Was it innovative thinking that sparked the construction of the Walther-Hempel-Bau? This building stands as a testament to chemical research and education at the Technical University of Dresden. Let’s explore its story.
The Walther-Hempel-Bau is named after Walther Hempel. Hempel was a chemist known for his work in electrolysis and technical gas analysis. Born in 1851, he became a professor of technical chemistry at the Königlich-Sächsischen Polytechnikum in Dresden. Hempel’s work led to the development of the Hempel pipette, burette, and oven. Together with Clemens Winkler, Hempel founded technical gas analysis.
Originally built in 1962, the Walther-Hempel-Bau underwent extensive renovations. These renovations ensured the building met modern standards for workplace quality and safety. The building now presents the image of a modern laboratory facility.
The renovation, completed in 2013, cost around 17 million euros. The building now has modern office and seminar rooms. High-quality laboratory facilities also exist. These improvements allow the TU Dresden to continue excelling in chemistry research and teaching.
The Walther-Hempel-Bau is located on Mommsenstraße 4. It connects to the new buildings of the Chemical Institutes at a right angle. The institutes of Technical Chemistry, Macromolecular Chemistry, and Special Physical Chemistry moved into the building.
The Walther-Hempel-Bau offers about 2,700 square meters of usable space. Here, modern office, seminar, and laboratory rooms have been created. The equipment includes ultra-pure gas and vacuum systems. Modern practice areas enable large-scale experimental setups. A section of the two-story hall is separated for a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometer.
The building also features innovative photovoltaic technology. Several areas on the south facade and the roof are equipped with photovoltaic elements. This setup acts as a pilot project for building-integrated photovoltaics. It allows researchers to study the influence of temperature on energy yields.
The Staatsbetrieb Sächsisches Immobilien- und Baumanagement oversaw the construction work. Construction began in January 2010. The goal was to preserve the building’s core structure while updating its facilities.
The Walther-Hempel-Bau embodies innovation. It combines historical significance with modern technology. This creates an optimal environment for chemical research and education at the TU Dresden.