Tata Steel works with a research organization to create new steel coatings

Tata Steel has formed a strategic partnership with renowned UK research organization EPSRC to develop a range of innovations, including graphene steel coatings and next-generation sensors that can operate in extreme conditions.

The study will include the study of the coating ability of steel strip with a layer thickness of one carbon atom, studying the corrosion properties and high degree of electrical conductivity. Graphene coatings on steel can improve the energy efficiency of solar cells or make buildings more weatherproof.

Also among the key research areas will be new ways of waste disposal and the development of new sensors capable of operating at very high temperatures or extreme chemical environments, which could lead to a deeper understanding of the metallurgical and chemical properties of processes.

The partners will work together on long-term research in a number of specific areas. The agreement was signed earlier this month. It outlines ways in which Tata Steel and EPSRC can maximize the benefits of engaging UK universities in research projects.

Debashish Bhattacharjee, Group Director at Tata Steel, stated that “Our customers want us to continually develop new and more sophisticated products that will help overcome many of the challenges now and in the future. We also need to develop new workflows to sustain our products. "This partnership with EPSRC will enhance our research capabilities, helping to accelerate the achievement of important goals."