The conference on sustainability and innovation in polymers connects academia with companies

Adair Garcia 

The event, held on September 28th at the Móstoles Campus of Rey Juan Carlos University, brought together experts in polymer and composite materials science and engineering to discuss the key aspects of the future of the composite materials industry, along with researchers and user companies committed to the transition towards a model of circular economy.

In a context of technological evolution, coupled with a growing demand for sustainable solutions, the event sought to delve deeper into the advances in the synthesis and application of these materials. To this end, participants explored two lines of research: materials already manufactured and installed and their potential recycling and reuse strategies, and future materials and their manufacturing methods.

The role of the circular economy applied to polymers and composite materials was also discussed. Strategies for closing the life cycle of materials were analyzed, given their use in multiple sectors and the cascading impact of improved recycling and energy recovery.

One of the reasons for the congress's interest, according to Alberto Jiménez Suárez, professor in the area of ​​Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering at URJC, and director of the group Smart and Sustainable Polymers and Composites along with Silvia González Prolongo, It "provides a simple meeting point to connect companies with national research. The emergence of calls for proposals that encourage meetings between companies and public research centers leads to collaborations that would not otherwise be possible."

This meeting has provided an opportunity to learn about and advance in building a more sustainable future together with experts and professionals in the field of polymers and materials.