Overview
AIMPLAS is a private, innovation-focused technology centre created in 1990 to support companies in the plastics sector. Recognized by the Spanish Government as an Innovation and Technology Center, AIMPLAS is located in Paterna, Valencia, and stands as one of Europe’s most advanced facilities for plastics research, testing, and development. The organization specializes in bioplastics research and circular economy solutions with over 35 years of industry experience.
Core Competencies and Services
AIMPLAS operates as a full-service technology partner, offering:
Materials Testing and Analysis: AIMPLAS holds the highest number of tests accredited by ENAC (Spain’s national accreditation body) for plastics according to the UNE-EN ISO/IEC 17025 standard. The center is certified as a DIN Certco and BPI accredited laboratory, competent to certify that bioplastics are biodegradable or compostable in different environments.
Biodegradation Research: The center conducts advanced research on microorganisms and biological processes to accelerate the biodegradation of bioplastics in various environments.
Bioplastic Recycling and Circular Economy: AIMPLAS coordinates research initiatives including the Spanish Hub for sorting, mechanical recycling, and enzymatic recycling of bioplastics, with characterization and validation of recycled materials.
Agricultural Waste Conversion: Leading the Biovalsa project to convert rice straw and citrus pruning into bio-based plastics for packaging applications.
Key Technologies and Innovations
- Advanced biodegradation assessment using controlled microbial systems
- Enzymatic recycling research for bioplastics valorization
- Green energy conversion from biodegradable plastic waste
- Certification protocols for EN 13432 industrial composability standards
Industry Focus and Applications
AIMPLAS serves multiple industry segments:
- Packaging manufacturers seeking compostable solutions
- Bioplastic producers requiring biodegradation verification
- Agricultural sectors developing waste-to-value applications
- Waste management companies implementing recycling technologies
- Regulatory bodies establishing bioplastics standards
Client Base and Partnerships
AIMPLAS collaborates with major European research consortiums and companies throughout the bioplastics value chain. The center participates in joint research initiatives with industry partners and is part of Spain’s broader innovation ecosystem for sustainable materials.
Certifications and Recognition
- ENAC Accreditation for plastics testing (highest number in Spain)
- DIN Certco Accreditation
- BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) Certification
- UNE-EN ISO/IEC 17025 Compliance
- Spanish Government Innovation and Technology Center Status
Future Vision
AIMPLAS continues to expand its role in supporting the European bioplastics transition, with particular focus on developing testing standards for agricultural waste-derived bioplastics, advancing enzymatic recycling technologies, and establishing comprehensive biodegradation assessment protocols for emerging bioplastic materials.
Last updated: 2026-02-14