What exactly do we measure in our laboratory? A brief description of the analyses performed at Malplast

Have you ever wondered what really happens to plastics before they’re ready for production? Before any material leaves our lab, it undergoes a carefully structured series of tests — multi-stage, verified, and highly precise. The goal isn’t just to collect data, but most importantly, to confirm quality.

Material Density and the Archimedes Method — When Water Reveals the Truth

Measuring density might sound simple — just submerge a sample in water and get a result. But this is where scientific precision becomes key. We use the Adventurer AX224M analytical balance along with a specialized solid-body kit. The process follows the EN ISO 1183-1 standard and involves two measurements: one in air, the other in liquid. This method allows us to verify whether the plastic meets technical requirements and whether it’s suitable for further processing or recycling.

Moisture Content — Every Percent Counts

Moisture affects the quality, properties, and even the course of production. That’s why we determine moisture content according to ASTM D6980, using the KERN DBS-60 moisture analyzer. The sample is placed in a heated chamber where water evaporates under controlled conditions. Our system measures the mass loss and delivers an exact value. The reliability of this method is undisputed.

Regrind Analysis — Ensuring Recycling Integrity

With regrind, there’s no room for chance. Every batch is analyzed for content such as PP, PE, and other plastics. We use the sIRoPAD analyzer from GUT, which operates based on NIR (Near-Infrared) technology. Samples are scanned, their spectra compared against our database, and we receive a precise percentage composition. What’s more, the device can identify individual flakes, offering full control over the quality of recycled material.

MFI and MFR — The Flow Tells the Story

Some properties only reveal themselves under heat. That’s why we test MFR (Melt Flow Rate) and MVR (Melt Volume Rate) according to ISO 1133-1, using the REO-100 plastometer from Hydrapress. The sample melts and flows through a nozzle — we measure both the time and the volume of the flow. This test tells us whether the plastic will mold easily or become a challenge during production.

Quality as a Standard, Not a Slogan

Each of these tests is more than just a technical formality. It’s a vital part of our quality system, enabling us to provide materials that are reliable, verified, and ready for any challenge. Our laboratory isn’t just a name — it’s a place where data drives decisions, and quality is our daily standard.