The R&D activities of Centexbel-VKC support the textile, plastic converting and related companies with the explicit aim to reinforce the innovation capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) and to assist the industry in its transition to a sustainable future. As a research institution created by and for the industry, we initiate and participate in publicly funded pre-competitive research projects and in market-oriented contract research projects.

To guarantee total impartiality and to avoid any conflict of interest, we explicitly exclude all product development in those areas covered by the CE certification scope for which we are accredited.

In line with the European Green Deal, CIRCOPLAST aims to develop methods to remove brominated flame retardants from various plastics to facilitate recycling of the polymers. These materials come from construction/demolition sites and electronic waste for which no recycling route has yet been established. The overall objective is therefore to support companies in their transition to a circular economy.

The objective of the SeaBioMat project is to assist companies engaged in the maritime industry in their transition from oil-based products to those derived from biological sources and/or biodegradable materials, thereby reducing their environmental and climatic impact. The objective is to develop materials, assess their properties and analyse their durability and environmental impact.

Elast2Sustain focuses on developing new sustainable TPE through different routes. We will investigate whether mechanical or chemical recycling can be used to obtain building blocks that can be reused as raw materials. Two different chemical recycling techniques (pyrolysis and chemical depolymerisation) will be investigated. We will also develop new bio-based TPE using CO2 as a building block.

This unique microfluidic platform will recreate the microenvironment of natural tissues, reducing the use of animals for in vivo tests.

With energy efficiency now a global priority, the building of the future must be designed with sustainable development and recycling in mind.

Novel generation of biobased and bioinspired sustainable smart technical textile materials to address current and future energy needs.

Developing safe and sustainable textile water-repellent solutions that are superior to currently commercially available 'PFAS-free/fluorine-free' solutions.

Development of a safer and more sustainable flame retardant for use in the textile industry.

The main goal is to create a smart bandage that can monitor biological parameters in real-time to detect infections or slow wound healing. Additionally, it will contain a hydrogel with drugs that can be released when needed.

AntiRési aims to develop innovative solutions to combat antibiotic resistance