Laser Technology

Laser technology has undergone rapid development over the past few decades. Costs have decreased, while the performance, flexibility, and reliability of the systems have increased. As a result, the productivity of laser-based manufacturing processes is continuously rising. At the same time, new applications and uses are constantly emerging. Currently, no other technology in the field of materials processing covers a broader range of applications.

This breadth is reflected in the research topics at Fraunhofer ISE. Laser technologies are used for a wide range of the institute’s research topics and are being specifically developed further. They are applied, among other areas, in solar cells and modules, power electronics and battery storage, hydrogen technologies, glass processing, and heating and cooling technologies.

For these fields, we develop and evaluate application-specific laser processes for material processing. Our work is based on a fundamental understanding of the processes and comparison with the respective reference technology. In addition, we develop suitable, innovative system technology, including measurement technology, to further increase value creation.

At Fraunhofer ISE, we can holistically address complex challenges within our business units using interdisciplinary teams across the entire value chain – a unique selling point of the institute with regard to our services. Our expertise ranges from materials and components to systems and their applications. Our services include cost calculations, life cycle assessments, and recycling considerations.