Chair of Polymer Materials

Polymers: Materials, Processing and Properties

Polymer Engineering at the Chair of Polymer Materials stands for both scientific and application oriented research in the field of polymer materials, with a focus on materials, processing, and design. Central to our work is the systematic analysis and utilization of the relationships between materials, processing, and properties. This enables a strategic approach to the development of innovative products based on advanced polymer materials.

Processing of thermoplastic polymers

In the field of thermoplastic processing, the chair operates modern compounding equipment for the targeted modification of polymers. By selecting suitable additives, the mechanical and functional properties of plastics, such as flame retardancy, barrier performance, and transparency, can be specifically optimized.

Using the available injection molding and extrusion facilities, it is possible to optimize the entire thermoplastic processing chain step by step, from laboratory scale to industrial production. Combined with comprehensive analytical capabilities in thermal analysis and rheology, relationships between materials and processes can be identified and optimization strategies can be developed.

Polymer foams

Foams play a key role in lightweight construction, innovative packaging solutions, and modern thermal insulation systems. Current research at the chair focuses on the incorporation of graphene into polymer foams to improve their insulation properties. Particular attention is given to the influence of graphene on foamability, foam morphology, and thermal conductivity.

Another innovative application of foams is their use as substrate materials for thermoplastic printed circuit boards. A thermoplastic circuit board consisting of a foamed core and compact outer layers represents a novel and revolutionary concept with numerous advantages. The sandwich structure provides outstanding mechanical and dielectric properties while the porous core reduces both material consumption and weight. At the same time, high frequency performance is significantly improved. Current research focuses on optimizing the processing of this innovative material.

Fiber reinforced polymer composites

In the area of fiber reinforced composites, the chair is actively engaged in the development of new tailor made thermoset matrix systems. Important aspects include toughening strategies, flame retardancy, rheological behavior, and curing kinetics. Using the chair's injection facility, continuous fiber reinforced laminates with thermoset matrices can be produced by resin transfer molding. For the characterization of mechanical properties, the Testing Center provides nearly all standard methods for quasistatic and dynamic composite testing.

In addition to the scientific and technical facilities located on the campus of the University of Bayreuth, the chair has access to further laboratories and equipment through its cooperation partner Neue Materialien Bayreuth GmbH. The Polymer Engineering division of TuTech Innovation GmbH in Hamburg serves as an important link to industrial partners in northern Germany.

Contact

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Holger Ruckdäschel
Phone: 09 21 - 55 -7471
Fax: 09 21 - 55 -7473
Mail: ruckdaeschel@uni-bayreuth.de
www.polymer-engineering.de