PNNL

The world has a need for metals that are light, but still retain their strength. Magnesium-based composites might be the answer. PNNL's Suveen Mathaudhu co-authored an article published in Nature, showing great promise for keeping things light—and strong.

One problem with current alloys is that—although they are light—they are weak. The new composite incorporates silicon carbide nanoparticles into the magnesium. In the past, introducing ceramic microparticles has made the alloy stronger, but has severely degraded the plasticity and machinability. The new process overcomes these challenge and creates a strong metal that retains its plasticity and is stable at high temperatures.

Mathaudhu joined PNNL as a joint-appointee from the University of California, Riverside, Mechanical Engineering Department and Materials Science and Engineering Program. He was recently elected to the rank of Fellow of ASM International, formerly known as the American Society for Metals. His bachelor's degree is from Walla Walla University in engineering and he earned master's and doctorate degrees in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University