Scalable Severe Plastic Deformation (SPD) with Friction-Based Methods for Oxide Dispersion Strengthened (ODS) Alloys
Dalong Zhang, Dileepa Maddumage, Abdullah Akib
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Abstract of talk
Classical SPD methods, including high pressure torsion, equal channel angular pressing, ball milling, etc., have been widely used to create nanostructured (NS) or ultrafine grained (UFG) metallic materials. These SPD methods have served as robust tools to study NS or UFG materials, leading to fundamental discoveries on microstructure evolution and deformation mechanisms. SPD methods usually operate at or near room temperature, hence creating and maintaining the NS or UFG features. However, such conditions also mean that materials cannot be processed at large scale or being manufactured in an additive manner. Meanwhile, friction-based methods, including friction consolidation, friction extrusion, friction stir processing, etc., also exert high plastic strain (~1000% or more) while operating in the temperature range of dynamic recrystallization. Therefore, consolidation, shape forming, additive deposition, grain refinement, nanoparticle dispersion can all happen in a scalable way, providing new pathways of manufacturing ODS alloys in various forms: rods, plates, tubes, etc.
Background:
Dr. Dalong Zhang serves as an esteemed Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Baylor University, where they spearhead pioneering research in materials science and manufacturing. Since joining the faculty in August 2024, Dr. Zhang has dedicated their work to examining how structural materials perform under extreme conditions, with a particular emphasis on applications within nuclear and fusion energy sectors. His expertise encompasses solid-phase processing and powder metallurgy, employing advanced techniques such as friction stir and severe plastic deformation to develop innovative, high-performance materials like oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloys. This cutting-edge research is complemented by Dr. Zhang's proficiency in micro-scale analysis, especially through transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which enables precise investigation of deformation mechanisms at the nano-scale. Driven by a strong commitment to technological progress and environmental sustainability, Dr. Zhang's current research initiatives include steel decarbonization and sustainable metallurgy, focusing on minimizing the environmental impact of industrial manufacturing. Their academic journey is marked by excellence, having earned a PhD from the University of California, Davis, where they were honored with the UC Davis Graduate Student Fellowship. Dr. Zhang's career also features significant national laboratory experience, with vital research appointments as a Postdoctoral Associate at both Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). They have led high-impact projects, notably heading the ARPA-E funded GAMOW initiative, which aims to develop scalable manufacturing solutions for fusion energy's future. Recognized by accolades such as the Acta Student Award, Dr. Zhang continues to bridge the gap between foundational materials research and practical energy solutions, contributing meaningfully to both scientific advancement.
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