Research & Development

The Research and Development Division is at the heart of our activities, where a dedicated team of scientists, researchers, and experts is engaged in the constant advancement of knowledge and innovation in the field of polymer materials.
Based on the results of research and prototyping on a laboratory scale, we work to design new formulations. We then move on to scale-up and industrialization, paying particular attention to the concepts of circular economy and sustainability.

Re-search for your ideas

LMPE “Re-search for your ideas” is oriented to the proposal, management, and development of innovative projects in the field of Eco-friendly Polymer Materials that fall into activities such as:

  • Design and manufacture of continuous matrix composite materials made of biodegradable polymers containing organic and inorganic micro or nano-structured fillers suitable for use in the eco-packaging eco-friendly and manufactured products for agricultural/horticultural use and applications in the oil & gas sector.
  • Design and manufacture of water-soluble biodegradable polymer formulations for biomedical applications and packaging of single-dose components suitable for cleaning and agro-industry aimed at optimizing the active ingredients used in applications described above and in the production of filaments for 3D printers used as temporary media.
  • Design and production of eco-friendly materials from the separate collection and waste from industrial activities, following the criteria dictated by the economic circular.
  • Design and development of new biocompatible polymer matrix formulations that can be used in biomedical and pharmaceutical techniques specifically related to tissue engineering and controlled release aimed at conventional and innovative drugs.
 

LMPE’s Clients are companies in the Textile/Fashion/Sportswear, Packaging, Detergence, Agriculture, Food/Nutraceutical, Retail sectors, but also companies in the Pharma/Biomedical, Automotive, Construction sectors, Paints, and Design, as well as Converters of Polymers or Manufacturers of packaging machines.

In fact, we are a versatile team ready to help customers explore new perspectives and develop ideas in an innovative way. The aim is to overcome conventional patterns, tackle complex challenges, and work together to find the perfect solution that meets needs.

What makes our R&D division unique:

  • Proactive support: We are open to listening carefully to ideas, helping turn them into reality, and overcoming obstacles along the way.
  • Creativity without limits: No idea is too bold or unrealizable. We are ready to explore endless possibilities and find out-of-the-box solutions.
  • Collaborative approach: The Client’s vision is fundamental for us. We actively collaborate and involve them in the creative process.
  • Focus on needs: Satisfaction is our priority. We tailor solutions to fit your specific needs perfectly.
  • Experience and expertise: Our team is made up of experienced professionals, able to face the most complex challenges and propose innovative solutions.
  • Tailor-made solutions: Every customer is unique and deserves special treatment. We therefore design tailor-made products and solutions.
  • Positive impact: Our passion for innovation and sustainability drives our work. We try to have a positive impact on the environment and society.

 

New Formulations

Ricerca & Sviluppo - Formulazione

Our laboratories have developed biodegradable and compostable formulations obtained by adding organic or inorganic fillers or agro-processing industrial wastes, providing a specific valorization of waste in a circular economy and sustainability perspective.

The main steps include:

  • Turbomixing
  • Lab Scales (Mixing) Extrusion
  • Bi-screw Pilot-Scale Extrusion
  • Bubble extrusion
  • 3D printing

We are proud to have many successes in the field of Research and Development. We have developed innovative polymer materials with equal performance and/or in terms of strength, flexibility, durability, and other key properties compared to traditional ones. These materials find application in a wide range of industries, including ballistics, automotive, electronics, packaging, medicine, and more.

Ricerca & Sviluppo - Formulazione

Way We Work

Ricerca & Sviluppo : Area formulativa. politeca e stampante 3d

Our approach typically involves dealing with projects through different stages in order to ensure accurate analysis and greater confidence.

For customers who come to us, we often initially propose a pre-feasibility study in which we carefully examine the initial idea and evaluate possible developments. At this stage, we collect information and conduct literature, commercial, or market research to determine whether the idea and goal are achievable. Together with the customer we evaluate and value the design choices.

Once we have passed the pre-feasibility phase, we move on to the next phase: the project feasibility on a laboratory scale. At this stage, we perform tests and small-scale tests to verify the effectiveness and practicality of the idea. We use laboratory facilities and resources to simulate real conditions and obtain useful data and feedback to improve and refine the project.

Once we have confirmed the feasibility on a laboratory scale, we enter the phase of industrialization. During this phase, we adapt the idea to be implemented on a large scale. We consider factors such as production efficiency, resource management, product quality, and cost control. Finally, we develop and optimize production processes, creating a solid foundation for large-scale production.

Alongside these steps, we recognize the importance of patenting if it is required. During the project development process, we work closely with patent experts to identify and protect innovations (both product and process) through the coverage of patent rights. We ensure that new ideas are properly protected legally to preserve value and prevent unfair competition.

Ricerca & Sviluppo : Area formulativa. politeca e stampante 3d

Focus On Hydrosoluble Polymers

Estrusore a bolla

The experience of the entire Research and Development division also extends to in-depth knowledge of PVOH (polyvinylalcohol), a synthetic water-soluble polymer known for its unique and versatile properties.

PVOH is a water-soluble material and forms a viscous solution when dispersed in water. Renowned for its excellent chemical resistance, thermal stability, and film-forming properties, it makes it suitable for use in various industries, such as food, pharmaceutical, textile, packaging, and much more.

PVOH is used in a wide range of products and processes. It is commonly used as an additive in the formulations of detergents, suspension agents, paints, adhesives, and coatings, helping to improve the viscosity, stability, and performance of end products.

In addition, PVOH is widely used as a material for films in different industries. Thanks to its ability to form transparent, durable, and flexible films, it is used in the packaging industry for the production of protective films, food bags, water-soluble films, and other products with barrier and protection requirements.

We are aware of the importance of sustainability in the polymer industry. Therefore, we are committed to providing high-quality PVOH that meets environmental and safety standards. We also promote the responsible use of PVOH and cooperate with our customers to develop sustainable solutions and environmentally friendly alternatives.

Estrusore a bolla

Our Experience

More than thirty years of experience in formulations and production technologies of water-soluble films dates to 1981 when Landini purchased the first patent on water-soluble films (1,140,254). Thanks to his wit and curiosity, he has consequently developed the production process with blowing-film technology. It has in fact engineered a 5-stage line (turbo mixing, granulation, film-making, converting, and regeneration) that starts from raw materials (powders and liquids) and arrives at the finished product (granule, film, coils, bags, glue). Thanks to the experience gained over the years, with our essential contribution, the italian and foreign industries that today produce water-soluble films with blowing-film technology have been realized.

We are thrilled to share with you our knowledge of PVOH and its multiple applications. If you would like more information about our products, technical specifications, or customized solutions, please contact us. We will be happy to discuss your specific needs and provide expert advice for your technological challenges.

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Our Services

We offer customized and reliable solutions that keep in fit with your needs to characterize and evaluate polymeric materials, to start innovative research and development projects of new products or processes and to face your paths towards product or business process sustainability.

Research and Development

Tailor-made research studies to meet customer needs are offered. They are aimed at identifying practical and marketable solutions and achieving technological transfer within the company.

Analysis

We carry out chemical, physical, and mechanical analyses on materials and investigate also their biodegradability, compostability, thermal or photo degradability and so much more, always according to current regulations.

Sustainability

Our support services include the assessment of environmental impacts and sustainability of materials and assistance to certifications that can prove the value of your products. 

team commerciale

Giulia Landini

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in 2015, Master’s Degree in Government and Corporate Management in 2020.

 

He has been working at LMPE since 2023 where he works for Project & Sales Management.

Dr. Mattia Simoncini

He graduated in 2019 in Chemistry for Industry and the Environment from the University of Pisa, and in 2022 he obtained his Master’s degree in Industrial Chemistry with an experimental thesis about “The optimization of the extraction of bioactive components from sage and rosemary and their introduction into PVA films” carried out at the ICCOM institute of the CNR in Pisa in collaboration with the DCCI of the University of Pisa.

In 2023, he attended the SINT Master’s program sponsored by the QUINN Consortium in collaboration with the University of Pisa on “Integrated Management Systems for Sustainability” obtaining certification as Lead Auditor for ISO standards in Quality, Energy, Environment and Occupational Safety and Health and certification as Lead Auditor for SA 8000 standard about Business Ethics Certification.

Since 2023, he has been working at LMPE where he conducts R&D and collaborates within the management team for LMPE’s SGI.

team amministrazione

Clarissa Dinelli

She obtained the Diploma in Accounting at the Commercial Technical Institute of Pescia.

She has been working at LMPE since 2021 as Head of Accounting, after 23 years of experience gained in different realities.

team amministrazione

Francesca Landini

Graduate in Psychological Sciences and Techniques.

She has worked at LMPE since 2018 and is responsible for administration, human resources, management and reporting of funded projects.

In 2021 he completed the Master EU Projects Design & Management 2021-2027

team r&d

Dott.ssa Caterina Rosellini

Graduated in Biological Sciences in 2019 at the University of Pisa and later graduated in the Master’s course in Science in Molecular Biotechnology at the University of Pisa and the Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna in Pisa with an experimental thesis on polymer devices of the organ-on-chip for high-performance drug toxicity screening. Since 2021 she has been qualified to practice the profession of Biologist Section A at the University of Pisa.

He has been working at LMPE since 2022 as a biologist in the Research & Development section, carrying out research activities on the action of microorganisms on plastic products, extrusion and processing of polymeric materials, and device manufacturing techniques for biomedical applications.

team analisi&servizi

Arianna Domenichelli

She obtained a Diploma in 2018 in Industrial Chemistry at the E. Ferrari Technical Institute in Borgo a Mozzano.

She has been working at LMPE since 2019 as a laboratory technician in the Analysis & Services section, performing mainly chemical and instrumental characterization of polymeric materials and plastic products.

Since 2021 she has been qualified to the profession of Industrial Chemical Expert at the Order of Industrial Experts and Graduate Industrial Experts of Pistoia. Currently affiliate near the Faculty of Managerial Engineering.

team R&D

Dott. Guazzini Tommaso PhD

Graduated in Industrial Chemistry in 2013 at the University of Pisa with a thesis on polymeric materials, he deepened the topic during his Ph.D. in Chemical and Material Sciences, awarded by the University of Pisa, held at the IPCF Institute of the CNR of Pisa where he worked until 2018.

He has been working at LMPE as a researcher since 2018 carrying out research activities on polymeric, water-soluble, and biodegradable materials, guiding the customer from the idea to the patent.

He is currently the Manager of the Research & Development section of LMPE.

team analisi&servizi

Dott. Barsi David PhD

Graduated in Applied Molecular Chemistry in 2010 and subsequently graduated from the Master’s course in Industrial Chemistry in 2012 at the University of Pisa with a thesis on intelligent polymeric materials for marine applications. He obtained a Ph.D. in Chemical and Materials Sciences, awarded by the University of Pisa, held at the IPCF Institute of the CNR of Pisa in the field of nanotechnological and polysaccharide-based products.

He has been working at LMPE since 2018, currently with the function of Laboratory Manager carrying out analysis activities on polymeric, water-soluble, and biodegradable materials. It also carries out consultancy activities for the development of sustainable products and in a Circular Economy key.

Soci : Luca Landini Fondatore e Amministratore Delegato

CEO Luca Landini

CEO, he leads the organization with competence and passion.

Expert in PVOH-based water-soluble polymers, of which he owns the first patents on the market since 1981. He is also the holder of many awards especially in the packaging sector linked to the applications of water-soluble films.

He has built and led many companies in the production of water-soluble polymers in Italy, Spain, the USA and Mexico.

It has contributed to the realization and engineering of systems for companies that process these products, developing not only the formulations but also a 5-stage process that starts from mixing the basic raw material up to the finished product (film – bags – pellets for molding by injection).

 

President Eng. Francesco Sandias

President Eng. Francesco Sandias, responsible for Business Development, Sustainability and Corporate Benefit Impact. For 30 years in the Top Management of Multinationals he innovated in Procurement, with R&D and Marketing, in FMCG companies including P&G in Brussels, Reckitt Benckiser in Venice and Seda Packaging in Naples. RINA certified as Sustainability&Innovation Manager

Soci : Emo Chiellini Fondatore ed Ex Presidente

Prof. Emo Chiellini (1936-2020)

After graduating in Chemistry in 1963 at the University of Pisa in the research group of prof. Piero Pino (one of Giulio Natta’s main collaborators), carried out his academic career at the Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry of the University of Pisa and in European and non-EU Universities such as the University of Liverpool (UK), Moscow State University (Russia), University of Massachusetts at Amherst (USA), University of Sao Paulo in Sao Paulo & Campinas (Brazil), University of Nagasaki (Japan) and University of Mogadishu (Somalia).

In 1980 he was appointed full professor of Chemical Foundations of Technologies at the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Pisa, where he taught until 2010, teaching courses in General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Materials Science and Technology. The passion for fundamental and applied research to the resolution of industrial and environmental problems has led prof. Chiellini to develop innovative research in the field of biodegradable polymers and to study their technological applications in the creation of new materials to be used in the biomedical and environmental fields.

He was among the promoters of the foundation and during his long career he also held the role of Member of the Scientific Council of the INSTM Consortium. He founded and coordinated the BIOlab  (Laboratory of Bioactive Polymeric Materials for Biomedical and Environmental Applications) Reference Center of INSTM, where researchers with expertise in materials science and technology, organic chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, pharmaceutical technologies, microbiology and environmental chemistry. He was the founder and president of LMPE S.r.l. SB., spin-off of the INSTM Consortium, responsible for numerous research contracts financed by industries from the European Community and the Tuscany Region.

He is the author of more than 500 publications, holder of 35 patents. He has presented more than 300 invited lectures in scientific institutions and industries. He is editor/co-editor of 20 books and has been a member of the Editorial Board of several international scientific journals in the field of polymers. Particularly noteworthy was his participation, from 1996 to 2008, in the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) group, engaged in the program relating to “Sustainable development in developing countries and countries in transition” mainly focused on polymeric materials and related environmentally friendly plastic products. Professor Chiellini has been awarded various awards throughout his career, including the Giulio Natta Prize for Chemistry in 2018.