Fraunhofer Institute for
Applied Polymer Research IAP
Fraunhofer Institute for
Applied Polymer Research IAP

Our guiding principles

We are innovation leaders for a sustainable future

At Fraunhofer IAP, we are tackling the challenges of resource efficiency and circular economy as well as improving health and quality of life. Our innovations are the key to the global transformation towards a sustainable society.

We develop forward-looking solutions along the polymer value chain to enable our customers to make the transition to a sustainable economy, strengthen their competitiveness and tap into new markets.

Our ideas and concepts emerge from open, constructive dialog. We create a creative and appreciative environment in which all employees can develop professionally and personally.

Focus on the future at Fraunhofer IAP

We make materials fit for the future

Together, we develop technologies to make products and manufacturing processes more sustainable. We are working on pioneering solutions for society and industry in seven research divisions. We take a holistic approach, linking extensive expertise in polymer research with knowledge from engineering, materials technology, nano- and biotechnology. This enables us to effectively address the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Some examples: Our lightweight construction solutions help to save energy and raw materials, with fluorine-free materials we offer alternatives to environmentally harmful PFAS-containing products and our pilot plants enable the transition of sustainable products and processes from the laboratory to an industrial scale.

Many more research findings can be read in our annual reports. And in the “Focus Future” series, you can learn how the research scientists at Fraunhofer IAP are shaping the future sustainably with innovative developments. For the 30th anniversary of the institute in 2022, they provided insights into their work and answered the question: "What will the next 30 years bring?"

Become part of our vision for the future. You can find more information about opportunities for collaboration here.

Our themes

Expand all Close all

Sustainable raw materials: the key to a circular economy

We tap sustainable raw materials and enable a circular economy to reduce dependency on fossil energy sources.

Biopolymers made from renewable raw materials such as cellulose, starch, lignin or proteins are a focus of our materials research. They open up new approaches to the circular economy.

With our expertise in the modification and optimization of biopolymers and their industrial production, we create the basis for sustainable products

 

Bioeconomy and sustainability – our offers

Paving the way for renewable energies and more efficient mobility

The integration of innovative materials into components and products is a key to the energy transition and the evolution of new mobility concepts.

Intelligent insulating materials and glazing reduce the energy requirements of buildings. Novel fiber composites for wind power, hydrogen storage and vehicle construction open up new options for energy generation and more efficient mobility. New catalysts and membranes for fuel cells enable hydrogen as a climate-neutral energy source. We develop essential components for the solutions of the future.

 

Energy Transition and Mobility – our Offers

Polymer research, biotechnology and nanotechnology for a better quality of life

From eye to tooth: For new active ingredients, products and processes for medicine, medical technology and cosmetics, we offer customized solutions from a single source.

Based on new types of nanomaterials and biomolecules, we develop, for example, biosensors, diagnostic procedures and therapies. We also address new approaches to control pathogens on surfaces and in air filters.

Our interdisciplinary approach combines polymer research, biotechnology and nanotechnology for an improved quality of life.

 

HEALTh and quality of life – our OFFERS  

From innovative materials to market-relevant prototypes

Your competent partner along the value chain: from innovative materials to market-relevant prototypes.

We develop and optimize the scale-up of the synthesis of polymers to ton scale. At locations in Brandenburg, we produce high-performance fibers and plastics as well as biomolecules and biopolymers on a pilot plant scale.

We offer customized solutions and provide sample quantities as well as quality tests according to applicable industry standards.

 

industry and technology – our offers