The laboratory of metallurgy in extreme environments combines Leoben’s cutting-edge research facilities to investigate the properties and behavior of metals and alloys under extreme conditions. This includes high temperatures, plasmas, and corrosive environments that replicate the harsh settings found in space & extraterrestrial environments, thermonuclear fusion reactors, hydrogen energy infrastructure and corrosive media.

We utilize equipment such as high-temperature furnaces and corrosion testing chambers and electrochemistry setups that are combined alongside state-of-the-art analytical tools like electron microscopes and X-ray diffraction systems.

The laboratory’s mission is to perform basic science in Physics, Metallurgy and Materials Sciences aiming at developing new and optimize existing materials that can withstand these extreme conditions, ensuring safety, performance, and longevity in critical applications.

In 2023, the global market for materials under extreme environments—nuclear materials, hydrogen energy, space technology, high-temperature ceramics, and corrosion protection—was valued at nearly 1 trillion dollars. These segments have grown faster than Austria’s GDP since 1996 (see right y-axis). This highlights a strong opportunity for Austrian industries to innovate through research in these areas!

The Leoben’s Laboratory of Metallurgy in Extreme Environments aims to advance science for the benefit of both people and the environment, with a focus on promoting sustainable economic growth.

We are in the Department of Metallurgy, at the Chair of Nonferrous Metallurgy!

You can (should) join us!

If you are a curious person and is currently looking for an opportunity to carry out bachelor and master studies in the field of metallurgy and/or materials sciences, please contact us to discuss possible routes to study and research here with us in Leoben. There is support from the University for international students, which is super cool! Yes, we will help you to get here!

If you are a scientist or academic looking for the next opportunity, please contact us to discuss possible routes for funding and potential projects.

We welcome new ideas in all areas of knowledge.

Ass.-Prof. Matheus A. Tunes, BSc MSc PhD MInstP
matheus.tunes[at]unileoben.ac.at
m.a.tunes[at]physics.org