International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT

55th International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT with 49th International Pyrotechnics Seminar

Energetic Materials: From Simulation and Synthesis to Application – Ensuring Supply Security in a Changing World (June 23-26, 2026)

The ICT International Annual Conference serves as a forum to discuss the current state of the art, to present new methods, ideas, and research results and to further improve scientific understanding in the field of energetic materials. Join our conference to benefit from a platform for lively discussions, detailed exchange of scientific results and - most importantly for networking with international experts.

In the light of recent global challenges, the advancement of simulation, synthesis, and processing techniques for energetic materials has become crucial. This conference aims to promote innovative research and practical solutions that advance the development of novel energetic materials and formulations while ensuring excellent performance and applicability.

The focus will be on innovative materials, designs and manufacturing concepts for energetic materials. Additionally, the integration of advanced simulation techniques for modeling and predicting the behavior of energetic materials and formulations throughout their lifecycle will be highlighted. Researchers are encouraged to present their findings on cutting-edge synthesis techniques, formulations and advanced processing methods that optimize both material properties and process efficiencies.

For the second time, the topic of ammunition in the sea will be addressed. In keeping with the theme of the annual conference, the focus will be on explosives regarding their aged properties for disposal processes. Additionally, offshore handling as well as science, research, and development will be represented. The presentations and discussion panels will concentrate on the crucial aspects from the point of suspicion to disposal:

  • Safety: This will cover remote operation, safety distances, the maximum net explosive mass, and distance reduction.
    In addition, the focus will be on protective measures (structural and organizational), the human-machine interface, and practical occupational safety.
  • Process engineering: This area covers possible procedures, the disposal process, the use of underwater units, and possible points of contact with chemical weapons during the whole process.
  • Technology in general: Topics such as handling, upscaling, and automation will be covered.

Joint conference with the International Pyrotechnics Society

Logo International Pyrotechnics Society Seminar
© IPS
Logo International Pyrotechnics Society Seminar

The 49th edition of the renowned International Pyrotechnics Society Seminar, which was planned to be held in Colorado Springs on July 12 to 16, has been rescheduled to join the 55th International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT from June 23 to 26 in Karlsruhe; chairman will be Dr. habil. E. C. Koch. We are looking forward to an even broader representation of research on energetic substances and pyrotechnics and a fruitful exchange with our fellow scientists.

The due date for abstracts for the joint conference has been rescheduled from respective due dates to mid-March and to April 17th for full papers

The IPS will deliver two special awards to young scientists attending the 55th ICT / 49th IPS Conference:

  • Dr. Bernard E. Douda – Young Scientist Award: The purpose of the Dr. Bernard E. Douda – Young Scientist Award (DBED–YSA) is to assist a young scientist in attending and presenting his/her research at an IPS Seminar. One award will be made annually for a young scientist to attend and present a paper at the IPS Seminar.
  • Frank Carver Bursary Award: The Frank Carver Bursary Award promotes advancement in the scientific understanding of energetic materials by assisting young pyrotechnicians to attend and present their work atinternational seminars being sponsored by the International Pyrotechnics Society.

Additionally, there will be a Pyrotechnic Workshop (20th WPC) organized by Dr. E. C. Koch and Dr. Sebastian Knapp on Tuesday June 23, 2026 at the Fraunhofer ICT premises. After the workshop, in the evening of the same day, the joint conference opens its desks for registration.

Collaboration and knowledge exchange

You are cordially invited to contribute your expertise and experience, join technical and research exchange and to gain further valuable insights.

The 55th International Annual Conference of Fraunhofer ICT offers an exceptional opportunity for collaboration and knowledge exchange among experts in the field of energetic materials, addressing current challenges in simulation, synthesis, production, and performance. By fostering innovative solutions and facilitating discussions on new methods and trends, the conference creates a dynamic environment for engagement. In particular, it provides young scientists and early-career researchers with the chance to present their work and expand their international network of professionals.

Chairmen of the Conference
Dr. Sebastian Wurster, Dr. Uwe Schaller

Spokesmen for Explosives Technology, Safety and Security
Fraunhofer ICT, Pfinztal, Germany 

Useful information at a glance

Accompanying exhibition

To present your company and your products during the 55th International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT, please download the application form.

Call for Papers 2026

The 55th International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT is scheduled for June 23–26, 2026 at the Karlsruhe Convention Center.

Comprehensive Information on the 2025 conference

The Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology is holding its 55th International Annual Conference on “Energetic Materials: From Simulation and Synthesis to Application – Ensuring Supply Security in a Changing World.”

Main topics

  • Advanced modelling and simulation capabilities
  • Innovative synthesis and resilient production strategies
  • Particle technology, formulation and processing techniques
  • Characterization methods and performance of ammunitions, propellants, pyrotechnics and gas generators
  • Collaboration and knowledge exchange in energetic materials research
  • Aging characteristics of explosives
  • Scaling options and safety aspects of ammunition disposal
  • Exchange on the national status of ammunition disposal

Presentation

Contributions to the conference can take the form of oral presentations (presentation time 20 minutes including discussion) or posters. Please submit an extended abstract not exceeding 500 words with optional figures and tables together with the exact title and name of the author(s). The papers will be published in the Conference Proceedings which will be available at the beginning of the event. Guidelines on how to prepare the text for publication will be sent to the authors.

Conference language

English

Deadlines

Abstracts (to manuela.wolff@ict.fraunhofer.de): deadline extended until March 13, 2026

Reply to authors: March 24, 2026

Full papers expected: April 17, 2026

Full papers for PEP Special Issue expected: July 3, 2026

The program will be published in April 2026

Preliminary Program

Symposium with lectures

 by world-leading scientists and experts

Scientific poster session

Exchange of scientific results and lively discussion in the foyer of the Gartenhalle

Awards

Traditionally, the best poster of the conference will be awarded – always a hard decision for the poster committee. The PEP Speaker Award for the best oral presentation is presented for the third time. In 2025, two presenters received this award.

ICT-Tour

Also traditional, attendees are invited to visit the Fraunhofer ICT for a tour of selected laboratories and pilot plants, followed by a BBQ and a special highlight.

Further information

The conference will take place in the Gartenhalle of the Karlsruhe Convention Center - an event location in the heart of Karlsruhe city.

Hence, a variety of hotels and restaurants are nearby, and the conference site is within walking distance to the castle, the main station, and the shopping streets.

Karlsruhe and surroundings - discover, experience, visit...

Karlsruhe Castle
© A.Savin, WikiCommons
Karlsruhe Castle

Don’t miss to visit the castle of Karlsruhe and much more points of interests in and around the city.  

Discover Karlsruhe

In 1970 the first Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in the field of propellants and explosives took place. Held for over 50 years, the conference has gained worldwide importance, with hundreds of participants from more than 30 nations.

Below you can see some impressions of the annual conference in the 1970s.

The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975
© Fraunhofer ICT
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975
© Fraunhofer ICT
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975
An aireal view of the venue of the International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1970
© Fraunhofer ICT
An aireal view of the venue of the International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1970.
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975.
© Fraunhofer ICT
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975.
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975.
© Fraunhofer ICT
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975.
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975.
© Fraunhofer ICT
The International Annual Conference of the Fraunhofer ICT in 1975.

Contact

Contact Press / Media

Manuela Wolff

Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT
Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Straße 7
76327 Pfinztal

Phone +49 721 4640-121

Fax +49 721 4640-120