Fraunhofer-Institut für Mikrostruktur von Werkstoffen und Systemen IMWS
About us
The Fraunhofer IMWS addresses all questions that concern the smallest dimensions - with microstructure-based diagnostics and technology development for innovative materials, components and systems.
We develop solutions for functionality, operational behavior as well as reliability, safety, service life, sustainability and accelerated development of materials.
We increase the material efficiency and cost-effectiveness of materials and systems and thus help to conserve resources.
We research and develop sustainable solutions in the field of plastics technology, taking into account the connections between design, process, structure and material properties in response to ecological, social and market challenges.
Products & services
Application-specific UD tapes
We are the contact for the development, pilot-scale production and further processing of UD tapes as well as their evaluation.
Sustainable thermoplastic compounds
Sustainable thermoplastic compounds are application-specific mixtures of thermoplastics and fillers or reinforcing materials and have an improved ecological balance compared to conventional polymer materials with comparable processing and usage properties. They are based on polymers, fillers and reinforcing materials made from renewable raw materials, with biodegradability or with recycling/recyclability. The main added value of a sustainable thermoplastic compound compared to conventional polymer materials can be the improved ecological balance through the use of renewable raw materials or the recyclability and the reduction or avoidance of microplastics through biodegradability. These added values justify the usually higher material costs.
Composite sandwich structures
We deal with the design and evaluation of composite sandwich structures in a wide variety of applications as well as the development of series-suitable processes for the industrial processing of thermoplastic composite sandwich structures.
Sustainable rubber compounds
The combination of natural or synthetic rubber with additives such as fillers, plasticizers or vulcanizing agents enables very versatile material properties and thus the use of rubber compounds for the production of tires, seals or hoses, for example. The goal is always to maintain and improve the unique properties of rubber compounds, such as elasticity, abrasion resistance, temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and the possibility of processing by injection molding, extrusion, or vulcanization, even when using sustainable raw materials. Crucial to this is a precise understanding of the interplay between the manufacturing process, material structure, and material properties. For example, the use of innovative image analysis methods enables a comprehensive evaluation of the multiscale filler dispersion in rubber compounds. The institute also possesses outstanding expertise in quantifying strain-induced crystallization and permeation properties of rubbers and rubber compounds. With these competencies, technical equipment up to pilot plant scale, and the use of digital methods, customized solutions for industrial applications become possible.
News
Fraunhofer IMWS among the most innovative companies in Germany
For the sixth time in a row, the Fraunhofer IMWS in Halle (Saale) has made it onto the list of Germany's most innovative companies compiled by the market research service provider Statista and the business magazine "Capital".
Economical and sustainable solutions for plastics technology
Consideration of the entire value chain from the microstructure of the material to the custom-made component