New Network Promotes Sustainable Plastics in Utility Infrastructure
The innovation network of the German Plastics Center (SKZ), planned from 2024 in cooperation with HeiQ RAS AG, aims to use renewable raw materials and recyclates for the production of plastic pipes and to establish them for the supply industry, taking into account process capability, processability and economic efficiency.
Switching to bio-based raw materials would ensure the long-term viability of pipe manufacturers in Germany. (Photo: Kybele / stock.adobe.com)
Partners from SMEs, industry and academia are invited to participate.
The "Sustainable Plastics in Supply Infrastructure" innovation network aims to bundle the competencies of the partners along a value chain. The vision is the complete production of plastic pipes based on renewable raw materials and recyclates. To achieve this, the long-term stability of bio-based plastics must be demonstrated, and extensive tests must be carried out in the areas of chemical stability, service life and fatigue strength (also under load). Confidence in the durability of bio-based plastics and the potential use of recyclates will be demonstrated in this network.
In addition, technological solutions are to be developed and implemented in a timely manner. Development topics are addressed by initiating and carrying out funding and cooperation projects in the network. The research results from these projects will then be incorporated into standards and requirement catalogues for the relevant specialist networks and users. In this way, the use of sustainable raw material sources, in particular sustainable bio-based plastics, for industrial applications will be expanded. In the long term, the CO2 footprint can be reduced and sustainable material cycles can be established for industry.
The network is expected to start in 2024 and will bring together partners from SMEs, industry and academia. If approved, it will be funded by the Central Innovation Program for SMEs (ZIM). The members of the network will be small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), institutes, universities and colleges in order to bring in as many different competencies as possible along a value chain. Companies, institutes or universities interested in joining the network can contact project manager Dr. Ruben Schlutter for further information.
Piping systems in utility infrastructure (e.g., drinking water supply) must not only meet high quality requirements, such as long service life, but also economic requirements. Currently, plastic pipes are made from petrochemical-based raw materials. Modern PE plastics are ideal for use in technical infrastructure. Properties such as corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, environmental compatibility and durability make them superior to traditional pipe materials such as concrete or steel. The switch to bio-based raw materials would secure the future of pipe manufacturers in Germany against the background of increasing political demands for a circular economy. In the future, petrochemical products are expected to become more expensive due to the scarcity of crude oil, while bio-based alternatives will tend to become cheaper due to economies of scale.
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