Technology with growth potential: BGS Beta-Gamma-Service once again named innovation champion

BGS Beta-Gamma-Service GmbH & Co. KG, the company specialised in radiation sterilization and radiation crosslinking, has made the leap to the top for the second time consecutively in the TOP 100 innovation competition.

In the scientific selection procedure, the medium-sized company with locations in Wiehl, Bruchsal and Saal a. d. Donau was convincing in size class B (51 to 200 employees) especially in the category “Innovation measures to promote top management”. The company whose technology is employed both in the sterilization of medical devices, amongst other things, and in the refinement of plastics, is currently involved in numerous development projects in the areas of lightweight construction and recycling.

The two-time top innovator is considered Germany’s leading provider in the treatment of products using accelerated electrons (beta rays) and gamma rays. The ionising rays destroy germs and create sterile conditions. For example, sensitive medical products and disposables such as blood collection tubes, can be sterilized by the pallet in the final packaging prior to distribution without a waiting period.

Less well-known is the ability to improve the properties of plastics through radiation. Through radiation crosslinking, the properties of commodity and technical plastics undergo an upgrading within a matter of seconds. The durability and resilience of the treated components is increased – expensive high-performance plastics that are difficult to process can then be used in certain applications. This is a particular benefit for automotive and machine construction, as plastics are gaining increasing importance as a material that reduces weight, and thus fuel and energy consumption.

Taking a look at the innovations of the future, Managing Director Dr. Andreas Ostrowicki sees great potential in replacing metals by processed plastics, for example in the engine compartment of motor vehicles or in fuel cells. „Numerous R&D projects are currently running in the area of radiation crosslinking. Whether it involves weight reduction and lightweight construction, dealing with strong electrical currents, batteries or new production processes: The materials used are exposed to high temperatures and have to withstand extreme conditions. Radiation crosslinking can provide solutions for numerous applications now and in the future.” The TOP 100 innovator is increasingly underlining the topic of sustainability. In this respect, BGS is presently collaborating on a process with the Technical University of Berlin, the University of Aalen and the partner nylon polymers for mechanical recycling of radiation crosslinked thermoplastics; the first results are expected in 2021.