The OU Materials Engineering Group carries out research into materials characterisation, with a strong focus on mechanical properties, fatigue and fracture, forensic failure analysis, and the application of solid state bonding to various alloys, composites and ceramics (applications to jet engines, heat exchangers, automotive industry, defence, electronics, optical instruments, medical devices, biomaterials, and implants).
The group has electron microscopy (FEGSEM, TEM, and access to dual beam FIB/SEM), mechanical testing with capability up to 1200˚C, a large creep facility, nanoindentation and facilities for diffusion bonding and brazing as well as optical microscopy and metallography.
The group hosts around 16 full-time and five part-time research students, many of whom have a focus on fabrication techniques for materials and structures. Support is provided by academic, technical and research staff. Virtually all our projects are undertaken in partnership with industrial collaborators, and our projects provide excellent training in a range of experimental and analytical skills.