Interdisciplinary
Research
Materials, Processes, and Tools
Experimental glassmelting and casting for improved surface properties. (Photo Credit: Penn State)
A collection of experts with depth of knowledge in specific materials, processes, and tools is fundamental to interdisciplinary materials research. At Penn State, we have faculty whose primary focus is metals, ceramics, glass, powder processing, laser welding, microwave processing, mechanical testing, materials characterization, modeling and simulation.
Materials characterization is performed with a variety of tools and techniques, many of them capable of resolving structures at the atomic and subatomic level. Of particular importance are the study of nanoscale features and surfaces. In the world of nanomaterials, the amount and importance of their surfaces are increased dramatically. Since most reactions occur at the surfaces and interfaces between materials, nanomaterials and their surfaces enhance reactivity to create new effects.
In addition, materials can be created, characterized, and measured using virtual techniques through computational modeling and design. These techniques cross the scales from atomistic to bulk materials and from the theoretical to practical materials and devices. Computer modeling is also a helpful tool in determining the best parameters for materials processing. Examples can be found in our computational modeling and simulation links section.