Innovation from Saarland: Minister of Economic Affairs Barke visits ZeMA

As part of his innovation tour, the Saarland Minister of Economic Affairs Jürgen Barke visited ZeMA on 5 February 2025. The focus was on the research areas Smart materials and Sensors and Thin Film Technology, which have been successfully cooperating for years and developing innovative solutions for the industry.

The interdisciplinary cooperation at ZeMA, funded by the country and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), has developed into an international flagship project in recent years. This not only attracts scientists from Germany and abroad, but also leads to new economic prospects through successful company spin-offs.

Innovative projects iSMAT and TransDES

Minister Barke informed himself in particular about two pioneering research projects: iSMAT and TransDES. Both projects are developed in close cooperation between the working group of Prof. Paul Motzki (Scientific Director at ZeMA and Professor of Smart Material Systems for Innovative Production at Saarland University) and Prof. John Heppe (Head of the working group Sensors and Thin Film Technology at ZeMA and Professor of Physical Sensors and Mechatronics at htw saar). ZeMA acts as a joint development platform for both universities.

iSMAT: Smart materials for the production of tomorrow

The iSMAT project is concerned with the development of ultra-thin silicone films (0.05 mm), which can be used as sensors or actuators with special coatings. These so-called Dielectric Elastomers (DE) offer a cost-effective, energy-efficient and lightweight alternative to conventional drives such as electromagnets or pneumatic systems. The high innovative power of this technology has already led to the first company foundations in Saarland, which are now being further developed with investors. The iSMAT project was supported by ERDF funds.

TransDES: Revolutionary transistor structures for flexible electronics

Based on the findings of iSMAT, the TransDES project aims to: High-frequency drive systems to develop further. These are applications that require extremely fast switching cycles, such as Valves, pumps or loudspeakers.

A key innovation aspect of TransDES is the development of flexible electronic components. Transistors, which were previously soldered on boards, are to be integrated directly on flexible drive films. This enables compact and adaptable systems with new applications, for example in medical technology.

Prof. John Heppe points out: “The existing technology of structuring and thus functionalising metal-containing coatings on thin films is also intended to be three-dimensional in the future. This could enable breakthrough applications in a wide range of industries.”

The TransDES project will receive around EUR 500,000 in ERDF funding until October 2026.

Innovation as a motor for the Saarland site

Minister Barke's visit underlines the importance of research at ZeMA for the economic development of Saarland. The close integration of science and industry creates new perspectives for companies and investors. Saarland is thus once again proving that it plays a leading role internationally as a location for innovation.