Applied Polymer Technologies Gateway – APT

The Applied Polymer Technologies Gateway, also known as APT, is a national Gateway centre dedicated to polymer research funded by the Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway Programme. APT operates under the umbrella of the PRISM Research Institute (Polymer, Recycling, Industrial, Sustainability, and Manufacturing) at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS).

Our vision at APT is to be a leading force in innovation, driving advancements across analytical testing, polymer processing, and 3D design and prototyping. We aspire to create a future where our expertise transforms industries and enhances the quality of life through cutting edge solutions that are sustainable, efficient, and tailored to the needs of our clients.

We aim to foster a culture of creativity and collaboration, where interdisciplinary teams work together to push the boundaries of technology and material science. By leveraging our core competencies, we seek to develop groundbreaking products and processes that not only meet the highest standards of quality and performance but also contribute positively to the environment and society.

Ultimately, our vision is to empower our partners and customers with innovative tools and solutions that pave the way for a smarter, more sustainable future.

Since its formation in 2013, APT has successfully completed over 825 projects with companies, amounting to a value of over €5.3 million. Aiding to further growth of the thriving polymer technology industry which has an annual turnover of €2.1 billion and exports worth in excess of €1.62 billion per year. This demonstrates the value that companies see in working with APT and gaining access to our vast knowledge base and state-of-the-art equipment suites.

The Key Objectives of the APT gateway are:

Our key objectives at APT servicing the industry across the sectors of analytical testing, polymer processing, and 3D design and prototyping include:

Deliver High-Quality Solutions: To provide our clients with reliable and innovative solutions that meet industry standards and exceed expectations in performance, safety, and sustainability.

Enhance Efficiency and Productivity: To streamline processes in analytical testing and polymer processing, reducing turnaround times and costs while maintaining high-quality outputs.

Foster Innovation: To continuously invest in research and development initiatives that drive technological advancements, enabling us to stay at the forefront of industry trends and emerging technologies.

Support Customisation: To develop tailored solutions that address specific client needs across various industries, ensuring that our services are relevant and impactful.

Promote Sustainability: To implement environmentally responsible practices in all sectors, focusing on reducing waste, optimising resource use, and developing sustainable materials and processes.

Build Strategic Partnerships: To collaborate with industry stakeholders, academic institutions, and research organisations to leverage collective expertise and resources for mutual benefit and innovation.

Invest in Talent Development: To cultivate a skilled workforce through ongoing training, professional development, and fostering a collaborative culture that encourages creativity and knowledge sharing.

Ensure Compliance and Quality Assurance: To adhere to regulatory standards and implement robust quality control measures across all sectors, ensuring that our services meet the highest levels of safety and reliability.

By focusing on these objectives, we aim to drive growth, enhance our reputation as a trusted partner in the industry, and contribute to advancements that benefit society as a whole.

Access to a wide range of industry-relevant polymer processing equipment based in our new state-of-the-art facility, which includes equipment for injection moulding, extrusion, compounding, and polymer-based additive manufacturing.