A Global Leader in R&D of Cutting-edge Laser Technology

For 40 years, the Fraunhofer ILT has stood for exceptional expertise in the field of laser technology. Since its formation in 1985, the Aachen-based research institute has become one of the world’s top addresses for laser research and development, as well as for the transfer of new laser processes into real-world applications. The spectrum ranges from the development of innovative laser beam sources with customized spatial, temporal, and spectral properties and output powers to the development of specific solutions for beam shaping and beam guiding, frequency conversion, as well as design, layout and packaging of optical components. In addition, there is outstanding expertise in the field of digitalization, with broad application of AI and a high level of competence in software development.

Growing Impact on Sustainability and Efficient Use of Resources

On this basis, more than 550 highly specialized employees are shaping the transfer of cutting-edge technology approaches into seven technology fields which are Measurement Technology, Additive Manufacturing, Surface Technology, Joining, Cutting, EUV and Plasma Technology and Medical Technology. As highly precise, contact-free and massless tools, lasers have a constantly growing impact on modern industrial production, medicine and research, and also in electronics and semiconductor development. The Fraunhofer ILT is making this enabling role of photonics accessible to five markets in particular: Energy, Automotive, Aerospace, Microelectronics as well as Medical Technology and Health. But the range of applications is increasing: in environmental and recycling technologies, water treatment, in sustainable agriculture, for climate and weather monitoring from space or for the laser-ignited inertial confinement fusion as a climate-neutral energy source of the future, the laser technologies developed in Aachen are major trailblazers.

Core Task: Knowledge Transfer

Under one roof, the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT offers R&D, system design and quality assurance, consultation and education. Numerous industrial laser systems from various manufacturers and extensive infrastructure are available for R&D-work. In the adjacent Digital Photonic Production DPP research campus, companies cooperating with Fraunhofer ILT work in their own laboratories and offices. The basis for this special form of technology transfer is a long-term cooperation agreement with the institute. Benefits include the use of the technical infrastructure and the exchange of information with local experts. In addition to established laser manufacturers and innovative laser users, also start-ups from the fields of special plant engineering, laser manufacturing technology and laser measurement technology find a suitable environment here for the industrial implementation of their ideas. Another form of know-how transfer: More than 40 spin-offs have been established from the Fraunhofer ILT, all of which have successfully established themselves in their markets.

A top research organization at its back

Fraunhofer ILT is integrated into the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, which is one of the leading research institutions in Germany with currently 76 institutes and research units. Founded in 1949 the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has nearly 32,000 employees, predominantly scientists and engineers, and an annual business volume of 3.4 billion euros. It plays a crucial role in the innovation process by prioritizing research in key future technologies and transferring its research findings to industry to strengthen Germany as a hub of industrial activity and for the benefit of society. For more information, please visit https://www.ilt.fraunhofer.de/en.html and the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft’s websites at https://www.fraunhofer.de/en.html.