On 17 and 18 December 2024, the Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research (IFW ) organized a colorful program for4th to 10th grade studentsand invited the Research Training Group D³ to hold an exciting lesson in this context. The event took place directly at the IFW and offered the young participantsthe opportunity to gain practical experience in materials science and mechanical engineering.

The fellows of the Research Training Group D³ presented their research topics on the design of metamaterials using an analogy to bridge building. After a short introduction explaining how materials and construction interact when building a bridge, the students had the opportunity to build a bridge in a specially developed bridge simulator. They were able to select different materials and experience the interplay of material selection, construction method and the resulting load-bearing capacity at first hand.

© DCube

Building on this, the students were introduced to the principle of material selection and the importance of modeling. The event therefore provided an excellent opportunity to awaken an interest in science and technology and encourage young people's spirit of discovery. They also gained exciting insights into current scientific research.

For the Research Training Group team, this was a valuable experience to grow together as a group and share their enthusiasm for research with the students. Many thanks to all participants and to the Institute of Solid Mechanics, which provided the bridge simulator. Special thanks also go to Ms. Patricia Bäuchler from the IFW, who made this valuable collaboration possible.