Fraunhofer Group for Materials and Components - Materials

Green hydrogen is considered one of the key building blocks for the decarbonization of industry and the energy supply. At the same time, there remains a significant gap between political expectations and technical reality. Where do we stand today – and what is realistic by 2030?

Researchers at the Fraunhofer WKI, in collaboration with industrial partners, have developed a highly fire-retardant drywall system made from wood with a fire-resistance rating of at least 60 minutes. Featuring a non-combustible plywood panel as cladding, the system fulfils increased fire-protection requirements in buildings.

Plasmatreat GmbH and the Fraunhofer IFAM are expanding their collaboration specifically in the field of environmentally friendly coating technologies. The focus is on technology transfer and the rapid industrial implementation of the PFAS-free low-pressure plasma coating systems PLASLON^® and UltraPLAS^®

Fraunhofer IZFP to present its award-winning “AloX” measurement system at SENSOR+TEST 2026 (Nuremberg Exhibition Center, 1-317/Hall 1).

Vehicles that generate their own solar power could make a significant contribution to the decarbonization of the transportation sector. Findings from the European research project SolarMoves suggest that so-called Vehicle Integrated Photovoltaics (VIPV)—solar modules integrated into vehicles—can significantly reduce electricity demand and the strain on the power grid. 

As electric mobility grows, so does the number of batteries reaching the end of their first life cycle. But what happens to them? The »RoB@t2Cell« research project is developing pioneering, automated solutions by the end of 2028 to either prepare old batteries for a second life or recycle them highly efficiently.

Green hydrogen is a key area of opportunity in the energy transition. However, the use of pipelines to transport this energy source is associated with a degree of risk. Research scientists at the Fraunhofer EMI, are developing a hydraulic simulation tool to assist with the planning of a resilient hydrogen infrastructure designed to safeguard energy supply.