Willingmann: Excellent networking of science and industry

30 years of the Fraunhofer Institute in Halle

 

For 30 years, employees of the Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS in Halle (Saale) have been conducting research in the fields of microstructure diagnostics and design and microstructure-based technology development. On its 30th anniversary, Professor Armin Willingmann, Minister of Science, recognized the institute's achievements.

What began in Halle (Saale) 30 years ago with fewer than 20 employees as a branch of the Freiburg-based Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM and in 2016 became the independent Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS is now a renowned research institution with four locations and more than 350 employees. 

The expertise of the Fraunhofer IMWS is playing a decisive role in shaping the future of sustainability, the circular economy and climate action. From versatile bio-based and biodegradable plastics, high-performance lightweight materials in large-scale production, reliable solar modules for extreme climatic conditions and green hydrogen for the low-emission production of basic chemicals and fuels through to defect-free electronic components for the mobility solutions of the future, the Fraunhofer IMWS is a reliable partner of industry and of society which is in great demand.

"As a driver of innovation, the Fraunhofer IMWS has had a lasting impact on the economic growth of Saxony-Anhalt and continues to do so. With its applied research, often carried out in cooperation with small and medium-sized enterprises from the region, the institute has made an important contribution over recent decades to the technological development of solutions to the key questions of the future. Given the major challenges that will face us over the years to come, I am convinced that the institute under its new management team, whose members have international experience, will continue to play an equally important role in shaping the growth of the region. The IMWS is a shining example of excellent networking between science and industry," emphasized Professor Willingmann.

Professor Reimund Neugebauer, President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, said: "With its focus on materials science and engineering, the Fraunhofer IMWS is an established and valued partner in the ongoing development of many strategically important industries, such as photovoltaics, energy technology, automotive manufacturing and chemicals. By developing solutions to increase material efficiency and cost-effectiveness and to conserve resources, Fraunhofer researchers from Halle are making a significant contribution to answering the key questions of the future. By means of industry-oriented research and development activities and the successful transfer of knowledge and technology, the institute helps to increase the competitiveness and innovative ability of local companies, promotes the diversification of the economy and the establishment of sustainable value chains in the region and, as a result, plays an important role in ensuring the success of the structural transformation of Saxony-Anhalt."

Source: mwu.sachsen-anhalt.de