

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

57 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.

11 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.

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.

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.