FunMat-II (Functional Nanoscale Materials) phase 2

Purpose and goal:

FunMat-II is a center of excellence in advanced surface engineering, in particular materials science of thin films with a focus on nanotechnology for surfaces and interfaces. FunMat-II gains new knowledge, generic to the research field and specific to the partnership. FunMat-II is a provider of highly skilled personnel. Specifically, we will:

Understand and improve the synthesis methods of functional surfaces, Search, develop, and validate new and improved materials using knowledge-based design, Educate and train people in materials science and surface engineering. Expected results and effects:

This is an extension grant of the center for years 16 to 20. Since the center has existed for so long, it has generated a large amount of results and effects. During the years 10 to 15, we published about 100 scientific articles together with industry researchers and around 10 people defended their dissertations.

These people are now active in the field, almost all of them in Swedish industry. We also see an increased desire for university studies among high school students at Oskarsgymnasiet, which can be linked to our efforts. We expect a similar development in years 16 to 20. Approach and implementation:

The FunMat-IIs partnership consists of Linköping and Uppsala universities, RISE, Oskarshamn municipality, Ionbond, Seco Tools, Sandvik Coromant, SAFT, Alleima, Westinghouse, Ionutics, DTI, CemeCon and Plansee. The work takes place in an open competence platform where research project are run that are inspired by the applications metal cutting tools, fuel cells, fuel rods, and batteries.

In addition to basic and postgraduate education, resources are put into increasing recruitment from upper secondary school to university education.