Ludger Josef Fischer

Professor Ludger Josef Fischer is a faculty member at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) in the School of Engineering & Architecture. He serves as Co-Head of the Competence Center for Thermal Energy Storage (CCTES) within the Institute of Mechanical and Energy Engineering (IME). Additionally, he is a guest lecturer at the University of the Arts in London (UAL) and ZHAW, Wädenswil for cosmetic manufacturing technologies, and has been an affiliated researcher at MIT since 2019.

Dr. Fischer graduated in Mechanical and Process Engineering at RWTH Aachen and completed his PhD at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Before joining academia in 2013, he held significant industrial positions including head of R&D and sales at Kühni AG, managing director of Ekato Unimix, and various leadership roles within the AC Serendip group across Switzerland, Germany, and China.

His primary research focuses on thermal energy storage, particularly Phase Change Materials (PCM) and Phase Change Dispersions (PCD). He investigates applications of these technologies in seasonal thermal storage, building applications, and industrial processes. His work spans fundamental research on material properties to applied engineering solutions. Additionally, he has significant expertise in mixing, dispersing, and emulsification technologies, with applications in the cosmetic industry and interface thermodynamics. His teaching portfolio includes Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics courses, Environmental Technology, Process Engineering, and specialized courses on Cosmetic Manufacturing Technologies.

Professor Fischer's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on thermal energy storage systems, particularly examining phase change materials and their applications. His work spans from fundamental material characterization to practical implementation in energy systems. There's a clear emphasis on decarbonization of energy infrastructure through innovative storage solutions, with significant contributions to both seasonal storage systems and industrial applications.

• Appointed Member of ProcessNet committee Heat and Mass Transfer
• Co-author of VDI Wärmeatlas
• Program Manager of Innovation Booster 'Energy Lab' funding 52 startups with approximately 2.1 MCHF

As Program Manager of the Innovation Booster 'Energy Lab,' Professor Fischer has successfully guided numerous startups in the energy sector. His industrial experience translates directly into practical research and teaching, with numerous patents filed and granted under his guidance. His leadership extends to multiple significant research projects including SWEET PATHFNDR, SWEET LANTERN CCTES, and SCCER Storage initiatives.

Professor Fischer co-leads the Competence Center for Thermal Energy Storage (CCTES) and is actively involved in the Swiss competence center for future energy efficient building & districts as Deputy Head. His research team conducts cutting-edge work on thermal energy storage systems, with particular focus on Phase Change Materials applications, seasonal storage solutions, and industrial process integration. The center maintains strong industry partnerships and collaborates with international institutions including MIT.