Interface and surface technology

Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM

© Fraunhofer IWM

Identifying loads affecting the surfaces of components. Modifying these surfaces for better functionality and performance.

Manufacturing processes or operational usage often subject component surfaces to stress. At the same time, the functionality of a technical system is often incorporated into these surfaces. The Fraunhofer IWM has the know-how, the methods and the techniques to optimize component surfaces in terms of friction, optics, wetting, conductivity, topography or adhesion.

Modern analysis techniques are used to assess interfaces and surfaces and identify failure mechanisms. These include modern coating technologies or specific surface layer modifications. Layer growth, tribological contacts and adhesion phenomenon are simulated in order to optimize the development of layers.

Our competencies

Analysis techniques

  • Interface energy
  • Surface morphology and topography (atomic to large-scale)
  • Surface chemistry, chemical structure (SIMS, GDOES)
  • Internal stress (radiographic, interferometric, RAMAN)

  

Experimental and numerical assessment

  • Contact mechanics
  • Surface layer stress
  • Tribological processes
  • Layer growth processes
  • Adhesion, detachment
  • Bio-films

  

Changing and manufacturing surfaces

  • Customized resistant material layers
  • Functional coatings
  • Manufacture of nano-porous materials
  • Surface layer modifications
  • Shot-blasting
  • Separation techniques

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