The research group specializes in the development, characterization, and optimization of metallic and non-metallic materials, as well as surface coatings. It possesses expertise in material selection, heat treatment, surface protection of metals, and non-destructive testing of materials. The group’s competencies include metallographic analysis, mechanical property testing, and tribological investigations, together with the development of innovative solutions aimed at improving the durability, reliability, and functionality of materials. Through its research and development activities, the group contributes to the advancement of materials and technologies for a wide range of industrial applications.

• Material selection
• Heat treatment and surface protection of metals
• Non-destructive testing (NDT) of materials
• Metallographic analysis
• Mechanical property testing
• Tribology
• Development and research of novel metallic and non-metallic materials
• Development and research of surface coatings

Laboratories

• Heat Treatment Laboratory
• Mechanical Testing Laboratory
• Non-Destructive Testing Laboratory
• Metallographic Testing Laboratory
• Advanced Materials and Tribology Laboratory

Equipment

• Optical microscopes, metallographic image analyzer, microhardness tester, precision balances
• Laboratory furnaces with and without controlled atmosphere capability, salt bath system for isothermal heat treatment
• Equipment for testing fundamental mechanical properties, including strength, hardness, toughness, ductility, fatigue resistance, and dynamic durability
• Ultrasonic testing (UT), magnetic particle testing (MT), radiographic testing (RT), penetrant testing (PT), and eddy current testing (ET) equipment
• Tribological testing equipment for friction and wear analysis, single-screw extruder for the development of novel polymer filaments for 3D printing, and vacuum infusion equipment for composite material manufacturing

• PoC SBPolyFil
• Interreg Italy-Croatia AI4BLUE
• Interreg Danube D4AM

The research group specializes in materials engineering and comprehensive material characterization, offering extensive opportunities for collaboration with academic institutions, industrial partners, and research and development centers. The group’s expertise encompasses advanced material selection methodologies supported by 3D modelling and the Design-Expert software package, as well as optimization of material selection under predefined constraints.

 

Particular attention is devoted to non-destructive testing methods, metallographic characterization of material structures, and heat treatment processes aimed at optimizing mechanical properties, including strength, hardness, and toughness. The group also demonstrates strong expertise in the field of tribology, with a focus on detailed investigations of material surface wear and degradation mechanisms.

 

Significant experience has been gained in the development and testing of metallic and polymeric foams, as well as biopolymeric materials, with emphasis on their mechanical, structural, and functional properties.

 

Collaboration opportunities include joint research projects, the development of novel materials and technologies, mechanical and structural testing, optimization of manufacturing processes, and the resolution of specific industrial challenges.

 

The group is open to bilateral collaborations, participation in European research programmes (such as Horizon Europe, Interreg, and related initiatives), joint doctoral studies, and knowledge and technology transfer activities with industry. Such partnerships foster innovative solutions in materials engineering and contribute to the development of competitive products and manufacturing processes.