Materials Science

Introduction

Our materials research focuses on safety-critical applications and the fundamental scientific knowledge required to assure and improve safety. 

We work on novel design concepts, characterization of materials properties, development of novel analytical and processing techniques and fundamental mechanistic understanding for improvement in lifetime. By understanding in-service material behaviour, we support our industrial partners in producing superior and more cost-effective products with longer lifespans. 

Our largest research area is Structural Integrity where we:

• Study the response of materials for aerospace and energy applications
• Apply novel treatments such as laser shock peening to make materials more durable in-service
• Use advanced instrumentation to for materials characterization

The Materials Mechanics Measurement group researches:

• Techniques for measuring material properties from nano-indentation
• Atomic force microscopy to open up the possibilities of non-destructive measurement of materials properties and the generation of nano-engineered materials