CIDETEC Surface Engineering advances as a Cervera Center of Excellence with the start of the SURFERA-PLUS project

• It takes over from its predecessor—the SURFERA project—in the quest for excellence in surface technologies.
• The project aims to impact the industry by strengthening technical and scientific capabilities.

The SURFERA-PLUS Excellence Network project has begun as a continuation of the SURFERA network (CER-2019-1003), focusing on Surface Technologies as an industrial driver. CIDETEC Surface Engineering participates in this initiative, with CDTI granting its participants the Cervera Excellence Network qualification (CER-2023-1008). Led by AIN, the network also includes the participation of TEKNIKER, IDONIAL, and the newly incorporated CTME.

SURFERA-PLUS aims to expand the achievements of its predecessor through strategies that strengthen its technical and scientific capabilities. It will focus on the valorization of pilot plants and pre-industrial technological facilities, the adaptation of development and demonstration methodologies under the Safe & Sustainable by Design (SSbD) approach, and the implementation of data preservation principles according to FAIR methodologies, as well as a thorough multivariable analysis. Thanks to these advances, it is expected to achieve an impact on the industry through technology transfer.

The SURFERA-PLUS research program focuses on addressing technological demands of the transportation and energy sectors, covering two main areas: coatings and advanced surfaces for extreme environments, and active (smart) surfaces and coatings. This network offers CIDETEC Surface Engineering the opportunity to advance its research lines and consolidate its position in the field of surface technologies. It also facilitates collaboration with other centers, strengthening the network as a reference of excellence for the industry and the R&D system. Joint activities will include applied research, technological training, exploitation, internationalization, and communication of innovations to society.