Current topics with a focus on sustainability were discussed at the latest meeting of the Circular Materials and Functionalization of Surfaces using Micro-/Nanostructuring Processes expert committees in Aachen. The event provided insights into innovative solutions and a concrete outlook for future strategic partnerships in the areas of circular economy and surface technology.

The event kicked off with Prof. Dr. Ulrich Krupp, who gave a comprehensive insight into the Institute of Ferrous Metallurgy. This was followed by a series of presentations: M.Sc. Ayush Shrivastava discussed the reuse potential of steel, Dr.-Ing. Sebastian Slawik presented the latest advances in laser surface structuring and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Miriam Sartor emphasized the importance of circular value creation and gave an example of student learning in this area.

A huge thanks to all the speakers who shared their insights with us, including Dr.-Ing. Hakan Göcerler with his studies on tribological surface interactions and Anna-Caroline Assmann, who provided insights into the recycling of NdFeB magnets. Prof. Dr. Gesa Beck concluded the first day with an outlook on the sustainable design of new technologies and application examples.

The second day began with Dr. Stefan Eder and his presentation on computational surface engineering, followed by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Andrés Lasagni, who presented the CLASCO project, which pushes the boundaries of laser-based surface functionalization of additively manufactured 3D components with complex geometries. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Carsten Gachot enriched the program with his contribution on laser-based sustainability and tribology.

We look back on an event full of knowledge and exchange and look forward to the upcoming joint activities.

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