Aachen Polymer Optics Days 2026: Plastics technology for the optics of tomorrow
On 10 and 11 June 2026, the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT, the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT and the Institute for Plastics Processing (IKV) in Industry and Trade at RWTH Aachen University invite you to the Aachen Polymer Optics Days in Aachen. This international conference brings together experts from industry and research to discuss the latest developments across the entire process chain of optical polymer systems.
© Fraunhofer IPT
Focus on precise plastics processing for optical applications
The event will focus in particular on issues relating to plastics technology in the manufacture of high-precision optical components. These include, among others:
- the material-specific design of optical plastics
- High-precision injection molding and replication processes
- Process control and tool technology for the highest surface quality
- Quality assurance and metrological evaluation of optical properties
The program clearly shows that the performance of modern optical systems is largely dependent on the mastery of plastics processing.
Key applications of plastic optics
The conference program is structured along key fields of application for plastic optics and highlights current developments in the automotive, XR (extended reality), consumer electronics, biotechnology and medical technology sectors.
The central role that plastics technology plays in the realization of modern optical systems becomes clear in all subject areas: from the precise design of suitable materials and the reliable replication of optical structures to economical series production.
The contributions show both industry-specific requirements and overarching challenges – for example with regard to surface quality, dimensional accuracy and process stability – and make it clear how closely material, mold and process control are interlinked in plastic optics.
IKV presents solutions along the entire process chain
As a partner institute of APOD 2026, IKV is contributing its extensive expertise in plastics processing to the conference. In particular, the focus is on the design and optimization of injection moulding processes for optical applications and the control of surface and component quality in terms of materials and processes.
As part of the accompanying institute tours, participants will gain exclusive insights into IKV’s research infrastructure – from mold and process technology to the quality assurance of optical components.
Platform for exchange between research and industry
In addition to the specialist presentations, the event offers numerous opportunities for networking and discussing current challenges. The close integration of scientific findings and industrial requirements makes the Aachen Polymer Optics Days an important platform for technology transfer in polymer optics.
Register now
Registration for the conference is already open. Interested parties have the opportunity to secure a place early and benefit from discounted conditions until April 21, 2026.