| BASF AG |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Rüdiger Iden |
| Nanotechnologie ist eine echte Querschnittstechnologie - im Hinblick auf Wissenschaft und Anwendungsfelder. Die BASF erforscht die physikalischen und chemischen Eigenschaften, sowie die gezielte Herstellung von Nanopartikeln, die dann in Produkte eingebracht werden, um deren Leistungsprofil zu verbessern oder um völlig neue Eigenschaften zu erzeugen. Darüber hinaus untersucht die BASF die Erzeugung von Nanostrukturen, die zum Beispiel auf Oberflächen oder innerhalb von Materialien ebenfalls zu verbesserten oder neuen Eigenschaft führen. Ohne eine geeignete Analytik ist die Entwicklung von Nanoteilchen und -strukturen nicht denkbar. Deshalb ist die Nanoanalytik eine wichtige Triebfeder für die weitere Entwicklung der Nanotechnologie. In diesem Forschungsfeld zählt die Zentrale Forschung der BASF, speziell die Polymer Physik, zu den ersten Adressen in der Industrie. Aber auch potentielle Risiken sind für die BASF ein Forschungsthema. Deshalb erarbeiten wir in eigenen Projekten und innerhalb von nationalen und internationalen Netzwerken eine wissenschaftlich fundierte Datenbasis zur Bewertung möglicher Risiken. Offene Kommunikation und Transparenz ist uns hier ein besonderes Anliegen. Dabei suchen wir den Dialog mit allen, auch kritischen Stakeholdern. | |
| BMW Group |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Michael Kohnhäuser |
|
Als Innovationsführer beschäftigt sich die BMW Group damit, Anwendungen der Nanotechnologie für
die Automobiltechnologie nutzbar zu machen. Neben der Verbesserung von Werkstoffen hinsichtlich
Funktion und mechanischen Eigenschaften können Nanomaterialien auch den Produktionsprozess von
Bauteilen wesentlich vereinfachen. Auf der Entwicklung von selbstreinigenden Oberflächen durch Nanobeschichtungen liegt ein besonderer Forschungsschwerpunkt. In diesem Rahmen ist die BMW Group Partner des vom Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung geförderten Projektes „nanosafe“. In verschiedenen Teilprojekten wird die Anwendung von photokatalytischen Nanobeschichtungen auf Glas, Leuchten, Instrumententafeln und der lackierten Außenhaut untersucht. Diese Beschichtungen basieren auf TiO2 Nanopartikeln, die durch eine hohe photokatalytische Aktivität und hydrophile Eigenschaften eine Selbstreinigung erzielen und damit sowohl die aktive als auch die passive Sicherheit von Fahrzeugen erhöhen. |
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| DECHEMA e.V. |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Kurt Wagemann |
|
DECHEMA is a non-profitmaking utility based in Frankfurt am Main. An important task of
DECHEMA is to actively accompany the development of chemical technologies
and processes and to support the transfer into practice of the advances
gained in research and development. |
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| Degussa AG (Creavis Technologies and Innovation AG, Degussa Advanced Nanomaterials) |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Markus Pridöhl |
|
Degussa has been successful in manufacturing and marketing highly dispersed
oxides for many years. Business units, such as Aerosil &
Silanes and Fillers & Pigments, are contributing
to the company’s continuing success. Fumed silica
(AEROSIL®), titanium dioxide, aluminum oxide (AEROXIDE®), as
well as carbon black, are examples of nano-scale products
from Degussa. The special physical and chemical
properties of fumed silica enable a broad range of
functions. It can perform as a reinforcement filler in silicones
and as a thickening agent in plastics, toner and tooth
paste. Titanium dioxide is an effective
UV-B-filter in cosmetics and sun protection
formulations. Carbon black is used as a pigment in the tire industry, as
well as in printing and ink-jet applications, lacquers,
coatings and plastics. In modern printing
applications, highly dispersed fumed silica and
aluminum oxide enhance the glossiness of the paper, making glossy
ink-jet printouts clearer and more visual. |
|
| Empa |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Louis Schlapbach |
| Empa ist eine Forschungsinstitution für Materialwissenschaften und Technologie. Sie ist Teil des ETH-Bereichs und damit der Schweizer Bildungs-, Forschungs- und Innovationsszene (BFI). Sie ist spezialisiert auf anwendungsorientierte Forschung und Entwicklung und erbringt anspruchsvolle Dienstleistungen im Bereich der nachhaltigen Materialwissenschaften und Technologien. Innovative Zusammenarbeit mit Industrie und öffentlichen Institutionen, die Wahrung der Sicherheit von Mensch und Umwelt, Wissensvermehrung und Lehre auf Hochschulniveau sind zentrale Aufgaben. | |
| Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Rainer Waser |
|
Technologies for integrating electroceramic materials for microelectronics and microstructure technology, dielectric and ferro-electric properties of oxide ceramics, and the chemistry of defects in the vicinity of internal and external interfaces in oxides are researched. Both aging and fatigue play a central role in the operation of future non-volatile semi-conductor memories (Ferroelectric Random Access Memories, FeRAM). |
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| Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe GmbH |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Horst Hahn |
|
The scientific work of the nanotechnology programme at the Research Centre Karlsruhe is concentrated on three major research areas: Nanostructured materials with interface determined properties, molecular electronics and structure-property correlations in nanoscaled systems. The main aims of the research are the custom made syntheses of nano-structured materials with novel and useful properties, e.g. electrically determinable magnetic, optical or mechanical properties; and the basics and feasibility of molecular electronic components. The work involves interdisciplinary research groups of theoreticians and experimental chemists, physicists and material scientists. These research fields are supplemented by investigations of engineering results assessment and tests concerning the toxicology of nanoparticles.The acquisition of the scientific fundamentals in these branches of nanotechnology takes place with close international cooperation with leading universities and extra-university research institutions. The Forschungszentrum works alongside its industrial partners, towards the development of economically interesting applications, offering advice, further education and joint development of products. |
|
| Fraunhofer-Institut für Fertigungstechnik und Angewandte Materialforschung IFAM |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Bernd Günther |
|
The activities of IFAM in the field of nanomaterials are focused on dry and wet chemical syntheses of nanomaterials and the associated of plant and process development on kilogramme scale. Examples are nanopowders and suspensions of pure metals and alloys, magnetic fluids, polymer matrix composites with nano-particulate or nano-porous metals, and nano-scale carbon modifications, including nanocrystalline diamond layers. |
|
| Fraunhofer-Institut für Keramische Technologien und Systeme IKTS |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Tassilo Moritz |
|
The expertise of IKTS, in its materials research of submicro- and nanotechnologies, encompasses the fields of ceramics (oxide and nitride ceramics) and hard metals, and in its methodology research the production and conditioning of powder (nano-Si-C-N powder, nano-WC, nano-TiN/TiC, sol-gel process), powder analysis (grain size, agglomeration, X-ray structure), powder preparation (passivation, de-agglomeration), powder processing (granulation, shaping, sintering under vacuum and pressure), and the characterization of nanostructured materials (grain size distribution) by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution SEM, pore size distribution by electron optical techniques, and gas adsorption. An extensive background of experience has been accumulated in processing extremely fine ceramic powders and tungsten carbide powders into high-density sintered bodies of high hardness and/or wear resistance. |
|
| Fraunhofer-Institut für Silicatforschung ISC |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Karl-Heinz Haas |
|
For more than 25 years the ISC has been researching and developing new materials. Their speciality is the Sol-Gel process for the production of nanoscale materials. In the field of nanotechnology, ISC shows expertise in the following areas: production of nanoparticles for use in catalysis, electrorheology, and medical technology; production of compact materials, thin films and fibres for structural and functional applications, and production of nanoporous materials and membranes. The materials handled encompass ceramics, glass, and hybrid polymers (ORMOCER®e). |
|
| GKSS Forschungszentrum Geesthacht GmbH |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Rüdiger Bormann |
|
GKSS is active in the following areas of nano-development: nanostructured light metal hydrides for hydrogen storage; nanostructured antiwear layers, and nanostructured synthetic crystals for X-ray optics. In cooperation with the primary energy utility, Hydro-Quebec, Canada, and GfE Metalle und Materialien mbH, Nuremberg, GKSS is developing nanostructured light alloys for use in hydrogen storage in vehicle technology. A prototype hydrogen storage tank for use in a zero emission engine has been built. Sputtered nanostructured multiple layers can be produced to such a precision as to be used in X-ray mirrors. In focusing and parallel-beam optics, the layers also show a thickness gradient (nanostructured gradient materials) and are applied to curved substrates. The use of these synthetic crystals increases the useful X-ray intensity by more than a factor of 10, compared to conventional monochromators, thus opening up new areas of application in trace analysis. |
|
| Hochdruck Forschungszentrum Warschau |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Witold Lojkowski |
|
The High Pressure Research Centre (HPRC) of the Polish Academy of Sciences "UNIPRESS" is one of the largest institutions in Europe employing high pressures in physics, materials sciences and biology. The equipment of the Centre allows the study of materials at pressures of up to 50 GPa and with temperatures ranging from a few K up to 2000 K, also under the influence of strong magnetic fields, laser light, or microwave radiation. Unique high pressure gas chambers suitable for pressures of up to 1.5 GPa with precise temperature control up to 2000 K are used. Recently the European Commission awarded HPRC a grant as Centre of Excellence in Central Europe. The advantages of high pressure technologies and results of basic research led to the generation of several spin off companies. Present research priorities are the development of blue-light optoelectronic devices using high pressure grown dislocation free GaN crystals, application of high pressure to the preparation of nanocrystalline materials and the study of high pressure effects on biological substances. The research on nanostructured materials is of crucial importance. Optically active nanostructures on GaN substrates are grown by MBE and MOCVD techniques. High pressures enable low temperature processing of nanostructured materials; this gives them a greater stability. For example diamond and SiC-metal nanocomposites have been developed by an innovative high pressure infiltration technique. New routes of nanopowder synthesis via microwave driven high pressure reactions are being researched. The effects of pressure on proteins, enzymes and also prions are being studied at the molecular level. |
|
| Die Hohensteiner Institute |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Jan Beringer |
|
Die Hohensteiner Institute sind ein international anerkanntes Forschungs- und Dienstleistungszentrum. Von der Kompetenz der Hohensteiner Experten auf den Gebieten der Forschung, Entwicklung, Prüfung, Beratung, Zertifizierung sowie Aus- und Weiterbildung profitieren Unternehmen und Einrichtungen entlang der textilen Kette, aber auch zahlreiche damit verbundene Bereiche. An den Hohensteiner Instituten arbeitet ein Stab hoch qualifizierter und engagierter Fachleute in modern ausgerüsteten Laboratorien an der Zukunft textiler Produkte und Dienstleistungen. Daneben lassen Hersteller, Handelsunternehmen, Importeure und Exporteure aus der ganzen Welt ihre Produkte von den Hohensteiner Spezialisten auf Qualität und Produkteigenschaften testen und bewerten. Prüfqualität, die sich für die Auftraggeber durch bessere Abverkäufe und geringere Reklamationsquoten bezahlt macht. Mit mehr als 220 Mitarbeitern sind die Hohensteiner Institute eines der größten textilen Forschungszentren weltweit. Die Institutsaktivitäten umfassen die Arbeitsbereiche: Bekleidungsphysiologie, Bekleidungstechnik, Warenprüfung/Textilökologie, Consumer Tests, Textilveredlung, Farbmessung, UV-Schutz, Umweltanalytik, Medizintextilien und Schutzbekleidung, Hygiene und Biotechnologie, Textilpflege sowie textile Datenkommunikation und Marketing. Einzigartig ist die enge Verzahnung unterschiedlichster Forschungsgebiete, die es erlaubt, fachspezifische Probleme interdisziplinär zu lösen. |
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| IFW: Institut für Festkörper- und Werkstoffforschung Dresden |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Ludwig Schultz |
|
The nanotechnology research activities at the IFW Dresden are based upon the research areas of magnetism and magnetic materials, conjugated carbon systems, metastable alloys, and thin film systems for electronics. The activities combine work on fundamental physical properties with the development of nanomaterials and systems. They range from theoretical and experimental research of intrinsic magnetic properties, to the preparation and characterization of hard and soft magnetic materials and to the development of materials showing the giant or the colossal magnetoresistance (GMR, CMR) effect, which will be used in spinfunctional sensors, MRAMs and spin transistors. The work on fullerenes, nanotubes, carbon nanotubes and conjugated polymers is directed at the investigation of interfaces in organic devices such as organic light emitting diodes and organic transistors. The research area of metastable alloys is focused on nanoscale materials, amorphous metals and metastable intermetallic phases, which are prepared under non-equilibrium conditions. Topics within the research area of thin film systems for electronics are the electronic structure of thin layers, the preparation of textured diamond layers, the characterisation of microacoustic transducer materials and ferroelectric thin films, and a novel technique for parallel nanolithography of metallic films. |
|
| Max-Planck-Institut für Metallforschung |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Brigitte Baretzky |
|
Expertise has been developed in the field of novel magnetic materials. The performance capacity of permanent magnetic materials based on rare earth transition metal alloys can be enhanced by the use of nanocrystalline structures. Thus, the remanence of neodymium iron boride (NdFeB) alloys can be increased by nanocrystalline composite magnets out of NdFeB and Fe nanocrystallites supplying the high polarization of soft-magnetic α-Fe to the hard magnetic NdFeB phase. Another system under investigation, of importance in technical applications at elevated temperatures, is the gas phase synthesis of nanocrystalline samarium cobalt/cobalt systems. |
|
| Merck KGaA Darmstadt |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Volker Hilarius |
|
Merck actively pursues new developments in the field of nanotechnology. Its research is aimed at markets with high growth potential and is focussed on the areas of energy and communications technologies, display technologies and polymer and material research. A range of chemical processes forms the basis for the development of inorganic and organic nanomaterials. Among them are chemical precipitation, functionalisation of multicomponent-oxide systems, high temperature spray pyrolysis, Sol-Gel processes, various polymerisation processes and methods for the production of inorganic-organic nanocomposites and hybrid materials. Monodisperse materials in the size range from 10 nm to 10μm are to be prepared and will be able to be processed into colloidal crystals for optical applications. For many years now Merck has been producing materials in the nano-range which have an important role in the global capacity increasing markets. Effect pigments on the basis of nanoscale films, nanoparticular oxide systems for engineering and cosmetic applications, materials for optical films and nanoporous systems for chemical analysis, process management and industrial separation for chemical analysis have been manufactured and form an important part of its range of products. |
|
| Munich Re |
Contact: Dr. Gerhard Schmid |
|
Munich Re stands for exceptional solution-based expertise, consistent risk management, financial stability and client proximity. This is how Munich Re creates value for clients, shareholders and staff. The Group pursues an integrated business model consisting of insurance and reinsurance. In the financial year 2009, the Group achieved a profit of €2.56bn on premium income of around €41bn. It operates in all lines of insurance, with around 47,000 employees throughout the world. Especially when clients require solutions for complex risks, Munich Re is a much sought-after risk carrier. New technologies such as nanotechnology pose a particular challenge for research, product manufacturers, consumers, legislative bodies, as well as the insurance industry. Munich Re therefore deals in depth with the risk assessment of nanotechnology. Using risk-management tools, we work on determining the weaknesses in the production process of industrial risks at an early stage and on constructively finding solutions to problems that can arise. The ultimate aim is to turn risk into value, for instance by developing risk-avoidance and risk-response strategies. Together with everyone involved, we wish to debate the issues that nanotechnology raises, especially the opportunities and the risks, in order to jointly overcome this new challenge. |
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| Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Uwe Kreibig |
|
Activities are concentrated on composite materials containing clusters as a major component. Clusters are a special class of nanostructured materials. Typical cluster sizes are in the range of 1 to 100 nm. The long-term objective is the systematic production of new combinations of materials with clusters of selected elements from the Periodic Table as well as inorganic and organic compounds and special sample topologies. Preparation is by chemical methods (from ions in aqueous or organic solutions) and physical methods (from atoms in the vapour phase). Specimen characterization is performed by TEM, EDX, and scanning probe microscopy. The electronic properties of the clusters, of the internal boundary layers, and of macroscopic specimens are examined by optical, electric, and magnetic methods. This institute has wide experience in the theory of optical cluster - matter properties. |
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| Robert Bosch GmbH |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Ulrich Eisele |
|
Globally active corporation operating in the areas of automotive technology, industrial technology and consumer goods, with a growing share in electronic and sensing components. Bosch is a manufacturer and user of materials and materials related processes. We explore nanotechnology for the improvement of existing products and to develop new uses and areas of application. Examples are gas sensors and catalysis, wear resistant coatings (CVD and wet chemistry), polymer based nanocomposits, magneto electronics, and functionalised nanostructured surfaces. These topics are addressed in a variety of projects, in part with public funding. Co-operation with research institutes, customers, and suppliers is important. |
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| SusTech GmbH & Co. KG |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Tilo Weiß |
|
The research firm SusTech Darmstadt (derived from Sustainable Technologies) is a competence centre for nanotechnology. An international team of 30 scientists is developing new materials, systems and products. The focus at SusTech Darmstadt is primarily the use of nanomaterial concepts with the aim of rapid transfer of research results into economically profitable products and processes. SusTech Darmstadt is developing future technologies with high market potential in the areas of microwave adhesives, modified surfaces and biocomposites. SusTech Darmstadt also offers nanoscale materials and dispersions e.g. ferrite and zinc oxide for a variety of applications. |
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| Technische Universität Darmstadt |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Horst Hahn |
|
Nanocrystalline ceramic powders, dense and porous solid materials with grain sizes below 100 nm, and nanocrystalline layers on various substrates are prepared by chemical gas phase synthesis. The non-agglomerated nanoparticles of oxidic and non-oxidic materials exhibit a narrow size distribution with mean diameters in the range of 3 to 10 nm. Modifications of the synthesis parameters and the reactor geometry allow controlled variation of the chemical composition and the distribution of elements in the different nanoparticles, and for doped, coated and two-phase nanoparticles to be produced. In addition to comprehensive structure characterization by scattering and microscopic techniques, the application-related mechanical, magnetic, electrical and optical properties of nanopowders, dispersions, slips and solid specimens are investigated thoroughly. Magnetic multilayers and layers of a granular structure are another area of activity with a high potential for applications in sensors and magneto-electronic components. |
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| Universität Hamburg-Harburg |
Ansprechpartner: Dr. Rüdiger Bormann |
|
Nanostructured anti-wear coatings can be produced by thermal spraying of nanocrystalline or amorphous metal-ceramic composite powders. Such powders are being developed in a joint effort with GKSS and the Universität der Bundeswehr, Hamburg. In cooperation with industry, the powders are processed by various high-speed flame spraying techniques, and their anti-wear properties characterised. |
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| Universität Bremen (IMSAS) |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Benecke |
|
The development, application, and optimization of miniaturization technologies for sensors, actuators, and systems technology in genetic engineering, medical technology, environmental measurement and automotive engineering are the main areas of activity of IMSAS. Joint developments are carried out within the Bremen Materials Sciences Research Association (MATEC) in which, inter alia, the high sintering activity of nanoporous metal layers is used for a new low-temperature connecting technique in microsystems technology, and nanoscale metal powders are employed in moulding microcomponents. |
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| Universität Duisburg-Essen, Campus Duisburg |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Heinz Fissan |
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The main aim of the work is the experimental and theoretical investigation of the synthesis of vapour phase nanoparticles and their characterisation with regards to morphology and chemical and physical properties in order to understand the relationships between structure and properties. This aim can only be achieved through interdisciplinary cooperation between the Faculties of Engineering Science (electronics and machine engineering) and Chemistry and Physics. Current investigations are concentrated on the synthesis of semiconductors- (e.g. PbS, SnO2), ceramics- (TiN, TiC), metals- (In, Ag) and magnetic nanoparticles (Fe2O3). Both technical reactors and specifically designed experimental set ups are available to the researchers. The models applied are engineering models such as the discrete sectional model, and those of molecular dynamics and the Monte-Carlo Method. Particles can be characterised with the aid of high resolution electron microscopy and surface characterisation methods of XPS and AES. Applications are expected with the utilization of quantization effects, improvement in the properties of semiconducting gas sensors, nanoparticle modified layers, and in layers with embedded nanoparticles. |
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| Universität Duisburg-Essen, Campus Essen |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Günter Schmid |
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The focus of expertise is in the synthesis and investigation of large metal clusters and colloids; this includes the elucidation of the physical properties and use in catalysis. Transition metal clusters in one, two and three-dimensional arrangements are to be studied and applied in nano-electronic and optical arrays. |
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| Universität Karlsruhe (TH) |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Gerhard Kasper |
|
Nanostructured materials and their applications, nanostructured functional elements, and scanning probe techniques for nanostructuring are strong areas of research at the University of Karlsruhe. The research activity is aimed at: Process management for precise and controlled gas phase production, on-line measurement techniques for optimisation or process monitoring, separation of particles from the gas phase by pressure-surge regenerated filters or electrostatic filters, catalysis in nanoscale systems in the gas and liquid phases, functional elements for ultrafast logics (40 GHz), very high frequency transceiver units and single-electron transistors. The DFG “Centre for Functional Nanostructures” (CFN) pursues research in the areas: nanophotonics, nanoelectronics, molecular nanostructures and nanostructured materials. |
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| Universität Konstanz |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Paul Leiderer |
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Production of lateral structures in the sub-micrometer range by new, unconventional methods: by means of masks in atomic colloid lithography, by self-organization and spontaneous structure formation in thin films, and by growth at given nucleation sites. The whole range of mechanical, electric, magnetic and optical properties of structures currently produced is of interest. |
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| Universität Stuttgart |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Claus D. Eisenbach |
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Nanocrystalline metals, alloys, intermetallic phases, composite materials, ceramics, semiconductors, and carbon nanostructures are synthesized, characterized and their new properties investigated. Of particular interest are the interface structure, voids, and atomic free volumes, diffusion processes, and magnetic properties for sensor applications. Specific studies are conducted with nuclear atomic probes, electron microscopes of atomic resolution, and tracer diffusion. |
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| Universität Ulm |
Ansprechpartner: Prof. Dr. Hans-Jörg Fecht |
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Projects in the field of nanomaterials/nanotechnologies involve the preparation and characterization of nanostructured metals and composites and the application of nanomaterials in power technology, microelectronics, and microsystems technology as well as in protective coatings resistant to corrosion and wear. Solid metallic glasses, so-called supermetals, are composites of ceramic fibres in a metallic glass matrix which, in addition to their ultraprecise mouldability, also have excellent mechanical properties and minimum specific weight. A materials database is being set up, for use in microsystems technology, so that the design of microsystems can be optimized with respect to their expected service life. Another major objective is the improvement of wear resistance and the prevention of rippling in surfaces under very high loads, such as the contact between wheels and rails in ICE high-speed trains. |
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