Structure Analysis brings together complementary expertise in the formation, characterization, and understanding of complex materials. Combining advanced microscopy, spectroscopy, and analytical techniques with investigations of phase formation and non-equilibrium processes, the research provides insight into the relationships between processing, structure, and material properties across multiple length scales.
Tel.: +49 (351) 4659 298
Fax: +49 (351) 4659 9298
E-Mail: T.Gemming(at)ifw-dresden.de
Postal Delivery:
Dr. T. Gemming, IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstr. 20, 01069 DRESDEN, GERMANY
Tel.: +49 351 4659 252
Fax:
E-Mail: i.kaban(@t)ifw-dresden.de
Postal Delivery:
Dr. I. Kaban, IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstr. 20, 01069 DRESDEN, GERMANY
materials form ➤ phases develop ➤ structures emerge ➤ we analyze them ➤ we understand their properties ➤ they enable applications.
That narrative is intuitive and aligns with the scientific workflow represented by the two research groups:
In our department, micro- and nanostructured materials and devices are investigated. This ranges from the basic interaction of Fe with C, the deposition of metals films by various methods up to functional devices and applications based on surface acoustic wave (SAW) technology.
Our group is concerned mainly with structure and phase formation in non-equilibrium materials. Particular interests are in solidification of undercooled liquids, crystallization of metallic glasses, short-range atomic order and dynamics in liquid and amorphous metals, solid/liquid interfaces, and heterogeneous nucleation.
Dr. Gemming
We investigate the structural organization of materials across micro- and nanometer length scales. Understanding these architectures provides key insights into material properties, performance, and functionality.
Dr. Gemming
State-of-the-art characterization techniques enable the investigation of crystal structures, chemical composition, interfaces, and defects with high spatial resolution. Combining complementary methods provides a comprehensive understanding of complex materials systems.
Dr. Gemming
Advanced materials are essential for next-generation electronic devices and integrated systems. Our research explores the structural and functional properties of materials used in microelectronics, from thin films to nanoscale device architectures.
Dr. Gemming
Dr. Kaban
Material performance is determined by the interplay between composition, structure, processing, and functionality. By linking structural characteristics to physical properties, we provide the scientific foundation for designing advanced materials with tailored performance.
Dr. Kaban
The formation of materials during solidification determines their microstructure and ultimately their properties. We investigate the physical mechanisms governing nucleation, crystal growth, and structure formation in metallic systems.
Dr. Kaban
Liquid metals and metallic glasses exhibit unique structural and thermodynamic properties that differ fundamentally from crystalline materials. Our research explores their atomic structure, stability, and transformation pathways.
Dr. Kaban
Interfaces play a crucial role in controlling phase transformations and material formation. We study nucleation processes and solid–liquid interfaces to understand how new phases emerge and evolve.
Dr. Kaban
The formation of stable and metastable phases governs the structure and performance of advanced materials. Our research investigates crystallization pathways and phase transformations to reveal the mechanisms behind material evolution.
Structure Analysis ➤ Understanding Material Structure (Thomas Gemming) ➤ Understanding Materials Formation (Ivan Kaban) = Designing Better Materials
The properties of advanced materials are fundamentally determined by their internal structure. Defects, interfaces, grain boundaries, phase distributions, and atomic arrangements influence electrical, magnetic, mechanical, and functional properties. Understanding these structural features is therefore essential for developing innovative materials with tailored performance.
The Structure Analysis group at IFW Dresden investigates the relationship between material structure and material properties using advanced characterization techniques. By analyzing materials across different length scales — from atomic arrangements to microstructural features — we reveal the mechanisms that control material formation, transformation, and functionality.
Our research focuses on the detailed characterization of modern materials systems, including functional materials, electronic materials, energy-related materials, and complex compounds. We combine complementary analytical approaches to study crystal structures, chemical compositions, defects, interfaces, and phase transformations. These insights provide a deeper understanding of how synthesis conditions and processing routes influence the final properties of materials.
Advanced structure analysis plays a crucial role in materials development. By identifying the connection between processing, structure, and performance, our work supports the design of materials with improved efficiency, stability, and functionality for future technologies.
From atomic-scale investigations to large-scale material optimization, structure analysis provides the foundation for transforming scientific understanding into technological solutions.
Our research projects explore the fundamental mechanisms that govern the formation, structure, and properties of advanced materials. From collaborative international initiatives to application-driven research, our projects bridge fundamental materials science with technological innovation.
Equipment & Facilities
from Micro/Nano Structures
Devices and Techniques
from Solidification Processes
Methods
from Micro/Nano Structures
The foundation of discovery that enables our materials research.
Our interdisciplinary team brings together expertise in materials science, physics, chemistry, and advanced characterization. Researchers, technical staff, and students work collaboratively to advance the understanding and development of functional materials.
Our publications showcase the latest scientific findings from the Structure Analysis research area. Explore peer-reviewed journal articles, conference contributions, and collaborative publications covering advanced materials characterization, solidification, microstructures, and functional materials.
at the Technische Universität Dresden on 7th January 2026!
Thesis title: “Solidification behaviour and phase transformations in multiphase high-entropy alloys studied by using high-speed video and synchrotron X-ray diffraction” Supervisors: Dr. Ivan Kaban (IFW Dresden) & Prof. Dr. Kornelius Nielsch (IFW Dresden & TU Dresden)
at the Technische Universität Dresden on 21 December 2023!
Thesis title: “In situ studies of phase transitions in rapidly annealed metallic glasses and properties of obtained composites using ultrafast experimental techniques”
Supervisors: Dr. Ivan Kaban (IFW Dresden) & Prof. Dr. Kornelius Nielsch (IFW Dresden & TU Dresden)
at the Technische Universität Dresden on 12 January 2022!
Thesis title: “Non-equilibrium solidification of high-entropy alloys monitored in situ by X-ray diffraction and high-speed video”
Supervisors: Dr. Ivan Kaban & Prof. Dr. Kornelius Nielsch (IFW Dresden & TU Dresden)
