Two Swedish scientists have won the 2013 AkzoNobel Science Award in recognition of their prominent research in the fields of materials and surface engineering.

Lars Hultman, of Linköping University, and Per Claesson, from the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), were be presented with their awards at a special event in Stockholm. Both will receive a certificate of recognition and an equal share of the SEK 500,000 prize.

Professor Hultman – Head of Thin Film Physics at Linköping University – is being honored for his work in materials science and nanotechnology, and in particular his contribution to our knowledge and understanding of the physics of thin films and ion-surface interactions.

As Head of the Division of Surface and Corrosion Science at the Royal Institute of Technology, Professor Claesson is being recognized for his contribution to our understanding of  interfacial forces, adsorption and the self-assembly of molecular species.

“We are privileged to recognize the outstanding work of this year’s winners,” said AkzoNobel Executive Committee member Werner Fuhrmann, who will officially present the award.

“As a company, we are passionate about creating a more sustainable future through scientific research, and we will continue to support leading-edge scientists as they strive to create new frontiers and advance our understanding in fields of chemistry and materials science. We will, in turn, be able to use this newfound knowledge to further improve our products and advance manufacturing technologies in the fields of coatings and specialty chemicals. This will also help our customers to deliver better products through features such as durability, corrosion resistance and fire protection.”