Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology
The Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology (HIF) pursues the objective of developing innovative technologies for the economy so that mineral and metalliferous raw materials can be made available and used more efficiently and recycled in an environmentally friendly manner. The HIF was founded on August 29, 2011, belongs to Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf and is being established in close cooperation with TU Bergakademie Freiberg.
Trace Metals for a Healthy Economy
High tech needs them to survive: Gallium, indium, and other rare metals. But also such rare earth metals as scandium, yttrium, or lanthanum. Without them, it would be impossible to build solar cells and electrical engines for cars and wind turbines. Yet the demand for these trace metals is higher than their technological availability, which is why global competition has ensued for these strategic economic resources. Germany as a high tech country has to play an active role to ensure a sustained and stable supply of mineral and metalliferous raw materials to the global economy.
In order to advance and promote the development of technologies for the efficient and effective use of mineral resources, Germany’s Federal Government has founded the Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology (HIF). The new institute is to make a vital contribution towards implementing the national strategy on raw materials.
Visions & Aims
- New technologies for utilization of mineral and metal containing resources from complex domestic and foreign deposits
- Contribution to global environmental protection by means of material and energy efficient extraction and use of raw materials
- Economic networks between Germany and resource countries based on sustainable technologies provided to German industry by the Helmholtz Institute
- Training of new generation of highly qualified academic and technical staff for German industry and academia
How to Find Us
Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology
Halsbrücker Straße 34, 09599 Freiberg, Germany