Dr. Vinayakumar's work makes a decisive contribution to better understanding processes in particle technology and developing them further in a practical way. The knowledge gained on anode production is of direct importance for water electrolysis - a key technology for the production of green hydrogen and thus for the energy transition.
Laudatory speech and recognition
Prof. Doris Segets gave the laudatory speech, highlighting the combination of basic research and application in the prizewinner's projects. "Dr. Vinayakumar impressively demonstrates how fresh ideas and scientific excellence can work together," said Segets. Prof. Martin Löffler-Mang, son of prize founder Friedrich Löffler, then presented the certificate. Prof. Arno Kwade, Chairman of the DECHEMA/VDI Division for Particle Technology, also congratulated the researcher.
Significance for young scientists
The award ceremony took place in front of an international audience of experts and underlined the central role of young scientists. "With the Friedrich Löffler Prize, we support young researchers up to the age of 40 who set decisive impulses with creativity and commitment," said Vivien Manning, Managing Director of the VDI-GVC. The prize, which is endowed with 3,000 euros, was awarded for the fifth time in 2025. It is traditionally awarded as part of PARTEC, which takes place every three years alongside the Powtech/Technopharm trade fair in Nuremberg.