Ceramic materials


Ceramics: a historical legacy


The legacy of a prestigious history  in the field of Arts of Fire. Limoges has also become the European capital of the ceramic industry.

Advanced research recognised internationally


The University of Limoges hosts the largest ceramics laboratory in France: the [Science of Ceramic Processes and Surface Treatments] (Science des Procédés céramiques et de traitements de surface) SPCTS, which employs more than 200 people. SPCTS contributes to national and international recognition for research conducted by the University of Limoges on materials and surface treatments.

SPCTS is behind the development in France of additive technologies applied to ceramics and it has gained international recognition on this theme for fifteen years.

Scientific objectives confirmed


  • To develop innovative shaping processes for the development of ceramic-based objects with a controlled architecture and nano-microstructure
  • To develop and optimise plasma and/or laser processes to develop ceramic materials in layers
  • To develop the synthesis and understanding of structural/property relations of crystalline oxide and glassy materials
  • To develop and characterise ceramics intended for specific environments

Skills in the field of ceramic processes


  • Ceramic powders 
  • Shaping processes and additive manufacturing,
  • Consolidation mechanisms,
  • High temperature materials,
  • Bioceramics,
  • Mechanics/thermomechanics

A laboratory of excellence shared between SPCTS and XLIM


The Sigma-Lim Labex (laboratory of excellence) develops ceramic materials and components specific to integrated, secure and intelligent communication systems to improve security through radio frequency transmissions.

Active partnerships


Publications