In April 2020, LOTAMS, together with the Warsaw University of Technology and the Kielce University of Technology, signed an agreement to carry out a research project entitled "Development of processing technology for aluminum and composite primary and secondary structures" (acronym: Techniks). The project received funding from the National Centre for Research and Development under the Path for Mazovia competition.

The research team from the Warsaw University of Technology was led by Rafał Kozera, PhD, from the Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering.

“Our tasks included developing the technology and selecting the parameters for laser surface cleaning, characterizing the surface after the cleaning process, and analyzing the impact of laser radiation on the processed material,” says the researcher.

The research work lasted three years. The project is currently at the stage of transferring the technology into industrial practice. The benefits of using the technology include: reduced coating removal time, increased precision, a reduction in the use of toxic substances currently used in such operations, and partial automation of the process. Notably, the developed technique offers selectivity, allowing the coating to be removed to a specific thickness—something that is not possible with chemical or mechanical removal methods.

LOTAMS is simultaneously exploring other areas of its operations where laser cleaning could be applied.

The project "Development of processing technology for aluminum and composite primary and secondary structures"

• Project duration: 2020–2023
• Total project value: PLN 16,094,875
• Total funding received from the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR): PLN 11,640,540.63