In their search for a new composition for the ceramic thermal barrier coating of gas turbine blades, Dr. Werner Stamm (65, right) and Dr. Arturo Flores Renteria (44) from the Power and Gas Division used a computer simulation method based on density functional theory for the first time. This enabled them to develop an innovative material mixture that meets all theoretical requirements without the need for lengthy experiments. It is now being tested in practice. The research duo have been working together for years: Stamm in Mülheim an der Ruhr, Flores Renteria in Berlin. While Stamm, as a physicist, is responsible for the fundamentals, Flores Renteria, as a mechanical engineer, is primarily concerned with the feasibility. The two were honored in the 'Outstanding Invention' category.