Polymers Center

Here we are at the SPE Extrusion Optimization TopCon, hosted by SPE (Extrusion Division), where professionals come together to share expertise, discuss industry challenges, and explore solutions that improve processing performance.
Stop by our booth and say hello—we’d love to connect!

We’ve given our lobby a fresh new look, but everything our customers count on remains the same.
At The Polymers Center, we offer a unique, full-service resource for the plastics industry—all under one roof. Whether you need to compound a resin, injection mold ASTM test specimens, characterize materials in our testing lab, simulate an injection molding process, or expand your knowledge through polymer education seminars, our team is here to help move your projects forward.
Our updated lobby is just the first thing you’ll notice when you visit. Behind it is the same commitment to technical expertise, innovation, and customer support that has always defined The Polymers Center.
Visit our website to learn more about our services and how we can support your next project. https://www.polymers-center.org/

We’re excited to be a sponsor at the Extrusion Conference 2026. The Polymers Center is looking forward to connecting with industry professionals as the conference dives into troubleshooting the challenges impacting extrusion today while exploring the latest trends and best practices in film & sheet.
From solving real processing issues to learning about new innovations and technologies, Extrusion2026 is shaping up to be a great event for collaboration and industry insight.
Get 20% off with code: POLYMER20 when you register at https://showpro.cdsreg.com/EventRegistration/EXTR0826/Register/New/step/5c524db7-2c42-4951-9db2-df7c4b563360?regId=07d2fabd-e9f4-4986-82b0-ad5b5ae93b7a&flowId=10066857-2590-4f2f-8489-4c0a8332e087
We can’t wait to see everyone there!

Ready to take your extrusion knowledge to the next level?

Our upcoming Extrusion Processing Fundamentals course is the perfect opportunity to dive into startup procedures, get hands-on with equipment, and work through real-world troubleshooting scenarios you’re likely to face on the production floor. From process fundamentals to practical problem-solving, this course is designed to help build confidence and skills you can apply right away.

Now’s the time to sign up and join us for an engaging, hands-on learning experience. We look forward to seeing you there! https://www.polymers-center.org/extrusionprocessingfundamentals

We have a new addition, the Purity Concept Systems by SIKORA. This advanced system uses X-ray technology and optical sensors to inspect and analyze plastic pellets, flakes, and film during production or through sample testing, with the ability to detect contamination as small as 50 µm.
To learn more about our testing: https://www.polymers-center.org/testing

Our UNC Charlotte engineering students are hard at work on their Senior Design Project of the PCE Grind, developing a functional prototype of a mid-sized polymer grinder designed to process 5–20 lbs of material. Their goal? Transform plastic chunks and pellets into a fine, sand-like powder—opening the door to new possibilities in material reuse, processing, and product development. With the support of the Polymers Center Team, President Doug DeSimone and Polymer Science Manager, Yiro Shimabukuro, we can finally see the prototype come to life. Stay tuned for their final presentation!

It’s hands-on day for our Extrusion Processing Fundamentals students!
Participants are diving into startup procedures, getting comfortable with equipment, and working through practical troubleshooting scenarios they’re likely to face on the floor.
Join us for the one in August: https://www.polymers-center.org/extrusionprocessingfundamentals.

The SPE Extrusion Optimization TopCon, hosted by the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Extrusion Division, is a great opportunity to learn, connect, and problem-solve with experts across the industry.

Bring your challenges to the table and engage directly with the SPE Extrusion Board, academic leaders, experienced speakers, and industry peers. From troubleshooting day-to-day issues to exploring advanced extrusion theory for single- and twin-screw systems, the conversations here are built around real-world impact.
For more information and to register: https://speextrusiontopcon.technical-content.com/

A full house at the Polymers Center this week as we welcome two Extrusion classes!
We’re excited to host Paulson’s ProEx, led by instructor Rick Barnes, teaching practical, real-world skills. The other course, (through our Community College partners), instructor Scott Lambert teaches our Extrusion Processing Fundamentals course, which introduces the very basics of the extrusion process.
We’d love to have you join us at our next event—check out our training page for more details and upcoming dates! https://www.polymers-center.org/training