially for extrusion, and eventually for injection molding as well. In doing so, we are laying the foundation for sustainable and resource-efficient plastics processing.
By detecting foreign objects in the melt, material quality can be improved and potential damage to the machine avoided. This requires reliable solutions that also function in a production environment.
Project Objective and Approach
The goal of the project is to develop a measurement technology that detects foreign objects in the melt at an early stage and serves as a means of process monitoring. This approach also enables sustainable improvements in process reliability and product quality. Through collaboration among several companies, development costs can be shared, and practical solutions can be developed that meet the industry’s requirements.
A particular advantage: Individual test series are conducted for each project partner. This allows for specific materials, foreign objects, processes, and requirements to be taken into account. The data obtained in the process is, of course, treated confidentially.
Why it’s worth participating
- Lower production costs: Less scrap, less downtime, less rework.
- Predictable investment: Through collaboration among multiple companies, your development costs are significantly reduced and the likelihood of success increases.
- Quick market advantage: As a project partner, you secure early access to a technology that will transform the market.
- Long-term savings: The inspection technology pays for itself in no time through process reliability and improved quality.
Why act now?
As recycling rates rise, so does the need for reliable testing methods. Recycled materials are key to the circular economy, but they also increase the risk of contaminants. Companies that lack a solution in this area risk not only compromising quality but also losing customers and market share. With our project, you can lay the groundwork for the safe use of recycled materials and position yourself as a leader in sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Project Structure
The project is divided into several phases:
- Requirements Analysis:
Identification of the specific needs of all project partners - System Development:
Design and optimization of potential testing systems - Test Series:
Conducting real-world tests using participants’ materials (equivalent to approximately one test setup per participant) - Evaluation and Recommendations:
Provision of confidential results and recommendations for individual implementation in your production
Project launch: Q3/Q4 2026
Duration: 12 Monate
Costs: 15.000 € / company
Request more information now!
Your benefits at a glance
✔ Technological lead
You are among the first to use this new testing technology.
✔ Customized solutions
By conducting your own series of tests, you can ensure that the solution is a perfect fit for your processes.
✔ Cost-effectiveness
Joint development with other companies significantly reduces your investment costs.
✔ Sustainability
They lay the groundwork for the safe use of recycled materials and actively contribute to the circular economy.
✔ Confidentiality
Your data and results remain secure.
Interested?!
Take this opportunity to play an active role in developing cutting-edge testing technology. Help shape the requirements, benefit from exclusive insights, and secure a decisive competitive advantage—for greater quality, efficiency, and sustainability in your production.
Did you know??!
You can claim tax deductions for research expenses under the Research Allowance Act!
Visit the Federal Ministry of Finance’s website to learn about the applicable legal framework. We would be happy to advise you on other funding opportunities.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
We look forward to working with you on this project
and exploring this alternative approach to contract research.
Thank you in advance for your interest!