Every three years, the K trade fair -known simply as the “K”, takes place in Düsseldorf. It is the world’s largest plastics fair, where current trends in the industry are presented. However, the “K” also sets guiding themes that indicate the future direction of the plastics industry. That’s reason enough for students of the Elite Graduate Program “Macromolecular Science” to take a closer look.
Around 450 million tons of plastics are required worldwide each year. This demand is expected to double in the coming decades. The plastics industry is one of the largest sectors of the chemical industry and consists not only of manufacturers, but also of plastic processors and the corresponding machinery producers. The space required at the K trade fair in Düsseldorf, which takes place every three years, is enormous, with more than 3,000 exhibitors from over 65 countries presenting their products and innovations. Nearly 170,000 visitors demonstrate the strong interest in the fair. This environment is therefore also attractive for universities, institutes, and start-up companies to showcase their developments and establish new contacts.
In addition to the exchange between exhibitors and visitors, the organizers of the “K” traditionally define key themes intended to guide the upcoming transformation of the industry. The “K” therefore sees itself not only as the world’s largest trade fair, but also as a leading trade fair. The current transformation efforts of the chemical industry toward greater sustainability and climate neutrality are reflected in the motto “Green – Smart – Responsible.” A key objective is to reduce the use of fossil-based raw materials and establish closed-loop material cycles to enable more climate-neutral plastics. Another important aspect is digitalization: automation and robotics, as well as artificial intelligence and data analysis, are intended to lead to greater resource efficiency and, consequently, more efficient production. The third focus of “K” places people at the center. Socially responsible action is meant to secure a skilled workforce, promote the next generation of professionals, and advance equality. This is intended to ensure the industry’s long-term sustainability.
Students from the Elite Graduate Program “Macromolecular Science" spent several days intensively exploring the K trade fair. They were accompanied by Prof. Hans-Werner Schmidt, spokesperson for the program. Hans-Werner Schmidt has also been a long-standing member of the scientific advisory board of the K trade fair and is therefore very familiar with its key themes and structure. As a result, the students gained insights into the “K” that often remain hidden even from experienced visitors. In addition, the students gained a comprehensive overview of the fair: their impressions ranged from impressive large-scale systems, such as meter-high blown film extrusion lines, to specialized detail innovations like biocidal materials for wastewater hoses. The students also engaged intensively with selected exhibitors, about whom they subsequently reported. Looking back, the K trade fair left a lasting impression on all participants.
Text: Klaus Kreger, Elite Graduate Program “Macromolecular Science”
