Materials research areas
Our materials research is directed towards processing, properties and performance together with the associated manufacturing technologies.
Composites
Research in materials science of polymer composites focuses on improving the mechanical performance of polymer matrix composites. We have benefited from substantial investment funding to refurbish our lightweight structures laboratories. Research activities include:
- through the thickness reinforcement of polymer matrix composites
- dielectric monitoring of composite cure
- aerospace resins modified with carbon nanotubes to create adhesive films, gel coats and matrix resins with an entirely new balance of properties.
Research into large scale cost-effective manufacture has led to:
- large scale facilities for polymer matrix fibre composite processing
- a unique facility for the lamination of high performance carbon fibre tape
- a resin processing facility, which includes resin transfer moulding and vacuum infusion systems
- several large demonstrator structures such as a commercial aircraft aileron and engine cowling door and a complete sports car frame - the first composite vehicle framework world-wide.
Microsystems and nanotechnology
Within microsystems and nanotechnology we offer expertise in functional ceramics and microsystems which complement three overarching projects – an EPSRC platform grant (Nanoscale multiferroic materials and devices) and 2 EC networks of excellence (MIND- Multifunctional and integrated piezoelectric devices and 4M-Multi-Material Micro Manufacture). Key areas of research include:
- functional nanoparticle
- thin and thick film processing fabrication
- machining of ceramics
- microscale structuring/direct writing
- finite element modelling of microsystems
- piezoelectric microsystems
- nano-biological interactions
- particle/fluid/electric field interacts
- multiferroic materials
- nano light emitting devices
- micro solid oxide fuel cells
- fabrication of core-shell particles.
Microsystems and Nanotechnology website
Precision Technologies
Cranfield is world renowned for its research in ultra precision technologies. We focus on the design and development of novel machine tools which operate at nano levels of accuracy. Core research capabilities are centred around major projects that include a RCUK Basic Technologies grant for the design, development and build of the Big OptiX (BoX™) grinding machine together with new reactive atom plasma processing technology for the production of large scale optics; the 3D-Mintegration Grand Challenge and the recently established EPSRC £8m Integrated Knowledge Centre (IKC) in ultra precision and structured surfaces. Key research areas in precision technologies include:
- precision machine technologies including machine tool design
- advanced fabrication processes
- process development including abrasive machining, diamond turning and plasma assisted machining
- micro-engineering including micromachining
- photochemical machining
- metrology.
Precision Engineering Centre website
Surface science and engineering
Research focuses on coatings and high temperature materials using a variety of techniques to create high temperature coatings. The National High Temperature Surface Engineering Centre is a key partner in the Rolls-Royce University Technology Partnership in this area. Surface engineering facilities have benefited from significant investment, including £1.1m of industrial funding. Our focus is on:
- PVD, CVD coating and plasma spray (LVPS) coating
- EBPVD thermal barrier coatings
- high temperature oxidation/corrosion, erosion and wear testing
- coating characterisation and evaluation
- life prediction modelling.
Surface Science and Engineering website
Welding
With regards to welding research we have developed our capability in arc and laser pipeline welding. We are now a research resource provider to major organisations including BP and TransCanada along with leading research and development organisations Our welding research activity includes:
- high strength pipe steel welding
- hybrid laser/arc process for pipeline welding
- real-time weld quality evaluation
- plasma keyhole welding of high strength aluminium alloys
- laser micro welding
- stress engineering for management of residual stresses and distortion
- friction stir welding.
