Metallic glasses are an innovative class of materials that have been extensively studied since the late 1980s. Unlike conventional metal alloys, they are characterized by their amorphous, disordered atomic structure, which resembles glass rather than crystalline metals. This structure gives them an exceptional combination of properties: high hardness, elasticity, and resistance to wear and corrosion.
Due to these unique material properties, metallic glasses offer a wide range of applications, from wear-resistant tools and durable components for precision mechanics to scratch-resistant jewelry, sporting goods, and advanced biomedical implants. Another significant advantage is the precise and efficient production of components with near-net-shape contours.
Although there is strong interest from industry, research continues to face challenges in optimizing cost-effective and reliable manufacturing processes to fully unlock the potential of this material.
The Leibniz Application Lab for Amorphous Metals serves as an interface between research and industry, with the goal of practically implementing product ideas and production technologies for the highly innovative material class of amorphous metals and ultra-high-strength steels.
The core mission of the application lab is knowledge transfer: research findings are systematically prepared to create a comprehensive service and transfer portfolio. A key element is a collection of product samples and exhibits showcased in a modern presentation space, making the available expertise and application-ready technologies tangible.
In close collaboration with companies, product samples are developed, optimized, and advanced to market maturity. Additionally, the lab offers practical training programs to convey potential applications of these novel material classes. These targeted seminars foster exchange with potential users and support businesses in integrating the new materials into their processes and products.
Through these activities, the Leibniz Application Lab makes a significant contribution to technology transfer and enhances the innovative capacity of the industry, generating measurable societal benefits.
Dr. Udo Krause
+49 (0) 351 4659 155
transfer[at]ifw-dresden.de
