project title: Cost-efficient plastics with optical and haptical properties of metals

lead partner: Gorenje gospodinjski aparati d.d.

other project partners: Fakulteta za technologijo polimerov (FTPO), Richard Hiebler GmbH (Hiebler), Polymer Competence Center Leoben GmbH (PCCL), Intra lighting d.o.o. (Intra), Montanuniversität Leoben (MUL)

priority axis: Strengthening of cross-border competition, research and innovation

duration of the project: 01 April 2018 - 31 March 2021

The main goal of Polymetal is the CB cooperation, networking and joint R&D of SMEs, R&D institutions from less developed, non-urban areas (e.g.: Miren, Stainz, Leoben, Slovenj Gradec) and one of the leading European home appliances manufacturer on the development of polymer based solutions, which could replace stainless steel or aluminum for design demanding products in different sectors. By distributing the knowledge to other SMEs, students and R&D institutions, the R&I base in this technologically and economically relevant field will be strengthened. The joint R&D activities will focus on a promising research area, the development and processing of cost efficient, metal look and feel a like polymer solutions. So far, for higher aesthetic value of high-end goods, stainless steel and aluminum are used for the manufacturing of parts of home appliances, lights, sports equipment, etc. For the manufacturing of more complex shapes, the use of stainless steel is technically demanding, expensive and time consuming.

The project will connect competent R&D institutions with partners from industry (Gorenje) and SMEs (Hiebler, Intra-Ligthing) and thus encourage the transfer of knowledge and expertise for developing new products and technologies. The partnership includes HE and R&D institutions (MUL, FTPO and PCCL), who will distribute the know-how and knowledge gained to students and companies in the CB area. The proposal represents a good example of CB collaboration of R&D stakeholders on a demanding technological challenge, which will lead to new joint R&D activities, foster the basis for new products&processes and lead to sustainable growth, new jobs, increased internationalization and global competitiveness of the region.