The IOM was represented at the 20th International Conference on Thin Films (ICTF-20) in Biarritz, France, with two technical presentations. This international conference is one of the leading events in the field of thin films and brings together researchers and industry representatives to discuss current developments in the fabrication, characterization, and application of coatings.

PD Dr. Stephan Mändl from the cross-functional unit “Tools” presented a method for in-situ X-ray diffraction that allows for the direct observation of diffusion and phase formation processes during the bombardment of surfaces with low-energy ions. Dr. Darina Manova, also from the “Tools” cross-disciplinary unit, presented new findings on the plasma diffusion treatment of duplex stainless steel. The focus was on the transport processes of nitrogen and carbon, as well as the changes within the treated surface layer.

The introduced methods provide a more detailed insight into the processes occurring at the atomic level during surface treatment. This knowledge forms an important foundation for the targeted development of durable and high-performance materials for industrial applications.

The next International Conference on Thin Films, ICTF-21, will take place in August 2029 in Gangneung, South Korea.