On April 3, 2025, the Chair of Materials Engineering opened its laboratories to seven curious schoolgirls for the nationwide Girls' Day. Under the motto “Off to the lab: become a materials researcher for a day!”, the participants were allowed to get hands-on: They made their own samples from simple butter knives and then examined them under the microscope. The workshop not only offered the girls exciting insights into the world of materials science and materials technology, but also made scientific work tangible and accessible.
By participating in the nationwide campaign, the LWT aims to encourage young women to discover scientific and technical careers for themselves. The Chair of Materials Engineering is delighted with the high level of interest - and looks forward to many more inspiring encounters with the young STEM talents of tomorrow.
From April 6 to 10, 2025, the LWT participated in the 14th International Conference on Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP2025) in Aachen. Our team members Lisa Hecker, Stefan Müller, and Louis Becker presented current research on topics such as thermochemical heat treatment using HIP, pressure-assisted hardening of high-speed steel (HSS), and the production of high-nitrogen steels via HIP. A special highlight was the venue: the conference took place at the Tivoli Stadium, home of the football club Alemannia Aachen, offering a unique setting for scientific exchange. In addition to engaging technical presentations, HIP2025 provided an excellent platform for networking with international experts from both academia and industry. We thank the organizers for a well-rounded and inspiring event.
Our employees Felix Großwendt and Ulf Ziesing represented the LWT from March 24 to 26 at Tooling 2025, a conference that takes place every three years. This year, the conference was held in Trento, Italy. The thematic focus was on sustainability in toolmaking. In two presentations, the LWT presented current research results from the field of additive manufacturing of tools for hot work, which contribute to reducing the need for resources in toolmaking. In addition, the journey was made by train, which reduced CO₂ emissions by approx. 85% compared to travelling by plane and by approx. 80% compared to travelling by car (calculated using the CO₂ calculator for cars, planes and co. from Quarks).
The 59th Metallography Conference will take place from October 8 to 10, 2025 in Bochum. The hybrid event concept makes it possible to participate in presence and via live stream or to access individual contributions on-demand afterwards. The organizers invite the submission of contributions (presentations and posters) by 31.03.2025. Young scientists in particular are encouraged to contribute to the conference.
A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES
A virtual tour through the different laboratories and rooms of our chair as well as the associated halls and the equipment located there can be found here.
FUTURE-ORIENTED RESEARCH
The research focus of our chair lies in the new and further development of metallic materials with the inclusion of the relevant processes.
SUSTAINABLE AND INNOVATIVE
Our concept is characterized by innovative research under the responsibility for sustainable development and responsible use of energy and resources.
INNOVATIVE COOPERATION
The LWT is staffed by a diverse team of PostDocs, PhD students and student employees, supported by technical and administrative staff.