October 2023 - February 2026
ReMould is an innovative industrial research study that enables specialized engineering of PVD coatings for manufacturing with recycled post-consumer plastics (PCP). Supported by Innovation Fund Denmark, this project is led by CemeCon Scandinavia A/S and draws on collaborative efforts between CemeCon Scandinavia A/S, Aarhus University, and Plast Center Danmark.
The challenge
Approximately 30 million tonnes of plastic waste is generated in the EU each year, with 60% never being recycled. This leads to a loss of valuable resources and has significant harmful consequences for our climate and environment. One of the most difficult fractions of plastics to recycle is PCP, due to its inhomogeneous nature and different properties. Plastic manufacturers experience increased adhesion of the plastics and accelerated wear and damage to their moulding tools, making remoulding infeasible. The result is a heavy reliance on virgin plastics, despite the costs for our environment and climate.
The solution
We aim to enable cost-effective manufacturing of high-quality products from challenging recycled plastics through the development of novel, highly durable PVD coatings, tailor-made for moulding with PCP.
In ReMould, we are conducting thorough scientific investigations of the interactions between PCP and tool surfaces through advanced laboratory testing and systematic plastic moulding tests. Based on the resulting knowledge and data, we will develop highly wear-resistant specialized coatings that are scientifically proven to improve moulding performance and tool service life.
High-quality scientific data through expert collaboration
Through collaboration with Aarhus University’s Surface Mechanics and Tribology (SMT) Group and their expertise in surface science and advanced material analyses, we ensure comprehensive scientific data. Plast Center Danmark supports the project with thorough chemical and physical analysis of PCPs, ensuring a deep understanding of the recycled materials.
Perspectives for a greener industry
The ReMould project addresses a crucial need for cost-effective solutions that lower the barriers for the industry for using PCP in plastic production. Thorugh our systematic and highly data-driven approach, the ReMould project gives us a solid understanding of PCP properties and their impact on tool surfaces, thereby helping us engineer the most optimal surfaces and support the industry towards a more sustainable future.
Become part of our network
We are actively seeking partnerships with plastic manufacturers who are interested in following our progress or testing our new solutions in their production processes. If you are looking to explore how integration of PVD coatings can help your efforts towards manufacturing in recycled materials, please reach out to learn more about potential collaboration opportunities.Contact us today to hear more about our innovative solutions and how they can benefit your operations.
Project collaborators
•Aarhus University
•Plast Center Danmark