Science to marvel at and touch - that's exactly what the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion (MPI CEC) put on for all interested parties at its Open House. With child-friendly stations, the latest laboratory technology and highly complex research equipment, every age group got their money's worth. With 35 booths around the topic of chemical energy conversion, visitors were given an understanding of everyday research work. This included not only hands-on and demonstration experiments, but also posters, information boards, videos, talks and discussions. 250 of the more than 300 employees of the institute were involved in the implementation.

Especially for the people who still know the institute from the past or have followed the reconstruction, it became exciting. With currently three of four new buildings, the MPI CEC showed the public the new laboratories, workshops and offices.

A highlight of the day was the experimental lecture by director Prof. Walter Leitner. In front of an audience of around 120 people, he impressively demonstrated how chemical reactions can be used to store and release energy. Of course, spectacular light and bang effects were not to be missed. 

"We are very pleased that our open day was so well received and that not only our employees but also the visitors contributed to a successful day," concludes Leitner.