Small atoms, big impact: Building and protecting the materials of tomorrow

What if we could design materials the same way we build with LEGO, but using atoms instead of blocks? At the smallest scales, materials are not as solid as they seem. By carefully arranging atoms, scientists can create surfaces that are stronger, last longer, and perform better in everything from smartphones to energy systems. This talk explores how working at the nanoscale allows us to “build” materials with entirely new properties and why these invisible changes can have a big impact on our everyday lives.

Hydrogen is often seen as a clean energy solution for the future, but it comes with a hidden problem. It can sneak into materials and make them weaker, causing severe damage over time. So how do we stop something we can’t even see? Researchers are developing special protective layers that block hydrogen and keep materials safe. This talk explores how very thin protective coatings can make a big difference for the technologies of tomorrow.