Shaping the Future of Sensing, Together

Artistic impression of structured matter. - Image: Uni Graz / Banzer

The Christian Doppler Laboratory for Structured Matter Based Sensing (CDL-SMBS) is entering a new phase following its successful first evaluation at the end of 2024, and two expansions in 2024 and more recently in 2026.

The large-scale research project follows a unique approach: using structured matter and engineered wave fields – electromagnetic and acoustic – to rethink sensors and their interaction with the environment. This combination of fundamental insights and industrial applicability has become the laboratory’s hallmark. The laboratory is jointly led by Peter Banzer (University of Graz) and Alexander Bergmann (Graz University of Technology).

In 2024, the laboratory expanded its industrial base with voestalpine Stahl Donawitz GmbH, marking a strategic move toward structured light, sound and matter based sensing solutions tailored for heavy industry and harsh conditions. The collaboration focuses on embedding advanced wave‑based sensing into production environments where conventional technologies reach their limits. By integrating structured‑matter concepts with demanding industrial processes, the partnership opens new avenues for robust, high‑precision monitoring.

The momentum now continues in 2026 with TDK Electronics joining as a new partner. TDK brings deep expertise in ultrasound sensor technology and other sensor platforms. This addition strengthens the laboratory’s position at the interface of photonics, acoustics, and advanced materials engineering, with a focus on application-oriented fundamental research. The covered research areas include but are not limited to integrated photonics, metamaterials, structured waves, laser-ultrasonics, and light-sound-matter interactions.

With these new and ongoing partnerships and the leadership of Bergmann and Banzer, the CDL-SMBS now operates at the crossroads of materials science, electromagnetic and acoustic wave control, and industrial innovation. Its expanded industrial consortium (ams-OSRAM, Infineon Technologies, voestalpine Stahl Donatwitz GmbH, and TDK Electronics) reflects a shared commitment to shaping the next generation of sensing technologies.

Contact:
Peter Banzer, peter.banzer(at)uni-graz.at

Links:
https://structured-matter.com/
https://www.cdg.ac.at/en/research-units/labor/structured-matter-based-sensing
https://opnaq.uni-graz.at/en/research/

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