PLASTICS are renowned for being easy to recycle – and, when it comes to thermoplastics, this reputation is well deserved. However, with thermosets, it’s a different story, and the chemical bonds between the layers in the material make recycling difficult. That is one of the key issues currently facing the plastics industry, and one that the new Centre for Alternative Materials and Remanufacturing Technologies was set up to help resolve.
The need for a centre such as CALMARE, which offers 12 hours initial fully funded support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) throughout the South West, was also inspired by other issues, specific to manufacturers and suppliers based in the region. Firstly, SMEs, which make up many of the businesses within the South West, normally lack the ability to gain access to higher education facilities and expertise. In today’s world, collaborative partnerships, such as those between universities and businesses, can be vital in driving innovation. Therefore, it seemed pertinent to establish such a centre within the College of Engineering, Maths and Physical Sciences at the University of Exeter. The £1.8m centre is funded for two years by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the University of Exeter and industry partners.
Secondly, one of the large industries in the region is the marine industry, which, in the future, is likely to face legislative demands similar to those seen in the automotive industry, with the end of life directive. The reuse and recycling of glass fibre, which is widely used in the industry, is likely to become a real issue. Paul McCutchion, Commercial Manager for CALMARE, said: “The side of our centre that deals with the recycling and reuse of these products is vital to ensuring that the landfill costs that these companies are exposed to in the future are not so great that it makes it in-viable and is detrimental to the region.
“The University has lots of experience in polymers, compounds, natural materials, remanufacture and recycling, so CALMARE offers an excellent opportunity, especially for companies working with plastics and composites, to be able to take that next step and have that competitive edge, and really develop the South West as a region.”
He added: “The South West is particularly strong on the green agenda and, looking at environmental solutions. A centre like CALMARE gives us a real opportunity to lead that agenda, and really help the South West become the region that is known for our green products and sustainable future.”
Part funded for two years by the European Regional Development Fund Programme 2007 – 2013, with match funding from partners, the centre provides companies with targeted support to improve their products and processes, as well as opportunities for networking and exploring collaborative commercial ventures.