Microelectronics Research at TU Ilmenau
The ever-increasing use of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) opens up entirely new possibilities for communication and networking. At the same time, however, it is accompanied by a steadily growing demand for energy and raw materials, which contributes significantly to global CO2 emissions. In order to avoid long-term negative ecological, economic, and social consequences of the increasing demand for raw materials and energy, we at TU Ilmenau conduct research in the field of microelectronics on environmentally friendly information technology that is sustainable and climate-neutral along the entire value chain and throughout the entire material life cycle.
This Green Electronics (or sustainable electronics) refers to the development and production of electronic devices and components that are as climate-neutral as possible and are manufactured and disposed of in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. The goal is to minimize the negative impact of electronics on the environment and to conserve our finite resources. We understand Green Electronics as an approach to reduce the environmental impact of electronics and to create a sustainable future:
- Use of environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes, such as recycling of raw materials and non-toxic materials
- Energy efficiency and low energy consumption during the manufacturing, use, and disposal of devices
- Extension of device lifetimes through repair, reuse, and recycling
- Avoidance of electronic waste through appropriate disposal measures and manufacturer take-back programs
