Monomaterial as an innovation driver

In plastics engineering, the term “monomaterial” is used in connection with products whose individual components are all based on the same polymer. If this polymer is a thermoplastic, the product can be fully and efficiently mechanically recycled as a “pure material”—without prior disassembly. This significantly simplifies recycling processes. This not only reduces waste but also conserves natural resources.

Monomaterials for the Circular Economy

Nowy Styl, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of office and contract furniture, launched the re:think design competition, an international design contest. The focus was on designing a soft seating system made from a single material that combines comfort, functionality, and sustainability.

Designs were sought that are made from only one material and are fully recyclable. The competition was scientifically supported by the Fraunhofer CCPE, whose monomaterial modular system formed the basis for the designs.

Nowy Styl invites you to the re:think convention at the use2 Competence Center on April 23, 2026, for the awards ceremony. In addition to inspiring keynote speeches and an exhibition of the best designs, a panel discussion will precede the awards ceremony. Jury member Prof. Dr. Sascha Peters will discuss the potential of monomaterials as a source of inspiration for product innovations in design.

Information about the competition can be found here: www.nowystyl.com/de/re-think-design-competition

Details about the monomaterial toolkit are available here: www.ccpe.fraunhofer.de/de/leistungsangebot/monomaterial/monomaterial.html