Research

Atomic mass and charge transport at high temperatures

The functional principles and stability of materials for sensors, fuel cells, lithium-ion batteries etc. are of particular interest. The investigations relate to all system components relevant to high temperatures. In the case of sensors, for example, sensor layers, electrodes and transducers are included. Standard characterization methods include impedance spectroscopy, network analysis, IR spectroscopy and secondary ion mass spectrometry.

System approaches and miniaturization

In addition to the fundamental investigation of atomic transport processes, interactions between the system components are also considered, as function and stability are determined by interdiffusion processes, different thermal expansions, etc., particularly at high temperatures.

Development of characterization methods

The detailed characterization of transport processes and surface effects at high temperatures requires adapted methods that can be applied under real conditions. The in-situ investigation of gas sensor surfaces using conventional surface analysis methods only provides limited information, as it is generally necessary to work in a vacuum. At this point, optical near-field microscopy, for example, offers the advantage that both topographical and chemical information can be provided. Corresponding measuring systems are therefore being developed.

Functional principles for solid-state sensors

Another focus is the development of new or improved functional principles for sensors. The working group's expertise in the field of high-temperature-stable piezoelectric materials is consistently utilized. One example is new transducer structures for resonant sensors.

Application-oriented research

Application-oriented objectives include the development of gas and particle sensors, e.g. for fuel cells or for catalyst monitoring, and the miniaturization of sensors.