Microwave foam testing
Characterization of foamed plastics using focused microwaves
Project duration
From: 01.11.2024 To: 31.10.2026Description
The current state of the art in the industry for testing foamed plastics does not currently meet the requirements for inline monitoring of relevant foam parameters. Although methods investigated in research, such as terahertz technology, enable inline testing of bulk density and cell sizes, they have significant drawbacks. In order to reduce the existing discrepancy between industrial requirements and the current state of the art, SKZ - das Kunststoff-Zentrum is conducting a research project that will focus on the possibilities of foam characterization using microwave radiation. The aims of this project are, in particular, to research and further develop frequency-modulated (FMCW) radar technology with regard to its suitability for analyzing bulk density, cell size (distributions) and for detecting defects. Particular attention will be paid to meeting the requirements for an inline testing method suitable for extrusion. Another focus will be on the automated detection and classification of defects using artificial intelligence methods. The results will ultimately be prepared in such a way that it is particularly easy to transfer the findings to industry. The expected benefits for the industrial sector include the development of new business areas for system and component manufacturers and the achievement of higher product quality and cost savings for user companies. As both groups in Germany are largely SMEs, the relevance and expected benefits for SMEs are particularly high for the topic presented.
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