Dresden researchers revolutionize electronics with sustainable circuit boards!

Dresden researchers revolutionize electronics with sustainable circuit boards!

The Technical University of Dresden (TUD) has celebrated a significant success: Dr. Hans Kleemann was awarded the Joachim Herz Prize 2025. This prestigious honor is awarded for his innovative research approach in the field of bio-based and recyclable circuit boards. The prize money amounts to an impressive 500,000 euros, making the award one of the most valuable science prizes in the world. The award ceremony will take place in Hamburg on September 30, 2025, and Kleemann plans to use the money to advance his research toward developing a prototype. He leads the “Organic Devices and Systems” group at the Institute of Applied Physics at TUD and thereby incorporates his extensive knowledge of the sustainable design of electronic systems.

The “UnbeLEAFable” research project aims to develop novel materials for circuit boards that can replace conventional, environmentally harmful alternatives. Around 62 million tonnes of electronic waste are generated worldwide every year, a significant proportion of which is caused by improperly recycled circuit boards. Conventional circuit boards are made from non-renewable raw materials and are difficult to recycle due to their complex material composition. This issue is addressed by Kleemann's work, which aims to significantly reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste.

Sustainable approaches and materials

A central aspect of Kleemann's work is the development of a sustainable circuit board made from plant-based substrate. This innovative solution could not only reduce electronic waste, but also have a positive impact on the climate. Researchers at TUD have found that the substrate of the circuit boards often makes up up to 60% of the mass and therefore triggers a large part of the recycling problem. Common materials consist of non-biodegradable plastics or glass fibers reinforced with epoxy resin.

A new substrate made from magnolia leaves offers a promising alternative. The idea of ​​using leaf skeletons came about when researcher Rakesh Nair looked at a magnolia tree. In the production of the substrate, lignocellulose is used, which is treated in combination with biodegradable polymers such as ethyl cellulose. Additionally, a chitosan coating is used to improve adhesion for conductive inks. The result is a flexible, translucent and compostable substrate that is heat-resistant and conforms to conventional manufacturing methods.

Global relevance and outlook

The challenges in the electronics industry are enormous. In 2022, over 62 million tons of e-waste were produced worldwide, but less than a fifth of it was recycled. One of the main causes is the linear production model, which excludes recyclable materials and contributes to landfills. The environmental footprint of the electronics industry is becoming increasingly critical and it is clear that fundamental reforms are necessary. Companies like Apple, Cisco and Dell are already embracing circular approaches and recycling programs, but small and medium-sized businesses face significant challenges in implementing sustainable practices.

The research of Dr. Hans Kleemann could therefore make a decisive contribution to the transformation of this industry. As governments and consumers increasingly expect environmentally friendly products, the development of new, sustainable materials is of great importance. Investments in environmentally friendly materials and circular production are essential to reduce the environmental footprint of electronics. The developments that Kleemann is initiating could not only revolutionize the electronics industry, but also enable a fundamental change in the way products are designed and manufactured.

In summary, the importance of sustainability in the electronics industry can no longer be ignored. The initiatives of scientists like Hans Kleemann help pave the way to a more environmentally friendly future.

Technical University of Dresden reports, Plantresearch.de reports, Electronics News reports.