Univ.-Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr.mont. Thomas Antretter heads the Chair of Mechanics and is dedicated to the computer-aided solution of highly complex structural-mechanical problems. His versatile research spectrum ranges from structural dynamics in high-speed railway engineering to detailed thermomechanical modeling of lithium-ion batteries. Using advanced finite element methods (FEM) and lattice Monte Carlo simulations, his team analyzes material-specific phase transformations, stress states, and crack propagation. Through these profound numerical analyses, he provides industry with indispensable tools to precisely predict and specifically optimize the mechanical behavior and service life of high-tech components under extreme real-world conditions. >more<

Dr. Ivica Duretek is responsible for the Material Data & Simulation research group at the Chair of Polymer Processing. His research focuses on the highly precise acquisition and analysis of material parameters, which are absolutely essential for modern manufacturing processes. A central focus of his work is rheology, which he uses to exactly characterize the complex flow behavior of polymer melts under real processing conditions. These well-founded experimental material data form the indispensable foundation for realistic injection molding and extrusion simulations. Through his additional expertise in the field of powder injection molding, he provides industry with tailor-made models for the significant optimization of tools, machines, and production workflows. >more<

Dr. David Holec is significantly advancing materials science at the Montanuniversität Leoben through pioneering computer simulations. Guided by the principle of “theory-driven experimentation,” his research group identifies promising material systems virtually, even before they are tested in the laboratory. Using state-of-the-art quantum mechanical methods such as density functional theory (DFT), his team analyzes complex phenomena related to microstructure, phase stability, and thermomechanical properties at the atomic level. This provides physical explanations that go far beyond purely experimental possibilities. From innovative alloys to hard coatings and 2D nanostructures, this sound theoretical modeling forms the essential foundation for the customized high-performance materials of tomorrow. >more<

Prof. Dr. Lorenz Romaner and his research group take a deep look into the digital structure of materials. The focus is on the forward-looking simulation of material properties in order to understand crystallographic defects such as dislocations and grain boundaries at the atomic level. Using state-of-the-art atomistic and thermokinetic models, the team deciphers how chemical changes affect fundamental material behavior. Through a unique combination of quantum mechanical calculations, thermodynamic modeling, and data-driven methods (machine learning), the group is creating the essential theoretical foundation. These hybrid modeling approaches, closely linked to real-world high-performance experiments, enable the targeted design of novel, extremely resilient materials for the industry of tomorrow.  >more<

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Clara Schuecker heads the Chair of Designing Plastics and Composite Materials. Her research focus lies on the structural design and highly precise calculation of components made of modern high-performance composite materials. To exploit the full potential of these lightweight materials, her team is dedicated to complex material modeling, failure assessment, and structural optimization. Using advanced finite element methods (FEM) and multi-scale modeling, the group simulates realistic component responses under complex loads, extending to 3D textile reinforcements and fatigue behavior. Through this material-specific and software-supported component development, she decisively drives forward the design of safe, resource-efficient, and extremely resilient lightweight structures for industry. >more<

Dr. Daniel Sopu, Junior Group Leader at the ESI, utilizes advanced atomistic computer simulations (such as molecular dynamics) to model the complex interrelationships in metallic glasses and nanostructures. He investigates virtually how atomic fluctuations, mechanical stresses, and chemical changes affect material behavior. This makes it possible to accurately predict and optimize the deformation behavior of amorphous systems. >more<

The research group led by Ao.Univ.-Prof. Dr. Peter Supancic is dedicated to the advanced simulation of ceramic materials. The goal is to accurately predict the complex behavior of components under thermomechanical and electrical stresses. In application-oriented projects, piezoceramics, varistors, and complex layered ceramics, among others, are virtually analyzed. A particular focus lies on calculating residual stresses in multilayer laminates and functional coatings. Through these highly complex, computer-aided simulations, critical load limits and structural weaknesses can be identified even before a physical prototype is manufactured. This enables a tremendous increase in development efficiency and guarantees maximum structural integrity of the final ceramic components. >more<