Materialism: A Materials Science Podcast
Taylor Sparks and Andrew Falkowski
In this podcast, Taylor and Andrew investigate the past, present, and future of materials science and engineering. Topic areas ranging from cutting edge materials technology, the history of different materials, the commercialization of new materials, and exciting advances in processing and characterization are all covered in detail. Our episodes include things like the unlikely discovery of superglue or teflon, the fascinating backstories about modern biomaterials like dialysis filters, and updates on new technologies including wearable electronics, next generation batteries, and nanomaterials. In short, we hope to help listeners understand the critical role that materials have played in society and even glimpse into what the future may hold for new materials.
Episodes
Mentioned books
22 snips
Nov 18, 2024 • 40min
Episode 97: Titanium
Dive into the world of titanium, a remarkable material linked to both Mach-3 aircraft and hip replacements. Discover its fascinating historical journey, from 18th-century discovery to military aviation breakthroughs. The hosts discuss unexpected challenges in aerospace manufacturing, including the risks posed by cadmium-plated tools. Explore the complexities of titanium alloys, their diverse applications in industries like aerospace and medicine, and innovations like the Aerosynth machine that aim to overcome processing hurdles.
Oct 31, 2024 • 47min
Episode 96: Spark Ablation with VSParticle
Aaike van Vugt, co-founder of VSParticle and a chemical engineer from Delft University of Technology, dives into the captivating world of spark ablation technology. He explains how this process surpasses traditional methods to create nanoparticles without chemicals. Learn about its revolutionary applications in energy storage and catalysis, the journey from academic invention to commercial success, and the innovative creation of nanoporous films. With exciting insights on AI's role in advancing material science, this discussion is both enlightening and inspiring.
Oct 9, 2024 • 56min
Episode 95: You Don't Know Anything About Steel
In this engaging discussion, Caelan Kennedy from the Steel Founders’ Society of America shares his extensive knowledge on steel. He reveals the complexities of alloying elements like manganese and silicon, demonstrating how they enhance strength and corrosion resistance. The conversation dives into martensitic structures and the crucial role of heat treatment in steel processing. Kennedy also highlights advancements in stainless steel grades used by companies like Tesla, emphasizing the balance between cost and performance. Plus, exciting educational initiatives are inspiring the next generation of manufacturers.
30 snips
Sep 26, 2024 • 49min
Episode 94: An Introduction to Quantum Materials
Jason Khoury, an Assistant Professor at Arizona State University specializing in quantum materials, dives into the fascinating world of quantum behavior. He discusses how interactions between charge, spin, and lattice shape the properties of quantum materials. The conversation covers high-temperature superconductors, their serendipitous discovery, and the theoretical predictions of exotic quantum behavior. Khoury emphasizes the collaborative nature of research, the challenges of crystal growth, and the impact of computational tools in advancing our understanding of quantum materials.
Sep 10, 2024 • 46min
Episode 93: An Introduction to Pyrometallurgy
Dive into the fascinating world of pyrometallurgy, where ancient techniques meet modern innovations. Discover how ores transform into metals we rely on daily, and explore the historical roots of this evolving field. Learn about the art of calcination and cutting-edge practices that make metal refining more sustainable. The impact of computational science on efficiency and recycling technologies, especially for lithium-ion batteries, is also revealed. It's a captivating blend of history, science, and future possibilities!
Aug 22, 2024 • 40min
Episode 92: The Quest for Pure Uranium
Harley Wilhelm, an unsung hero of the Manhattan Project, shares his groundbreaking work in revolutionizing pure uranium metal production. He discusses the Ames Process that transformed slow metal smelting into a vital operation for ending World War II. The conversation dives into the intricate science of uranium enrichment and the unexpected connections in rare earth research. Wilhelm also highlights the challenges of maintaining secrecy during wartime collaboration and details the surprising uses and health implications of depleted uranium.
59 snips
Jul 24, 2024 • 41min
Episode 91: High Entropy Alloys
Discover the revolutionary world of high entropy alloys (HEAs), materials that defy traditional metallurgy rules with their unique compositions. These alloys boast exceptional strength, hardness, and thermal stability, transforming the materials industry. Experts discuss the simultaneous discovery of HEAs at top universities and their implications for future technological advancements. Explore the cutting-edge techniques for manufacturing these alloys and their immense potential in various applications, from aerospace to energy solutions.
Jun 25, 2024 • 32min
Episode 90: The Big Dig Incident
Explore the catastrophic consequences of choosing the wrong epoxy in construction, leading to costly failures and a tragic death. Uncover the series of poor decisions that turned a new highway plan into a disaster. Learn lessons from the devastating event and the positive changes it inspired in Boston's tunnel system.
12 snips
Jun 10, 2024 • 55min
Episode 89: Special Applications of Microscopy Technologies
Professor Sergei Kalinin from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville talks about the new applications of electron microscopy, including atom-by-atom materials fabrication. They also discuss the integration of machine learning to enhance scientists' work with electron microscopy.
May 8, 2024 • 37min
Episode 88: Accelerating Materials Discovery with Microsoft
Explore how Microsoft is revolutionizing material discovery through machine learning and AI, focusing on lithium-ion battery electrolytes. They use a filtering process to identify promising candidates and partner with PNNL for synthesis. Learn about their methodology and future opportunities in this exciting field.
