Plastko Conference Draws Nearly 200 Experts from Across the Country
24. April 2026On 22 and 23 April 2026, Tomas Bata University in Zlín (TBU) hosted the PLASTKO 2026 professional conference, which focused this year on current trends in the plastics industry. This long-standing event, with a history dating back to 2008, once again brought together specialists from both academia and the commercial sector.
The conference was jointly organised by the TBU University Institute, the Centre of Polymer Systems, the TBU Technology Transfer Centre, and the Plastics Cluster. Its main aim was to present the latest developments in the field to the professional community, encourage the sharing of best practice, and foster collaboration between businesses and academic institutions.
“For the University Institute, and in particular its research unit, the Centre of Polymer Systems, it is crucial that research outcomes do not remain confined to laboratories but find practical application in industry. Cooperation with companies, cluster organisations, and institutions represented here today is a fundamental pillar of our continued development,” said Professor Michal Sedlačík, Director of the TBU University Institute.
“The Plastko conference has long served as an important platform for bringing together leading experts from both research and industry. Its high professional standard and focus on topical issues enable participants to gain valuable insights while also developing collaboration across the sector,” added Professor Vladimír Sedlařík, Director of the Centre of Polymer Systems.
The opening session began with a presentation of the Centre of Polymer Systems’ activities in sustainability and industry collaboration. This was followed by expert contributions focusing, for example, on functional layers and the design of plastic materials, the use of plasma technologies, and the development of bio-epoxy formulations.
“The conference programme was spread over two days and included plenary and specialist lectures addressing current topics such as the circular economy, chemical recycling of plastics, new material technologies, and innovative manufacturing processes,” said Ing. Ivana Bartoníková, Director of the TBU Technology Transfer Centre, speaking on behalf of the organisers.
The accompanying programme showcased the outcomes of projects from the National Centre of Competence PolyEnvi and other research activities carried out at the Centre of Polymer Systems. Participants also took part in a Design Thinking workshop focused on the use of waste biomass as a component for new sustainable materials and products, linked to the CirkArena project.
“The programme also included poster presentations, electronic conference proceedings, and space for company presentations within the exhibition area. Participants had the opportunity to engage in discussions and establish new professional contacts,” said Dr Přemysl Strážnický from the Technology Transfer Centre.
Approximately 200 experts from research organisations, universities, and industrial enterprises attended PLASTKO 2026. The event once again confirmed its importance as a key platform for knowledge sharing, fostering collaboration, and supporting innovation in the plastics sector.