Cost-effective production is essential to a company's competitiveness. As an interface between material, process and product, mould technology can play a significant role. With numerous research topics, the field of mould technology is a key focus at the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology (ICT). All research is drawn together in an application centre, following developments through to prototype production, therefore ensuring optimal service for the customer.

Current research activities in the field of mould technology at the Fraunhofer ICT include:

• Assembly and surface treatment in the mould for manufacture of series parts.
• Integration of microwaves and magnetic fields in moulds
• Hybrid technologies through process-material combinations
• Mould technology for special processes, for example internal gas pressure technology, multi-component injection moulding, back-injection and back-pressing technology