Advanced Materials are materials which differ from traditional materials such as steel in being significantly lighter and more efficient. Advanced Materials range from reinforced plastics through Composites with glass or carbon fibers, to lightweight metals such as aluminum or magnesium. In many cases these systems are combined in multi-material-systems to reach the best cost/benefit yield for a complex lightweight structure.

Lightweight materials can be found in various applications and activities of our daily life: ranging from transportation (Automotive, Aerospace, Marine), Building & Infrastructure, Energy & Electrical to Sports & Leisure.
The specific features of lightweight materials are particularly evident when used in large structural components required to withstand high loads; for example rotor blades in wind mills, entire boat hulls or the carbon chassis of Formula 1 cars. In many cases, the featuresof the lightweight material are often combined with other advantages of these materials such as corrosion resistance or inflammability.