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. The connecting element between all these topics is social, environmental, and economic (SEE) metrics.

They provide the framework for evaluating and classifying progress. Every development – whether in automation, data-driven chemistry, the use of renewable raw materials, or recycling – is critically examined using SEE metrics: What ecological advantages arise, what economic opportunities open, and how do innovations influence society?

Automation and Standardization

Increasing automation and rethinking 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.

Current pilot projects:

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.

Current pilot projects:

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.

Current pilot projects:

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.

Current pilot projects:

Societal, Environmental, and Economic Metrics

This thematic 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.

Current pilot projects: