The application of new materials is an essential factor in the development of a number of key technologies, such as information and communication technology, electrical engineering, the chemicals industry, environmental engineering, defence technology, power engineering, the transport industry, manufacturing technology and mechanical engineering. The exploration and development of new materials requires a high degree of technical know-how and is often a very capital-intensive business. A comprehensive intellectual property strategy is needed to safeguard an innovation and protect it from possible imitations.

The development and application of new materials is focused on organic and inorganic polymers, metallic light construction materials and special materials, technical glass and technical ceramics, composite materials, textiles, materials for polymer electronics, crystalline materials, catalysts, special chemicals for a wide range of applications and materials with functionalised surfaces.