EBM Interview: Prof. Thomas M. Klapötke

Prof. Thomas M. Klapötke is a leading scientist in the world of energetic materials and inorganic chemistry. Currently a professor in the Department of Chemistry at LMU Munich, he is renowned for his pioneering research in high-energy-density materials, including explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics. With a career spanning over four decades, Prof. Klapötke’s research has significantly advanced our understanding of nitrogen-rich compounds, azides, fluorine chemistry, and related fields. His extensive publications, including nearly a 1000 papers, multiple books, and patents, attest to his prolific contributions to both academia and applied science. Known for his collaborative projects with defense organizations and his dedication to innovative, green energetic materials, Prof. Klapötke is not only a researcher but also a mentor and educator, committed to inspiring the next generation of chemists.

Interview with Prof. Thomas M. Klapötke, Editor of FirePhysChem and Professor of Department of Chemistry at LMU Munich

1. What has fueled your ongoing curiosity and drive in such a demanding area of study?

Prof. Klapötke: "My curiosity and drive come from an innate desire to push the boundaries of what is possible in chemistry. This field, especially high-energy materials, is constantly evolving, with each discovery opening doors to further possibilities and applications. Early in my career, I worked on metallocenes and compounds with high oxidation states, which gave me the foundation to pursue more complex and challenging fields like nitrogen-rich compounds and energetic materials. What keeps me driven is the unique opportunity to contribute to both the theoretical knowledge and practical advancements, knowing that our work can improve safety and efficiency in applications such as defense technology. Working on groundbreaking projects, like TKX-50, and seeing them recognized and applied has been immensely rewarding, fueling my passion for continuous exploration and innovation.”

2. How have collaborations with defense organizations shaped your research focus and outcomes, particularly with respect to applied chemistry in defense technology?

Prof. Klapötke: "Collaborations with defense organizations have been instrumental in shaping the direction of my research. Partnerships with agencies such as the ARL, ONR, and SERDP have not only provided resources but also specific objectives related to performance, safety, and environmental impact in military applications. Through these collaborations, my team and I have gained insight into the real-world demands for energetic materials and explosives, especially in terms of their stability, handling safety, and environmental friendliness. These partnerships have led us to develop new compounds that are not only more powerful but also “greener.” Additionally, the feedback loop with these organizations has allowed us to optimize formulations, enhance safety protocols, and meet strict performance standards, which in turn has broadened the scope and impact of our research.”

3. What considerations do you prioritize when developing materials for safety, performance, and environmental impact?

Prof. Klapötke: “Safety is paramount in energetic materials, as mishandling can lead to severe consequences. Therefore, our initial focus is always on the stability of a compound under various conditions. Performance is next, where we evaluate energy density, detonation properties, and specific impulse in the case of propellants. Environmental impact has become an equally important consideration, especially as regulatory bodies increasingly demand eco-friendly alternatives to conventional explosives. We aim to reduce the use of heavy metals and other toxic substances, opting instead for compounds that degrade harmlessly or have minimal ecological impact. This holistic approach, combining safety, performance, and sustainability, is our blueprint for developing materials that meet modern needs without compromising future environmental health.”

4. How do you approach such a vast breadth of work, and what advice would you offer young researchers aiming to establish themselves in this field?

Prof. Klapötke: “Managing a broad portfolio requires a balance of focus and flexibility. My approach is to establish clear research goals while staying open to unexpected findings or new avenues. I also believe in the value of a collaborative team, which allows each member to specialize in different aspects of a project. For young researchers, my advice is to build a strong foundational understanding of chemistry but remain open to interdisciplinary collaboration. High-energy chemistry, for example, intersects with physics, materials science, and environmental science. In this field, patience and perseverance are crucial, as progress is often incremental. Lastly, publishing is essential; learn to communicate your findings clearly and rigorously, as this not only advances your career but also contributes to the scientific community.”

5. Your involvement with high-profile journals like Propellants, Explosives, Pyrotechnics and FirePhysChem highlights your editorial insight. What specific qualities do you look for in submissions to ensure they meet the high standards of journals?

Prof. Klapötke: “When reviewing submissions, I look for originality and clarity above all. A manuscript should offer something new, whether it’s an innovative approach, a novel compound, or new insights into known reactions. Clarity in presentation is essential, as complex data or novel findings should be accessible and reproducible by others in the field. I also value rigor in experimental methodology and data analysis; a robust study design and transparent reporting of results enhance the credibility of the work. Finally, attention to environmental and practical implications can make a paper stand out, as modern science increasingly prioritizes real-world relevance alongside theoretical contributions.”

6. What global perspectives or insights have you gained about the direction and priorities in energetic materials research?

Prof. Klapötke: “International perspectives have been invaluable, especially as different regions prioritize varying aspects of energetic materials. In the U.S. and Europe, there is a strong emphasis on environmentally friendly materials, while in countries with pressing defense needs, performance and stability often take precedence. I’ve seen firsthand how collaborative efforts, like those I’ve had in the U.S. and Europe, create a balanced approach that benefits everyone. The field is moving toward materials that are both powerful and sustainable, with a significant emphasis on reducing the ecological footprint. Learning from global trends and sharing knowledge across borders is crucial for achieving advancements that are universally beneficial.”

7. How do you envision the role of computational chemistry, structural characterization, and synthetic chemistry evolving within high-energy materials studies?

Prof. Klapötke: “Computational chemistry is a powerful tool in predicting the properties and stability of compounds before they are synthesized, which is crucial in energetic materials due to safety concerns. Structural characterization, especially X-ray crystallography, allows us to understand a material’s stability and reaction pathways, which aids in designing safer compounds. Synthetic chemistry remains at the core, providing the means to translate theoretical designs into real materials. As these fields evolve, I expect even closer integration between computational predictions and experimental synthesis, allowing us to explore previously inaccessible compounds safely and efficiently.”

8. What role do you see academia playing in bridging the gap between laboratory research and real-world applications in the field of pyrotechnics and propellants?

Prof. Klapötke: “Academia has a unique position as a bridge between theoretical research and industrial application. At LMU, for instance, our partnership with defense agencies allows us to tailor lab research to meet real-world demands. Academia’s role is to investigate the fundamental principles that underpin performance, stability, and safety, which the industry then adapts for practical use. Moreover, academic research can explore “blue sky” ideas without immediate commercial pressure, potentially leading to breakthroughs that industry can later develop into applications. By working closely with industry partners and focusing on translational research, academia can make foundational contributions that ultimately benefit society.”

9. What ethical considerations do you believe researchers in this field should bear in mind as they develop new compounds and technologies?

Prof. Klapötke: “In energetic materials research, ethics are essential due to the potential military applications. Researchers must prioritize safety and responsibility, ensuring that compounds are designed and handled with extreme caution. Environmental impact is another critical factor; we must develop compounds that minimize ecological harm. Transparency is also essential, particularly in communicating risks and ensuring that research outcomes are aligned with societal needs. Researchers must also consider the long-term implications of their work, fostering innovations that prioritize human safety and environmental sustainability over purely destructive power.”

10. What qualities do you believe are essential for students and emerging scientists to succeed in the demanding field of energetic materials and explosive chemistry?

Prof. Klapötke: “The field of energetic materials is challenging and requires a high level of technical skill and precision. Beyond these, I would emphasize resilience and adaptability. Projects often take unexpected turns, and the ability to learn from setbacks is invaluable. Curiosity and a drive to understand complex reactions are equally important. Since collaboration is integral to this field, students should be willing to work in teams and learn from others, even across disciplines. Lastly, attention to detail is crucial, both in the lab and in reporting findings. A combination of technical competence, perseverance, and integrity can set emerging scientists on a path to success.”

11. What strategies can journals adopt to encourage transparent and constructive peer review that supports both authors and the scientific community?

Prof. Klapötke: “To foster transparency and constructive peer review, journals can encourage reviewers to provide specific, actionable feedback, focusing on how the research can be improved rather than simply evaluating its shortcomings. Introducing a “transparent review” model—where both the reviewers’ comments and authors’ responses are accessible post-publication—can also foster accountability and quality in reviews. Journals might also offer guidelines for constructive criticism and emphasize the importance of unbiased, respectful communication. Another effective approach is inviting a diverse panel of reviewers to ensure that multiple perspectives are considered, which can enhance both the manuscript's quality and the learning experience for authors.”

Thanks to Prof. Thomas M. Klapötke, for sharing his insights and experiences. His contributions to aerospace propulsion continue to inspire the next generation of researchers.