➀ The Innovation Award Laser Technology 2026, offering €10,000 in prize money, is open for applications until December 1, 2025, recognizing groundbreaking innovations in laser technology for industrial applications.

➁ Eligible applicants include individuals or groups from European industries, universities, or research centers working on laser beam sources, systems, or manufacturing processes with demonstrated commercial value.

➂ Past winners (2010-2024) include projects like laser-based recycling systems, automotive laser welding, and ultrafast laser ablation, highlighting the award’s focus on practical industrial advancements.

➀ Researchers at Fraunhofer ILT and RWTH Aachen are using synchrotron radiation to observe welding processes in detail, in real-time. This research aims to visualize steam bubbles, molten movement, and defects, optimizing battery and microelectronics production.

➁ The interdisciplinary team 'Laser Meets Synchrotron' at DESY focuses on fundamental scientific questions leading to industrial innovations. The team conducts 700 experiments in seven days to improve material properties and processes.

➂ Synchrotron radiation allows for high-resolution visualization of material structures and dynamic processes, enabling precise analysis for industrial innovation and optimization of welding processes in high-performance batteries and other critical components.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT and RWTH Aachen University are using synchrotron radiation to study laser processes in real-time, making it possible to visualize phenomena like vapor capillaries and melt movements. This research aims to optimize battery and microelectronics production and to develop new materials. The team is working on systems for high-resolution imaging and phase contrast visualization, which are crucial for understanding material properties and behaviors.

➀ Battery production is crucial for industrial and climate policy, with a growing demand for energy storage systems. Challenges include raw material dependence and supply chain fragility.

➁ Advanced laser technology offers solutions for efficient, precise, and sustainable battery production, addressing issues in material processing, electrode production, and recycling.

➂ Innovations in electrode production, cell assembly, and module/pack production are highlighted, along with the integration of AI for process optimization and predictive maintenance.