The role of energy in the modern world goes beyond mere technology and economics to influence welfare, environment, life quality and, broadly, civilisation. Since the industrial revolution, energy conversion technology has been at the forefront of innovation required to satisfy the needs of mankind. This technology more than others has always been very dependent on the performance of the materials used; especially over the last two decades during which efficiency and environmental concerns have become challenging objectives. In this context the European Commission has developed significant collaborative programmes in Europe within the COST framework, to enhance the state of the art in this technology. The Li