The IFW Dresden has launched the validation phase of the HotShield project within the framework of the Fast Move module of our IQ@IFW program. The aim is to dramatically increase the efficiency and throughput of high‑vacuum coating processes – targeting up to ten‑fold higher deposition rates and a much higher material yield. At the same time, system robustness and process reliability will be improved, lowering costs and accelerating industrial adoption.
An interdisciplinary team of researchers, developers and technology‑transfer experts is developing a modular retrofit unit that can be installed on existing equipment without major overhauls. Initial experiments are already underway in a secure internal test setup.
Project lead Ronny Engelhard about IQ@IFW:
"I am very grateful to have the opportunity through the IQ@IFW program to advance my project so quickly and with maximum support. In times of shrinking budgets and lengthy application procedures for funding programs, validation funding is a unique opportunity to quickly and specifically explore potential and convert it into real results. In the coming months, thanks to the funding and close cooperation with research technology and the workshop, we will be able to move from the prototype to a first complete version of the ‘HotShield’ and thus gain experience and interesting measurements in an ongoing plant. I would like to thank the entire IQ@IFW team and look forward to the project and working together."
We look forward to sharing the next milestones and wish the project much success!
Have a research idea with market potential? Learn more about IQ@IFW Validation Funding:
https://ifw-innovation.de/p/validation-program/
Note: This article was drafted using an on-premises AI system and reviewed and supplemented by the project’s lead.
