In the western world in particular, social and technological advancement mean that ever greater value is attached to personal safety. Increasing life expectancy is strengthening demand for innovative solutions to keep the body working properly and so improve quality of life. EMPA's objective is to develop the best possible materials for such solutions and an internationally recognised centre of excellence is being established.

Protection and physiology

In many personal protection applications, the necessary levels of protection can be achieved only at the price of reduced comfort. Constant improvement of materials and systems will help to extend the application range of these products and so improve the user's performance.

The interface between biology, materials science and medicine

Biocompatible materials are used as implants or cell supports. These optimised synthetic and biologically produced replacement materials help doctors to maintain the function of diseased or injured tissue. EMPA research includes the development, design and improvement of materials and tissues with a stimulating action on cell growth.