My research group works on understanding the influence interfaces, particularly grain and phase boundary networks on material properties. We focus on the evolution of grain and phase boundary networks at extreme and prolonged working environment conditions. This can include high temperatures, high stresses, humidity, radiation and changing chemical environments. Currently, the main focus is on exploring the influence of grain and phase boundary networks on controlling material properties, from diffusive mass transport to electrochemical and mechanical performance.
We work on challenges related to carbon dioxide sequestration, improving solid oxide electrolyser and solid oxide fuel cell performance, advanced electrolytes for new generation of solid-state batteries, coatings for extreme conditions and structural ceramics to increase radiation damage tolerance in fusion reactors.
Our work combines characterization and experimental but sometimes includes microstructural and atomistic modelling. We employ microscopy across the scales, from simple visual light microscopy to advanced protocols for scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) to cutting-edge electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). We cross-correlated information in time and space to access microstructural evolution-related property changes.
Ultimately, our research informs advanced/ additive manufacturing and synthesis protocols, enabling the tailoring of the grain and phase boundary network.
