European IP project - Framework 6

This 'Innovatial' project focuses on the development of protective coatings for a new generation of lightweight titanium gamma aluminide materials that are in high demand in modern aircraft and cars.

The Nanotechnology Centre for PVD Research receives Euro 1.12m over the four-year lifespan of the project. The venture has a total budget of €12.5 million and involves 24 high-profile European partners, including Fiat Research Centre, Siemens, General Electric, Hauzer and IonBond.

The research project is based upon the revolutionary High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering (HIPIMS) technology, which has been developed and patented at Sheffield Hallam University. The project concentrates on developing of new generation Ti-free nanoscale multilayer PVD coatings, developed and thermal barrier top-coats. The Nanotechnology Centre for PVD Research leads the coating development work as well as the HIPIMS plasma research for surface pre-treatment.

Project leaders: Professor P Eh Hovsepian (coatings development) and Dr A P Ehiasarian (HIPIMS plasma research)