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IKV in Aachen

Research for practical use
since 1950

Driving innovation, sharing expertise, building networks

We are your guide to the world of plastics technology. As a renowned research and training institute for plastics processing, we combine expertise, passion and a pioneering spirit to shape tomorrow’s plastics technology.

More about us

International Colloquium on Plastics Technology

Information, impulses and perspectives for plastics experts. Experience a unique platform to help shape the future of plastics technology.
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Center for Analysis and Testing of Plastics (KAP)

We have qualified employees and extensive, modern equipment for testing technical plastics issues
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Technology networks

IKV’s technology networks form a bridge between research and industry. The aim of these networks is to promote the transfer of knowledge, advance pioneering technologies and develop innovative solutions for the challenges facing the plastics industry.
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Events

At IKV, we host a wide range of events covering all aspects of plastics processing. From conferences and symposia to seminars and themed days, our formats vary between online and in-person to best suit the topic and audience.
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Aachen Polymer Optics Days

This international conference brings together experts from industry and research to discuss the latest developments across the entire process chain for optical plastic systems. The event focuses in particular on technical challenges relating to plastics in the manufacture of high-precision optical components.

Information & registration

APOD-2026© Fraunhofer IPT
Aachen Polymer Optics Days 2026

Current news

Loopcycling-1-Vorschau

LOOPCYCLING 2

IKV continues research into high-quality mechanical recycling of flexible plastic packaging Successful preliminary work on recycling household LDPE waste provides the foundation for the next project phase. IKV is inviting additional international technology partners to join the consortium for 2027–2028.
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KI4KI-3.Netzwerktreffen-5

Knowledge management as the foundation for successful AI applications

How can internal knowledge be processed in a way that makes it usable for artificial intelligence? The participants at the third network meeting of the KI4KI project, which took place on June 8, 2026, at the IKV in Aachen, addressed this issue.
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Handbuch-Kreislauffähige-Wertschöpfung-erschienen

New handbook on circular value creation published

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Tag-des-Maschinenbaus-2026

Mechanical Engineering Day 2026 at RWTH Aachen University

On Saturday, June 20, 2026, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at RWTH Aachen University opened its doors for this year’s Mechanical Engineering Day—and transformed the Melaten Campus into a vibrant hub where technology, curiosity, and enthusiasm came together.
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