The IPOEX 2026 conference, held in Ustroń from June 1st to 3rd, once again demonstrated that the field of high-energy materials is developing extremely dynamically, and that close cooperation between science, industry, and the defense sector is crucial to its future. The event was held under the patronage of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak ‑Kamysz and Hubert Cichocki, President of the Łukasiewicz Research Network. The event partners were the WB Group, NITROERG, and LPP Equipment.
This year’s IPOEX brought together experts from Poland and abroad who, over several days, exchanged knowledge, presented research results, and discussed directions for the development of technologies related to explosives, rocket propellants, and their safety. The conference program included seven sessions, with over 30 papers and 22 scientific posters presented.
The event covered a wide range of topics, from fundamental research on the properties and stability of materials to advanced technological solutions and their practical applications. Participants had the opportunity to learn about innovative rocket propellants, modern methods for detecting explosives, and initiation systems, among other topics. Issues related to blast wave analysis, transport safety, and the impact of storage conditions on the durability of high-energy materials also featured prominently in the discussions.
The IPOEX 2026 conference integrates the scientific and industrial communities, creating a space for establishing collaborations between research institutes, universities, and companies. This fosters the implementation of joint research, development,and implementation projects.It is increasingly clear that the results of scientific work are being translated into specific industrial applications, and the boundaries between these areas are gradually blurring.
During the opening of the conference, former Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Army, General Mieczysław Cieniuch, emphasized the growing importance of security and technological independence. He noted that, in the context of current geopolitical challenges, ammunition programs play a key role, and consequently, the development of domestic competences and production capabilities in the area of strategic materials is becoming a priority.
A significant addition to the event program was a special session devoted to the impact of explosives on the environment. Research results were presented on the presence of residues of compounds such as TNT, RDX, and HMX in soil and water and their impact on living organisms. Toxicity assessment methods and modern approaches to risk monitoring, compliant with REACH and CLP regulations, were also discussed.
The IPOEX 2026 conference has once again confirmed its role as an important platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience, and a forum setting directions for the development of the high-energy materials industry. The event not only showcases scientific achievements but, above all, lays the foundation for future research and implementation, bringing together science, industry, and practice in one place.
