Raw-Materials Supply and Resource Efficiency

The research field of “Raw-materials supply and resource efficiency” focusses on the sustainable extraction and recycling of raw materials. This includes metals, industrial minerals and building materials. The basis for this is formed by raw materials and environmental geosciences, mining, processing and geotechnical engineering. The field is completed by underground storage and water management. In this field of research, engineering and natural science institutes work with the Institute of Management and Economics and Computer Science to develop sustainable solutions for a socio-technical transformation and thus contribute to the advanced circular economy. New findings are incorporated into both university teaching and the transfer of knowledge to society.

Starting with sustainable, safe and energy-conscious raw material extraction, resource-efficient raw material processing and material development through to design and construction for a circular economy, we consider the entire product life cycle. In environmental and behavioral economics, the use phase (consumer behavior: shared economy, reuse or repair) is examined. Optimizing the use of old products and waste (refurbish, remanufacture, recycle) closes the circle for all types of waste generated today. With our work in post-mining, we also close the circle to the residual materials of the past (processing of tailings from former mining regions). We also support projects for the safe landfilling of materials that can no longer be meaningfully returned to the cycle.

To implement an advanced circular economy, TU Clausthal develops business models and digital solutions for all stages of the value creation cycle, is involved in standardization and reporting issues and considers the long-term effects of our research.