The SKZ Plastics Center performs non-destructive testing of plastics and plastic components
Whether it’s defects, layer thicknesses, moisture content, curing, foam structures, or internal component characteristics: The Non-Destructive Testing Research Group at the SKZ Plastics Center develops and evaluates measurement methods for the non-destructive testing of plastics.
How can plastics and plastic components be reliably tested without damaging them? How can quality characteristics be identified early on, processes stabilized, and scrap reduced? The Non-Destructive Testing Research Group at the SKZ Plastics Center in Würzburg addresses these questions. As a research institute of the ZUSE Association, the SKZ works closely with companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The goal is to further develop innovative measurement and testing technology for the plastics industry and bring it into industrial use. The spectrum ranges from publicly funded research projects to collaborative initiatives and industrial contract research.
Broad Portfolio of Non-Destructive Testing Methods
To this end, the SKZ offers a broad portfolio of non-destructive testing methods. These include, among others, terahertz and radar technology, thermography, ultrasonics, shearography, computed tomography, and optical coherence tomography. Typical applications include the detection of defects, the determination of geometries and layer thicknesses, the characterization of foams, the monitoring of curing or melting processes, and the analysis of material properties. A particular focus is placed on application-oriented research. Together with industry partners, particularly SMEs, the SKZ investigates how testing methods can be automated, digitized, and integrated into existing production processes. Topics such as AI-supported evaluation, inline quality assurance, resource and cost efficiency, and sustainability play an important role in this context.
Free test measurements available at the SKZ
Companies can get involved in various ways: by submitting a specific testing task, a product or process idea, as a partner in a research project, or initially in an advisory and supportive capacity on project-related committees. Inquiries regarding issues where it is not yet clear which measurement method is suitable are also expressly welcome. Depending on the testing task, free test measurements can be conducted with a manageable amount of effort. In addition, the SKZ supports companies with an initial feasibility assessment, ranging from data analysis and system development to the potential integration of a measurement system into the industrial process. “Interested companies and research partners are invited to approach the SKZ with their own ideas, challenges, or research topics. Together, we can explore whether these could lead to an industrial project, a publicly funded research project, or a collaborative effort supporting an existing project,” said Marcel Mayer, Senior Scientist at the SKZ.
Contact details and information on the companies and institutions presented here can be found in our interactive surface technology industry directory.