DFG extends NEPTUN 1 research project on piezoelectric ceramics

The German Research Foundation (DFG) has approved a four-year extension for the NEPTUN 1 research group, which focuses on the nonlinear properties of piezoelectric ceramics. These materials, which convert electrical energy into sound and vice versa, are essential for industrial applications such as ultrasonic welding, ultrasonic cleaning, and medical imaging.

Under high power, these materials exhibit nonlinear behavior where electrical input does not result in a proportional sound output. The research aims to develop predictive models that allow developers to simulate material performance and transducer design digitally. Such advancements could optimize processes like the electrical contacting of computer chips, automotive plastic welding, and the cleaning of sensitive electronic components in semiconductor manufacturing.

The project involves five sub-projects conducted at the University of Paderborn, Humboldt University of Berlin, and Johannes Kepler University Linz. At the University of Paderborn, research focuses on existence and regularity theory, application-oriented characterization and control of nonlinear systems, as well as modeling, simulation, and measurement methods for determining material parameters.