Experimenting at RUAG AG
The final course of the SimplyNano 2 project in Central Switzerland took place in Emmen at RUAG AG. The traditional Swiss company provided insights into its operations and vocational training. Following this, 20 teachers and two apprentices from the host company were inspired by the SimplyNano experiments.
Nano Experiments with Everyday Relevance
Nanotechnology is an integral part of our daily lives – whether in plastics, surface coatings, or textiles. Since nanoparticles are invisible to the naked eye, the SimplyNano experiments offer a hands-on approach to spark interest in these tiny particles and their unique properties. In the main part of the course, the twenty teachers and two apprentices from RUAG AG conducted the nano experiments themselves and tested the learning materials. Particularly popular were experiments with direct everyday relevance, such as the diaper experiment with superabsorbent nanomaterials or the gecko effect, which made adhesion forces visible. Teachers especially appreciated the immediate applicability of the materials in their lessons.
Teachers Experiment with Superabsorbent Material from Baby Diapers (Emmen, February 5, 2025 – Photo: Oliver Pütz)
Visiting RUAG AG
The host of the course, RUAG, is a technology partner of the Swiss Armed Forces. The Emmen site mainly maintains aircraft - jets and helicopters - for the Swiss Armed Forces. Around 70 apprentices are trained at the site. If all sites in Switzerland are included, this figure rises to 209. 15 apprenticeships are offered at RUAG in total. Sascha Küttel, Head of Vocational Training Central Switzerland, introduced the company in his presentation. In the second part, two apprentices introduced the various apprenticeships. They explained the requirements, further training opportunities and their own experiences at RUAG as a training company. This created a practical link between science, training and the world of work.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Broad Support from More Than 40 Partners
The experiment kits and associated courses are provided to schools free of charge. The project is funded by a broad network of over forty partners. The SimplyNano 2 project is already in use across 16 cantons. Starting in autumn 2025, the SimplyNano kits will also be introduced in the cantons of Bern, Fribourg, and Schaffhausen. The long-term goal is to establish the experiment kits throughout the German-speaking part of Switzerland.
Source: Innovationsgesellschaft
Image source: Innovationsgesellschaft / RUAG
February 12, 2025, Marlon Rauber