Anton Nikiforov, Head of the Strategic Project "Industry Research Institute for the Development and Application of Polymer Materials and Polymer Chemistry", Acting Head of the Department of Polymer Processing Technology and Composite Materials, and Maria Lisanevich, Leading Researcher of the same Strategic Project and Associate Professor of the Department of Medical Engineering, participated in the 38th International Exhibition of the Plastic and Rubber Industry, CHINAPLAS 2026, held in Shanghai at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC).

CHINAPLAS is one of the largest international industry platforms, where modern developments in the field of polymer materials, plastics processing, robotics, additive technologies, and digital production solutions are demonstrated annually. In 2026, special attention was paid to sustainable development, the circular economy, intelligent production systems, and new materials with specified properties.

The participation of representatives from KNIUT allowed them to familiarize themselves with the current trends in the industry and discuss the approaches that are currently shaping the global technological landscape in the field of polymer materials and chemical technology. Among the most relevant areas presented at the exhibition are high-strength and functional polymer materials of the new generation, digital modeling and design of polymer systems, the use of artificial intelligence methods and digital twins in technological processes, modern approaches to the processing and additive production of polymers, and international practices for implementing sustainable development principles in the industry.

"The materials obtained and the professional contacts established will be used in further research work, as well as in the development of the Institute of Polymers' educational programs, particularly the currently being modernized educational program "Digital Methods in Polymer Processing and Composite Materials Technology" in the field of 18.03.01 "Chemical Technology." Special attention will be paid to their integration into the Institute of Polymers' projects, including the "Superstructural Polymers" direction," said Anton Nikiforov.