Students may pursue master of science (M.S.) and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in materials science. In
this option, the thesis work emphasizes the fundamental aspects of
material behavior. Alternatively, students can arrange M.S. and Ph.D.
programs in materials engineering. Here, the thesis focuses on
engineering and developmental aspects of materials. Students with
full-time jobs in industry can arrange master's degree programs without
a thesis.
Areas of specialization
include the following: nanotechnology, carbon
nanotubes, graphene, and nanoparticles; energy storage, energy conversions, and
photovoltaics;
fiber optics and lasers; structure and properties of glass;
relation of microstructure and properties of materials; sintering
mechanisms; rheology of slips; slip casting; preparation and properties
of powders; dielectric materials, including ferroelectric,
piezoelectric, and ferromagnetic ceramics; sol-gel processing; thin
films; high-temperature materials; strength, toughening, and impact
resistance; ceramic-metal systems and composites; and
biomaterials.
The facilities of the program include
approximately 25,000 square feet of well-equipped laboratories.
Students have access to a field-emission scanning electron microscope;
a high-resolution TEM Raman microprobe; FITR; thermoanalyzers; X-ray diffraction equipment; X-ray
photoelectron spectroscopy equipment; hot isostatic presses and spark plasma sintering furnace; mechanical testing machines; optical benches and lasers; and SEMs.
The focus of
much of the research is on the science and technology of synthesizing
advanced materials. Processing from powders includes
synthesis and characterization of powders, green forming (slip casting,
tape casting, rapid prototype methods, injection molding, and spray
drying/powder compaction), and densification of powder preforms
(sintering, hot pressing, hot isostatic pressing, and preceramic
polymer pyrolysis). In addition, materials are synthesized directly from
sol-gels and used for coatings, filters, and battery components.
Materials are characterized mechanically, electrically, and thermally.
Students study surfaces using scanning tunneling microscopes and atomic
force microscopes and by employing computer simulations using molecular
dynamics. Ceramic composites are being studied to develop stronger,
tougher ceramics, such as ceramic armor. Materials with nanocrystalline microstructures are
being studied. Dielectric, ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and other
active/functional materials are being developed for electronic
substrates, capacitors, actuators, sensors, and smart/intelligent
materials.
Graduate assistantships and fellowships are
available for both first-year and advanced graduate students.
Generally, all full-time doctoral students receive financial support
and tuition remission. Support usually is associated with sponsoring
grants or contracts. Further information may be found on the program
website.
A prospective Ph.D. candidate must spend a
minimum of one academic year in residence as a full-time student taking
courses or pursuing research.
