Minister Daniela Schmitt presents funding approval to the Institute for Surface and Layer Analysis (IFOS)
As part of her 2025 summer tour, Rhineland-Palatinate Minister of Economic Affairs Daniela Schmitt today presented a funding approval for 8.3 million euros to the Institute for Surface and Layer Analysis (IFOS) in Kaiserslautern. The state funds will be used to purchase a new generation of highly specialized analysis and processing systems. It will strengthen the scientific excellence of IFOS and secure the future viability of one of the leading research institutes in surface analysis and laser microprocessing.
“With this funding, we are sending a clear signal for science and innovation in Rhineland-Palatinate. IFOS is a prime example of the successful combination of research and industrial application,” Schmitt emphasized at the handover.
Investment in state-of-the-art research equipment
Thanks to the funding, the OPTIMAS member IFOS will significantly expand its research infrastructure. The new equipment includes a ToF-SIMS (time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometer) for precise surface analysis, a state-of-the-art transmission electron microscope (TEM), a FIB (Focused Ion Beam) system for microscale material processing, a LIBS microscope, and a Raman microscope for non-destructive material analysis. The portfolio is complemented by a new XPS/AES system and ultra-short pulse laser-based processing equipment. The devices enable in-depth material characterization with higher resolution and sensitivity. They open up new scientific questions and at the same time increase the attractiveness for students and doctoral candidates, who are integrated into research projects at an early stage.
Boost for research and small and medium-sized enterprises
Minister Schmitt emphasized that excellent research always benefits the economy: “We are investing in the IFOS infrastructure because we are convinced that research that is put into practice is a driving force for our location. It creates new knowledge, new processes, and new products — and helps to secure and create jobs.”
Professor L'huillier: Modernization strengthens competitiveness
“The modernization of our infrastructure is a key step toward continuing to deliver scientific and technological excellence in the future,” explains Prof. Dr. Johannes L'huillier. “It not only strengthens our international competitiveness, but also Rhineland-Palatinate as a center of innovation.”
Background
Also through its integration into the state research center OPTIMAS, IFOS is closely linked to the Rhineland-Palatinate University of Kaiserslautern-Landau (RPTU) and has stood for the combination of basic research and application-oriented development since its foundation. Of particular importance is its cooperation with small and medium-sized enterprises, which benefit from the institute's technological developments. With today's stop in Kaiserslautern, the minister continues her summer tour, which focuses on exchange with research, business, and society.