Nuclear Materials

Much of the research sits at the intersection of structural and functional materials for carbon-free baseload energy production with a focus on processing-structure-property relationships and the impact of extreme environments.

Faculty Research Areas

Anatoly Frenkel

Professor Anatoly Frenkel’s research focuses on the physico-chemical properties and mechanistic studies of functional nanomaterials. His work investigates heterogeneous and photo-catalysis involving nanoparticles, clusters, and “single atoms,” supported by multimodal methodologies for materials’ characterization. Additionally, he specializes in the development of synchrotron-based techniques and data analysis methods, while integrating machine learning methods to advance materials research and discovery.

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David Sprouster

Professor David Sprouster focuses on materials development, characterization, and transmutation science for next-generation fusion reactors. His research investigates the performance of high heat flux materials, the development of ultra-high temperature ceramics, and the fracture probability of irradiated nuclear graphite. Additionally, he explores point defects in intermetallic phase formations and evaluates the economics of attractive accelerator-driven subcritical (ADS) reactors.

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Lance Snead

Professor Lance Snead focuses on radiation materials science, specifically developing and evaluating materials for both fusion and fission energy systems. His research investigates fundamental radiation effects in ceramics, graphite, composites, and metallic alloys, with a strong emphasis on silicon carbide and advanced ceramic composites. Additionally, he pioneers the development of low-activation materials for nuclear applications and accident-tolerant fuel materials for current and next-generation reactors.

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Jason Trelewicz

Professor Jason Trelewicz focuses on the development of advanced materials, including additively manufactured alloys and functional ceramic matrix composites. His research explores interface-engineered metal matrix composites and investigates mechanical behavior near the theoretical limit. Additionally, he utilizes modeling to accelerate alloy development and studies radiation effects in doped interfaces.

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