The Department of Applied Engineering has a long-standing tradition of contract research with the industry, supported by the Flemish and European authorities. Research focuses on providing practical solutions for industrial and social problems rather than on fundamental scientific research. The Department’s research activities are in line with the expectations of a rapidly evolving society.

Current research projects include wireless communication in household appliances, measuring and managing bacterial decay in foods, renewable energy, sustainable building techniques, waste water treatment and rational water usage, biogas generation from sludge, mechanical design and production (reverse engineering, geometric metrology, rapid tooling, etc.).

The Department hosts three knowledge centres:

• Labo De Nayer, Product Certification Centre De Nayer: laboratory accredited to do mechanical tests on EMC and construction materials.
• The Flemish Centre for Powder Technology (Vlaams Center voor Poeder Technologie, VCPT)
• Institute for Information on the Integration of Renewable Energy Techniques in Buildings (Integratie van Duurzame Energietoepassingen in Gebouwen, IDEG).

The Department’s research activities have a direct impact on its teaching. Students have well-equipped laboratories at their disposal and are up-to-date with recent technological developments. The involvement of the industry in the Department’s research also enhances the continuously excellent relationship between the department and the business community.