Environment

Self-powered microsystems:

Self-powered microsystems are self-sufficient, mobile and easily retrofittable systems which obtain the energy needed for their operation and for the exchange of data and information directly from their environment. Many promising applications are to be found in the fields of intelligent textiles, medicine, motor vehicles, aerospace, domestic engineering, measurement technology, information technology, production and logistics. However, some fundamental questions must be answered before the industrial production of self-powered microsystems can begin. The BMBF is funding the development of new kinds of energy conversion principles, energy management, miniaturization and, last but not least, the system integration of individual components.

Micro fuel cells:

 In the foreseeable future, hydrogen or methanol micro fuel cells will take over from traditional energy supply systems, for example, lithium ion batteries, in many portable electronic devices. A perfect interplay between the material sciences, microsystems technology and manufacturing processes is necessary in order for these promising developments to reach market maturity. The BMBF is funding the development of the lead innovation "Micro Fuel Cell" under the framework programmes "Materials Innovations for Industry and Society", "Research for the Production of Tomorrow" and the funding programme "Information and Communication Technologies".