Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC

Materials Enabling Innovation

Materials with precisely tailored properties are the foundation of technological progress. The performance, functionality, and cost-effectiveness of a product are largely determined during the development and selection of the right material. 


This is where the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC in Würzburg applies its extensive expertise: With outstanding materials science capabilities and many years of experience in the processing, application, and analysis of materials, the institute supports companies in successfully transferring innovative materials and technologies into practical applications. 

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Scarcity of raw materials, competitive pressure, and a shortage of skilled workers are just some of the many challenges facing the manufacturing industry. Researchers at the ISC focus on industrially applicable solutions, including affordable healthcare and regenerative therapies, resource and energy efficiency, as well as sustainability and the circular economy.

Particular emphasis is placed on the use of bio-based and economically viable raw materials, reducing the use of critical raw materials, and developing intelligent and sustainable processing technologies.

In addition to contract research and development, the ISC also offers production-related analytics and characterization, process optimization, equipment development, and the upscaling of manufacturing and processing technologies to pilot scale.

Whether through a direct contract (regardless of company size) or a collaborative research project – together, we will find the right solution.

News from Fraunhofer ISC

Advisory Board Meeting July 2026

At this year's Advisory Board Meeting of Fraunhofer ISC, experts from science, industry, and the public sector discussed the institute's strategic direction. The focus was on current research highlights and the question of how materials science creates solutions for the energy transition, healthcare, digitalization, and sustainable manufacturing.

Connecting scientific excellence with application-oriented research remains at the heart of our mission.

 

Fraunhofer ISC supports industrial companies on the path to climate-neutral production

The EU-approved Carbon Contracts for Difference create new investment opportunities for energy-intensive industries. We support you with in-depth expertise in chemistry, materials science, and process engineering in choosing the right technology – scalable and economically viable.

 

NanoBiotechnology for New Horizons

Research institutions, clusters, and SMEs are joining forces: With the kick-off of the BMWK-funded ZIM innovation network, Fraunhofer ISC and partners such as BioM are setting an important impulse for translating nanobiotechnology into real-world applications. The focus is on nanostructured biomaterials, cell-based systems, and innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Want to learn more? We look forward to hearing from you!

 

Innovative research into medicinal plants

In collaboration with WALA, the Translational Center at Fraunhofer ISC is developing a novel conjunctival model that enables the precise analysis of inflammatory processes on the surface of the eye. Robust and scalable test systems allow active ingredients and complex drugs to be investigated under controlled but application-relevant conditions.

Are you working on similar topics? We would be happy to support you!

Climate-Friendly Renovation

In the EU project EASIZERo, two material innovations were developed: porous water glass particles for thermal insulation and encapsulated salt hydrates for temperature stabilization. Targeted material design for sustainable construction at an industrial scale.

Sustainable Electronics

Within the project CircEl-Paper, paper-based circuit boards are being developed that combine functionality and recyclability. The project meeting confirmed: circular material concepts are a key to resource-efficient electronics of the future.

Seifriz Transfer Award for project "BakeTex"

Our “BakeTex” project has been awarded the Seifriz Prize 2026 for outstanding achievements in transferring research into operational practice.

Press Release 06.2026 / 22.5.2026

Eco-Friendly Hair Styling

Fraunhofer ISC and IPPM Technologies Develop Biodegradable Hair Styling Gel

Centers of Fraunhofer ISC

 

Fraunhofer Translational Center Regenerative Therapies TLC

Life Science at TLC: solutions in the fields of cellular bioengineering.

 

Center for High Temperature Materials and Design HTL

The HTL designs energy-efficient thermal processes and thus contributes to sustainable technological progress in society.

It develops high-temperature materials, high-temperature components and high-temperature measurement methods and thus optimizes thermal processes.

 

Center of Device ­Development CeDeD

The Center of Device Development CeDeD develops, designs and builds special scientific devices and research systems according to individual customer requirements.

Publications

Here you will find our scientific publications, technical information (including flyers), and annual reports.

Annual Reports

In our annual reports, you will find information on selected research activities as well as key figures and facts about the institute.

Fairs and Events

Meet us in person at trade fairs, conferences, and symposia.

We look forward to seeing you!