
Research
Shaping the future through innovative plastics technology

The research and development of new methods for processing innovative materials forms the basis for the technological development of tomorrow. Plastics technology plays a key role here, as it develops innovative processing methods to adapt plastics specifically to technological and sustainable requirements. It combines materials science with cutting-edge production technology to create pioneering products – from lightweight, high-strength structural components to functionalised surfaces and recyclable plastic solutions.
Cutting-edge research in Aachen
At the heart of RWTH Aachen University, the IKV – Institute of Plastics Processing has been a bridgehead between basic university research and industrial applications in plastics technology since 1950. This is where science and industry merge to form a central research centre.
Excellence in science and practice
At IKV, highly qualified scientists continuously work on innovative solutions for application-technical, technological, and materials engineering challenges. Their work covers a wide spectrum of various plastics sectors and significantly contributes to technological advancement. The symbiosis of academic knowledge and industrial practice paves the way for the future of plastics technology.
Award-winning research results
IKV has won numerous awards and honors in the scientific field, recognising our outstanding achievements and innovations in materials research and plastics technology. These accolades underscore our leading role in developing future-oriented technologies and confirm the high standard of our research work. Discover why our work is recognised nationally and internationally.

Become part of our research team
We offer research engineers from around the world a great perspective.
Outstanding research infrastructure
Discover our world of research at IKV: Each of our research areas has its own technical center or laboratory. These are equipped with state-of-the-art machines and facilities, largely provided to IKV by industry for research purposes. On a total area of more than 11,000 m2, more than 300 people at IKV research, teach, learn, and live the plastics technology of the future.
