Physics and Chemistry of Materials

Head:

Asoc. Prof. Dr. Matjaž Godec

The department comprises four laboratories: the Laboratory for Applied Surface Science, the Laboratory for Metallography, the Laboratory for Analytical Chemistry and Corrosion, and the Laboratory for Process Simulation.

The department also carries out the research programme “Surface Physics and Chemistry of Metallic Materials”, which focuses on the development of advanced metallic materials and on understanding the relationships between their microstructure, surface characteristics, and functional properties. The research encompasses surface structuring and functionalisation, the development of biocompatible and biodegradable materials, the investigation of processes at grain and phase boundaries, the development of advanced synthesis and additive manufacturing technologies, and surface engineering through heat treatment and thermochemical processes.

Using advanced methods of microscopy, chemical analysis, mechanical testing, and computational modelling, we develop materials with enhanced mechanical properties and improved corrosion, wear, and high-temperature resistance. Particular emphasis is placed on metal additive manufacturing, plasma nitriding, functional coatings, and biomaterials, as well as on transferring research results to the Slovenian metallurgical, metal-processing, tooling, automotive, aerospace, and healthcare industries.

The department conducts national and international research projects and provides research and development services to industry. Project-based and industrial research is interdisciplinary and is carried out in close collaboration with other departments and laboratories of the Institute.