Structural Integrity and Non-Destructive Testing

Focus of our research

Our research focuses on the development and application of materials and methods that find use in 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 product lifetime. By understanding in-service material behaviour, we support our industrial partners in producing superior and more cost-effective products with longer lifespans.

Our current research includes:

• Study of the performance of materials for aerospace and energy applications, especially novel materials made by advanced manufacturing processes
• Development and application of novel surface engineering treatments such as laser shock peening to make materials more durable in service
• Development and application of advanced instrumentation for materials characterization, including neutron and synchrotron X-ray techniques
• Non-destructive evaluation using evolutionary computing techniques
• Residual stress analysis and stress engineering
• Atomic scale modelling of energy materials.
• Micro and Nano mechanical testing (AFM, Nano-Indentation, and in situ SEM)

If you wish to find out more about this theme, please get in contact with Professor Michael Fitzpatrick and Professor Xiang Zhang.  

• Vision statement

  Our vision:

  By understanding in-service material behaviour, we support our industrial partners in producing superior and more cost-effective products with longer lifespans.

• Mission statement

  Our mission:

  To improve and ensure structural integrity and safety through a detailed understanding of materials response under service conditions, and to bring value to our partners by adding value, effecting knowledge transfer, generating intellectual property, and fostering new technologies.