Institute of Energy, Ceramics,and Polymer Technology

Research

Research Competences

Energy Technologies

In addition to the complex combustion technology analysis of conventional and alternative energy carriers and the energy optimization of combustion equipment, we are also engaged in pyrolysis, biogas production, the study of syngas utilization, as well as waste management.

  • Complex combustion technology analysis of combustibility conditions, heating value, and combustion residues for various types of biomass, woody and herbaceous plants, household and agricultural wastes, briquettes made from paper industry residues, and coal extracted from spoil.
  • Plastic pyrolysis – production of liquid fuels and examination of pyrolytic opportunities.
  • Biogas production and purification from industrial by-products.
  • Development of a hydrogenation reactor to improve the efficiency of syngas utilization.
  • Analysis of waste management systems and investigation of options to minimize waste destined for landfilling.
  • Development of conditions for the energy utilization of alternative energy carriers (biomass, waste), production of modern alternative energy sources in laboratory quantities, and testing in real residential-scale combustion equipment.
  • Safety assessment, risk analysis, and development of technological processes and equipment.
  • Energy optimization and efficiency improvement of combustion equipment.
  • Research on fuel switching.
  • Development of machine vision and learning, as well as measurement data acquisition and data processing systems.

Ceramic and Silicate Technologies

Investigation, research, development, and optimization of raw materials, finished products, and the related manufacturing technologies applied in the ceramics and silicate industries (bricks, tiles, glass, concrete, refractories, and technical ceramics).

  • Manufacturing technology and product development of ceramics, silicates, and composite materials
  • Comprehensive and complex investigations of raw materials, products, and structures
  • Examination of binders applied in the silicate industry
  • Material and product development, failure analysis
  • Determination of the physical, chemical, mechanical, and melting properties of raw materials
  • Development of traditional and innovative building materials
  • Design and testing of custom formulations and mixtures
  • nvestigation of the applicability of secondary raw materials in the ceramics industry
  • Design and development of ceramic foam-structured insulating materials
  • Production planning and support, assistance in industrial production trials, and cooperative design
  • Analysis of technological problems and determination of optimal technological parameters
  • Prototyping by 3D printing (from ceramic and polymer raw materials)

Polymer Technologies

The field covers polymer system design, compounding and processing technologies, additive systems, as well as the design and investigation of structure–property relationships. We also provide expertise in simulation, consultation, and professional advisory services, along with support in material testing validation and complaint management.

  • Comprehensive and complex material and structural investigations of synthetic, natural (wood, paper), and biodegradable polymers
  • Design and evaluation of materials and formulations, support in complaint management
  • Failure analysis and identification of failure causes in products
  • Elimination and resolution of problems arising in production
  • Modeling and simulation of injection molding processes
  • Mechanical and thermomechanical testing of polymers
  • Examination of adhesives and adhesive bonding
  • Polymer processing with processing equipment
  • Evaluation of polymer processing technologies and consultancy
  • Testing and qualification of coatings, paints, and coated or painted polymer products
  • Education and training related to polymer technologies

Quality Management

Quality management and quality assurance encompass a set of activities aimed at the continuous improvement and control of the production and provision of products and services to ensure compliance with predefined quality requirements. Various methods are applied in this process, such as quality control, quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001), and continuous improvement processes (e.g., Six Sigma). These practices are of particular importance in the industrial sector, as they help maintain and improve production quality, increase productivity and efficiency, reduce the number of errors and defects, and thereby enhance the reliability and competitiveness of production processes in the market. Quality management and assurance practices also contribute to maintaining customer satisfaction and trust, while enabling companies to meet stricter regulatory requirements and market expectations. As a result, they play a vital role in supporting the long-term success and sustainable development of companies.

Laboratories and Equipment