On March 27, 2026, IPPT PAN joined the celebrations of the fourth edition of the National Materials Engineering Day (ODIM2026)—a nationwide initiative promoting science, organized across numerous academic centers and research institutes throughout Poland. This year’s event was held under the theme “Cosmic Materials,” highlighting the importance of advanced materials in the development of cutting-edge technologies, including space technologies.
At IPPT PAN, the event was dedicated to high school students, who had the opportunity to experience science in a practical and engaging way. The program prepared by the Institute’s staff demonstrated that materials engineering is an interdisciplinary field combining physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering, with applications ranging from everyday technologies to solutions used in outer space.
The activities were interactive and focused on questions designed to stimulate curiosity and imagination. Students explored topics such as whether sound can be heard in space, whether it is possible to “see” acoustic waves, and whether sound can be used to create structures. During the workshops, participants used sound waves to visualize and “draw” structures, gaining hands-on insight into physical phenomena.
An important part of the program also included ultrasound-based sessions. Students had the opportunity to work with an ultrasound scanner, which allowed them to understand how acoustic waves are applied in materials research and diagnostics.
The program also addressed future directions in materials engineering, including additive manufacturing, the design of bio-inspired materials, and research on cell behavior under microgravity conditions. Considerable interest was also generated by so-called “space fabrics,” which may support the human skeletal system during prolonged stays in space.
Participants were also given the opportunity to tour IPPT PAN laboratories, observe material samples under a microscope, and learn about advanced research equipment, including laser systems used in materials science.
The activities at IPPT PAN were prepared and conducted by a team consisting of: Magda Osial (coordinator), Paula Broniszewska-Wojdat, Judyta Dulnik, Peio Carbajo Balbas, Andreas Fernandez Fuentes, Łukasz Fura, Dorota Kołbuk-Konieczny, Maryla Moczulska-Heljak, Grzegorz Molak, Beata Niemczyk-Soczyńska, Ada Nowak, Michał Niedzielczyk, Giang Ngan, Kamil Opiela, Paulina Pietrzyk-Thel, Ewa Wojtiuk, Krzysztof Wieja, Ryszard Wojnar, Katarzyna Zielińska, and Angelika Zaszczyńska.
The National Materials Engineering Day is an important initiative supporting science outreach and fostering young people’s interest in science and engineering.
We would like to thank all participants and partners for jointly exploring the world of materials engineering.
