Material and Surface Technologies

We develop innovative technologies that customize the properties of materials and surfaces for specific applications. For example, we increase the biocompatibility of surfaces or improve the stability of alloysin aggressive media, that are used as electrodes in electrolysers. We also investigate the safety aspects of material technologies, such as the analysis of X-ray emissions during laser surface treatments.

For metallic materials, we can cover the entire process from powder/granulate through the melting process to thermal post-treatment. We use laser-based, wet-chemical and electrochemical techniques to structure and functionalize their surfaces. We offer advanced electrochemical, microscopic and spectroscopic methods for the characterization and evaluation of functional properties. We often combine these techniques and, where possible, always apply them in situ / in operando to gain a better mechanistic understanding of the processes by capturing data as they occur.

Although we specialize in metals and alloys, our methods can also be applied to other material classes such as polymers or ceramics, which we often investigate as functional layers. We are currently using our materials and methods expertise to build Material Acceleration Platforms (MAPs). In our MAPs we integrate modules for material synthesis, characterization and testing through automation in circular, self-learning optimization loops, using artificial intelligence (AI) for efficient and autonomous test planning, property prediction and data analysis.

Projects:

RoeLaMat - Contributions for a draft standard with regard to the generation of unwanted X-rays during ultrashort pulse laser material processing (P-6241)

CorRobot - ML-driven optimization of corrosion inhibitor mixtures with an automated platform (PA-00012848)

BioCombs4Nanofibers - Antiadhesive Bionic Combs for Handling of Nanofibers

Study of possible medical and occupational exposure to ionizing radiation during the use of ultrashort pulse lasers (USP lasers) in dentistry (as of 04/24)