FZU has integrated a ATO lab-scale metal atomizer to advance its research capabilities in materials development, focusing on the production and testing of alloys such as titanium, zinc, aluminum, and high entropy alloys. This integration has improved the quality of 3D metal printing parts and enhanced FZU's participation in collaborative industrial projects and innovative materials research.
FZU - Shaping the Future of Materials Science
Case study
Education and Research
About FZU
FZU - Institute of Physics is one of the most successful research institutions in the Czech Republic. FZU's international scientific teams work to expand the frontiers of knowledge in six major research areas of physics - elementary particle physics, condensed matter physics, solid state physics, optics, plasma physics, and laser physics. As the largest institute within the Czech Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Physics not only engages in a substantial amount of fundamental research but is also highly involved in applied research and in transferring knowledge from academia to business. For instance, within the Division of Optics, the institute actively manages the National Centre of Competence for Materials, Advanced Technologies, Coatings, and their Applications (NCC for MATCA), which was established in 2018. Among the standout achievements of its researchers are material research and development, particularly in additive manufacturing.
INTRODUCTION
NCC for MATCA was followed by the significant launch of the Brain4Industry innovation centre in 2023. This initiative represents a strategic expansion of FZU's commitment to integrating scientific research with practical industrial applications, particularly in the field of additive manufacturing (AM). The innovation center aims to serve as a hub for Czech SMEs, providing essential support in digitization, product development and innovative application of AM technologies. By facilitating access to state-of-the-art resources and expertise, the Brain4Industry Center aims to accelerate the transformation of emerging scientific insights into market-ready technologies and products.
THE CHALLENGE
FZU has advanced facilities for materials research, including sophisticated methods and precision instruments for creating and analyzing the properties of new materials. Previously, FZU's materials research efforts were divided between fundamental research, which focused on the detailed study of materials and processes at the microscopic level, and the application of additive technologies, which aimed to improve the efficiency and industrial relevance of these technologies. Recognizing the need to unify these research domains, FZU saw the integration of a lab-scale metal atomizer as essential. This integration would bridge materials development with industrial applications, streamlining the process from research to production.
