The growing demand for high-performance materials in aeronautics, space, transport, energy, and security is closely tied to some of the most pressing global challenges. Geopolitical conflicts highlight the need for production sovereignty to prevent resource scarcity from disrupting manufacturing capacity and driving up costs across the value chain. At the same time, supply chain disruptions threaten the reliability and efficiency of product development. Climate change and rising energy prices further underscore the urgent need for environmentally friendly, circular technologies and processes.
In light of these challenges, it is essential that the development of materials and material-intensive technologies maximizes economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Our institute fully embraces this responsibility and directs a significant share of its research toward advancing sustainability—both on Earth and in space—with a strong focus on contributing to a circular economy. The following figure illustrates the breadth of our expertise in this field.
Research projects in the area of sustainability
Various ongoing research projects in sustainability—on Earth and in space—are being integrated into the new overarching research focus Sustainable Materials and Technology Solutions.
