Session 1: Resource-efficient materials and circular economy in the construction sector

The presentations in this session offered deep insights into the role of CFRP in civil engineering and their enormous potential for innovative and sustainable construction. For example, the speakers presented practical case studies on the reinforcement of structures with carbon fiber fabrics, introduced the use of low-CO₂ carbon fibers to improve the environmental balance, and highlighted the possibilities of carbon grid reinforcements in conjunction with mineral binders, considering CO₂ reduction.

Session 2: Lightweight hydrogen storage for mobility and energy technology

Bernhard Pohl (MdL), deputy parliamentary leader of the Freie Wähler, introduced this second session and emphasized the importance of lightweight construction for Bavarian industry in his speech. He summed up how important foreign settlements – such as Kordsa – are in Bavaria.

The speakers at this session agreed that the importance of carbon fibers in the production of hydrogen tanks is undisputed. Nevertheless, some fields of research were also discussed, for example, to minimize the use of fibers, to integrate sensors or to use recycled carbon fibers. The goal is to achieve an ideal balance between material use and product performance, while taking into account the necessary safety aspects.

Session 3: Fiber-reinforced ceramics for leap innovations in the energy transition

On day two, the third session’s panel of experts discussed the latest developments in the production of ceramic matrix composites (CMC) and their sustainable applications in the energy and automotive industries. For example, the current state of oxide fiber production was shown, new developments in the prepreg sector were reported, and new processes for the large-scale production of Ox/Ox ceramics were presented.