This year, the Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH) hosted the annual Thermodynamics Colloquium organized by the Scientific Working Group on Technical Thermodynamics (WATT e.V.). The event, organized by Prof. Dr. Arne Speerforck and the Institute of Engineering Thermodynamics, offered a platform for 200 participants to engage in scientific presentations, poster sessions, and academic discussions showcasing the latest research findings in the field of thermodynamics.
Highlights of the event included a tailored welcome address by TUHH’s Vice President for Research, Prof. Dr. Irina Smirnova, on the history of thermodynamics in Hamburg, as well as plenary lectures by Prof. Dr. Stephan Kabelac (University of Hannover), Dr. Philipp Rehner (ETH Zurich), Dr. Bastian Schmid (DDBST), and Dr. Udo Dorn (BASF AG). These lectures provided fascinating insights into research activities at universities and in industry. A special highlight within the framework of early career support was the awarding of the Mega-WATT Prize for the best doctoral theses, with dissertations by Dr.-Ing. Ophelia Frotscher and Dr.-Ing. Joshua Marx receiving the awards.
The scientific presentations covered a broad spectrum of topics, from the fundamentals of thermodynamics and new material data models to the latest developments and applications in industry. The poster sessions gave participants the opportunity to present their research results in a relaxed, interactive, and visual format and to exchange ideas with fellow scientists.
Overall, the Thermodynamics Colloquium at TUHH was an inspiring and enriching event that underscored the significance of thermodynamics in modern science and technology.
