Revolution in Leipzig: Innovative, degradable plastic takes off!

Revolution in Leipzig: Innovative, degradable plastic takes off!

Something is happening in Leipzig in the area of ​​sustainable plastics! The start-up Aevoloop has developed an innovative plastic that combines recycling and natural degradation. Under the leadership of chemist and co-founder Manuel Häußler, we are working on a solution that is not only more environmentally friendly, but also challenges everyday prejudices against plastic. Häußler criticizes the fact that when developing plastics, the end of their life cycle is often not taken into account. But Aevoloop is putting a stop to this and, during its research, has designed a plastic molecule that has a special breaking point that makes it easier to break down. Isn't this a move in the right direction?

The start-up plans to build a competitive plastics factory in Leipzig. The foundation for this has already been laid - with financial support of 3.52 million euros from a venture capital fund and a further 5 million euros from the Sächsische Aufbaubank, the basis for large-scale production has been created. Partners like that Leibniz Institute for Polymer Research in Dresden and the University of Leipzig are supporting the project by conducting research into the decomposition of plastics. This collaboration could open up new opportunities for the chemical industry in the region.

A promising path to sustainable plastic

With its prototypes, Aevoloop aims to create high-performance packaging that not only consists of a single plastic layer, but also has special barrier properties. The company is also working on applications in 3D printing and textile fibers that are soft and less susceptible to microplastics. Although microplastics cannot be completely prevented, the new polymers should deliberately be designed to be degradable. With a clear focus on bio-based materials and old plastic waste that is unusable for conventional recycling, they are breaking new ground.

As the Fraunhofer Society explains, a holistic approach is required to make plastics fit for circular value creation. This includes the optimization of films, fibers and injection molded parts as well as the development and production of functional additives. There are various methods such as blending and additives that are intended to help further develop the materials. However, an underlying problem remains: developments of new plastics often end in the laboratory, and the availability of materials hinders practical implementation.

A look into the future

Aevoloop has the vision to optimize production and build a large factory in Saxony-Anhalt within the next two years. In doing so, they aim to produce plastics in large quantities that are not only cost-effective but also overcome technical challenges. In this sense, the company's future sounds promising. The project could become a shining example, not only for Leipzig, but for the whole of Germany, of how creativity and innovative ideas can tackle the challenges of plastic avoidance - there is something to be said!