Latest News from the Division »Processes and Materials«

Here we report on current research topics, dates, and other news directly from the departments.

Latest News and Publications

 

Research News / 02.06.2026

Accelerating the Production of Higher-Performance Batteries

The battery factory of the future operates digitally: simulations guide the development of new cells, and sensors monitor production in real time. Researchers at Fraunhofer ITWM are developing methods to virtually model manufacturing processes and measure parameters during production. The team presents its solutions for processes and batteries at Battery Show Europe 2026.

 

Press Release / 08.04.2026

Virtual Textile Processes: Fraunhofer ITWM at Techtextil 2026

At Techtextil in Frankfurt am Main, starting April 21, 2026, Fraunhofer ITWM will demonstrate how its software solutions support the textile industry with powerful simulation capabilities. The goal is to shorten development times, optimize material usage, and reliably predict the behavior of textile structures virtually. 

 

Press Release / 24.03.2026

Simulation Tool for Sustainable Plastic Surfaces

Together with Fraunhofer IMWS, we are developing a simulation tool that makes the development of functionalized, recyclable components faster, more cost-effective, and more resource-efficient. In doing so, we are contributing our expertise in cross-scale simulation software.

 

Short News / 10.02.2026

Notification of Decision on Project »Future«

How can production processes become more flexible, efficient, and sustainable, especially for medium-sized industrial companies? This is precisely what we are working on in the »Future« project together with Fraunhofer IMM. The project specifically strengthens medium-sized companies in the region and contributes to the establishment of Industry 4.0 in chemistry, biotechnology, and energy in Rhineland-Palatinate.

 

Press Release / 29.10.2025

Kickoff for EU Project »STELLAR«

Efficient battery technologies are crucial for achieving national and European climate targets.

In the EU-funded project »STELLAR«, we are working together with 16 European partners to develop a cost-effective test facility for the safe and sustainable production of lithium metal anode foils.

 

New Project / 26.09.2025

Simulation Sheet Molding Compounds

More stable, lighter, more efficient – the quality of the component is determined during the pressing process. With fiber-reinforced plastics such as SMC, fiber orientation is crucial. Our new simulation technology predicts this precisely and with CT analyses and material optimization, creates the basis for lightweight, robust and resource-saving components.

Fairs and Events

 

Hamburg / Fair / 01.09. – 04.09.2026

SMM 2026

The »Shipbuilding, Machinery and Marine Technology« is the leading trade fair for the maritime industry. Experts from the »Materials Characterization and Testing« department present terahertz measurement technology for the non-destructive testing of composites. Experts from the »Grid-Free Methods« department present the »MESHFREE« simulation software, which works without a rigid computing grid and is also suitable for maritime applications.

 

Skukuza, South Africa / Conference / 19.07.2026 – 22.07.2026

ICM2TS

The »International Conference on Mobile and Miniaturized Terahertz Systems« (ICM2TS) is an international scientific conference focused on the development and application of compact, mobile terahertz systems. Our expert Dr. Maris Bauer from the »Material Characterization and Testing« department gives a presentation entitled »Mobile Terahertz FMCW Systems for the Inspection of Glass Fiber-reinforced Composites and Paint Layers«.

 

Duisburg , Germany / Summer School / 12.07.2026 – 17.07.2026

ITSS-TSaT 2026

The International Traveling Summer School on Terahertz Sciences and Technology is an international summer school on terahertz science and technology that brings together early-career researchers, students, as well as experts from academia and industry.

Our expert Dr. Maris Bauer from the department »Material Characterization and Testing« will give an on-site talk on the topic »Industrial Applications of THz«.

 

Cologne / Conference / 30.06.2026 – 02.07.2026

FILTECH 2026

FILTECH 2026 is an international platform for the filtration industry, showcasing the latest developments in filtration and separation.

Our experts, Dr. Ralf Kirsch and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christian Mercier from the division »Processes and Materials«, are on site with specialist presentations and a booth. The focus is on simulation-based approaches for optimizing filter media and manufacturing processes.

 

Digital / Workshop / 16.06. – 17.06.2026

MESHFREE-Course for Advanced Users

MESHFREE enables the efficient simulation of complex flow scenarios involving moving geometries and free surfaces.

In this course, participants learn how to analyze water movements around vehicles as they cross bodies of water or under rainy conditions.

 

Verona, Italy / Conference / 15.06.2026 – 19.06.2026

ECNDT 2026

ECNDT is an international conference on non-destructive testing that brings together experts from science and industry and is accompanied by a trade exhibition.

Our experts Dr. Joachim Jonuscheidt, Dr. Shiva Mohammadzadeh and Raphael Hussung are there with an exhibit on terahertz and millimeter measurement systems for non-destructive testing, as well as two presentations on terahertz measurement methods.

Job Openings

Research Workers

We are always looking for research assistants with a doctorate in mathematics, physics, computer science, or related fields. Applicants are expected to have a fundamental knowledge of one or more of our main areas of research.

Applications should include a resume, relevant certificates and publications, references, and a brief description of your own areas of expertise and professional goals. Practical and project experience, especially in cooperation with industry partners, is an advantage.

Research Assistants

We are regularly looking for committed student assistants to support us with organizational, conceptual, or research-related tasks. The activities are based on current projects and provide practical insight into how we work. Remuneration is in accordance with TVöD (German public sector pay scale).
 

Master's students

Do you have your own idea for a thesis? That is also possible with us. Send us your topic proposal in a speculative application so that we can assess whether it matches our core competencies.

Doctoral Candidates

We offer the opportunity to pursue a doctorate in various scientific fields of application. The specific research questions are based on our current projects and areas of focus and will be developed further together with you.