Dr Bronagh Millar

Bronagh Millar is the Technical Lead for Material Characterisation with more than 20 years of experience in polymer science, material characterisation, sustainability and applied industrial research. Since joining the Polymer Processing Research Centre (PPRC) in 2003, she has built extensive expertise in helping businesses solve materials and manufacturing challenges, supporting over 1,000 consultancy projects and numerous UK and European-funded research programmes. Her specialist knowledge includes polymer characterisation, rheology, thermal analysis, recycling, sustainability and polymer processing.

She uses advanced analytical techniques to understand material behaviour, diagnose manufacturing issues, improve product performance and support the development of innovative materials. A major focus of her work is advancing circular economy solutions through recycling and waste valorisation. She leads projects that transform waste plastics into valuable products, assess recycled material performance, and improve recyclability across the plastics sector. Current initiatives include the BE-Explore Project, the Soft Film Supply Chain Project, CEFLEX Phase 2 and Beach Clean 2.0. An experienced researcher, consultant and trainer, Bronagh combines scientific expertise with practical industrial application, helping organisations drive innovation, sustainability and improved performance across polymer processing and recycling industries.

Topic: Creation of a local soft film supply chain

Presentation Summary: This presentation outlines the development of a local circular economy solution for agricultural plastic films, bringing together recyclers, manufacturers and researchers to convert waste soft films into higher-value products. The work demonstrates how recycled agricultural plastics can be successfully incorporated into drainage pipes and other products, while identifying the processing conditions required to maintain performance. It highlights the potential to create a sustainable local supply chain for soft film recycling, reducing waste, increasing material recovery and supporting regional economic growth. The findings showcase how collaboration across the value chain can help advance plastics recycling, resource efficiency and circular economy objectives.