Advanced Engineering Materials

This programme develops novel metallic and functional polymer-based materials for lightweight construction in transport and energy technology, for chemical process engineering, for future hydrogen technology and for medical technology. Helmholtz scientists collaborate with national and international partners from science and industry on issues associated with alloy and polymer development and processing, as well as the development and testing of components and processes. The functionalisation of magnesium and titanium alloys for the application in biocompatible implants constitutes a new focal point.

Research is conducted on material characterisation and simulation techniques from the materials microstructure to the level of complex components. This delivers the theoretical foundations for optimising materials processing and for evaluating the of innovative lightweight structures. Building on the Helmholtz Initiative FuncHy, work is conducted in collaboration with the research field Energy on functional materials for the storage of hydrogen in tank systems based on lightweight metal hydrides. The results will then be used, for example, for energy storage by hydrogen in wind power stations or for solar energy, as well as for mobile tank systems in vehicles.