Sustainable technology breakthrough: Fraunhofer Research Centre RESET debuts in Dresden

The Fraunhofer Institute for Electron Beam and Plasma Technology (FEP) has unveiled its new research centre, RESsourcenschonende Energie-Technologien (RESET), in Dresden. The inauguration ceremony was attended by high-ranking guests from politics and industry, including Mayor Dirk Hilbert, State Secretary Prof. Thomas Popp, and President of the Fraunhofer Society, Holger Hanselka.

Prof. Elizabeth von Hauff, Institute Director, expressed her pleasure and pride in the expansion of the campus with state-of-the-art laboratories for biomedical applications and research in sputtering epitaxy. The new campus includes facilities for these purposes, as well as an attractive space for collaborative work for researchers.

The research centre focuses on electron beam technologies, biomedical applications, and the generation, storage, and processing of hydrogen. One of the key projects at RESET involves new processes using electron-stimulated microorganisms for metal recovery and bio-based material production.

A PV system generates electricity in the new campus, and cold energy is extracted from groundwater. The energy-efficient supply of the new campus was a priority during construction, with climate control achieved through adiabatic exhaust air humidification.

During the tour, Prof. Elizabeth von Hauff provided insights into concrete research projects. One such project is a research group dedicated to the development of magnetrons and process technologies for depositing thin layers on 200-mm silicon wafers. The resulting semiconductors from this process can later be used in light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or power electronics.

RESET aims to set new standards in sustainable research, including the recovery of metals through biomineralization and the production of bio-based materials. The new campus of RESET features pioneering green innovation, demonstrating the institute's commitment to a sustainable future.

Holger Hanselka, the president of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, which operates the research centre, expressed his enthusiasm for the new facility. He noted that RESET will play a crucial role in advancing sustainable energy technologies and contributing to a greener future.

Sustainable technology breakthrough: Fraunhofer Research Centre RESET debuts in Dresden