Leibniz Young Polymer Scientist Forum paves the way for young scientists

Last week, 27 young scientists from all over Europe put their talent to the test at the Leibniz Young Polymer Forum, which was held in cooperation with Evonik: Nine teams competed in various challenges to find the most creative and innovative solutions.  The jury consisted of members of the DWI's scientific board and experts from Evonik.

After a pecha-kucha-style opening round, in which the participants gave a short presentation of themselves and their research, the competition got serious: All participants were tasked with challenges on the main topics of Cool Chemistry, Recycling Technologies, and Additive Manufacturing. Teams of three participants each conducted research on liquid polymers, structural colors and thermo-switchable epoxy curing agents, among other topics. The teams also developed concepts for crosslinking polyamides or for enhanced polymer recyclability. In the end, the winner was the team of Lea Grefe, Oscar Rabaux and Ruth Rittinghaus, who presented ideas for the alternative production of oil films in the "Recycling Technologies" section.

But there was also plenty of opportunity for exchange among the young scientists, as well as with representatives of Evonik and the DWI. At the get-together on the first evening, there was room for discussion, exchange, and networking. The two-day Leibniz Young Polymer Scientist Forum provided a platform for scientists to sharpen their view on current scientific issues, identify new challenges, and tackle them together.

Special thanks go to the Evonik team for their assistance in organizing and running the event. The fourth edition of the Leibniz Young Polymer Scientist Forum proved to be a success, although it was held digitally for the first time. We would also like to thank all participants of the forum for their commitment and hope to be able to welcome some of them at the DWI sometime.