ESD recently conducted an interview with Selim Baybas, CEO and board member of Turkey’s Nurol Teknoloji: a specialist in the area of ballistic protection.

ESD: Mr Baybas, what are the special capabilities of Nurol Teknoloji and what are your main products?

Baybas: Our company is a leader in the field of advanced technical ceramics and is known for its expertise in the production of ballistic ceramics, such as boron carbide (B4C), silicon carbide (SiC) and aluminium oxide (Al2O3). With the recent acquisition of the German ceramic raw material manufacturer Industriekeramik Hochrhein (IKH), we have expanded our capabilities even further. This strategic partnership strengthens our position as a key player in the global advanced technical ceramics industry.

Our main products include advanced armour solutions for personal protection and various military platforms on land, in the air and at sea. Over the years our commitment to innovation and excellence has made us one of the largest armour suppliers not only in Turkey but also in NATO countries. Together with IKH, we strive to advance the field of technical ceramics and deliver innovative solutions that meet the changing needs of our customers worldwide.

ESD: In which products can we find elements from your production?

Baybas: Elements manufactured by IKH are integral components of our diverse product portfolio, which extends beyond ballistic ceramics to encompass various high-performance applications such as thermal barrier coating applications and other ceramic spray surface applications, which include critical components in the aerospace industry, medical implants for enhanced healthcare solutions, as well as electrical and optic applications essential for modern technology.

Overall, the integration of technical ceramics into various industries highlights their indispensable role in advancing technology, enhancing performance and driving innovation across diverse sectors. As pioneers in the field of advanced technical ceramics, our collaboration with IKH reinforces our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that push the boundaries of technological possibility and shape the future of industries worldwide.

It is important to emphasise that Nurol Teknoloji’s products are battle tested, actively used in conflict and have proven their ability to save lives in real-life scenarios. We will continue to work with the IKH to further develop defence solutions to ensure that our offering meets the ever-changing threats faced by modern armed forces. Our commitment to innovation and excellence remains unwavering as we endeavour to improve the security of our customers in dynamic operational environments.

ESD: How do you envision the future of advanced technical ceramics?

Baybas: We will continue to work with the IKH to further develop defence solutions to ensure our offering meets the ever-changing threats of modern armed forces. Our commitment to innovation and excellence remains unwavering as we endeavour to improve the security of our customers in dynamic operational environments.

In anticipation of future advances we are investing heavily in ceramic powder formulation studies and exploring new production technologies, such as additive manufacturing, sensitive production processes, single crystal development and semiconductor applications. These investments and ongoing research efforts emphasise our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation and meeting the evolving needs of different industries.

ESD: Mr Baybas, thank you for the interview.

Selim Baybas: CEO and board member of Turkish ballistic protection specialist Nurol Teknoloji. (Photo: Nurol Teknoloji)