Iñigo Fernandez de Arroyabe receives the SOCIEMAT MATERPLAT Award for innovation in materials
Iñigo Fernandez de Arroyabe receives the SOCIEMAT MATERPLAT Award for innovation in materials
Iñigo Fernandez de Arroyabe receives the SOCIEMAT MATERPLAT Award for innovation in materials
The Mondragon Unibertsitatea researcher has been recognised for his work on ceramic moulds used in the manufacture of aeronautical components, within the framework of the 2026 Young Research Awards.
Iñigo Fernandez de Arroyabe Zabala, researcher at the Higher Polytechnic School of Mondragon Unibertsitatea, has been awarded the SOCIEMAT MATERPLAT Young Innovators in Materials Award, in recognition of his contribution to research in the field of materials science and technology. The award is part of the 2026 Young Research Awards, convened by SOCIEMAT, the Spanish Society of Materials, and its collaborating entities.
The award-winning research, entitled "Análisis del efecto del binder polimérico y su degradación en slurries y moldes cerámicos para procesos Lost-Wax Casting", focuses on the study of the behaviour of ceramic moulds used in the manufacture of aeronautical components.
Research to better understand the behaviour of ceramic moulds
The work analyzes the ceramic molds used in lost-wax casting processes, a technique used in the aeronautical industry to manufacture components with complex geometry and high precision.
The main objective of the research has been to study the stability of binders, also known as binders, used in these molds, as well as to analyze the influence of structural reinforcements on the properties of the materials.
One of the most relevant aspects of the study has been to identify the need to better understand certain methodologies currently used in the industry. Traditionally, to correct the defects that may appear in ceramic molds, different materials and additives have been incorporated through empirical procedures, without fully knowing the interactions that occur between their components.
The results obtained show that the incorporation of a polymeric binder, apparently beneficial, can have negative effects if the appropriate materials are not used or an appropriate methodology is not applied.
The research has also shown that, in order to guarantee the stability of binders, it is not enough to control their electrostatic charge, one of the main parameters currently used in industry. It is also necessary to take into account other factors, such as their kinetics, morphology and state of degradation.
These findings contribute to a better understanding of the behaviour of ceramic moulds and provide new insights that can help optimise the control of manufacturing processes and the use of materials.
A recognition of research work
Fernández de Arroyabe expressed his satisfaction with the award and wanted to highlight the collective work carried out during the project.
"This award is an important recognition of the work of all the people who have participated in the project. Personally, I am very pleased that the results of the research and the effort made have an impact," said the researcher.
The recognition also comes at a particularly significant moment in his academic career, when he is about to start his doctorate. "Receiving this award is an additional motivation to continue working in the field of research and innovation in materials," he added.
The researcher also wanted to share the award with his tutors and the research team, whose collaboration and contributions he considers essential for the development of the work.
This recognition by SOCIEMAT highlights the research activity carried out at the Higher Polytechnic School of Mondragon Unibertsitatea in the field of materials, as well as the importance of generating scientific knowledge that contributes to responding to the technological challenges of the industry.