GELECTRODE: a project poised to revolutionize selective anodizing of aluminum

CIDETEC Surface Engineering will contribute its expertise in surface treatments to develop the GELECTRODE technology.

The Eurostars project GELECTRODE: A self-standing gel-electrode device for local anodising has begun with the aim of transforming selective treatments on aluminum surfaces through the development of a flexible self-supported device based on gelled electrolytes. This innovative solution will enable localized anodizing without the need for corrosive liquid electrolytes, overcoming the limitations of current systems and improving safety, efficiency, and sustainability in maintenance and repair (MRO) operations. The technology will cover processes such as SAA (Sulfuric Acid Anodising), TSA (Tartaric Sulfuric Acid Anodising) and PAA (Phosphoric Acid Anodising), significantly simplifying repair tasks and reducing risks and environmental impact.

With a budget of €2,518,000 and an execution period from November 2025 to April 2028, GELECTRODE brings together a consortium of leading companies in their respective fields. Chemplate Materials SL will be responsible for manufacturing and process optimization, Talento Corporativo will provide predictive algorithms, Principia Ingenieros Consultores will develop thermal simulation models, GMI AERO will design the portable kit consisting of a power supply, monitoring sensors, and auxiliary components, and ACRATS will validate the technology in real aerospace environments.

CIDETEC Surface Engineering will play a central role as the technology developer. Its contribution will include the original formulation of the gel and the definition of application processes, monitoring to feed algorithms and thermal models, support in the design of the portable kit, and collaboration during the validation phase in MRO environments. With GELECTRODE, CIDETEC reaffirms its commitment to sustainable innovation and continuous improvement in surface treatments for the aerospace industry.