New materials

Many universities, universities of applied sciences and non-university research institutions in Bavaria maintain institutes, faculties, chairs and research groups in material sciences. Research is conducted on a wide range of materials. For example, the Institutes of Material Sciences at the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg work on semiconductors, metals, polymers, ceramics, glass and composite materials, while the Bavarian Center for Applied Energy Research works on materials for photovoltaics, heat insulation and heat transfer.
Bavarian research into new materials includes the entire spectrum of this field of research. Its focuses include nano and bio-materials, construction materials, electrical engineering and electronics. At the same time, Bavaria's research structures are also important structures for training specialist staff in the sector. The training of specialist staff in the new materials field is based both on the many options for university education relevant to the sector and to the dual educational structures used to qualify young engineers. These two pillars ensure that there are plenty of qualified specialist staff in new materials.

The Bavarian “New Materials” cluster offers Bavarian companies many attractive services that help them reach success in their business fields. This gives companies quick and practical access to research, trends and markets. They can build on more competitive strength through joining forces with other companies affiliated to the cluster, making a transparent presentation of expertise and offers possible. Together with its stakeholders, partners and advisory board, the cluster analyses technology trends and increases the potential for innovation in materials and processes. Stakeholders are also supported in finding partners for new product and project approaches. The cluster provides important inspiration for new ideas, closes gaps in value chains and establishes the necessary regional, national and international networks. The cluster works in seven topic areas:

• Lightweight metallic materials
• Fibre composites
• Polymer properties and processing
• Materials for large-scale processable electronics
• Technical ceramics and glasses
• Functionalized surfaces
• Technical textiles

In addition to the “New Materials” cluster, there are other networks throughout Bavaria such as the Kompetenzzentrum Neue Materialien in Northern Bavaria (competence center for new materials) with locations in Bayreuth and Fürth as well as the leading-edge cluster MAI Carbon with a total of almost 70 partners. Various regional networks with more narrowly defined topics such as the Kunststoff-Netzwerk Franken e.V. (Franconian Plastics Network), the Lightweight Construction Cluster in Landshut as well as the Augsburg Carbon Composites e.V. (CCeV) ensure that new companies in the field of “new materials” can also get a good start to success in Bavaria.

The use of new materials has long played a crucial role as a cross-sectional technology not only in the economy but also in social life. Bavaria has been promoting the development of new materials for more than 30 years and occupies a top international position today with its materials expertise. Start-ups are playing a key role in this development with their materials innovations and their knowledge and technology transfer from research to practice, and are also providing important stimulus for established companies.

Start-ups benefit from the Bavarian funding programs both for the establishment of the business and for technology-focused research and development projects. The experts at Bayern Innovativ advise companies on Bavarian funding programs and are also sponsors of some technology funding programs themselves.

Are you interested in Bavaria as a business location for your company or start-up in the field of new materials? We will be happy to support you throughout the entire establishment process from planning to the search for a location, formalities and visa issues. Even once you have established yourself in Bavaria, we will put you in touch with networks, associations and clusters. Simply get in contact with us – the international team at Invest in Bavaria is looking forward to hearing from you.