Chemical Safety in Plastics: PFAS & Beyond 2026 Registration

Sven De Vis
Milliken Europe

Abstract

Laser marking is increasingly being adopted by OEMs as a durable alternative to inks and labels for the identification, traceability, and branding of plastic components.

However, conventional laser marking additives often create a trade-off between marking contrast and visual appearance, resulting in gray shift, reduced whiteness, or loss of color fidelity, particularly in white and brightly colored formulations.

This paper presents EXPLAZ™ from Milliken & Company, a laser marking additive designed to overcome these limitations in thermoplastics, with a focus on polyamide and polypropylene systems.

The additive enhances laser-polymer interaction under standard infrared fiber laser conditions at 1064 nm while preserving a naturally white appearance in the unmarked material. As a result, high-contrast dark markings can be achieved without compromising background color, enabling improved color matching and greater design freedom.

Experimental results demonstrate that effective marking performance can be achieved at low additive loadings, down to approximately 0.2 wt%, depending on polymer type and processing conditions. This supports OEM requirements for robust processing, minimal impact on mechanical and optical properties, and simplified formulations across part families.

By combining reliable laser markability with low visual impact, EXPLAZ™ enables durable, ink-free identification solutions aligned with current expectations for functional aesthetics, process efficiency, and sustainability.

Biography

Sven De Vis is based at the Milliken Chemical European Technical Service headquarters in Ghent, Belgium.

Sven joined Milliken in 2012 as Technical Service & Development Engineer for the Polymeric Colorants and Ingredient Division. In 2019, Sven moved to Plastic Additives Division.

He has over 27 years of experience in research & development and technical roles within the polymer industry. Sven has worked in the automotive interiors, textile coatings, building and construction industries, before joining Milliken's Chemical division. Sven has a master in Bio-Chemical Engineering from the University of Ghent.

Ann Delmotte
IBE-BVI

Abstract

The PPWR will need to be implemented in Aug. 2026 and is a both an opportunity and a threat for packaging. In plastic packaging and the recycling of it, effects of additives on compliancy will need to be demonstrated. This paper will summarize latest (packaging) regulations and demonstrate how some additives will have to be tested and meet compliancy through some analysis techniques.

Biography

PhD in Polymer Chemistry, VUB, Belgium, 1993.

Several technical and managerial roles in multinationals like DuPont de Nemours, Schulman Plastics and LyondellBasell.

At DuPont de Nemours: R&D in automotive coatings and technical support for TiO2 in coatings and plastics.

At Schulman Plastics: R&D management for colour and additive concentrates for plastic applications.

At LyondellBasell: similar function after acquisition of Schulman Plastics.

Currently: general manager at Belgisch verpakkingsinstituut (Belgian Packaging Institute) since April 2020.

Tom Mestdag
The Shepherd Color Co.

Abstract

Black plastics optimized for improved IR sorting and recycling are a key way to improve the sustainability of plastics. Carbon black is an excellent black pigment, but defeats the IR scanners in recycling facilities. CI Pigment Brown 29 pigments are IR compliant, and non-magnetic. Making them as jet as possible involves using complementary pigments to improve color with out losing IR and FDA properties.

Biography

Tom Mestdag holds a Master’s Degree of Chemical Engineer and started his career in 1990 at Campine NV, Beerse (Belgium) as a Regional Sales Manager for Antimony Trioxide and Fire Retardant Masterbatches in Europe & Asia.

In 1997, he became Business Unit Manager for the Masterbatch division.

In January 2000, Tom joined The Shepherd Color Company as Regional Sales Manager. 2 years later, he became the European Sales Manager, with responsibility over the EMEA region.

In June 2020, he moved to Cathay Industries, globally the second largest producer of iron oxide pigments, where he held the position of Managing Director of their European branch.

In September 2023, Tom went back to The Shepherd Color Company as Sales & Business Development Manager for the EMEA region.

Ashok Adur
Everest International Consulting

Abstract

Masterbatch Concentrates are pre-dispersed polymer materials that contain high concentrations of additives, modifiers and/or pigments and can be used both for thermoplastics and for thermosets, whether the additives or pigments are in liquid, powder, or other forms. They are used to improve the properties of the base polymer, of the compound and of the final part produced from the compound. The use of masterbatch concentrates can also improve the consistency of the final product and reduce waste. They also reduce the cost of compounding as well as improve productivity and reduce waste. Some compound formulations are difficult to produce and formulators tend to give up. However, the devil is in the details.

This presentation will cover choice of equipment briefly and more importantly, what is involved in designing their masterbatch concentrate formulations depending upon the choice of the carrier resin and the key ingredient and covers other additives that might be needed to be added for various downstream processing and specific end use applications, especially in multi-component alloys and composites. It will also cover tricks to improve dispersion especially if the end use is a different resin than the carrier resin of the masterbatch concentrate and improvement of chemical compatibility is necessary. In some cases, modification or pre-treatment of the critical ingredient may be needed. Several different real-world examples for a variety of market segments will be also presented to optimize masterbatch concentrates as well as handling compound formulations which are difficult, without endorsing any specific supplier or trade name.

Biography

Ashok M. Adur has a Ph.D. in Polymer Science & Engineering and >40 years in product development, business development, marketing & general management. He has >90 papers in professional journals and at conferences. His 77 patents resulted in > $2.5 billion/year. Dr. Adur is a Fellow of the SPE and consults at Everest International Consulting in his expertise in plastics, polymers, elastomers, compounding, composites, biopolymers, microencapsulation & specialty products for multiple end markets. His 3 chapters in a 2023 book on “Bio-Materials” covers biopolymers, biofibers & bio-based alloys and composites. He is currently authoring a chapter on “Other Additives” for SPE-sponsored CRC Handbook of Plastics in Building and Construction to be published later this year.

Hany Anwar
NORNER

Abstract

Arvin substances are reaction and degradation products associated with antioxidants (AOs) used in polyolefin formulations. Their formation depends on AO purity, processing conditions, and storage history. Several Arvin compounds are classified as non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) under the EU Drinking Water Directive (EU 2020/2184) and are listed in the European Positive List (EU 2024/367), requiring highly reliable analytical methods to ensure regulatory compliance.

In an industrial case study involving a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe grade, Arvin-5 was detected at 2.7 ppb, far exceeding the regulatory limit of 0.1 ppb. Because the formulation contained only common stabilizers, including AO-1010, phosphite 168, calcium stearate, and carbon black, this unexpected result raised concerns regarding potential analytical artifacts. This study investigates whether Arvin-5 is a genuine impurity or is formed during GC/MS analysis from other Arvin species, particularly Arvin-8.

Stability studies of synthesized Arvin-5, commercial Arvin-8, and their mixtures were performed in methanol and water over 28 days using GC/MS, LC/DAD, and LC/QTOF. Arvin-5 was stable in methanol but rapidly degraded in water. Arvin-8 showed progressive transformation in both solvents, generating an isomer detected by LC/QTOF. GC/MS consistently produced Arvin-5 from Arvin-8, with formation strongly enhanced at elevated inlet temperatures of 250 °C. In contrast, LC-based methods did not detect Arvin-5 in Arvin-8 samples.

These findings demonstrate that Arvin-5 can be formed as a temperature-induced analytical artifact during GC/MS analysis. The results highlight the need for orthogonal analytical strategies and rigorous method validation when assessing NIAS in polymer materials intended for drinking water contact to avoid false-positive regulatory non-compliance.

Biography

Dr. Hany Anwar is a Senior Researcher and Project Manager at Norner AS, focusing on additives, mechanical recycling, and polymer upgrading. Since June 2020, he has led sustainability projects for B2B clients, the Norwegian Research Council, and EU sectors including automotive, healthcare, and food packaging.

Previously, Dr. Anwar spent 11 years as a Research Scientist in oil service and pharmaceutical companies, developing polymers and organic compounds, managing projects, and ensuring quality.

He earned a PhD in Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry from Oslo University and a Master’s in Organic Chemistry from Cairo University.

Luis Roca-Blay
AIMPLAS

Abstract

The transition toward post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials is driving the use of increasingly diverse and non-traditional recycled polymers as carrier resins for color masterbatch production. While these materials offer clear sustainability benefits, their suitability for color applications is often uncertain due to variability in degradation level, composition, and intrinsic color. This work focuses on identifying new PCR feedstocks that can be realistically used as carriers in color masterbatches and on defining technical criteria to assess their coloring potential.

The presentation addresses two complementary approaches. The first examines PCR materials with different degrees of degradation, highlighting how changes in initial color and rheological behavior influence pigment wetting, dispersion efficiency, and effective color strength after let-down. Rather than treating degradation as a binary accept/reject condition, the work discusses how degradation level defines practical limits for color performance and reproducibility.

The second approach explores the use of color-sorted PCR streams as functional carrier resins, where the inherent color of the recycled material contributes to the final shade. This strategy opens access to new PCR sources that would otherwise be unsuitable for conventional neutral carriers, but it also requires a different mindset for color control and specification.

Biography

Degree in Chemistry from the University of Valencia in 1997

Working at AIMPLAS (the plastic technology center in Valencia / Spain) since 2000, first in injection molding and extrusion and a few years later starting the compounding department for he was head from 2009 to 2019.

From 2019 to 2021, he led the mechanical recycling group and is currently the Compounding technology Leader. His main role at AIMPLAS has been to develop R&D&I projects and technical consulting with companies at national and international level on topics such as: Polymer stabilization, Nanomaterials, flame retardancy, bioplastics, PVC formulation, electrical/thermal conductivity equipment start-up, purchasing and selection advice, etc … as well as training related to compound manufacturing, formulation, recycling, additivation, etc.

AIMPLAS Technical Staff
AIMPLAS

AIMPLAS, the Plastics Technology Centre, is a leading research and innovation organization dedicated to supporting companies across the plastics value chain. With extensive expertise in materials, processing, testing, sustainability, and circular economy solutions, AIMPLAS works with industry partners to improve product performance, meet regulatory and certification requirements, and develop more sustainable plastic materials and applications. Through its advanced laboratories, technical services, training, and R&D capabilities, AIMPLAS helps organizations turn innovation into practical solutions for the future of plastics.

Roberto Chinchilla
Budenheim

Abstract

Advances in sustainable, halogen-free flame-retardant technologies and innovative endothermic foaming agents developed at Budenheim are driving new possibilities for safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible material solutions.

The European regulatory landscape for flame retardants is undergoing significant transformation, driven by increasing scrutiny of substance hazards and the transition toward safer, circular material solutions. In particular, the identification of melamine as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under REACH has placed renewed focus on eliminating CMR-relevant chemistries and SVHC-related risks in flame-retardant formulations for polyolefins.

To address these regulatory and sustainability challenges, this presentation introduces a new generation of halogen-free flame retardants designed for polyolefins. By developing a solution without melamine derivatives acting as blowing agents, the new product avoids CMR classification and complies with current REACH SVHC requirements.

The presented technology is tailored for polypropylene and polyethylene systems, including applications with post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. It demonstrates high flame-retardant performance while maintaining mechanical integrity, processability, and color stability across multiple recycling loops. This contribution highlights how next-generation halogen-free flame retardants can support the transition toward safer and more circular polyolefin systems by combining high fire performance with forward-looking regulatory compliance.

Lightweight design and material efficiency have become key enablers for decarbonization across industries such as e-mobility, electrical and electronics, and infrastructure. Polymer foaming technologies and density-reduction strategies are increasingly applied to polyolefins to lower material consumption, improve energy efficiency, and reduce overall carbon footprint. Additionally, advanced endothermic foaming solutions have been developed by Budenheim for engineering plastics, enabling controlled density reduction while maintaining material performance and contributing to improved sustainability profiles across a wide range of applications.

Biography

PhD in Polymer Chemistry by the University of Durham in collaboration with the British multinational Synthomer Ltd.

Since 2023 working in the Innovation & Application Development department in Budenheim. Together with his team, he is in charge of the development of new additives for polymers such as, flame retardants, laser marking additives or CTI improvers.

Previously, he acquired experience, mainly in R&D and project management, in diverse fields like elastomers, stabilizers or friction materials for railways.

Roberto Todesco
Semki Chemicals SRL

Abstract

Today's situation of war in Iran and its consequences on the availability of raw materials, increasing prices of intermediates, you are using today to stabilize your polymer.

In this presentation possible solutions are proposed in case you face a shortage of certain types of additives.

Furthermore, the consequences of REACH on the more stringent EHS rules result in having certain stabilizers in the list of SVHC substances, which may lead to restrictions in the use of these additives. Also in this case solutions are proposed in order to not have substitutions ready.

Biography

Roberto V. Todesco obtained his Master Degree at the University of Ghent (Belgium) in 1975, followed in 1981 by a PhD at the Catholic University of Leuven (Belgium) with a doctoral thesis on “ The Photo Behaviour of bi-chromophores” and finalized his research work with a postdoc on “The Photo Behaviour of Polymers” at the Radiation Laboratory (University of Notre Dame/South Bend in Indiana (USA).

Subsequently, Roberto worked for 2 years at DSM (the Netherlands) in the “Additives for Polymer Group”, dealing with the stabilization of polymers (PO and Engineering Plastics) and joined Ciba Specialty Chemicals (Basel/Switzerland) in 1988, taking care of the stabilization (process, thermal and light stability) of polymers as resp. technical service engineer, head of analytics and finally as WW head of the application laboratories.

In 2004 , Roberto joined Sabo International (Basel/Switzerland) as Technical Director, being responsible for all technical aspects of stabilizers and surfactants (antistats, antifogs and dispersing agents) produced at Sabo SPA (Levate/Italy).

Since 2016, Roberto started his own consulting company RVT Consulting (Allschwil/Switzerland) in the field of additives for polymers

Muhammad Aslam
Momentive Performance Materials

Abstract

In the session, I will highlight:

• Challenges in replacing PFAS materials and identifying optimal alternatives
• Momentive´s new development in the area of PFAS alternative polymer processing aid
• Comparative analysis and composition examples to address regulatory challenges

Biography

Muhammad Aslam has been working as a Lead Application Development Engineer at Momentive Performance Materials in Germany since November 2017. In his current role in Technical Marketing and Application Development, he supports the Polymer Additives business across Europe, with a particular focus on plastics and composite additives based on silicone, silane, and siloxane technologies. Additionally, Muhammad leads long-term application development projects for global accounts across Europe.

Before joining Momentive, Muhammad worked at SABIC Innovative Plastics in Europe as a Processing Specialist in the Netherlands from 2012 to 2014. In January 2015, he transitioned to the Technical Marketing team in Germany as a Technical Service Engineer and later became the Senior Engineer for Technical Development in Europe for the Electrical & Electronics Industry.

Muhammad holds an M.Sc. in Polymer Technology from the University of Aalen, Germany, and has been working in the polymer industry in Europe since 2005. His key areas of expertise include engineering thermoplastics, specialty additives, and recycling and sustainability.

Niall Marshall
SpiralVector Consulting

Abstract

The development of additive formulations for polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) is traditionally constrained by long experimental cycles, high material consumption, and limited ability to explore multi-component interactions. This work presents a rapid, data-efficient screening approach that combines design of experiments (DoE) with microcompounding and benchtop polymer processing to evaluate additive performance under realistic melt-processing conditions.

The methodology is demonstrated across multiple additive classes relevant to polyolefins, including phenolic and phosphite antioxidant systems, as well as nucleating agents in polypropylene. Gram-scale compounding and subsequent benchtop processing enable rapid preparation of statistically designed formulation sets while capturing key processing effects such as shear, residence time, thermal history, and additive dispersion. DoE is used to quantify both main effects and interaction effects between additives, allowing efficient identification of performance trends and trade-offs relevant to processing and end-use properties. The approach enables rapid elimination of underperforming formulations and focuses subsequent scale-up efforts on statistically justified candidates, significantly reducing development time and material usage compared to conventional pilot-scale trials.

The results demonstrate that microcompounding, when combined with appropriate experimental design, provides a practical and transferable framework for early-stage screening of polyolefin additive systems. This workflow offers a robust decision-making tool for accelerating additive development while maintaining industrial relevance.

Biography

Dr. Niall Marshall has spent more than thirty years making, modifying and processing plastics. He started his professional life working in the Research and Development Group of Sasol Polymers. From R&D he moved to Product Development and Process Optimization where he was responsible for the post- reactor modification of polyolefins. He then joined Sasol Wax as the Product and Market Development Manager for the Plastics Industry for Europe, Asia and North America. This included the development and marketing of FT waxes used as non- polar processing aids in polyolefins and engineering polymers as well as extending the range of products for the PVC.

From making and processing polymers he moved to Bahrain to improve and stabilize plastics, accepting a position with Ciba (later BASF) as Regional Technical and New Business Development Manager for the Plastics Industry in the Middle East and Africa.

In 2010, he was one of the founding partners of Everspring Middle East. As the Technical Director he was responsible for the technical approval and support of antioxidants and light stabilizers in the region as well as providing application support globally to polymer producers, converters and technology licensors.

In 2020, he was appointed Managing Director of Everspring Middle East, a position he held until 2025.

Since 2026, he has been with SpiralVector Consulting, an independent technical consultancy that applies systems thinking, scientific knowledge and strategic insight to the polymers, plastic converting and related industries. Niall has BSc(Hons) and MSc degrees in Chemistry from the University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa) and a DPhil from the University of Sussex (United Kingdom) where he studied the “Physical and Morphological Aspects of Polymer Stability”. He has presented technical papers at conferences in USA, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Czech Republic, UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia and South Africa and has authored and co-authored a number of scientific papers related to additive behaviour, polymer processing and the effect of morphology on polymer properties

Felix Schmollgruber
X-Rite

Abstract

Achieving consistent color and appearance in plastics is a persistent challenge, complicated by material variability, process complexity, and the accelerating pace of innovation. Manufacturers face mounting pressure to approve new raw materials, launch products faster, and transfer formulations across global production sites, all while meeting sustainability and regulatory demands.

This presentation outlines a comprehensive approach to color management in plastics manufacturing, highlighting the importance of integrated digital workflows and advanced measurement technologies. Color consistency is a critical quality attribute in plastics production, directly affecting brand integrity, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction.

Key pain points include slow new product development cycles, lengthy raw material approval processes, and difficulties maintaining color standards across multiple production sites. Traditional color control methods, which often rely on manual processes, subjective evaluation, and fragmented data, can result in delays, increased costs, and inconsistent outcomes.

The plastics sector is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by:

• Sustainability initiatives: Increased use of recycled and bio-sourced materials introduces batch-to-batch variability, making robust color control essential for maintaining quality and reducing waste.
• Digitalization: Centralized color libraries, CxF, AxF, digital twins, and inline measurement systems enable real-time monitoring, closed-loop process control, and seamless data exchange between departments and sites.
• Regulatory pressures: Enhanced traceability and documentation are required to meet global standards, adding complexity to raw material approvals and product transfers.
• Globalization of production: Transferring color formulations and standards across geographically dispersed sites is challenging without a connected workflow, often resulting in rework, delays, and inconsistent product appearance.

The proposed workflow integrates the following components to address these pain points and accelerate innovation:

• Spectrophotometric measurement: The use of 0/45°, d/8°, and multi-angle instruments enables precise capture of color and appearance attributes across diverse plastic substrates, supporting objective evaluation and reproducibility.
• Digital formulation and quality control: Computer-aided formulation software, such as Color iMatch, helps optimize pigment selection, support batch recycling, and minimize waste. Centralized digital libraries enable rapid sharing and approval of new formulations and raw materials.
• Inline color control: Real-time measurement and feedback loops reduce off-spec production, enable rapid process correction, and support continuous quality improvement, which is critical for scaling production and transferring products globally.
• Appearance simulation: Digital twins and visualization platforms, such as Pantora, support virtual prototyping, cross-functional collaboration, and faster stakeholder approvals, helping reduce time-to-market for new products.

Implementation of a connected digital workflow can yield measurable improvements, including:

• Accelerated new product development: Automated data exchange and standardized evaluation criteria shorten approval cycles and enable faster launches.
• Streamlined raw material approvals: Centralized color standards and digital traceability simplify the qualification of new materials, including those with variable properties.
• Efficient global product transfers: Connected workflows help ensure color consistency and compliance across multiple sites, reducing rework and delays.
• Enhanced quality and compliance: Alignment of physical and digital standards supports reproducibility, transparency, and regulatory adherence.
• Operational efficiency and sustainability: Lower material waste, reduced energy consumption, and optimized resource utilization contribute to sustainability goals.
• Return on investment: Quantifiable benefits include cost savings, improved customer satisfaction, and competitive differentiation.

Digital transformation of color management in plastics manufacturing is essential for overcoming traditional pain points and enabling consistent quality at scale. A connected color workflow that integrates advanced measurement technologies, centralized data platforms, and digital collaboration can accelerate innovation, support sustainability objectives, and provide a robust foundation for future growth in a globalized production environment.

Biography

Felix Schmollgruber studied printing and media technology at the University of Applied Sciences in Munich Germany and started his professional career in June 2001 at GretagMacbeth, Germany accepting the challenge to explore industrial color management in a variety of industries. After six successful years as field sales manager at both GretagMacbeth and X-Rite he moved into the European headquarters of the freshly merged company in Switzerland to serve as technical support engineer and trainer in order to help customers implementing and troubleshooting X-Rite solutions. He then led the group of application- and technical support specialists for X-Rite’s EMEA territory to then get back to sales as sales director CP&M in 2022 and most recently as sales director services in 2024.

Elke Metzsch-Zilligen
Fraunhofer LBF

Abstract

The stabilization of recyclates is a key approach to improving the quality and performance of recycled materials, making them suitable for demanding applications. Recyclates often exhibit weaknesses caused by the recycling process, such as reduced mechanical strength, lower thermal stability, or increased sensitivity to environmental influences.

To address these deficiencies, Fraunhofer LBF employs various stabilization strategies. One essential approach is the use of additives, where stabilizers, fillers, or reinforcing agents are specifically introduced into the recyclate. These additives can enhance UV resistance, slow thermal aging, or improve mechanical properties such as tensile strength and impact toughness.

For the stabilization of recyclates, various additives are available that can be specifically tailored to the material’s weaknesses and requirements. The selection of additives depends on the type of recyclate, such as polyolefins, PET, or polyamides, as well as the desired properties.

Antioxidants play a central role in preventing thermal and oxidative degradation, which can occur during the recycling process or later use. Primary antioxidants, such as phenols, are used to scavenge free radicals, while secondary antioxidants, such as phosphites or thioesters, decompose peroxides. These additives are particularly important for polyolefins such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP).

UV stabilizers are crucial, especially for outdoor applications. They protect the material from UV radiation, which can cause embrittlement, discoloration, and degradation. UV absorbers, such as benzotriazoles or benzophenones, absorb UV radiation, while HALS, or hindered amine light stabilizers, neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure.

Chain extenders are particularly suitable for repairing degraded polymer material. These additives extend or crosslink polymer chains and are often used for polyesters such as PET or polyamides (PA) to improve viscosity and mechanical properties.

Fillers and reinforcing agents play an important role in enhancing mechanical properties such as stiffness, strength, and impact resistance. Mineral fillers, such as talc or calcium carbonate, as well as glass fibers or carbon fibers, are used particularly for engineering plastics such as PA or PP.

Lubricants and processing aids, such as waxes, silicones, or fatty acid derivatives, reduce friction during processing and improve the material’s flowability, facilitating the processing of recyclates in injection molding or extrusion processes.

Impact modifiers, such as elastomers or copolymers, including ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM), increase toughness and reduce brittleness. This is particularly beneficial for brittle recyclates such as PS or PP.

Degassing agents and odor absorbers, such as activated carbon-based additives or chemical absorbers, reduce unwanted odors and volatile components that arise during the recycling process. These additives are especially relevant for recyclates from post-consumer waste.

Dyes and pigments, including organic and inorganic pigments, can mask discoloration and improve the optical quality of the recyclate. This is particularly important for applications where aesthetics play a role.

Compatibilizers, such as block copolymers or reactive polymers, improve compatibility between different polymer types in mixed recyclates. They are particularly important for blends such as PE/PP or PET/PA. The selection and dosage of additives must be carefully tailored to the specific recyclate and intended application to achieve optimal results.

Chemical modification also plays a significant role. In this process, the polymer chains in the recyclates are deliberately altered to repair breakages or optimize the molecular structure. This can be achieved through reactions during processing or by using reactive additives.

Another focus is testing and improving long-term stability. Fraunhofer LBF develops methods to simulate the aging processes of recyclates under real-world conditions and derive suitable stabilization measures. Interactions between additives and the recycled material are also studied to ensure optimal performance.

Biography

Division Director Materials | Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF

Ms. Metzsch-Zilligen studied chemistry at the University of Cologne and earned her doctorate in physical chemistry in 2006. After working for several years in the food industry, she joined the German Plastics Institute (DKI) in 2011, which has been integrated into Fraunhofer LBF since 2012. There, she headed the “Additivation and Durability” department until April 1, 2024, and subsequently assumed leadership of the Plastics division at Fraunhofer LBF. As part of a restructuring, the division has belonged to the Research and Development “Materials” division since January 1, 2026.

Her research focuses on the synthesis of new additives and the selection and evaluation of optimized additives/additive systems for thermoplastics depending on the specific application. In addition, she has been working for many years on the sustainability of plastics. This primarily includes improving the quality of recyclates through tailored post-stabilization to enhance mechanical, sensory, and optical properties, thereby increasing the amount of recyclates used or making it possible to replace virgin material with recyclates in the first place.

Daniel Lladó
Vibrantz Technologies

Abstract

With current regulations and sustainability trends, the need for available recycled plastic is now a challenge for meeting sustainability objectives. It is well known that black plastic packaging is not sortable and therefore not recyclable, but the same problem also occurs with dark packaging.

Blues, greens, browns, and many other common packaging colors are often not recycled due to the use of carbon black in color formulations. Even at very low dosages, carbon black can interfere with the polymer signals at the near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths used by optical sensors during the sorting process.

In this paper, Vibrantz, in collaboration with other partners across the value chain, explores current challenges and proposes different solutions based on inorganic NIR-reflecting pigments to increase the availability of recycled plastic and help meet today’s sustainability goals.

Biography

Daniel Lladó holds a degree in Chemistry from the University of Barcelona and a master's degree in Marketing from EADA Business School, both in Barcelona.

He began his professional career as a technician at an R&D&I center focused on plastics at UPC in Barcelona.

In 2004, he joined Nubiola, later Ferro and Vibrantz, and has worked in various technical and marketing roles related to plastics.

In 2022, he joined Vibrantz through the Ferro acquisition.

Today, he is the Global Product Manager for Plastics, as well as Product Manager for various pigments in Vibrantz's portfolio.

He is also a board member of the SPE Additives & Color Europe Division.

Mart Eleveld
Kisuma Chemicals

Abstract

Kisuma has recently developed state-of-the-art nucleator and acid scavenger technology for polyolefins. Setogem™ RD offers balanced nucleation properties in HPP and PP ICP grades, leading to outstanding stiffness/impact balance, controlled shrinkage, isotropic behavior, and improved part quality. It also reduces processing cycle times and protects against acidic catalytic residues. The presentation will summarize evaluations of Setogem™ RD across various HPP and PP ICP grades with different MFR ranges and resin designs. In all evaluations, Setogem™ RD allowed formulators to optimize PP recipes, resulting in highly performing products at reduced migration while ensuring optimal equipment and resin protection against acid attacks.

Biography

Mart Eleveld holds degrees in Chemistry and Marketing Management. He began his career in Research & Development at Kisuma Chemicals B.V., where he spent four years developing innovative magnesium-based solutions. Mart now works as a Technical Services and Development Engineer at Kisuma, bridging technical expertise with market needs to support customers across various industries.

Ben Biber, Ph.D.
Resin Solutions

Abstract

Dymalink 9200 is a multifunctional zinc salt designed as an additive to improve mechanical properties, processing behavior, and recyclability of thermoplastics. Traditionally utilized in the rubber industry to modify cross-linking, Dymalink creates a more dynamic network with improved mechanical and adhesive properties. Dymalink has more recently shown improved mechanical and processing properties in thermoplastics through the formation of these same unique ionomeric networks. The addition of Dymalink (<2 wt% loading) increases the melt strength, improves tensile properties, and leads to better filler dispersion in thermoplastics, mainly studied in polypropylene. Dymalink adds exceptional value where melt stretching or drawing are critical such as extruded foam, blow molding, thermoforming, extrusion coating, and profile extrusion.

In addition to improving virgin thermoplastic properties, Dymalink improves recyclability and scrap reduction by its ability to enhance olefin properties. Dymalink helps overcome the compositional inconsistencies and deleterious effects from thermal and oxidative degradation of polyolefins during recycling. The ability of Dymalink to boost thermoplastic properties, mainly melt and tensile strength, of recycled and regrind materials enables the use of more recycled and regrind material to be used in compounds, especially those used in more demanding applications.

The dynamic nature of the crosslinks formed via Dymalink facilitates repeated melt processing while maintaining adequate performance properties thereby extending material lifecycle and improving sustainability. Overall, Dymalink 9200 can be used to improve both material performance and circularity of thermoplastics.

Biography

Dr. Ben Biber earned his B.A. in Chemistry from St. Mary’s College of Maryland and went on to complete his Ph.D. in Chemistry at The Pennsylvania State University, where his research focused on organic and inorganic synthesis.

He began his professional career as a formulation chemist specializing in polyurethane adhesive development for the construction industry, contributing to the successful commercialization of several products.

Dr. Biber later transitioned into specialty chemicals, where he now leads business and application development initiatives focused on identifying and advancing new opportunities within the thermoplastics and CASE markets, which include coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers.

An accomplished innovator, Dr. Biber is the author of several patents, ranging from the use of novel feed streams for chemical development to new adhesive technologies.

Thomas Schmutz
Songwon Management

Abstract

Stabilization of polypropylene/thermoplastic olefins (PP/TPO) for automotive applications is essential to achieve the technical performance required of properties such as long-term heat and light stability. The variety of stabilizer products is commercially available, but also official regulations and the incentive for improved sustainability can make the selection of appropriate products a challenge for some users.

In this paper, light stabilization of PP/TPO is presented in relation to market needs, including those driven by the demand for a sustainable future.

Biography

Thomas started his career at Dow Europe in TS&D for polyolefins.

He later spent 15 years at Ciba Switzerland in the field of additives for polymers, where he gained both technical and business expertise in optimizing, developing, producing, and selling additives.

During his three-and-a-half-year international assignment in Singapore, he worked directly with customers in some of the most competitive markets in the Asia-Pacific region.

His professional career was further enriched by experience in innovation for spandex and elastane fibers at INVISTA.

After that, he was responsible for business and technology development for additives at Chemtura.

In 2013, he joined SONGWON, where he now serves as Leader, Global Technology, Regulatory Affairs & Sustainability.