Materials and Coatings for Space
Engineering the next generation of smart surfaces and functional finishes to run the gamut of inhospitable scenarios, from hypersonic flight to the desolate isolation of space
At the heart of any successful space mission is the design and application of materials and coatings that perform under extreme conditions.
The diverse team behind Swinburne’s interdisciplinary material science and engineering research – led by Dr Andrew Ang – has expertise across various material classes, including metals, ceramics, polymer and composites. Through innovative uses, we hope to solve challenges confronted by space missions, as well as real-world problems closer to home.
Our research
The cornerstone of this program is our ability to give functional characteristics to a surface by applying a coating. From materials that can protect satellites against wear and tear to high-temperature materials for hypersonic flight, our researchers work with industry partners to engineer surface coatings. Our interests also extend to development of smart coatings, the ability to embed sensors, and self-cleaning surfaces.
The Materials and Coatings for Space team collaborates with industry-leading Australian partners, including Titomic, Amiga Engineering, RUAG Australia, Amaero, ANSTO and DST Group.
Current projects
- Collaborating with Amaero on a joint research project to develop and manufacture coatings for internal turbine engine surfaces and nozzles. The outputs will have commercial applications in aviation, space, defence and high temperature processing environments.
Our latest news
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- Technology
$52 million boost to supercharged Australian Space Manufacturing Network
Swinburne is the Victorian university hub of the Australian Space Manufacturing Network, led by Gilmour Space Technologies, which has been awarded $52 million in Federal Government co-funding.
Monday 28 March 2022 -
- Astronomy
- Science
- Engineering
Swinburne scores world-leading tech for space manufacturing
A multimillion-dollar collaboration between Swinburne and additive manufacturing company Titomic, will enable the creation of lighter, stronger and more capable structures for space, including rocket nozzles and satellite components using ‘green’ titanium.
Friday 27 August 2021 -
- Technology
Swinburne and Amaero to work together on space technology
Swinburne and Amaero International Ltd have established a research collaboration to jointly work on coatings for rocket engine components.
Thursday 03 June 2021 -
- Science
Swinburne researcher develops coating to prevent corrosion on ships
The new corrosion-resistant coating has halved the build-up of algae and barnacles on ship hydraulic components.Thursday 11 October 2018
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Explore our other research programs
Contact the Space Technology and Industry Institute
If your organisation would like to collaborate with us to solve a complex problem, or you simply want to contact our team, get in touch by calling +61 3 9214 5177 or emailing spaceinstitute@swinburne.edu.au.