Welcome to the Chair of Technical Chemistry II
Since April 2025, the Chair is led by Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hannah Roth. Our research focuses on the development and functionalization of advanced membrane systems, with a particular emphasis on hollow fiber membranes. We explore innovative membrane fabrication techniques and functionalization strategies - such as the integration of catalysts, anti-fouling hydrogels, and enzymes - to create tailored solutions for environmental, energy, and medical applications.
Key areas of our research include membranes for clean water production, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, and membrane-based technologies for sustainable energy production, conversion, and storage, supporting SDGs 7 and 12. In the medical field, we develop membranes for applications such as dialysis and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), aligning with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).
Through interdisciplinary collaboration, e.g., within the Nano Energy Technik Zentrum (NETZ), the research cluster Active Sites, the Center for Water- and Environmental Research (ZWU), and the Center of Medical Biotechnology (ZMB) we aim to create innovative solutions for a more sustainable and healthier future.
Research Groups at the Chair of Technical Chemistry II
Membranes for Water Applications
The research group "Membranes for Water Applications" focuses on the development, optimization, and fabrication of advanced hollow fiber and flat sheet membranes for water treatment and purification processes. Our work addresses urgent separation challenges such as desalination, zero liquid discharge, lithium recycling, and the removal of pollutants like PFAS from drinking water. By tailoring membrane properties and introducing new functionalities, we aim to create innovative materials and technologies. A particular emphasis is placed on developing sustainable membranes based on non-toxic and circular raw materials, combining expertise in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, and environmental technology.
Membranes for Energy Applications
The "Membranes for Energy Applications" research group at the Chair of Technical Chemistry II focuses on the design and development of high-performance anion (AEM), proton (PEM), and cation exchange membranes (CEM) for electrochemical devices, including fuel cells, electrolyzers, batteries, and CO₂ reduction cells. By creating novel, PFAS-free membrane materials and improving fabrication and integration, we aim to advance sustainable energy technologies and support the transition to a carbon-neutral future.
Membranes for Medical Applications
The "Membranes for Medical Applications" research group focuses on the development of advanced hollow fiber membranes and devices for life-saving medical technologies, including dialysis and blood oxygenation. Our work combines innovative fabrication techniques with functionalization strategies, such as enzyme immobilization, to enhance biocompatibility and performance. By integrating materials science and biomedical engineering, we aim to create safer and more effective medical treatments.
Latest News
21.05.2026 Visit of the Aurora Rectors
On the occasion of the visit by the rectors of the European Aurora Network to the University of Duisburg-Essen, the university’s focus on water research was presented. As part of this joint presentation, Prof. Roth demonstrated the water-based production of membranes. She showed how membranes can be produced from aqueous systems and how their properties can be specifically tailored to different applications.
28.01.2026 Inaugural Lecture of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hannah Roth (Faculty of Chemistry)
In her inaugural lecture, “Between and Beyond – Membranes,” Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hannah Roth presented her research and the future direction of the Chair of Technical Macromolecular Chemistry for Water Research at the University of Duisburg-Essen. The lecture focused on membranes as a key technology for clean water, sustainable energy processes, and medical applications. Together with colleagues, students, academic mentors, and industry representatives, the start of this new chapter at the UDE was celebrated.
05.01.2026 Eye-Opener | One Tube to Clean it All!
Prof. Roth was invited by the Dutch science communication platform Eye-openers to present her research in a one-minute video in a way that is accessible to a general audience. Eye-openers offers scientists a digital platform where they can vividly present their research, their motivation, and their scientific goals. In the video “One tube to clean it all!,” Prof. Roth explains how hollow-fiber membranes are used to purify water and blood and how they can be specifically further developed by combining different materials.
Upcoming Events
GDCh Lecture Series Inaugural Lecture of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hannah Roth (Faculty of Chemistry)
28.01.2026
16:15 - 17:45
Between and Beyond – Membranes
As part of the GDCh lecture series at the Faculty of Chemistry at the University of Duisburg-Essen, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hannah Roth will give her inaugural lecture on January 28, 2026.
The lecture entitled "Between and Beyond - Membranes" will provide an inspiring insight into Prof. Roth's research, today's scientific and technological challenges, and tomorrow's membrane-based solutions and beyond.
Registration:
Participation is free of charge and open for all University of Duisburg-Essen members.
Location:
S07 S00 D07 | Campus Essen | Universitätsstraße 7, 45141 Essen
Sino-German Center for Research Promotion Membrane Science and Technology for Water Sustainability
21.10.2025
9:00 - 18:00
Join us for the Membrane Science and Technology for Water Sustainability symposium, hosted by the University of Duisburg-Essen and co-organized with Hebei University of Technology, China. This international event brings together leading researchers to discuss the latest advancements in membrane science.
Key topics include advanced and novel membrane materials, membrane fouling mechanisms and control strategies, and membrane-enabled processes for water purification and resource recovery. The symposium offers a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, foster collaborations, and explore innovative technologies addressing global water sustainability challenges.
Registration:
Participation is free of charge; however, please note that the number of places is limited. To register, please send an email to Sandra Watermeier
(tc2.secretary[at]uni-due.de).
Deadline: 15.10.2025.
Location:
Glaspavillon (R12) | Campus Essen | Gladbecker Straße 16, 45141 Essen