Melt Processing Technologies
What are plastics?
Plastics are a diverse group of synthetic and semi-synthetic organic compounds that are shaped into solid forms. These materials have a wide range of applications, including packaging, electronics, construction materials and textiles. In the textile industry, for example, plastics such as polyester, nylon and polypropylene are used to produce durable, lightweight and easy-care fabrics.
The process of plastic melt processing is vital in the manufacture of plastic products and textiles. In this process, plastic granules or powders are heated to temperatures above their melting point. This makes them liquid, which allows them to be poured, pressed or shaped into different forms. There are several techniques used to process molten plastics. These include injection moulding, extrusion and blow moulding.
Most plastics are still petroleum-based, but access to renewable and/or recycled raw materials is increasing and is being promoted by Europe and national governments.
Plastic's success has resulted in a global waste issue, with pollution of oceans and remote locations, so recycling is crucial for the plastics processing industry.
Our research activities are focused on
- renewable, bio-based, sustainable alternatives to oil-based thermoplastics
- improving the properties of biomaterials to match and if possible exceed those of conventional materials
- functionalisation of thermoplastic polymers (chemical, physical)
- creation of high-end fibre-reinforced or self-reinforced composites meeting the most stringent mechanical requirements
- implementation of new technologies (such as Additive Manufacturing) in traditional production processes
- recycling and closed loop
Discover the melt processing platform
With its semi-industrial pilot lines dedicated to the development of high-end products & efficient processes, Centexbel assists companies in the search of new, original and successful (niche) products and in the implementation of new technologies.
Contact our R&D team
Lien Van der Schueren
Robbe De Bisschop
Centexbel INFO 2021-06 Plastics
With their inherent versatility and capacity for innovation, plastics play a crucial role in a sustainable and resource-efficient economy. However, the issue of plastic waste still needs to be solved.
© 2021 Centexbel