VSB-TUO and the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics Sign a Memorandum
In a joint memorandum, representatives of both institutions confirmed the establishment of a partnership named MAGNUM (Machine Learning, Advanced Material Engineering, General Characterisation and Understanding of New Materials).
The partners will focus on scientific and technological collaboration in the fields of machine learning, advanced materials engineering, general material and surface characterization using a wide range of state-of-the-art spectroscopic and microscopic methods, and the understanding of new materials through the evaluation of the obtained results. To achieve this, they will integrate leading scientific disciplines, including nuclear fusion, photonics, catalysis, decarbonization, and nanotechnology.
For the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics, this partnership will promote the development of advanced materials for plasma-facing components in stellarators—fusion devices designed to confine and stabilize plasma using a complex magnetic field. The IPP in Greifswald focuses on the scientific areas of stellarator dynamics, heating and optimisation, stellarator edge and divertor physics, as well as the operation of Wendelstein 7-X and stellarator theory. A key aspect of these efforts is the design and optimisation of particle and impurity exhaust systems, which are essential for the creation and management of a stable and well-defined plasma-wall interaction. An integral part of these objectives is the development and preparation of new materials for the plasma-facing components, which are exposed to extreme conditions.
"We are very happy to have gained a competent partner in the field of advanced material analysis and characterization and state-of-the-art of material and components design. The realisation of fusion energy and ensuring the success of the stellarator experiment Wendelstein 7-X is a major effort, which requires the bundling of many forces. We are convinced that the Technical University of Ostrava will help us significantly with their expertise and ability to inspire and attract new specialists,” said Robert Wolf, Director of the Department of Experimental Plasma Physics and a member of the Executive Board at the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics.
"VSB-TUO, as a top technical university in Central Europe, brings extensive experience in advanced materials and emerging technologies to this collaboration. Thanks to our cutting-edge research facilities and strong academic community, we are delighted to work effectively with our partners from the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics. I am particularly pleased that this partnership will benefit not only researchers but also students," said VSB-TUO Rector Václav Snášel.
VSB-TUO is equipped with modern instrumentation for the diagnostics and characterization of materials and their preparation processes, synthesis and deposition. In particular, electron microscopy is currently undergoing dynamic expansion, aiming to achieve subatomic resolution. With leading capabilities in materials engineering, electron microscopy, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence, VSB-TUO is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the development and characterization of materials capable of withstanding extreme environments.
The partnership between VSB-TUO and IPP represents a major step forward in combining scientific and technical strengths. By working towards shared goals and combining their specialized knowledge, both institutions aim to achieve significant progress in energy sustainability and environmental responsibility. Their collaboration will include joint research within extended teams, student and staff exchanges, and the sharing of research infrastructure.