LZH at the W3+fair in Jena

LZH at the W3+fair in Jena

Mehrere unterschiedliche große und geformte Optiken in einer Beschichtungskalotte.
LZH will be presenting optical coatings for specialized applications, characterization, and damage testing at the W3+fair in Jena. (Photo: LZH)
21 September 2026
Press releases

The Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH) is exhibiting at the W3+fair in Jena for the first time. In Hall 1, Booth C11, the LZH will be showcasing its current work on optical components, coatings, and functional 3D-printed optics.

Glasscheibe mit sphärischer Linse, die von zwei Fingern gehalten wird.
LZH will be showcasing at the W3+fair in Jena how glass fiber laser deposition evolved into the production of functional optics. (Photo: LZH)

The research institute is making its trade show debut with two topics of focus. At the booth, LZH scientists will present their capabilities in the development and characterization of optical components for a wide range of applications. They will be highlighting current work on specialized optical coatings as well as laser-induced damage testing. The latter enables the systematic determination of damage thresholds for optical components — a critical foundation for high-power laser systems and ensuring long operational lifetimes. Their optics find applications across a variety of industries, including materials processing, medical technology, sensing, telecommunications, and aerospace.

Functional Optics Straight from the 3D Printer

The second area of focus in Jena is on the additive manufacturing of optical components. LZH is researching the production of spherical lenses and other functional optics using 3D printing. This approach enables the production of custom optics with fewer steps, offering greater flexibility and customization than conventional methods. It is particularly interesting for custom beam shaping, miniaturizing optical systems, and integrated photonics. At the booth, LZH will use exhibits to show their initial work on glass fiber laser deposition paved the way for the current production of functional optical components using Laser Glass Deposition (LGD).

LZH can be found at the W3+fair on September 23 and 24 at the Sparkassen-Arena Jena, Hall 1, Booth C11.

 

Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH)
As an independent, non-profit research institute, the Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH) stands for innovative research, development, and consulting. Supported by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Economics, Transport and Building, the LZH is dedicated to selflessly promoting applied research in the field of photonics and laser technology. Founded in 1986, almost 200 employees are now working at the LZH.

The LZH offers solutions to current and future challenges with its smart photonics. Along the process chain, natural scientists and engineers work interdisciplinary together: from component development for specific laser systems or for quantum technologies to process developments for a wide variety of laser applications, for example for medical and agricultural technology or lightweight construction in the automotive sector. 18 successful spin-offs have emerged from the LZH to date. Thus, the LZH creates a strong transfer between fundamental science, application-oriented research, and industry - and uses light for innovation.