The Excellence Cluster BlueMat advances a new era of water-centered research. With water covering over 70% of our planet and forming the basis of life itself, TUHH places this sustainable resource at the core of its scientific work. BlueMat explores water in new dimensions — learning from its unique properties to develop ecological, forward-looking technologies. By combining fundamental science with innovation, BlueMat contributes sustainable solutions for the world of tomorrow. For further information please visit BlueMat.
Within the overarching research program, activities of ISM focus on Research Topic (RT) B1. In collaboration with Fraunhofer IAPT, ISM designs and manufactures bioinspired tree-like structures made of AlSi using powder bed fusion by laser beam (PBF-LB). These structures mimic natural branching systems, consisting of a central trunk and hierarchically branched networks with integrated capillary channels. To maximize capillary performance, the geometry follows Murray’s law, which states that the sum of the cubed radii of all channels at each branching level remains constant throughout the system. This principle ensures optimal fluid transport efficiency.
In cooperation with the Institute for Materials and X-Ray Physics, ISM further refines these structures through chemical etching. This process enables the creation of extremely fine pores, even at the smallest branch tips.
By combining bioinspiration, advanced manufacturing, and precise microstructuring, RT B1 paves the way for highly efficient capillary systems in future technological applications.
Duration: 01.02.2026 - 31.01.2033
Responsible employee: Christine Schattmann
Funding programme: Funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) as part of the Federal Government and the States' Strategy of Excellence – EXC 3120/1 BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials – 533771286.
Project partner: Institute for Materials and X-Ray Physics, Fraunhofer IAPT
