AIT‘s Functional Coatings Lab is a state-of-the-art research and development facility focusing on the development of innovative functional coatings. With a particular focus on the integration of sustainable materials in energy systems, the lab makes a significant contribution to improving the performance, functionality and scalability of modern technologies. 

A central focus of the laboratory is the development of coating technologies for energy conversion, particularly in the areas of hydrogen production, CO2 reduction and energy storage. 

This includes key technologies such as: 

• Electrolysis technologies for the production of green hydrogen, including Proton-Exchange Membrane (PEM), Anion-Exchange Membrane (AEM) and solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC) 

• Photoelectrochemical water splitting (PEC) for sustainable energy generation 

• Innovative storage solutions, e.g. based on metal hydrides for efficient hydrogen storage 

A key advantage of the Functional Coatings Lab is the use of digital, AI-supported material development approaches, which significantly accelerate the research and optimisation process. By combining state-of-the-art analysis techniques and digital simulation methods, high-performance material systems can be developed and tested efficiently. 

The laboratory thus makes a decisive contribution to the further development of environmentally friendly production processes and the transformation of the energy industry. It supports industrial partners in scaling up innovative technologies and helps to set new standards for sustainable energy conversion and storage. 

Thanks to its interdisciplinary expertise and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, the Functional Coatings Lab is a central platform for the development of pioneering materials and coating technologies. It plays a key role in the energy transition and strengthens Europe‘s position in the field of sustainable energy systems.