Invitation

On behalf of the International and Organizing Committee I cordially invite you to participate in the 15th International Conference on the Strength of Materials (ICSMA-15) to be held in Dresden on August 16 – 21, 2009. With ICSMA-15 after 30 years the ICSMA series returns to Germany where ICSMA-5 took place in Aachen in 1979. Now, 20 years after the reunification of Germany, it is held in Dresden, which has become one of the most important European Centres of Materials Science. In 2006 Dresden was awarded the title “City of Science”.

Following the tradition of the ICSMA conferences, the main focus of ICSMA-15 will be to promote and strengthen the fundamental understanding of the basic processes that govern the strength of materials. Nonetheless, it is the aim to forge links between basic research on model materials and applied research on engineering materials of technical importance. Thus, ICSMA-15 will provide a forum for the presentation and discussion of research on the mechanical properties of all materials which are of interest to materials scientists and engineers from many different areas.

Dresden, an old Baroque town at the river Elbe, offers cultural and art treasures of European rank, world-famous art collections, but also a lively theatre and music scene. Architectural jewels blend into a charming natural landscape. In 2004 the Dresden Elbe Valley was raised to the status of world heritage by the UNESCO World Heritage Commission. The fine and applied arts look back over long traditions of extraordinary quality. The rich variety of cultural activities characterizes the proud and creative atmosphere in Dresden and is an essential component of the high quality of life in the city.

We are looking forward to welcoming you and your partners in Dresden, where we strive to prepare an exciting program for both scientific and social exchanges.

Werner Skrotzki
Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee