Circular and Bio-based Plastics

We develop recyclable, bio-based plastics that offer performance just as good as fossil-based alternatives in films, fibers, filaments, injection-molded parts and many other formats – and often even outperform them. From polymerization and formulation and material development to processing and recycling, we cover the entire value chain and underpin every step with comprehensive material characterization.

Thanks to our decades of expertise, we precisely tailor the property profile of each material to the respective application and ensure that our plastics can be processed on conventional machines without additional conversion. We never lose sight of the economic aspect: we consistently focus on affordable raw material availability, easy processing and efficient recycling of single-type materials. If required, we can provide sample batches on an industrial scale to enable new products to be brought to market quickly.

Polymer technology

For many years, we have been involved in the development and synthesis of polymer materials and tailor-made additive systems based on renewable raw materials. The focus is on chemically modified biopolymers such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), which we optimize as functional additives for plastics, adhesives and lubricants. In order to reliably assess their performance, we investigate both the degradation mechanisms under practical conditions and the structure-property relationships with a particular focus on morphology and crystallization behavior.

In addition to process and degradation studies, we have in-depth expertise in polymer analytical characterization. Thermal analyses (DSC, TGA, TG-IR), spectroscopic methods (FT-IR, Raman, NMR) and chromatographic techniques (GPC/SEC) are supplemented by rheological measurements using capillary viscometry, titration analysis for functional group determination and specialized residue analysis of plastic-containing waste.

In addition to this core areas of expertise in polymer technology, we are involved in interdisciplinary projects in cultural heritage research and monument preservation. We use non-destructive testing methods to evaluate high-quality surfaces without damaging the original substance.

Plastics development

We research and optimize biopolymers and recyclates through blending, targeted additives and fiber reinforcement. Another focus is reactive extrusion, particularly for melt compatibilization—a key technology for novel bio-based thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV). In addition, we have extensive experience with film materials, biodegradable polymers and natural fiber-reinforced plastics. As part of aging and soil contact studies, we analyze the long-term behavior of compostable materials. With our expertise, we support partners directly on site in the introduction of new plastic systems, ensure smooth production processes, and thus contribute to the long-term satisfaction of processors and their customers.

Sample production and materials testing technology

The development of new materials does not end in the laboratory, but in industrial practice. In our technically well-equipped compounding technical center at the Willich location, laboratory formulations are scaled up under real production conditions. Twin-screw extruders, variable dosing systems, melt filters and pelletizing systems on a pilot to industrial scale enable the production of sample batches for further testing and small series. An affiliated testing laboratory provides all relevant mechanical, thermal and rheological characteristics, thus ensuring product quality from the first test to market-ready application.

Information material of the department Circular and Bio-based Plastics | At the Fraunhofer Institute UMSICHT we research and develop bio-based and biodegradable plastics | Reference projects of the department Circular and Bio-based Plastics

Fraunhofer UMSICHT develops bio-based high-performance plastics from biogenic raw materials, including starch and other plant-based materials, for applications such as films, fibers, and injection-molded parts.

More about Fraunhofer UMSICHT at K 2025