About POLYKUM

The "Association for the Promotion of Polymer Development and Plastics Technology in Central Germany - POLYKUM e. V." is a cooperative network of plastics manufacturers and processors, mechanical engineering companies, research institutions, universities, service providers, and industry-related organizations. The non-profit association was founded in 2002 and is based in Merseburg, the heart of the Central German "Chemical Triangle"—a hub of innovation with a long tradition in the chemical and plastics industries. The association now includes members from key plastics regions across Germany—and increasingly, international companies and institutions as well.

POLYKUM e.V. currently has approximately 50 members. Their shared mission is to promote knowledge, innovation, and technology transfer, secure skilled workers, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration along the entire value chain, from raw materials to finished products. The association is committed to paving the way for new, environmentally friendly plastics and plastic products. POLYKUM supports its members through communication initiatives, events, and assistance in initiating research and innovation projects. It maintains close partnerships with numerous networks both domestically and internationally, such as BioEconomy e.V. and the Indian industry association AIPMA. Furthermore, POLYKUM e.V. enjoys an excellent reputation as a competent partner for discussions with politicians, media representatives, and institutions.

Since 2010, bioplastics have been a particular focus of the association's work. With its annual "BIOPOLYMER – Processing & Moulding" congress, held since 2018, POLYKUM offers an international industry meeting for processors and users of bio-based, biodegradable plastics, attracting participants from up to 45 countries. Furthermore, the association annually awards the international "BIOPOLYMER Innovation Award," which has already recognized winners from Finland, Italy, Brazil, Belgium, and Germany since 2019.