As for research and development activities, surface structuring of marble employing a range of pulsed lasers (from nanosecond to femtosecond pulses, from the UV up to NIR wavelengths) has been performed within the project. The structured surfaces feature a variety of morphologies, including bio-inspired and artificial structures (periodic or random structures with different length scales). Morphologies of interest have been examined for their performance in a variety of functions, employing both lab-scale testing set-ups as well as industrially established and standardized test benches. The targeted functional properties included repellence to different liquids, resistance to staining by these liquids, reduced slip under dry and wet conditions, as well as reduced abrasion upon contact with other materials.
The results obtained show that several novel strategies for marble protection and functionalization via laser processing have indeed been successfully demonstrated. Amongst the targeted goals, strong liquid repellence could be demonstrated together with an increased stain resistance over short times. Concerning the other properties, a strong performance in anti-slip performance without aesthetic impact was achieved together with a improved resistance to abrasion. It has to be emphasized that multiple functions can be conferred to the treated surface simultaneously (i.e. hidrofobicity, anti-slip and polished finish). The beauty of the obtained surface finish is striking and, according to natural stone experts, strongly contributes to the viability of its commercialization. Strong effort has also been made on dissemination, aiming at contributing to the visibility of the project results, raising societal awareness about the need for marble protection, and stressing the importance of producing marble with added functionalities. This activity will continue after the project. Regarding exploitation, the resulting intellectual property rights have been protected and first steps towards exploitation have been made. The collaboration of both partners in this field will also continue, aimed at identifying, transferring and demonstrating new bio-inspired functionalities of marble.
