Interview

What is your background?
Currently, I am working in the field of materials modeling, simulation and testing of surface degradation and damage due aggressive environment conditions and intensive mechanical loading. I have a Diploma in Mechanics and Applied Mathematics. My PhD focused on the numerical investigation of dynamic processes in a Cosserat continuum.

What is your part within VIPCOAT?
My main role within VIPCOAT is the coordination. I am connecting the consortium to implement the project and support innovative solutions. We have excellent partners with different competences. It is important to promote the professional development and creativity for all members of the consortium.

Why do you think that VIPCOAT is an important project?
VIPCOAT will provide not only new approaches for corrosion protection and greener coatings development, but also promote possibilities for the society to be a part of an innovation process. VIPCOAT will be an important part of the digitalization of new protective coating supporting sustainability of coating industry, and give an opportunity for different people (especially for young generations) to crate the future using digital technology.

Where does your fascination about coatings come from?
I discovered my fascination for the protective function of coatings and the recognition that they are the skin of materials when I started my work at the Hereon Institute for Surface Science. The topic of protective coatings includes many unresolved scientific issues, which need new solutions.


Photo: hereon/ Lisa Depenbrock