MEGALIT (MEtal GlAsses functionalization by ultrashort Laser-Induced topology and phase Transition)

The MEGALIT project has the objective to explore the potential to enhance functionalities of near-surface Metal Glasses (MG) recognized for their outstanding mechanical properties (Metal-like) and surface state (Glass-like), in order to substitute complex existing solutions by a single-multifunctional material coating approach.
The strategy relies on the advantages that can provide the combination of Physical Vapor Deposition coating technology suitable for the deposition of thin films of MG which show better ductility than bulk material and ultra-short pulsed laser irradiation treatment enabling an improvement of some of the required properties at the near-surface of the materials.
The outcome of this project will deliver technological solutions in three application fields:

- Bio-medical applications in order to design a competitive antibacterial and hydrophobic surface treatment ensuring complementary corrosion and abrasion-resistant functions.

- Aeronautics, energy and chemical industries to increase the erosion resistance of substrates (to sand, water, dust and potentially reactive particles) in severe operating conditions by combining enhanced mechanical properties (toughness, rigidity, hardness, fatigue resistance) and chemical stability.

- Energy storage technologies and process industries, addressing the technical issue of the protection of components operating in corrosive conditions and requiring also electrical conductivity as well as mechanical strength.