Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTS

Competence in ceramics

The Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTS conducts applied research on high-performance ceramics. The institute‘s three sites in Dresden and Hermsdorf (Thuringia), Germany, collectively represent Europe‘s largest R&D institute dedicated to the study of ceramics.

As a research and technology service provider, the Fraunhofer IKTS develops advanced high-performance ceramic materials, industrial manufacturing processes as well as prototype components and systems in complete production lines up to the pilot-plant scale. In addition, the research portfolio also includes materials diagnostics and testing. The test procedures in the fields of acoustics, electromagnetics, optics and microscopy contribute substantially to the quality assurance of products and plants.

 

Hermsdorf, December 1, 2025

Research News

Gas Drying with up to 90 Percent Less Energy

Natural gas, biomethane, hydrogen: Each of these must have their water content removed before they can enter the supply network. This process previously involved the use of chemicals and high temperatures.

 

Halle, November 18, 2025

Blog

#diensttalk with Christian Klöppelt

From trade unions to governments – science communication as a driver for decisions and fact-based dialogue

 

Arnstadt, November 17, 2025

Press release

Firing with natural gas or hydrogen: Novel high-temperature furnace paves the way for climate-neutral firing processes

As industry moves toward a climate-neutral economy, drastic reduction of CO₂ emissions is essential. This is a particular challenge for companies with large-scale firing processes, such as those in ceramics and metalworking. Researchers at Fraunhofer IKTS in Arnstadt have developed a breakthrough solution: a novel hydrogen-powered high-temperature furnace that enables CO₂-free firing. 

Annual Report 2024/25

The annual report of Fraunhofer IKTS provides information and reports about our latest results of research.

Certified

The Fraunhofer IKTS is certified in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9001, DIN EN ISO 14001, EN ISO 13485 and DIN EN ISO / IEC 17025.

Sites of Fraunhofer IKTS

Germany: Dresden, Hermsdorf, Freiberg, Arnstadt, Forchheim, Rostock, Braunschweig, Leipzig, Cottbus, Schmalkalden, Berlin

Portugal: Porto