Center of Excellence Electrochemistry
& Corrosion Technology (CoE-ECT)
COE-ECT KMUTNB Team
About CoE-ECT
The project to establish the Center of Excellence in Electrochemistry and Corrosion Technology (CoE-ECT) under the Thai-French Innovation Institute, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, aims to strengthen the country’s capabilities in electrochemical and corrosion testing laboratories to meet international standards and gain regional recognition. The initiative seeks to address the needs of key industries, including energy, petrochemicals, food and beverage packaging, and infrastructure, by achieving ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, investing in advanced scientific instruments, and fostering collaborative networks at both national and international levels.
In its first year of operation, the project invested 7.5 million THB in acquiring critical electrochemistry and corrosion equipment, such as a multi-channel Potentiostat/Galvanostat, a high-pressure and high-temperature corrosion testing system, a Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) testing platform, high-temperature corrosion research instruments, and supporting systems for sample preparation and inspection in compliance with ASTM and NACE standards. These acquisitions enhance the laboratory’s capability to perform advanced analyses and deliver services to industry at a level competitive with international laboratories.
Key achievements in 2025 include the accreditation of two electrochemical testing methods under ISO/IEC 17025, the establishment of two academic collaboration agreements (MOUs) with Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS and Universiti Teknologi MARA, and the development of 19 students at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels through research and training programs. The center has also carried out 18 industry-based projects, conducted six training workshops with participation from over 282 trainees, and generated service revenue of 6,635,300 THB. Furthermore, six international research publications were produced, focusing on the advancement of electrochemical and corrosion testing methodologies.
In summary, CoE-ECT serves as a key driver in positioning Thailand as a regional hub for testing and research in electrochemistry and corrosion technology. By strengthening international collaborations, producing highly skilled specialists, and providing industry-driven solutions to corrosion challenges, the center significantly contributes to enhancing the nation’s competitiveness in science, technology, and the economy over the long term.
KMUTNB Launches Center of Excellence in Electrochemistry and Corrosion Technology to Drive Regional Innovation and Sustainability
Bangkok, July 23, 2025 – King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), in collaboration with the Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), officially launched the Center of Excellence in Electrochemistry and Corrosion Technology (CoE-ECT) today during an opening ceremony held at the Cloud 9 Meeting Room, STRI Building, KMUTNB.
The CoE-ECT is established to become a regional hub for scientific research, standardized testing, and innovation in corrosion prevention and electrochemical technologies, supporting industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, metal packaging, and renewable energy.
The ceremony was presided over by Professor Dr. Somrerk Chandra-ambhorn, Vice President for Research at KMUTNB, who welcomed international partners and participants from Southeast Asia. He emphasized the importance of academic-industry collaboration and the university’s commitment to sustainable scientific advancement.
Following the welcome, Asst. Prof. Dr. Pornsak Srisungsitthisunti, Head of the CoE-ECT project, presented the vision and objectives of the center. The initiative builds on more than 30 years of corrosion research experience at KMUTNB’s Thai-French Innovation Institute (TFII). KMUTNB would like to sincerely thank the Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), the Science and Technology Development (ST) Program, and the Reinventing University Program for their crucial support in making this project possible.
With 21 million baht in funding from the Science and Technology Development Fund (STDF) for fiscal years 2024–2025, the Center has acquired advanced testing technologies, including High Pressure–High Temperature (HPHT) corrosion testing systems and real-time shelf-life simulation for food can packaging. These systems are designed to support both industrial problem-solving and academic research, with a roadmap to achieve ISO/IEC 17025 certification.
The CoE-ECT is also building a robust international research network. KMUTNB has already signed MOUs with Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in Malaysia, and is actively developing a partnership with the Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST). Future expansion of collaboration is also planned with institutions in France and the United States.
On behalf of TSRI, Professor Dr. Komgrit Leksakul, Deputy Director, officially declared the Center open. He emphasized the strategic importance of corrosion prevention for infrastructure resilience, national safety, and its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The event also featured congratulatory messages from international academic partners, followed by a laboratory tour showcasing the new testing facilities and other key research centers including the TFII-Schneider Electric Center of Excellence and the Renewable Energy Research Centre (RERC).
With its interdisciplinary team, international partnerships, and state-of-the-art equipment, the CoE-ECT is set to enhance Thailand’s role in regional science and technology leadership, offering solutions to industry and contributing to global sustainability efforts.
Procurement of Equipment and Development of Laboratory Facilities
In the Fiscal Year 2568, a total budget of 7.5 million baht has been allocated for the procurement of six major equipment items and the renovation of laboratory facilities to ensure operational readiness and compliance with international safety standards.
The primary objective of this initiative is to enhance the research, testing, and academic service capabilities of the Center of Excellence in Electrochemistry and Corrosion Technology (COE-ECT). The development focuses on strengthening the COE-ECT’s expertise in electrochemical property analysis, corrosion mechanism studies, and corrosion prevention techniques for key industrial sectors such as petrochemical, energy, and metal packaging.
The newly acquired instruments are essential for supporting advanced research and testing at an international standard level.
- Electrochemical Measurement Systems (4-channel and 6-channel)
- UV-Vis Spectrophotomete This instrument is used for chemical composition analysis of solutions, such as determining concentrations of corrosion inhibitors and identifying corrosion products. It serves as a complementary analytical tool to validate results from electrochemical tests.(Click)
- Glassware Set for Corrosion Inhibitor and Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor Testing
This comprehensive glassware set is used for preparing and evaluating the performance of both liquid-phase and vapor-phase corrosion inhibitors. It supports the development of innovative inhibitor formulations applicable to petrochemical processes and metal packaging preservation.(Click)
Electrodes for Food Can Testing This set includes Button, Reference, and Counter Electrodes specifically designed for evaluating corrosion resistance in food and beverage cans. It enhances research and quality assurance processes to ensure the safety and durability of consumer packaging materials.(Click)
- Chemical Fume Hood System
The fume hood is a critical safety apparatus that prevents the release and spread of chemical vapors during laboratory operations. It helps minimize occupational hazards and ensures a safe, controlled working environment for researchers and students.(Click)
Preparation for ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation
During Fiscal Year 2568, the COE-ECT implemented a series of structured activities to enhance staff competency and strengthen readiness for ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory accreditation.A total of seven (7) training programs were organized, covering essential topics such as:
- Internal quality auditing under ISO/IEC 17025 requirements
- Instrument verification and calibration procedures
- Interpretation and application of calibration results for quality control
- Laboratory risk management
- Evaluation and estimation of measurement uncertainty
Furthermore, COE-ECT’s personnel have participated in specialized training programs organized by national research and metrology institutes. These programs provided advanced knowledge and understanding of international standards and best laboratory practices, thereby reinforcing confidence and technical competence among staff members.
For the next phase, the COE-ECT is preparing for the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation assessment, scheduled for October 2568. Preparations include a comprehensive review of documentation, quality management systems, and internal quality control measures to ensure a smooth and effective assessment process.
This accreditation initiative represents a significant milestone in elevating the quality, reliability, and credibility of the COE-ECT’s laboratory operations—aligning them with international standards and enhancing confidence among industrial and academic collaborators.
International Collaboration and Network Development
During January 21–23, 2025, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), in collaboration with a network of leading universities in Malaysia, advanced academic and research cooperation in the field of Electrochemistry and Corrosion Technology. A delegation of experts visited and held discussions with the Center for Corrosion Research, Universiti Teknologi Petronas, and the InCORE Laboratory, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) to exchange knowledge and explore future collaboration opportunities. This initiative was supported by the Office of the Science, Research and Innovation Promotion Board (TSRI).
This partnership marks a significant step in developing the Center of Excellence into an international-standard testing and research center, capable of addressing the needs of key industries such as petrochemical and metal packaging, while also expanding opportunities for commercial testing services in international markets.
Training and Technology Transfer Activities
On January 10, 2025, the institute organized a Cathodic Corrosion Protection Workshop, opened by Asst.Prof. Dr. Pornsak Srisungsitthisunti. Speakers included Dr. Nopparat Kanchanaprayut and Mr. Asokan P. Pillai from GreenScience Technologies (Thailand) Ltd. The workshop focused on transferring technical knowledge in Cathodic Protection technology for corrosion prevention.
2. On February 21, 2025, the institute conducted a training program on “Electrochemical Methods for Corrosion Testing” for students of the College of Industrial Technology (CIT). The training took place in the Corrosion Technology Laboratory and Training Room, focusing on hands-on skills development.
3. On July 24–25, 2025, the Thai-French Innovation Institute (TFII), through the Center of Excellence in Electrochemistry and Corrosion Technology (CoE-ECT), Corrosion Technology Department, organized an academic seminar titled “Corrosion Control and Cathodic Protection” for KMUTNB faculty members and staff.
The seminar was honored by Mongkol Mahavongtrakul, P.E., NACE Cathodic Protection Specialist, who provided in-depth knowledge on Corrosion Control and Cathodic Protection, essential techniques in the oil and gas pipeline and petrochemical industries.
The lecture covered both theory and case studies on practical applications, including the installation of cathodic protection systems to extend the service life of metallic materials, analysis of environmental factors influencing corrosion, and performance evaluation of protection systems.
4. International Conference: 2nd Joint Workshop on Advanced Materials on August 7, 2025, the Thai-French Innovation Institute co-hosted the 2nd Joint Workshop on Advanced Materials.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Dr. Phanpoemsak Arooni, Assistant Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and Prof. Dr. Somruk Chantramuang, Vice President for Research, KMUTNB, who delivered the welcome address.
Assoc. Prof. Siriporn Daopiset, Institute Advisor and Corrosion Technology Expert, was invited as a keynote speaker to present Electrochemical Techniques for evaluating food packaging quality and developing materials resistant to real-world environmental conditions, both of which play key roles in Thailand’s food and energy industries.
The workshop brought together experts in materials science from four leading universities — Tsinghua University (China), National University of Singapore (Singapore), Queensland University of Technology (Australia), and KMUTNB (Thailand).
It served as a platform for knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and capacity building, reinforcing the position of KMUTNB and TFII as regional leaders in engineering and materials science.
Project Outcomes
The Center of Excellence in Electrochemistry and Corrosion Technology (CoE-ECT) has continued to advance its research infrastructure through the procurement of essential scientific equipment and the renovation of laboratory facilities to meet international standards.
The center is now fully prepared for ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, scheduled for October 2025, marking a key milestone toward becoming a comprehensive research and testing unit that supports the development and evaluation of materials for the petrochemical, metal packaging, and related industries.
Strengthening International Collaboration – CoE-ECT has broadened its international partnerships with leading universities and research institutes in Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, and China, reinforcing its position as a regional hub of excellence. These collaborations enable the center to engage in joint research, knowledge exchange, and technology transfer at the international level.
Capacity Building and Technology Transfer – The center places great emphasis on developing the competencies of engineers, students, and industry professionals through hands-on training and workshops in electrochemical techniques, corrosion testing, and practical corrosion prevention methods. Such initiatives contribute to the cultivation of a new generation of corrosion engineers and researchers capable of meeting industrial challenges.
Academic Forums and Knowledge Dissemination – Through the organization of conferences, seminars, and academic workshops, CoE-ECT continues to foster knowledge sharing and research collaboration in materials science and electrochemistry. These efforts strengthen the linkages between academic research and industrial practice, promoting innovation and sustainable industrial development.
Industrial Services and Achievements (Fiscal Year 2025) – In FY2025, CoE-ECT provided testing, research, and consulting services for a total of 31 projects across 18 companies, spanning multiple industrial sectors — including petroleum and natural gas, chemical and petrochemical, metal packaging, construction materials, and automotive and advanced engineering. The center’s services generated a total value of 6,635,300 Baht, reflecting strong trust and recognition from the industrial community.
Key Industrial Collaborations – One of the major partners, PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTTEP), engaged in multiple projects involving Corrosion Inhibitor Performance Testing and in-depth research on Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors (VCIs), with a combined budget exceeding 5,246,000 Baht. This collaboration highlights PTTEP’s confidence in the center’s expertise in supporting Thailand’s energy and petroleum sectors.
In addition, companies from the pharmaceutical and food packaging industries, such as T.C. Pharmaceutical Industries Co., Ltd. and Thai Eurocoat Co., Ltd., utilized CoE-ECT’s advanced electrochemical testing services — including AC/DC/AC Testing, Potentiostatic, and Chronopotentiometry methods.
The construction and building materials sector also benefited from the center’s services. Companies such as Smart and Bright Co., Ltd. and BL Thai International Co., Ltd. commissioned mortar corrosion control testing for reinforced concrete in compliance with TIS 3029-2563 standards.
Meanwhile, Kumwell Corporation Public Company Limited, an electrical engineering company, employed the center’s expertise for Polarization Resistance and Corrosion Rate testing according to IEC 62561-7 standards.
Other industrial clients included Bangkok Can Co., Ltd., Summit Auto Body Industry Co., Ltd., Kitcharoen Engineering Electric Public Company Limited, and Allalloy Co., Ltd., who utilized CoE-ECT’s services for various corrosion property assessments of metallic materials.
Overall Impact
Throughout the year, CoE-ECT has demonstrated its pivotal role as a national mechanism supporting Thailand’s industrial competitiveness.
By bridging academic research and industrial application, the center contributes to enhancing product quality, improving reliability, and strengthening global confidence in Thai manufacturing.
CoE-ECT continues to serve as a leading research and testing hub, driving scientific advancement and technological innovation toward sustainable industrial growth.
