RWTH Aachen University
Conducts research and technology transfer in additive manufacturing, including developing circular supply chains by converting steel scrap into metal powder for 3D printing, reducing construction sector carbon footprint through localized production.
- CEO / Founder
- Ulrich Rüdiger
- Team Size
- 10000+
- Stage
- Established
- Latest Round
- Excellence Strategy (since 2019)
- Key Investors
- European Union; State of North Rhine-Westphalia; German Federal and State Governments (through Excellence Strategy)
Technology & Products
Key Products
Research projects (e.g., AddMamBa); Technology transfer services; Training and education programs; Spin-off support
Technological Advantage
Verified advantages: Proprietary research in metal binder jetting (e.g., with HP Metal Jet S100) and LPBF; defensible through patents and academic publications. Claimed advantages: Sustainable AM processes reducing CO2 emissions.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Provides access to cutting-edge AM research, expertise, and infrastructure through institutes like Digital Additive Production (DAP) and ACAM, enabling partners to innovate in metal binder jetting, LPBF, and sustainable manufacturing.
How They Differentiate
Largest technical university in Germany with integrated AM research across multiple institutes (DAP, ACAM); focuses on circular economy and industrial applications, unlike pure research institutions.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Industrial companies, research partners, startups
Industry Verticals
Aerospace/Defense; Automotive; Medical; Construction; Industrial Manufacturing
Competitors
FAU ZiMT; Heidelberg University; Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology (ILK); Fraunhofer Competence Field Additive Manufacturing
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Ranked #105 in QS World University Rankings 2026, #92 in THE World University Rankings 2026, and #201–300 in ARWU World Rankings 2025; Germany's largest technical university with high global prestige.
Major Milestones
1870: Founded as Königliche Rheinisch-Westfälische Polytechnische Schule; 2013: Aachen Center for 3D Printing founded with Fraunhofer ILT; 2024: Joined BIOMET4D project for bioresorbable implants; Ongoing: AddMamBa project for circular AM in construction