Magazine

PROJECT “BioRUHM”: REACTIVE URETHANE-FREE HOTMELT ADHESIVE | Reactive hot-melt adhesives (RHM) based on isocyanate are increasingly being used due to their exceptional properties, from packaging to automotive construction and technical textiles. However, the composition of these urethane-based adhesives also involves risks, e.g. the release of hazardous isocyanate. In the “BioRUHM” project, Fraunhofer IFAM is working with project partners to develop a urethane-free concept.

EUROPEAN BATTERY BUSINESS CLUB: Fraunhofer IFAM is combining its many years of experience in battery research and development as well as in vocational training in the online course ‘European Battery Business Club (EBBC)’, which provides comprehensive knowledge about the entire battery value chain. With innovative micro-learning elements, the e-learning programme guarantees self-directed learning.

INTELLIGENT POLYMER NETWORKS ENABLE RESHAPING, RECYCLING AND BIODEGRADATION OF MATERIALS | Polymeric materials can be used in many ways and are characterized by their lightweight and mechanical properties. To increase the lightweight potential, plastics are reinforced with fibers to form fiber composites. However, due to consumer pressure and regulations, companies are increasingly looking for environmentally friendly and recyclable material substitutes for conventional polymeric materials and composites. For several years, Fraunhofer IFAM has been researching switchable thermosetting materials as a promising alternative.

PFAS-FREE ALTERNATIVES IN THE EVENT OF A PFAS BAN IN THE EU | The EU-wide ban on perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds (PFAS for short) planned by the ECHA is currently causing a great deal of concern among many companies. PFAS are characterized by outstanding technical properties and are therefore used in a wide variety of industries. However, it is now known that the chemicals accumulate in humans and the environment and have negative effects on ecosystems and health. Due to the impending ban on PFAS, alternatives with comparable properties are in demand. Fraunhofer IFAM has been working on the development of fluorine-free coatings for many years and offers sustainable solutions for anti-stick, anti-friction, and hydrophobic coatings.

Efficient assembly of large structures: New approaches through automation and digitalization in joining processes

TECHNOLOGIES FOR TRANSPORT AND STORAGE OF HYDROGEN | As a versatile energy carrier, hydrogen will play a key role in the long-term success of the energy transition. Fraunhofer IFAM is working with project partners in the flagship hydrogen project TransHyDE to further develop and test technologies for the transport and storage of hydrogen. LOHC technology (liquid organic hydrogen carrier) plays an important role in this.

AI-CONTROLLED PROCESS MONITORING IN SURFACE PRETREATMENT WITH PLASMA AND LASER TECHNOLOGY | Pretreatment with plasma technology and decoating with laser techniques are precision processes for preparing component surfaces for further processing in the process chain, e.g. for bonding or painting. The slightest fluctuations in process parameters or starting materials can have serious consequences, even leading to component failure. Surface pretreatment processes must therefore be extremely controlled. To counteract process fluctuations, IFAM is researching into making these processes self-adjusting using optical and acoustic monitoring methods in combination with artificial intelligence (AI) and thus making them safer.

THE USE OF LASER AND PLASMA TECHNOLOGY FOR BIOTRANSFORMED SURFACES | Laser and plasma techniques are well researched processes that find wide application in industrial surface treatment in order to clean surfaces or to selectively provide them with properties and functions. These techniques can also be used to engage a biological transformation of production processes and manufacturing methods. In concrete terms, this means that living systems are integrated into technical systems in order to optimize them, equip them with new functions, and make them more stable in the long term. At Fraunhofer IFAM, research is currently being carried out in various areas into how laser and plasma technologies enable and promote the integration of organisms on surfaces.

COUNTERING DIFFUSION AND EMBRITTLEMENT IN THE STORAGE AND TRANSPORT OF HYDROGEN | Green hydrogen will play a decisive role in a successful energy transition. The development of new hydrogen technologies requires techniques and processes that enable the safe production, storage, distribution and use of hydrogen. Central material science challenges are the diffusion of hydrogen and the associated embrittlement of used material. The "Plasma Technology and Surfaces" department at Fraunhofer IFAM is researching how surfaces can be protected against this diffusion and embrittlement by treatment with plasmas or lasers. The focus is on internal coatings for tanks and pipes, but possible applications for electrolysers, bipolar plates, and fuel cells are also being investigated.

ARC-PROOF DC CONNECTOR SYSTEMS FOR HIGH-VOLTAGE APPLICATIONS IN BUILDINGS | In a world where practically all consumers require direct current (DC), DC networks offer immense advantages. Modern semiconductor technologies enable safe utilization, which is accompanied by the advantages of increased efficiency at lower costs. Fraunhofer IFAM has developed a concept for a very compact plug-in system that can transmit high DC power and ensure the required safety through the use of electronics and software.