Small Particles, Big Impact: Laser-Generated, Surfactant-Free Nanoparticles for Functional Materials in Additive Manufacturing

Dr Anna Ziefuß is a technical chemist and group leader at the University of Duisburg-Essen, where she is currently completing her habilitation. Her research focuses on the development of nanoparticle-modified powder materials for additive manufacturing, combining laser-based synthesis with controlled and well-understood surface chemistry.

A key aspect of her work is the transfer of nanoparticle concepts into scalable processes, enabling the functionalization of feedstocks under conditions relevant to industrial implementation. Her interdisciplinary research bridges chemistry, laser processing, and materials science, with the goal of improving printability, microstructure, and functionality in powder bed fusion.

Dr. Ziefuß leads several collaborative projects across polymer and magnetic material systems and is actively involved in advancing next-generation feedstocks through nanoparticle-based design strategies.