The International Conference on Tribology and Surface Science (TRiboSurf'26) has begun at our University, bringing together researchers and industry professionals to explore recent developments in engineering and their practical applications. Running until November 7, the conference covers topics, such as friction and wear, surface engineering, advanced coating technologies, and energy efficiency in electric vehicles.

Organized by our Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, the conference is being held at the Prof. Dr. Osman Turan Culture and Congress Center from November 4 to 7, 2026. The opening ceremony was attended by our Rector Prof. Dr. Hamdullah ÇUVALCI, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Ali TEMÄ°Z and Prof. Dr. Bünyamin ER, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Prof. Dr. Temel VAROL, Conference Chair Prof. Dr. GençaÄŸa PÜRÇEK, Conference Vice Chair Prof. Dr. ÇaÄŸatay ELÄ°BOL, as well as academics, researchers, industry representatives, and students.

The Role of Tribology and Surface Science in Modern Engineering

Speaking at the opening ceremony, our Rector Prof. Dr. Hamdullah ÇUVALCI highlighted the importance of tribology and surface science in sustainable manufacturing and the efficient use of resources. He explained that advances in materials science, manufacturing technologies, and energy efficiency are shaping the future of industry. A better understanding of friction, wear, and lubrication can improve machine performance, reduce energy losses, and lower production costs. He also expressed his belief that TRiboSurf’26 would strengthen international research partnerships and collaboration between universities and industry.

Conference Chair Prof. Dr. GençaÄŸa PÜRÇEK emphasized that tribology and surface science have applications extending well beyond laboratory research, particularly in energy efficiency and sustainable manufacturing. He noted that the conference had received approximately 160 paper submissions from 23 countries, with around 40% of the contributions coming from international participants. These figures reflect the conference's international reach and the growing interest in the field. Prof. Dr. PÜRÇEK also highlighted the involvement of industry representatives, who are contributing through scientific presentations and exhibition stands. He emphasized that bringing researchers and industry professionals together creates opportunities to apply scientific findings to real-world challenges and develop new partnerships.

Electric Vehicles and the Future of Sustainable Transportation

One of the conference's keynote speakers, Prof. Dr. Ali ERDEMÄ°R, an internationally recognized tribology expert from Texas A&M University, delivered a presentation titled "Electric Vehicles and the Sustainable Transportation Revolution." His presentation explored the relationship between climate change, energy efficiency, and the transition to electric mobility. Prof. Dr. ERDEMÄ°R explained that conventional internal combustion engine vehicles lose approximately 70% of their fuel energy through friction and thermal losses, whereas battery electric vehicles can convert around 70–80% of their energy into motion. He noted that this makes electric vehicles approximately 3.5 to 5 times more energy-efficient. He also discussed the importance of Türkiye's investments in electric mobility, including domestic manufacturing initiatives such as TOGG. He emphasized that tribology and surface engineering would remain essential to improving the efficiency, durability, and service life of electric vehicles.

Connecting Academic Research with Industrial Applications

Alongside Prof. Dr. Ali ERDEMÄ°R, the conference features invited speakers including Prof. Dr. Hüseyin ÇÄ°MENOÄžLU, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kamil ÜRGEN, and Dr. Fatih TOPTAN from Istanbul Technical University.

The program includes scientific sessions on artificial intelligence applications, lubrication technologies, and recent advances in tribology and surface engineering. Industry-focused sessions also provide companies with opportunities to introduce their products and technological developments. By bringing together researchers and industry professionals, TRiboSurf’26 aims to encourage knowledge exchange and support the practical application of research findings.

Supporting Young Researchers

The conference also includes a poster competition for undergraduate and graduate students, giving young researchers an opportunity to present their work in tribology. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners during the conference's gala dinner. In addition, the Young Tribologist Travel Award supports early-career researchers by covering their conference registration fees, helping them participate in an international scientific event.

Bringing together experts from different disciplines and countries, TRiboSurf’26 provides a platform for sharing research, strengthening university-industry collaboration, and exploring new opportunities for scientific cooperation.

 

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