Tuheena Prasad
Patna: The Indian Institute of Technology, Patna has launched the International Conference on Advances in Thermal Spray (ICOAT-2024), a four-day event highlighting innovative research in coating technologies. The conference, which commenced on Thursday, marks a significant step in India’s efforts to enhance industrial applications in sectors such as manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive.
The inauguration ceremony featured key figures from the academic and research community. Among the dignitaries were Prof. T. N. Singh, Director of IIT Patna; Dr. Ramanuj Narayan, Director of CSIR-IMMT, Bhubaneswar; Dr. Goutam Sutradhar, Director of NIT Jamshedpur; Dr. Naresh Chanda Murmu, Director of CSIR-CMERI, Durgapur; and Dr. Anup Kumar Keshri, Principal Coordinator of the Centre of Excellence (CoE) at IIT Patna.
The event opened with the traditional lighting of the lamp and a floral welcome, underscoring the spirit of collaboration and innovation. In his address, Prof. T. N. Singh highlighted the importance of the newly established Centre of Excellence in Wear and Corrosion Resistance Coatings at IIT Patna, which has received substantial support from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and industry partners like Applied Materials Pvt. Ltd., Tata Steel Ltd., and Associated Plasmatron Pvt. Ltd.
“This initiative reflects our dedication to developing pioneering solutions that will revolutionise key industries,” Prof. Singh stated. Dr. Anup Kumar Keshri, the convener of the CoE, expressed enthusiasm for the centre’s role in addressing critical challenges related to wear and corrosion. “The Centre of Excellence serves as a dynamic hub for knowledge exchange and innovation,” Dr. Keshri remarked, emphasising the importance of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable solutions.
The ICOAT-2024 conference has attracted leading researchers, academics, and industry experts from prestigious institutions worldwide. Participants from IITs, NITs, and other premier academic institutions, alongside industry representatives, are actively engaged in discussions on the latest advancements and trends in thermal spray technologies.
Support from industry partners underscores the conference’s potential to drive significant advancements in coating technologies. The Centre of Excellence at IIT Patna is poised to attract top talent, foster a culture of innovation, and solidify the institute’s leadership in materials science and engineering.
