Composites have become an integral part of many areas such as mobility and infrastructure. Their basic concept is an age-old discovery of mankind, which has been given an immense boost by new developments since the 19th century and continues to this day. AVK has been following these developments for 100 years and is committed to composites, their manufacturers and their requirements. The history of the material and the association are closely linked. This success story has now been celebrated together at the JEC Forum DACH and with the AVK family.
To kick off the anniversary celebration, Michael Effing, Chairman of the AVK management board, and Dr. Elmar Witten, Managing Director of AVK, gave a presentation on the history of composites and the origin and development of AVK. This was immediately followed by a special highlight of the evening, an interactive quiz in which guests could put their knowledge of composites to the test. The first place was a source of humour and enthusiasm in the audience – because it was surprisingly won by the evening’s photographer! 

In a relaxed atmosphere, Prof. Frank Henning, Deputy Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology (ICT), built a bridge between the history and future significance of innovation and research for the development of the composites industry. AVK has always supported this development, not least through the AVK Innovation Award, which honours outstanding achievements in the composites industry. This prestigious award reflects AVK’s endeavours to constantly set and support new standards in the industry. 

The anniversary celebration offered the opportunity to look back together on 100 years of innovation and cooperation in a festive setting and to look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead. 

The AVK and its member companies have played a key role in shaping the history of the composites industry. AVK will continue to play an active role in driving progress in this dynamic sector and implementing new developments in the future – in close co-operation with industry and research.