AIMPLAS
About
AIMPLAS, the Plastics Technology Institute located in Valencia (Paterna), is a research & technology organisation with over 35 years of experience. It has a team of about 270 highly qualified professionals (55% women, average age ~37) as of 2024.
Its work focuses on technological R&D in thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic materials & products, their transformation processes, and their recyclability and sustainability. AIMPLAS generates new knowledge and technologies, transferring them to companies to increase effectiveness and competitiveness. It has strong expertise in recycling, compatibilization, reactive extrusion, biopolymers and renewable-source materials, process-assisted special technologies, and nanocomposites.
In 2024:
- AIMPLAS carried out 299 R&D&I projects (97 international) involving 652 companies (486 SMEs; 173 from the Valencian Community).
- Delivered ~7,630 technological services to 998 companies.
- Provided 218 training activities to over 3,300 professionals.
- Generated an economic return of €83.6 million for participating companies from its R&D&I activities.
- Revenue for the institute was about €24.1 million (up ~13% over 2023).
Facilities & Technical Capabilities:
The AIMPLAS facility now includes over 12,000 m² dedicated to pilot plants, labs, etc.
More than 35 pilot plants are available for processing plastic materials, thermoset and composite processing.
State-of-the-art test and characterization laboratories (chemical, morphological, optical, mechanical, physical) with strong accreditations.
Other highlights & strategic developments:
AIMPLAS achieved carbon neutrality in 2024 under the “Cálculo-Reduzco-Compenso” seal, reducing CO₂ emissions by ~74% vs. the previous year and offsetting the rest.
It also launched a new facility (“Building 5”) under environmental building criteria (in process of BREEAM certification), housing labs and pilot plants for polymer synthesis, additive manufacturing, robotics, mechanochemistry.
AIMPLAS’ social return on investment (SROI) in 2023 was about €686 million, and in 2024 the social impact was estimated near €832 million, with a large share aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and circular economy initiatives.
Networks & Recognition:
Member of relevant international networks and participates in standardization committees (ISO, CEN, etc.).
Works with European and national programmes, and supports certifications (e.g. for compostability, recyclability, sustainable practices).
Role in Upcycle
AIMPLAS plays a central role in the UPCYCLE project, leading the shift from research in biodegradable and recyclable polymers into real packaging solutions. Its work focuses on developing new polyesters and copolyesters (such as PEF, PBAF, PLA copolymers and blends), creating tailored formulations, and transferring these materials from the laboratory to pilot-scale production.
To achieve this, AIMPLAS uses advanced laboratory facilities and reactive extrusion (REX), compounding, injection moulding and blow moulding technologies, ensuring that the new materials can be processed and tested under pilot plant conditions. AIMPLAS also leads WP7, which evaluates how the new materials behave at the end of their life. This includes developing predictive models of biodegradation, testing compostability (both industrial and home), assessing behaviour in soil, freshwater and marine environments, and performing multi-cycle mechanical recycling trials.
These activities make sure that the materials are not only innovative but also safe, sustainable and aligned with circular economy principles. In addition, AIMPLAS supports the definition of end-user requirements, market analysis and compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Thanks to this expertise, UPCYCLE’s materials are designed to be technically feasible, scalable, and ready to meet market and regulatory demands.