Design and multiscale characterization of new metallic systems with hierarchical microstructural heterogeneity

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Next-generation structural and protective materials are needed for the aerospace and automobile industries, which combine low weight, high strength, high hardness, and high toughness. However, it is difficult to achieve these properties simultaneously and at low cost in engineering materials, because conventional engineering materials usually face an intrinsic tradeoff between strength and ductility. This research is guided by the idea that a material's structure determines its properties and that microscopic interfacial defects (such as grain boundaries and phase boundaries) essentially govern the mechanical response and microstructural evolution of almost any known metals and metal alloys. As such, this research aims to improve existing engineering materials in both strength and ductility while maintaining their density (weight) by tailoring the microstructures at interfacial defects. For this purpose, a program involving both computational modeling and experimental characterization is proposed for this Discovery Grant. Specifically, atomistic modeling tools will be employed to reveal the fundamental thermodynamics and kinetics of various interfacial defects. Moreover, I will use computational modeling to guide the synthesis and characterization of materials with different types of interfacial defects. This will allow us to develop superior metals for use in the aerospace or automobile industry that are stronger and lighter than what is currently available. Manufacturing is of strategic importance to the Canada economy and metallic materials are the core of manufacturing. This research can thus potentially benefit the Canada economy by making next-generation materials that are lighter, stronger, and tougher at a low cost based on the most commonly used, existing metallic systems in the industry such as Cu, Ni, and Al. Through this program, I will train four HQPs who will acquire unique computational and experimental skills that are highly demanded in both academia and the manufacturing industry of Canada.