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The Centre for Research in Engineering Surface Technology (CREST) is the result of scientific research and investigation
focused on solutions for enterprise. Its precursor was the Institute for Industrial Research Standards (IIRS) established
in 1946.
The IIRS was set up by the Irish state to encourage scientific research to improve the national industries. The Institute
helped existing and emerging industries by developing innovative technical processes, ensuring conformity with standard
specifications and driving the use of the natural resources of the State.
In 1987, the IIRS merged with the NBST (National Board of Science and Technology) to form what was to be known as EOLAS.
In addition to the functions assigned to the Institute and the Board, this new agency prepared and periodically reviewed
the national programme for science and technology. It also worked towards the application of science and technology for
industrial purposes. Seven years later and following the merger with the indigenous industry wing of the IDA, this agency
transformed into Forbairt.
Forbairt (an agency within Forfás) provided services to support State industrial development. It served as an advisor for
owners and managers of private-sector companies.
The need for an agency that would give an integral solution to industry and enterprise revolutionized the semi-state
agencies. Following this initiative, Enterprise Ireland (EI) was formed in 1998. With EI’s establishment came the
dissolution of Forbairt and An Bord Tráchtála. This newly formed agency focused mainly on developing industry and
enterprise in the State and to strengthen the skills base of the Nation.
Although Enterprise Ireland did an outstanding job at promoting the growth of industries in the State, research and product
development had reached a plateau. It was then that the Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) and Enterprise Ireland (EI)
sponsored the founding of CREST. This Centre was set up, to boost and combine the Institute’s research activity in favour
of the industrial and academic communities.
The Centre offers services ranging from material surface characterization and corrosion control to the development of
coatings and nano-materials for diverse industries. CREST is capable of providing its clients with a thorough materials
analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM),
Fourier Transform Infrared Analysis (FTIR), surface profile mapping, and optical microscopy. Corrosion experts develop a
complete scheme of design, corrosion resistant alloys and maintenance for new and existing structures and materials.
CREST is also involved in product development, technical investigation, consultancy, training and troubleshooting for a
wide range of companies. Some of the Centre’s clients are: Longford Architectural Metalwork Ltd., Fleetwood Sherwin
Williams Ltd., Tara Cabinets Makers Ltd., General Paints Ltd., Dublin City Council, National Roads Authority, Office
Public Works, the Railway Procurement Agency (LUAS), An Post and the Electricity Supply Board.
The headquarters of the Centre for Research in Engineering Surface Technology are located in the heart of Dublin City
and from this location they provide services to their clients throughout Ireland and other European countries.
The application of scientific and technological knowledge to fulfil today’s market competitive demands, allows the
synergy between CREST and its clients to always produce a successful solution.
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