The aim of the PolyCond project is to develop conductive plastic composites that are eco-friendly, cost effective and of high added value. This will be achieved through an ambitious multidisciplinary approach developing new, radically innovative, knowledge-based and sustainable products for protection against the effects of Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Electrostatic Discharge (ESD).
Research will be based on the compounding of engineering polymers and Inherently Conductive Polymers (ICPs) with improved conductivity, or hybrid systems of ICPs with conductive nanotubes. Innovative, eco-efficient processing, based on CO2 assisted technologies specifically tailored to the new materials, will also be developed.
Current research on ICPs, is not sufficient to enable adequate replacement of metal components in EMI shielding applications. PolyCond will dramatically extend the current performance and processability of ICPs and therefore enable significant replacement of metals in EMI shielding and ESD protection applications.
PolyCond is a transnational project, being part financed by the European Commission under the sixth framework programme as an Integrated Project (IPSME scheme - Project number IP 515835-2). The project is designed to address the needs of the European plastic converters, a traditional less RTD intensive sector mainly composed of SMEs (>99%).
The main challenges are:
• To enhance the conductivity of existing melt processable ICPs 
• To extend the processing window of existing melt processable ICPs 
• To improve the compatibility and dispersion of conductive nanofillers in complex matrices
PolyCond's approach will give: 
• Plastic components with embedded EMI shielding functionality 
• Weight reduction of at least 60% 
• Total cost reduction of shielding components approaching 90% 
• Reduction of production time by 80%, thus improving productivity
PolyCond will benefit plastic processors in the EU by developing new technologies and providing solutions to key long-term problems. A multidisciplinary and integrated approach includes technology transfer with training activities, thereby mobilizing EU and Regional funding.
Start date: 01/02/2005
Completion date: 31/01/2009