The Center for Thermal Spray Research (CTSR) at Stony Brook University was established in 1996 through the NSF Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers program.  Since inception, CTSR has been at the heart of a number of exciting fundamental science and applied engineering initiatives to enhance the scientific base of thermal spray (TS) coating technology.  TS technology continues to grow and services a broad industrial community; coatings are ubiquitous in gas turbine engines (propulsion and energy), automotive, pulp/paper and infrastructure maintanence.  Emerging applications include coatings for orthopedic and dental implants, solid oxide fuel cells, and functional sensors for harsh environments.
    Between 1996-2007, the Center through the NSF funded program established a sound fundamental research base carrying out state-of-the-art experimental and theoretical research on the synthesis, modeling and properties of wide classes of traditional and novel TS materials and new functional configurations.  In recent years the group has sought a new approach to continue its research and development enterprise through the establishment of a Industry-University type cooperative research program “Consortium for Thermal Spray Technology”.    The consortium and center are now supported through industry, NSF and other agencies and serves as an academic focal point for this multibillion dollar industry.