As we celebrate the International Day of Light, we recognise the profound impact of photonic technologies on our daily lives, from harnessing solar energy to powering the digital revolution. Today, we shine a spotlight on EU-funded, HaDEA-managed projects advancing light-based innovation in advanced materials, energy and manufacturing, while supporting the development of sustainable and competitive industries across Europe.
- The SYNTECS project is developing advanced manufacturing technologies for complex functional surfaces. This involves a focus on surface engineering and nano-structuring, enabling the creation of hierarchical surfaces with improved tribology and corrosion resistance. This has significant implications for various sectors, including automotive, medical devices, and high-performance electronics.
- In contrast, the CLASCO project takes a more holistic approach, combining laser polishing and direct laser interference patterning techniques to create a digital genome of laser processes. This platform enables the fully digitalised surface treatment of parts with complex geometries, reducing environmental impact and promoting the adoption of clean industrial value chains. By leveraging advanced signal processing and hybrid AI learning, CLASCO is poised to revolutionise sectors like aerospace and medical devices.
- Meanwhile, the FABulous project is pushing the boundaries of surface ‘coating’ technology with its advanced micro-fabrication methods and production tools. By creating high-resolution 3D metasurfaces for series production, FABulous is enabling the manufacture of smaller, lighter, and more environmentally friendly products. This has significant potential to disrupt industries like optics and photonics, where traditional coating methods are often cumbersome and inefficient.
- The BILASURF project, on the other hand, is focused on reducing friction and environmental impact on complex 3D surfaces. By developing laser functionalisation technologies and creating bio-inspired riblet surfaces, BILASURF is improving performance and sustainability in various industrial applications. A notable example is the functional prototype of a Francis turbine with surface texturing, which demonstrates the project’s potential to minimise waste and reduce harmful chemical use.
- Finally, the LaserWay project is taking a more radical approach, introducing highly flexible production lines based on high-speed laser technology. By replacing conventional methods with laser blanking, laser micro-drilling, and extreme high-speed laser material deposition (EHLA), LaserWay is poised to transform the manufacturing industry and create more sustainable manufacturing processes and products. With its focus on reduced processing times, improved material usage, and enhanced end-product quality, LaserWay has the potential to provide a competitive edge for industries like automotive and aerospace.