Polymer and Composite Materials
Impact testing of PVC-pipe at -10°C |
Our R&D projects cover many aspects of polymer science and technology — from the polymer raw material to the properties of the final product, via polymer processing and process-induced effects. “Our” materials are thermoplastic polymers, thermosets, composites, elastomers and gels. Some key areas are:
- Product development
- Materials selection and testing
- Modelling and simulation of polymer processing
- Product optimisation including testing and structural analysis (FEA)
- Special applications
- Composites off-shore
- Foams
- High-precision injection-moulded components
- Advanced characterisation of materials and products
We collaborate with other SINTEF teams, in particular Organic and Polymer Chemistry. Together we work for many different clients:
- Raw material producers
- Converters of plastics, such as injection moulding companies
- End users of plastics, rubbers and composites
- Industry developing products in which polymer or composite components play a central part (electronics industry, pharmaceutical industry etc).
The time span of our projects varies from a few hours, for a rapid test or consultation, to long-term industrial projects lasting several years.
Projects are treated confidentially. Results and equipment developed in a project are the properties of our customers. However, we are also involved in pre-competitive projects, from which we can share the results. Dissemination of know-how and new results is an important part of our work. As a part of this role we organize an Injection Moulding Forum and a Forum for Plastic Composites.
Research Manager: Einar Hinrichsen, phone: +47 98 28 39 32