The Structural Metallic Materials Group at Northwestern University, supervised by Prof. David C. Dunand, focuses on the mechanical behavior of metallic alloys, composites and foams. Concurrent research also addresses advanced processing techniques (e.g., to fabricate novel composites and foams) and microstructure characterization (e.g., to link the observed microstructure to the measured mechanical properties).
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Transformation Superplasticity of Metals, Composites and IntermetallicsDr. Heeman ChoeThis unusual type of superplasticity is based on phase transformation (not grain-boundary sliding), which we trigger by repeated addition and removal of hydrogen. This chemical cycling is unlike the more traditional approach of thermal cycling. |
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Creep of Dispersion-Strengthened Light AlloysMatt KrugWe investigate microstructure and creep properties of binary and ternary Al-Sc-X, Al-Ti-X and Al-Zr-X alloys with nanoscale, coherent, coarsening-resistant precipitates. Additions of submicron alumina dispersoids are also investigated. |
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Diffraction Measurements of Strains in CompositesDr. Marcus YoungWe use synchrotron x-ray diffraction (at Argonne National Lab) and neutron diffraction (at Los Alamos National Lab) to measure load transfer between matrix and reinforcement in composites subjected to an externally-applied stress and/or a thermal load. |
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Superconducting CompositesDr. John DeFouwWe are studying the synthesis of MgB2 (a superconducting ceramic with a critical temperature of 39 K) by reaction between solid B and liquid Mg. Composites consisting of a Mg matrix with MgB2 fibers or particles are created by in-situ reaction. |
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Metallic Foams
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Artistic BronzesDr. Marcus YoungWe are analyzing the composition and patinas of modern bronzes by artists such as Matisse, Brancusi and Picasso, and investigating the casting technology of bronzes from the early Western Zhou Dynasty. |
