Advancing Material Science Through Microstructural Insights
We specialize in tailoring the microstructure of materials for specific industrial applications. The microstructure, representing the minuscule internal arrangement of a material, plays a pivotal role in determining its properties, such as strength or flexibility. This is particularly critical in industries like aerospace, automotive, and biomedical engineering, where materials must exhibit exceptional performance under extreme conditions.
To delve into the intricacies of microstructures, we employ advanced electron microscopy techniques like Scanning Electron Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy, allowing us to scrutinize these internal arrangements down to the atomic level. This meticulous examination yields detailed images and data, enabling us to comprehend how a material’s inner structure influences its overall properties. Armed with this knowledge, our collaborative efforts involve experimenting with manufacturing processes and incorporating additives. The goal is to engineer materials with bespoke microstructures, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in the field of material science.
A recent example of our work involves the study and enhancement of an alloy for Aeroflux, specifically used in their aircraft braking systems. These systems operate without the need for physical contact, resulting in lighter planes (thus reducing their carbon footprint), increased safety, improved efficiency, and enhanced reliability.
Our ongoing projects include:
- Improving the Strength of Lightweight and Hardened Metals: Investigating how the small, internal structures of lightweight materials like copper, magnesium, aluminum, as well as tougher metals like hardened steel, influence their ability to withstand intense squeezing and stretching.
- Developing Materials with Enhanced Heat and Electrical Properties: Researching the microscopic structures of materials to enhance their ability to conduct heat and electricity effectively.