The basic idea of all research topics is the connection between the molecular structure of polymers and the mechanical properties or application properties of the polymer material. This results in the synthesis of model polymers with defined properties, e.g. topology on the one hand, and the characterization of mechanical properties using rheological and other characterization methods on the other.
Further information about our research can be found under the links in the title banner above.
Take a look at the latest image from the Wilhelm research group:
Either in a Slider (Switching between different images) or as a direct single page.
The internal seminar of Prof. Wilhelm's research group took place from September 16 to 18, 2026, in Bad Herrenalb at the Baden State Academy.
Impressions from Bad Herrenalb
The DFG’s Scientific Priority Programme 2005 (SPP2005), involving over 15 research groups from Germany, focuses on the rheology of workable cement and is therefore of fundamental interest to the modern construction industry. The current state of research has now been published in an open-access book by Springer.
"A chance discovery becomes a global success"
Roy Plunkett invented the plastic Teflon.
Professor Wilhelm was interviewed as an expert; the programme was broadcast on 4 February 2026.
Here is the Link to Deutschlandfunk or directly a MP3 for download.
Our proprietary coupled characterisation methods – in this case, benchtop NMR coupled with SEC – are used in industry. Here is an application note from Magritek that we have written at the KIT.
A discussion on university education in chemistry and the natural sciences in general is needed, and this feature article from *Nachrichten aus der Chemie* is intended to stimulate such a discussion. Opinions and comments are welcome; please feel free to email them to Manfred Wilhelm.
To mark KIT’s 200th anniversary, a special edition of *Macromolecular Rapid Communications* was published, covering 125 years of polymer science in Karlsruhe, featuring an overview article of Manfred Wilhelm on the history of polymer science in Karlsruhe.
To mark KIT’s 200th anniversary, a special edition of *Macromolecular Rapid Communications* was published, covering 125 years of polymer science in Karlsruhe, featuring an overview article by Manfred Wilhelm on the history of polymer science in Karlsruhe.
On September 30, following our alumni meeting, we went on this year's group excursion, a geocaching wine tasting tour through the vineyards around Maikammer in the Palatinate.
Impressions from Palatinate
The 10th meeting of Alumni, Friends and Cooperationpartner of the group of Prof. Wilhelm on September, 26th at the ITCP and the MZE was assited by more than 70 people, approximately 50 guests and alumni.
Alumni-Meeting