Our research on corrosion spans almost the entire TRL chain, with particular focus on the low and high ends. On the high end, we have refurbished industrial processing equipment, for example an ArmField pasteurization machine, to equip them for monitoring corrosion progression or to include accelerated electrochemical corrosion. Here we can study different materials in different industrial environments. On the low TRL end, we use facilities such as MAX IV to study corrosion mechanisms in new ways. By using extremely surface sensitive techniques, the data from the very thin passive oxides can be isolated and its role identified.
 

Property-Interaction-Performance

We study the tool-workpiece interactions to find wear mechanism and formation of Tool Protections Layers (TPLs). We do not limit ourselves to the commonly described abrasive or adhesive wear, but also consider chemical and diffusive wear. Here, chemical reactions occur in the contact zones which in some scenarios lead to the formation of new mechanically weak phases that trigger abrasive wear. In other scenarios a diffusional loss of vital elements, for example Co in cemented carbide or N and B in cBN, occurs which leads to a decomposition of the tool. The formation of TPLs is a version of chemical wear, however, here the newly formed phase is benefitable, either as a mechanically stronger phase or a diffusional barrier that hinders excessive diffusional loss.  We also study chemical and physical interactions in joining, such as welding and brazing, and material in corrosive environments.