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EAER Press releases
What a dry meteorite tells us about water on Mars
Detecting water where none remains today: neutron and X-ray tomography make it possible. In an international study conducted with the participation of the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI, researchers have brought to light macroscopic hydrogen-rich regions inside a Martian meteorite. The findings provide evidence for early water–rock interactions on Mars.
Improving laser cutting with acoustics: The self-guiding laser
Laser cutting of metals is a powerful and flexible process. However, depending on the material’s thickness and properties, adjusting the cutting machines can be a time-consuming process. Researchers at Empa, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI), and the machine manufacturer Bystronic developed a method in an Innosuisse project that allows the laser to assess the cut quality itself using cameras and microphones and, if necessary, adjust it immediately.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures Concerning Moldova
On 10.08.2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended the Annex to the ordinance. In this context, 6 individuals were added to the Annex. The measures come into force at 11 pm on 11.08.2026.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures Relating to the Situation in Ukraine
On 10.08.2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended annexes 2 and 8 to the ordinance. In this context, 9 individuals and 45 organizations were added to Annex 8, and the entries concerning 11 individuals and entities were amended in Annexes 2 and 8. The measures come into force at 11 pm on 11.08.2026.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran
The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) published on 11 August 2026 a positive list relating to Article 21, paragraph 6, of the Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Sanctions: Ordinance imposing measures against the Republic of South Sudan
On 10 August 2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended annex 2 of the ordinance imposing measures against the Republic of South Sudan. One entry concerning an individual has been modified. The measures come into force on 11 August 2026 at 11 p.m.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against Sudan
On 10 August 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) has amended annex 2 of the ordinance on measures against Sudan. One individual has been removed from the annex. The measures come into force on 11 August 2026 at 11 p.m.
Consumer sentiment lower than a year ago
In July 2026 the consumer sentiment index stood at –35 points. This is 2 points lower than in July 2025. The following sub-indices are lower than in July 2025: past financial situation, financial outlook and moment to make major purchases. The following sub-index has barely changed compared to July 2025: economic outlook.
The proton highway: Taking a closer look at materials for hydrogen processing
To produce and use green hydrogen more efficiently, better materials are needed – such as robust membranes made of special ceramics that can absorb and conduct protons. An international research team led by Empa aims to shed light on the fundamentals of proton transport in such materials using new methods. The project is supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) as part of the External Lead Agency program.
Innosuisse Flagship project for the prevention of type 2 diabetes: Combating diabetes with data and digitalization
Type 2 diabetes generates high healthcare costs in Switzerland and causes significant suffering for those affected. A multidisciplinary Innosuisse Flagship project led by Empa aims to use artificial intelligence (AI), innovative digital sensors, and new business models to facilitate the prevention of this widespread disease.
Für eine Schweiz der Ursprünge, des Eides und der gemeinsamen Verantwortung
Ansprache von Bundespräsident Guy Parmelin Vorsteher des Eidgenössischen Departements für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung (WBF) anlässlich des Nationalfeiertags 2026 Rütliwiese, Samstag, 1. August 2026
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against individuals and groups associated with the Taliban
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly. On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Ultracold neutrons don’t disappear into the mirror world
For decades, a theory in physics has postulated the existence of a mirror world whose interaction with our own reality is extremely feeble. The particles in this mirror universe are also thought to be candidates for dark matter. Researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI have now examined some 25 billion neutrons – thereby ruling out, with a very high degree of certainty, their disappearance into the mirror world.
Recycling for the energy transition: Fossil fuel infrastructure provides raw materials for sustainable energy production
To transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, we need to build new infrastructure. Empa researchers show that obsolete fossil fuel infrastructure – such as coal mines, oil and gas platforms, fossil fuel power plants, and pipelines – can provide some of the raw materials needed for the energy transition. In particular, recycling copper and steel would make the energy transition more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Prevention rather than cure: A toolbox for safe chemicals
Researchers and authorities from across Europe are collaborating on the major EU project PARC to further develop the risk assessment of chemicals. Researchers at Empa in St. Gallen are participating in the sub-task Safe and Sustainable by Design and are developing methods that can be used to assess the safety and sustainability of new chemicals right from their initial development stages.
Newly discovered protein conformation offers a potential target for cancer drugs
Several types of cancer are triggered by mutations in a protein called BRAF. Researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI have resolved a previously unknown conformation adopted by this protein during cell proliferation. Their study, which has now been published in the journal Molecular Cell, opens new avenues for cancer treatment.
State Secretary Martina Hirayama attends informal meeting of EU ministers responsible for research and innovation
On 21 July, Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation, travelled to Dublin to attend the informal meeting of EU ministers responsible for research and innovation. Held under the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the meeting focused on how Europe can optimally leverage research and innovation to improve European competitiveness.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against the Democratic Republic of Congo
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly. On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Ministerial meeting of the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership: A joint commitment to rules-based global trade
On 17 July 2026, the second ministerial meeting of the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership (FIT Partnership) convened in Auckland, New Zealand. Switzerland was represented by SECO State Secretary Helene Budliger Artieda. The small and medium-sized economies that form the FIT Partnership reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based trading system.
Fertiliser from the neighbourhood – where local ammonia plants make economic sense
Small-scale plants could produce ammonia directly where it is needed. A global analysis involving the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI shows at which locations and under what conditions such mini-plants could operate in a low-carbon and economical manner. Ammonia is indispensable for fertiliser and could, in the future, also serve as fuel for ships.