What exactly does the BAM actually do? Around 40 new employees of the Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) went to answer that question and visited BAM at its site in Lichterfelde. They learned about BAM's work on the subject of safety in technology and chemistry as a Federal research institute with responsibility to the BMWi.
BAM President Prof. Dr. Ulrich Panne welcomed the guests: “Personal impressions and contacts are always an important foundation for good cooperation.” The following presentation of varied portfolios and scientific activities within the focus areas of energy, infrastructure, environment, materials and analytical sciences gave the guests a comprehensive overview of BAM. In addition to this, the visitors used the opportunity to pose questions about the content and framework conditions of scientific work.
They discovered how this work looks in practice with examples of pyrotechnics and sustainable concrete What quickly became apparent with pyrotechnic testing was that it’s not only about fireworks, but also pyrotechnic articles that protect human life. As an example, Dr. Christian Lohrer and his team displayed this with great effect using pyrotechnic emergency signals which do not extinguish even on contact with water in the event of an emergency at sea.
Within the area of the technology of construction materials, Dr. Wolfram Schmidt’s team illustrated the research status of concrete, a versatile and widely used building material. Schmidt presented the current project on the use of agricultural residues such as cassava peels, which could be used as additive measures for manufacturing concrete in African countries.
The lively discussions with BAM experts showed that both topics were met with great interest.
The guests agreed: The visit was worth it. This format not only provides a good overview of the BMWi's business division, but also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary networking. The visit to BAM is also planned for new BMWi employees in the future. To further great cooperation!