Press

From electrolyzers to storage to fuel cells: At the Hydrogen Technology World Expo 2026 in Hamburg, Germany, the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT will demonstrate how laser technology makes key processes in the hydrogen economy more efficient and industrially scalable. In addition, Fraunhofer ILT will present solutions for various electrolysis technologies, the manufacturing of fuel cell components, hydrogen storage, and Power-to-X applications.

Fusion has the potential to become a key pillar of a climate-neutral and reliable energy supply, creating enormous market opportunities. Around the world, the race to build the first commercial fusion power plants is well underway, and Germany is exceptionally well positioned to compete. Achieving market leadership, however, will require it to immediately develop industrial process and supply chains, as well as research and industry to closely collaborate and exchange know-how. The Fraunhofer Fusion Industry Day 2.0 provides the ideal platform for launching these efforts. On October 15 and 16, 2026, it will bring together stakeholders from industry, research, government, consulting, and the energy and financial sectors in Aachen.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is already having a profound impact on value creation in laser manufacturing and optical design. Yet only a fraction of the potential between these fields has been realized. To help unlock these opportunities, SPECTARIS –the German industry association for optics, photonics, analytical and medical technologies – and the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT are hosting the two-day conference “AI in Photonics”. The first day introduces participants to AI methods, tools, and applications, providing a solid foundation in the field. The second day focuses on the latest developments in industrial and scientific AI applications. The two conference modules, taking place on October 13 and 14, 2026, can be booked individually or as a package.

Fraunhofer ILT is developing laser-based manufacturing processes for applying PFAS-free functional coatings to metal components, plain bearings, and elastomer rollers. The RePEEK, EPOS, LEMBAS, and pureWaterSeal projects demonstrate that replacing "forever chemicals" requires more than suitable substitute materials. Equally important are the manufacturing processes used to apply them.