In the framework of the agreement Ladewig will set up a new research laboratory focusing on hydrogen-related materials and technologies that address critical gaps in in the European market. One of those is the need for substantial production of green hydrogen for industrial applications. The technologies will be demonstrated and deployed in a range of applications and the chair will work with several partners from industry and society.

“The combination of a dynamic university and the financial and technical support of Paul Wurth provides an excellent foundation to make advances in fundamental and applied hydrogen technologies. I am deeply motivated to work towards a sustainable future and hydrogen will play a critical role in that,” stated Ladewig in a press release.

The university’s department of engineering at the Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine will conduct research in process engineering and support the Luxembourg industry’s efforts to contribute to an energy transition. Ladewig will make use of his research background in advanced materials for molecular separation and chemical engineering during his five-year tenure as holder of the Paul Wurth chair.

Paul Wurth, a company that manufactures industrial equipment for the steel sector, last year was taken over by Germany-based SMS Group. The new owners plan to regroup research on decarbonisation and steel recycling in Luxembourg as well as developing the use of hydrogen in steelmaking. 

The agreement for the chair was signed prior to the takeover but ties in with the mission to make Luxembourg a centre of excellence on hydrogen research. 

The University of Luxembourg’s chairs hold a prominent position which aim to accelerate research and link the academic and commercial worlds. Other funded chairs include partnership with satellite operator SES, microfinance organisation ADA, and steelmaker ArcelorMittal, among others.