SOLIDS Parma

On February 11, FlexCycle was presented at SOLIDS Parma, one of Italy’s leading events dedicated to technologies for powders, granules and bulk materials processing.
During the panel discussion, our coordinator Manuel Catalano shared the vision behind the project, highlighting how robotics and Artificial Intelligence can address one of the most complex challenges in recycling: the handling and disassembly of soft and flexible materials. From textiles to electrical cables and fuel cell components, these materials are still difficult to process efficiently due to their variability and deformability.
The discussion focused on how advanced robotic systems, combined with AI-driven perception and control, can enable safer, more efficient, and scalable recycling processes. Bringing automation into these sectors not only reduces manual and potentially hazardous operations, but also improves material recovery and supports the transition toward a more circular industrial model.
SOLIDS Parma provided a valuable opportunity to connect with industry professionals, technology providers, and researchers, fostering dialogue on how innovation can move from research laboratories to real industrial applications. Events like this are essential to bridge the gap between technological development and market needs, strengthening collaboration across the recycling and manufacturing ecosystem.