Innovation support for a sustainable plastics value chain

Smart product design is the foundation of circular solutions. RISE supports companies to:

• Choose plastics that are easy to recycle
• Avoid material combinations that hinder recycling
• Optimise product geometry for easy disassembly
• Integrate sustainability from the prototype and product development stage

Every design decision affects resource use, recyclability and climate impact.

Early decisions on polymers, additives and material quantities have a major impact on climate footprint, recyclability and the long-term value of a product. Smart material choices can:

• Reduce climate impact
• Facilitate recycling
• Ensure functionality and performance

We help companies select plastics based on bio-based and recycled raw materials, such as reclaimed fishing nets, biopolymers or other circular streams. Common questions we support include: How can the product’s properties be improved? Can the material be reinforced with fibres or fillers?

Our support covers advice on material selection, additive strategies and practical testing at lab and pilot scale. Through analysis and verification according to standards, ideas are transformed into sustainable material solutions ready for production.

RISE offers compounding, injection moulding, extrusion and additive manufacturing at lab and pilot scale. Our services enable you to:

• Test new material blends
• Optimise process parameters
• Develop prototypes without disrupting full-scale production

The benefits include shorter development times, reduced material consumption and assured quality before scaling up.
We work with all types of plastics – including bio-based and recycled materials – and combine process expertise with sustainability for efficient, resource-smart production.

For plastics to live through multiple product cycles, smart recycling and circular solutions are essential. RISE helps companies to:

• Increase the use of recycled plastics
• Reduce climate impact
• Create long-term value

We provide practical support through our unique infrastructure and expertise to develop, test, validate, and verify recycled materials and products.

Mechanical, chemical, and thermal recycling methods are used to identify the best approach for each material and end product. Design and material choices are adapted for maximum recyclability and circular flows. Our experience in compounding, injection moulding, and plastic processing enables us to scale small trials up to industrial production, while connecting companies to research projects and networks.

To ensure performance, functionality and durability in plastic products, we offer comprehensive testing and verification. We support companies across the entire value chain – from raw material to finished product – with mechanical, chemical, thermal and biological testing. Our expertise and advanced equipment enable testing according to established standards, accredited testing (ISO 17025/17020), as well as customised methods when needed. These services support development, quality assurance and certification, providing confidence for market introduction and verification of circular and sustainable plastic solutions.