Mission & Vision

NETZ – NanoEnergieTechnikZentrum

NETZ brings together the University of Duisburg-Essen's expertise in nanomaterials and energy technology. Through interconnected laboratory infrastructures ("Linked Facilities"), we enable end-to-end process chains – from materials synthesis to integration into energy technology demonstrators.

Nanostructured Materials for Energy Applications – From Particle to Product

At NETZ, we develop complex functional materials for batteries, (electro)catalysis, photovoltaics, and fuel cell technology. Scalable synthesis and processing methods are investigated in closely interconnected laboratories covering the entire value chain – from particle synthesis, coating, and shaping to system integration.

Characterization, modeling, and data analysis accompany these processes at every stage, providing the foundation for reliable and sustainable energy technologies.

Key Research Areas at NETZ

  • Linked Facilities with directly connected laboratories enabling complete process chains

  • Scalable particle synthesis, functionalization, dispersion, and coating of complex materials

  • Integration of nanomaterials into polymers, coatings, compacted materials, and catalyst systems

  • Technological application areas: battery technology, (electro)catalysis, photovoltaics, and fuel cells

  • Shared Facilities for in situ and operando measurements and nanoscale characterization, including ICAN

  • Modeling, simulation, and data science for predictive process and materials design

  • Consideration of environmental compatibility, safety, aging, and material sustainability

Mission

Our mission is to pursue a predictive, knowledge-driven approach: experiments, in situ and operando analysis, modeling, and simulation are closely integrated to ensure that materials and processes are designed for scalability, reliability, and sustainability from the outset. Interdisciplinary teams from chemistry, physics, engineering, and related disciplines work together in shared laboratories and collaborate with partners from academia and industry. NETZ serves as an open hub where new nanomaterial-based concepts are developed, tested in demonstrators, and advanced toward industrial applications – always with a focus on resource efficiency, safety, and the long-term societal impact of the technologies developed.

Vision

Our vision is to make nanostructured materials a key component of a secure and sustainable energy supply. NETZ bridges the gap between the potential of functional nanostructures and their reliable, large-scale deployment in energy technology systems. Through scalable processes, integrated process chains, and an in-depth understanding of the underlying nanoscale phenomena, we open up new pathways for efficient energy conversion, storage, and utilization.