It is well known that civil engineering structures are subject to material fatigue due to multiphysical external effects. With very detailed physical models and suitable model reduction methods, we develop simulation procedures with which the material fatigue can be predicted already in the design phase. These simulations can also accompany the life cycle of the structures and support maintenance and repair measures. In this way, they can help to reduce the enormous and energy-intensive use of materials for a new building.

A long-standing research topic at the institute is the development of simulation methods for the dynamics of rolling tyres. Such methods can be used to explain physical processes that can hardly be determined by technical measurements. This provides industry with methods to design their products more sustainably, e.g. with regard to the aspects of particle abrasion, environmental noise, energy consumption, etc.