The lunch-talk of the DGM’s Expert Committee Circular Materials took attendees on a deep dive into the spray forming process and its growing relevance in the context of the Circular Economy. Spray forming, a process that involves the atomization of molten metal to produce near-net shape products, offers numerous advantages for high-performance materials, making it a promising solution for circular-economy applications. 

Dr. Dahmen highlighted the process’s versatility, particularly its potential for developing new alloys with tailored properties. This flexibility enables the creation of materials with enhanced characteristics, such as improved mechanical strength and resistance to corrosion, which are crucial for industries that demand high-performance materials. 

One of the key benefits of spray forming is its resource efficiency. By using less material during production and reducing waste, this technique aligns well with the principles of the Circular Economy. Additionally, it supports the recycling of materials, an essential aspect of sustainable manufacturing practices. 

The discussion then shifted to the practical application of spray forming in various industries. Dr. Dahmen emphasized its potential in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and energy, where high-performance materials are critical. The ability to design and produce alloys with customized properties opens up new avenues for applications that were previously not possible with conventional processes. 

Following the presentation, a lively discussion ensued, moderated by Dr. Alexander Gramlich, chair of the Expert Group Circular Materials. The conversation explored key technological opportunities, current research needs, and the challenges faced by industry in implementing these advanced manufacturing techniques. Participants shared insights into how these innovations could be scaled and integrated into industrial production processes, fostering the development of circular material strategies in practice. 

This engaging session provided a platform for knowledge exchange, bringing together experts from academia and industry. It was another important step toward advancing circular economy principles within materials science and engineering, showcasing how innovative processes like spray forming can contribute to more sustainable and efficient material use.