Hendrik's main research interests concern experimental tests of fundamental theories of Nature by table-top experiments but also in space. Some tests are concerned with the large mass limit of the quantum superposition principle, which forms the basis of quantum mechanics. Other experiments are concerned with testing the interplay between quantum mechanics and gravitation in the low energy limit.
The Ulbricht group performs quantum experimental research on the preparation and analysis of massive systems in non-classical states by various techniques. They pioneer so-called levitated opto- and magneto-mechanics experiments, where light and magnetic fields are used to both trap and control nano- and micro-particles in vacuum. Please see the Ulbricht group webpages for more details.
Research interests include numerical modelling of various coupled electrical, thermal and mechanical phenomena with emphasis on free and moving boundaries problems: gaseous discharges and arcs; electric propulsion systems for spacecraft, e.g. Pulsed Plasma Thrusters, Gridded Ion Engines, Hollow Cathodes; lightning strikes damage in aircrafts and wind turbines; eddy currents in electrical machines; oil and dust migrations in transformers; gas flow and heat exchange in fibre network materials; heat transfer, sintering and residual stresses in various coatings; transient liquid phase bonding technique; plastic deformation of multilayer materials and structures; laser drilling and surface modification of metals and composites.
