Research

Two Visionary Moonshots Set the Direction for Research

Research at CTC is focused on two so-called moonshots that will change the way chemical research is conducted and the raw materials and developed materials used: the autonomous laboratory and the completely recyclable car.

Moonshot Completely Recyclable Car

A car is an extremely complex object made up of a variety of different materials – from rare earth metals in batteries to adhesives and polymers. The moonshot aims to develop materials and processes that close the loop completely and thus follow the “design to recycle” principle – meaning the materials are of non-fossil origin and can be produced economically on an industrial scale.

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Moonshot Autonomous Laboratory

The moonshot aims to revolutionize the methods of chemical research. Through the use of automation, continuous synthesis technologies, and artificial intelligence, the autonomous laboratory will be a fully digitized, intelligent system that can independently plan, carry out, and optimize chemical experiments.

Selected Publications

Five Complementary Themes Structure the Research

Chemistry is a broad and interconnected field that faces a variety of challenges. The CTC has therefore identified five key and interrelated thematic areas that address these changes. These pillars form the structure and focus for the promotion of scientific progress at the CTC. The thematic areas form an ecosystem in which progress in one area will drive progress in others. These close links between digital and experimental areas, and between materials and metrics, are crucial for jointly developing sustainable chemical innovations.

Automation and standardization: Increasing automation and the rethinking of experimental approaches improve efficiency, reproducibility and  data quality, and increase the amount of information obtained. Digital tools play a key role as they enable automated, consistent and reproducible data collection. This includes information on reaction conditions, substance names and quantities, device settings, real-time analysis, and time specifications.

Data-driven chemistry: The integration of digital tools and automation optimizes workflows and accelerates the discovery process. The use of data science and computational methods, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, enhances data analysis, improves predictive modelling and enables automated feedback loops for faster and better decisions in research.

Renewable feedstocks: Replacing petroleum-based raw materials with sustainable alternatives is crucial for long-term material security. Research at the CTC aims to convert agricultural and forestry waste into high-value chemicals. This promotes biodegradable and circular materials and reduces dependence on fossil raw materials.

Recycling: Although chemical substances can theoretically be recycled indefinitely, there are technical and economic challenges. The CTC is developing new chemicals, processes, catalysts, polymers and composites to support the development of fully recyclable products. The aim is to achieve a balance between performance, product value, and recycling costs in order to make the circular economy practicable and scalable.

Social, economic, and environmental metrics: This topic area provides a framework for critically assessing the broader impact of new technologies on our society and environment. It examines how innovations improve quality of life, meet consumer needs, and contribute to environmental sustainability. By assessing the sustainability of processes, chemicals and products, analyzing their market potential and technical feasibility, and examining their potential to change existing systems, the CTC can make informed decisions. The holistic relationships between the various factors are taken into account in order to gain a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective.

Our Pilot Projects

  • Predictive database for solvent extraction of rare earth elements
  • Computer-aided design of functionalized lignocellulose-derived surfactants
  • Database development of lignin-derived compounds
  • General orchestration software for laboratory process automation
  • Development of a module for the Chemotion Electronic Lab Notebook for polymers and materials research
  • Developing predicting Life-Cycle Assessment model using machine learning as a prerequisite for Digital Chemical Passports
  • Recyclable high strength fibre molded materials

A Dynamic Research Team of International Experts

Contribute your research and ideas to advance solutions for a sustainable circular economy. Contact our scientific coordinator Theodore Tyrikos-Ergas at theodore.tyrikos-ergas(@)mpikg.mpg.de to start the transformation of chemistry together!

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CTC science team 2025

The growing scientific team at CTC

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