Birmingham Plastics Network: Research Spotlights
Learn more about our current and recent research through our Research Spotlights.
Recycling PHA for Second life (RePHASe)
RePHASe explores bio-based plastics as a more eco-friendly alternative to fossil-based recycling and recovery of plastics.
Suscons Emergency Relief Shelter
Innovative shelters made from 100% recycled materials could help to protect refugees fleeing disaster zones.
HeTa-Coat – Sustainable packaging
The HeTa Food Research Centre for Excellence is investigating starch-based biodegradable, bio-sourced plastic for use in the food industry.
Innovative PVC Recycling in Low Carbon Concrete
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a widely used plastic with applications spanning various industries, including healthcare, construction, and food packaging.
Closed Loop Recycling of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic
Carbon fibre reinforced plastics are strong, lightweight, chemically resistant, and are essential materials for a more sustainable future. We demonstrate that CFRP can be sustainably recycled.
Sustainable repurposing of polyvinyl chloride waste
Industrial carbon emissions significantly contribute to global warming, with ordinary Portland cement (OPC) production alone accounting for up to 8% of carbon dioxide emissions.
Key events
Sustainable plastics exhibitionThe Birmingham Plastics Network, alongside the University of Birmingham's Sustainability team, hosted the Sustainable Plastics Exhibition from 11-13 June 2024. This event was student-led, demonstrating the scope of knowledge and learning that plastic has upon our world.