

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

Apr 25, 2024 • 37min
Episode 87: Stories of a Materials Salesman
Dan Wilson, a materials salesman at Sintx, shares insights on challenges and success in material sales, focusing on the importance of trust, relationships, and understanding new materials' impact on production processes. The podcast also explores high-temperature composites, additive manufacturing innovations, and the development of soft skills through experiences in the industry.

Apr 10, 2024 • 47min
Episode 86: PHAs and Biodegradable Plastic
Join Nick Sandland, a scientist specializing in next generation biodegradable plastics, as he discusses the fascinating world of PHAs and biodegradable polymers. Topics include challenges in plastic pollution, the origins and decomposition of PHAs, the evolution and applications of PHAs, and the future of biodegradable materials in reducing plastic waste.

5 snips
Mar 28, 2024 • 45min
Episode 85: Electron Backscatter Diffraction
Explore the fascinating world of Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) characterization with Stuart Wright and Matt Nowell. They discuss measuring grain size, phase distribution, texture, and more. Learn about advancements in metal identification, detector technology, and applications across industries. Sponsored by Gatan and American Elements.

4 snips
Mar 13, 2024 • 47min
Episode 84: The ICME Method with QuesTek
Discover how the ICME method revolutionizes material design, from aerospace alloys to single crystal nickel alloys for turbine engines. Explore the ICMD software by QuesTek, enabling rapid material property predictions and design. Dive into the evolution of aviation materials, advancements in nickel super alloys, and the exciting world of materials design.

Feb 27, 2024 • 1h 5min
Episode 83: Computed Tomography at Zeiss
Discover the world of computed tomography in materials science, where high-resolution 3D reconstructions reveal cracks and voids without destruction. Explore real-time observations of processes like battery degradation and dendrite growth, and learn how 3D diffraction data identifies phase distributions. Join William Harris from Zeiss Microscopy as he showcases the transformative power of computed tomography in reshaping materials science.

Feb 15, 2024 • 56min
Episode 82: Radar Absorbing Materials
Discover the history of stealth technology, from painting ships with fun stripes to creating radar absorbing materials for planes. Dive into the evolution of stealth aircraft design and explore the intricate world of achieving optimal aircraft performance while maintaining stealth capabilities. Uncover the unexpected beginnings of the F-117 Nighthawk and revolutionize the field of stealth technology with innovative advancements. Delve into the testing methods for radar absorbing materials and explore the future of cutting-edge stealth capabilities with microwave absorption research.

Jan 29, 2024 • 45min
Episode 81: New Materials for Carbon Capture
Researchers discuss their research on carbon storing materials, including aluminum formate and ABX3 perovskites. They explore the challenges of removing CO2 from crystal structures and potential applications in carbon capture and air separation processes. The podcast also highlights the importance of separating CO2 from natural gas and biogas for improved efficiency. Additionally, the use of CO2 injection during drilling and cleaning up CO2 with aluminum formate is discussed. The episode concludes with a promotion of Calnano and Materials Today, and a request for feedback.

Jan 3, 2024 • 37min
Episode 80: Ceramic Innovation with Delta Faucet
Learn about the challenges and advantages of slip casting in ceramics production. Discover how Delta Faucet explored a new ceramic processing method and made the decision to halt the project. Dive into the difficulties faced in casting ceramic material and innovative solutions. Explore a new approach to slip casting and its potential applications. Uncover the challenges and innovations in limited silicate ceramics manufacturing.

4 snips
Nov 29, 2023 • 31min
Episode 79: Cryogenic Milling at Cal Nano
In this episode, the hosts sit down with Eric Eyerman CEO of Cal Nano to discuss Cryogenic Milling. They explore different methods of particle size reduction in milling processes, the benefits of cryo-milling and material characterization, advantages of cryogenic milling and cold working processes, and the significance of lowering temperature in cryogenic milling and energy efficiency in the industry.

Nov 16, 2023 • 31min
Episode 78: Flash Sintering at Lucideon
Discover the exciting world of flash sintering and its advantages like lower energy consumption and faster manufacturing speed. Learn about the history of ceramics and the establishment of a ceramics hub in Stoke-on-Trent. The podcast also features insights from Lucideon, a leading expert in the field. Don't miss the sponsors and an interesting article on multi-phase flash sintering technique for 3D complex shapes.