Jul 02, 2026
Excursion to the Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden
On 2 July 2026, students from the course “Timber and Polymer Structures” visited the Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden together with members of the Chair of Timber Engineering.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Axel Spickenheuer and Dr. Andrea Bercini Martins presented current research on fibre-reinforced polymer composites, load-adapted fibre configurations, and the modelling, manufacturing and experimental testing of lightweight structures. Particular attention was given to the Tailored Fiber Placement process, which enables reinforcing fibres to be positioned according to the structural demands of a component.
During the subsequent laboratory tour, the students gained insights into the institute’s technical facilities, manufacturing processes and testing methods. The excursion demonstrated the close connection between material development, numerical simulation and experimental testing and highlighted the potential of fibre-reinforced composites for lightweight and high-performance structures.
We thank Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christina Scheffler, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Axel Spickenheuer, Dr. Andrea Bercini Martins and the IPF team for the informative presentations, the laboratory tour and the valuable technical exchange.
