Materials Australia Magazine | September 2020 | Volume 53

CAMS2021 PAGE 9

Materials Australia has planned the Materials Australia has planned the following features for 2014, designed to following features for 2014, designed to highlight different disciplines and sectors highlight different disciplines and sectors of the Materials Community. of the Materials Community. Our aim is to publish a relevant, interesting and current Our aim is to publish a relevant, interesting and current magazine for those involved in all aspects of Materials. magazine for those involved in all aspects of Materials. These features attract attention from the right audience These features attract attention from the right audience and if your business is active in one of these areas, and if your business is active in one of these areas, then you you will will want want to to be be involved. involved. then We offer offer your your company company the the opportunity opportunityto topromote promote We your business directly to decision makers in the your business directly to decision makers in the Materials Community. Materials Community.

September 2014 NEW CONFERENCE DATES September 2014 Focus on Education and Training. Targeting: universities,

APICAM2022 & LMT2022

Focus on Education and Training. Targeting: universities, high school students and vocational training. high school students and vocational training. Content Deadline: Friday 29th August PAGE 11 Content Deadline: Friday 29th August Advertising Deadline: Friday 5th September Advertising Deadline: Friday 5th September

MAMAS 2020

December2014 2014 December

Power Generation. Materials for Energy: Power Generation. Materials for Energy: Solar, Wind & Wave Energy. Solar, Wind & Wave Energy. Content Deadline: Friday 21st November Content Deadline: Friday 21st November Advertising Deadline: Friday 28th November Advertising Deadline: Friday 28th November

Materials Australia Australia also also encourages encouragesmembers memberstoto Materials contribute to our magazine and we will consider contribute to our magazine and we will consider all editorial contributions. all editorial contributions.

PAGE 12

MA Logo Competition PAGE 24

Women In The Industry PAGE 26

University Spotlight PAGE 44

Online Short Courses PAGE 63

Materials for Energy and the Environment Sustaining the Future VOLUME 53 | NO 3 please For further details, further details, pleasecontact: contact: Gloss GlossCreative CreativeMedia MediaPty PtyLtd Ltd

SEPTEMBER 2020

+61 ISSNT T1037-7107 +61 22 8539 8539 7893 7893 email: email:magazine@materialsaustralia.com.au magazine@materialsaustralia.com.au www.glosscreativemedia.com.au www.glosscreativemedia.com.au

Redefining Coating Thickness Measurement Measuring the thickness of galvanized or electroplated coatings on any substrate is as easy as 1 – 2 – 3 Choose a galvanized, electroplated, or coated sample of any substrate: metal, plastic, glass or even wood Get right to work with our factory coating method, or customize for a specific application with the optional single-point calibration. Vanta™ analyzers quickly and accurately measure up to three layers of coatings at the micron level. 22

20 Microns

25 Microns

30 Microns

35 Microns

40 Microns

10 Microns

40 Microns

45 Microns

30 Microns

45 Microns

10 Microns

20 Microns

Common Elements & Maximum Coating Thickness.

Most common in corrosion-resistant coatings

Measure up to three coating layers at the micron level

Substrate Large, color LCD touch screen with swipe and click control

For more information contact Olympus Australia/New Zealand: (Australia): 1300 132 992 (New Zealand): 0508 659 6787 IBDinfo@Olympus.com.au

www.olympus-ims.com/Vanta Olympus is a registered trademark, and Vanta is a trademark of Olympus Corporation

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

From the President more towards the end of the year and into 2021, including the Annual Technologists Picnic and the Borland Forum. In particular, I would like to draw attention to the fact that this may be the first time the Borland Forum, which involves a series of presentations from Research Students at Victorian Universities, is able to achieve a National audience. It may eventuate that this could be the largest audience for a Borland Forum. I would encourage everyone interested to register in order to be able to attend.

Welcome to the September 2020 edition of Materials Australia magazine. Since my last report quite a lot has changed in the world around us, as we learn to work and live in the new normal. We have been quite busy since June, and I would like to give you an overview of some of the projects we have been working on and the activities we have been planning. The first project that I would like to mention is that this publication, Materials Australia, will adopt a fully online format from this issue onwards; the print format will be phased out. This will allow us to offer substantially more interactive content, including from our sponsors and advertisers who will be able to link to external sources. It will also enable us to provide links to recorded seminars from the eminent speakers who share their knowledge with our materials community. In the past months, several events and seminars, that would have otherwise been face-to-face, have been run online, or with an attendee login available. The feedback on all these events has been extremely positive, and the level of attendance has been very high. As an organisation with a national footprint, it may be that we aim to offer these types of online events more broadly, even once we are again able to meet face-to-face. We already have three online events scheduled for September 2020, and many WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

I would also like to encourage you to take advantage of the online activities of some of our aligned societies, such as the Australian Corrosion Association, The Australian Institute of Non Destructive Testing, The Australian Foundry Institute, and others. These online activities offer a wealth of information, and are a great way to make new contacts in affiliated industries. On the topic of continuing professional development (CPD), this is a requirement for those who have attained the Certified Materials Professional Status (CMatP). We recognise that many members need to fulfil the criteria of more than one CPD scheme. As such, we are moving towards alignment of our CPD reporting requirements with those of Engineers Australia. The CPD reporting requirements of Engineers Australia are somewhat broader in context than what has previously been available to our members. As such, more activities may be considered as professional development. There will, of course, also be the provision for the fact that our members are engineers, scientists and technologists. The refresh of our CPD system should also make it easier for both Academia and industry based CMatPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to easily complete the requirements. We will provide further information on this topic as the new requirements are prepared. Most of all, we want to ensure that professional development is a worthwhile and interesting activity for all our members.

a proud tradition that dates back as far as 1944, reflecting more than 75 years of achievements from Australian materials scientists and engineers. Needless to say this is a particularly impressive list of recipients is particularly impressive, and it is important we continue to recognise the great work of the materials community. For further information on how to nominate someone for an award, please see the article on page 10. I am also pleased to announce that we have introduced a new award, honouring the memory of Ray Reynoldson. Ray was heavily involved in Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heat treatment and surface engineering industries and pioneered many new industrial technologies. Ray was also instrumental in ensuring the inaugural Materials Innovations in Surface Engineering Conference (MISE), run for the first time in 2011. Like many members of our community, I worked on a project with Ray during 2011 and 2012, and found him to be a true gentleman, and a person who was respected and admired. We have recently made the decision to investigate a refresh of the logo for Materials Australia. The new Materials Australia logo needs to be modern, and should communicate that the organisation is progressive, innovative and future focused. We have decided to run a competition for design proposals for the new logo, with entries open to all members. For further information on criteria and how to submit your design, please see the article on page 24. If a suitable new logo is chosen, we plan to launch it in 2021. 2020 continues to be an especially challenging year for all of us. I would like to wish you, your family and colleagues the best of health, and to stay safe. Materials Australia looks forward to seeing you all at our online events, and then in person once it is safe to do so. Best Regards Roger Lumley, National President

At the national level, Materials Australia is working towards ratifying our constitution. We hope to have this completed by the end of the 2020 calendar year. We have also recently reinvigorated our Materials Australia Awards process. Our awards have BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 3

CONTENTS

Reports From the President

Contents

Materials Australia - Corporate Sponsors | Advertisers

M A M A S|2020

Materials Australia News Distinguished Professor Ma Qian admitted as Fellow of the American Society of Metals

CAMS2021 9 Professor Simon Ringer Wins Materials Australia Silver Medal

New Conference Dates

MAMAS 2020

WA Branch Technical Meeting - 8 June 2020 14

WA Branch Technical Meeting - 13 July 2020 16 WA Branch Technical Meeting - 10 August 2020

Enhancing Protection from COVID-19

VIC & TAS Branch Technical Meeting

CMatP Profile: Dr Evelyn Ng

Our Certified Materials Professionals (CMatPs)

Why You Should Become a CMatP 23 Materials Australia Logo Design Brief

Women in the Industry Professor Julie Cairney

MAMAS | Materials Australia Golf Day - 21 Oct 2020

MANAGING EDITOR Gloss Creative Media Pty Ltd EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Prof. Ma Qian RMIT University David Hart Tanya Smith MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

4 | SEPTEMBER 2020

40 Cover Image

ADVERTISING & DESIGN MANAGER Gloss Creative Media Pty Ltd Rod Kelloway (02) 8539 7893 PUBLISHER Materials Australia Technical articles are reviewed on the Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behalf

From feature article on page 52. CAMS2021 PAGE 9

Materials Australia has planned the Materials Australia has planned the following features for 2014, designed to following features for 2014, designed to highlight different disciplines and sectors highlight different disciplines and sectors of the Materials Community. of the Materials Community. Our aim is to publish a relevant, interesting and current Our aim is to publish a relevant, interesting and current magazine for those involved in all aspects of Materials. magazine for those involved in all aspects of Materials. These features attract attention from the right audience These features attract attention from the right audience and if your business is active in one of these areas, and if your business is active in one of these areas, then you you will will want want to to be be involved. involved. then We offer offer your your company company the the opportunity opportunityto topromote promote We your business business directly directly to to decision decisionmakers makersininthe the your Materials Community. Community. Materials

September 2014 September 2014

NEW CONFERENCE DATES

Focus on Education and Training. Targeting: universities, Focus on Education and Training. Targeting: universities, high school students and vocational training. high school students and vocational training. Content Deadline: Friday 29th August PAGE 11 Content Deadline: Friday 29th August Advertising Deadline: Friday 5th September Advertising Deadline: Friday 5th September

APICAM2022 & LMT2022

MAMAS 2020

December2014 2014 December

Materials Australia Australia also also encourages encouragesmembers memberstoto Materials contribute to to our our magazine magazine and andwe wewill willconsider consider contribute all editorial editorial contributions. contributions. all

PAGE 12

MA Logo Competition PAGE 24

Women In The Industry PAGE 26

University Spotlight PAGE 44

PUBLISHED BY Institute of Materials Engineering Australasia Ltd. Trading as Materials Australia ACN: 004 249 183 ABN: 40 004 249 183

Online Short Courses PAGE 63

Materials for Energy and the Environment

Letters to the editor;

Sustaining the Future VOLUME 53 | NO 3 please For further details, further details, pleasecontact: contact: Gloss GlossCreative CreativeMedia MediaPty PtyLtd Ltd

SEPTEMBER 2020

+61 ISSNT T1037-7107 +61 22 8539 8539 7893 7893 email: email:magazine@materialsaustralia.com.au magazine@materialsaustralia.com.au www.glosscreativemedia.com.au www.glosscreativemedia.com.au

info@ glosscreativemedia.com.au WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

CONTENTS

Industry News Flexible Phone Screen Chemicals Kick Off New Industry Partnership for South Korea and Australia

Liquid Metal Synthesis for Better Piezoelectrics: Atomically-Thin Tin-Monosulfide

Look For The Simple Things

Five Things You May Not Know About Choosing a Batch Glass Melt Furnace

Innovative New Ship Cladding Creates Jobs and Reduces Emissions

Ultrathin Nanosheets Separate Ions from Water

New Desktop SEM Helps Improve Quality Control, Production Efficiency and Material Cleanliness

Miscibility Gap Alloys: Commercialising A ‘Missing Link’ For Renewable Energy

AXT and Delmic Install Unique Cathodoluminescence and CLEM Solution at UTS

Plasma FIB-SEMs – Advantages and Applications

University Spotlight: University of Adelaide

Breaking News

42 44

Feature Materials for Energy and the Environment

Materials Australia - Short Courses 63 www.materialsaustralia.com.au/training/online-training

Materials Australia National Office PO Box 19 Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia

This magazine is the official journal of Materials Australia and is distributed to members and interested parties throughout Australia and internationally.

T: +61 3 9326 7266 E: imea@materialsaustralia.com.au W: www.materialsaustralia.com.au

Materials Australia welcomes editorial contributions from interested parties, however it does not accept responsibility for the content of those contributions, and the views contained therein are not necessarily those of Materials Australia.

NATIONAL PRESIDENT Roger Lumley

Materials Australia does not accept responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. All communication should be directed to Materials Australia.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 5

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

Corporate Premium Plus

Corporate Premium

6 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

Corporate

Advertisers - SEPTEMBER 2020

mic & Fatigue testing system Ergonomic, Versatile, High Performance Testing System

LIFE INSURANCE FOR MATERIALS APICAM2022 AUSTRALIA READERS

M A M A S|2020

Testing wide range of materials: • • •

Advanced/ Biomedical Manufacturing Assemblies Dental Implants

TMF, LCF, Fracture Mechanics, HCF, High-strain rate & Component testing

10%

lifetime discount on Life cover *

Why NobleOak Life Insurance?

GLOBAL STEEL

10% lifetime discount on Life cover for readers*

Advancing Materials and Manufacturing HEAT TREATMENTAustralia’s most awarded Direct Life Insurer of 2018 & 2019^

Claims processed within 5 business days on average 94.4% client satisfaction rating#

www.bestech.com.au Life Insurance

Call: (03) 9540 5100

Income Protection Insurance

Total & Permanent Disablement Insurance

Trauma Insurance

Get an instant quote at:

Kemet

nobleoak.com.au/materialsaustralia Or call NobleOak for a quote:

1300 108 490

and Precision Lapping | Polishing | Cleaning | Materialography

mention ‘MATERIALS AUSTRALIA’ to switch and save.

*Important information – Discount – Materials Australia readers are entitled to a 10% discount (which remains for the life of the cover) on NobleOak’s Premium Life Direct standard premium rates on Life Insurance cover. ^NobleOak awards information found at https://www.nobleoak.com.au/award-winning-life-insurance/ #2019 client survey by Pureprofile. Legal statements. Premium Life Direct is issued by NobleOak Life Limited ABN 85 087 648 708 AFSL No. 247302. Address: 66 Clarence Street, Sydney NSW 2000. Phone: 1300 108 490. Email: sales@nobleoak.com.au. Cover is available to Australian residents and is subject to acceptance of the application and the terms and conditions set out in the Premium Life Direct Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). This information is of a general nature only and does not take into consideration your individual circumstances, objectives, financial situation or needs. Before you purchase an Insurance product, you should carefully consider the PDS to decide if it is right for you. The PDS is available by calling NobleOak on 1300 108 490 or from www. nobleoak.com.au. Clients should not cancel any existing Life Insurance policy until they have been informed in writing that their replacement cover is in place. NobleOak cannot provide you with personal advice, but our staff may provide general information about NobleOak Life Insurance. By supplying your contact details, you are consenting to be contacted by NobleOak, in accordance with NobleOak’s Privacy Policy.

ts uiremen phic Rueq ra g o ll .a our Mewta met.com w w.ke For all y

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 7

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

Distinguished Professor Ma Qian admitted as Fellow of the American Society of Metals Source: Sally Wood

In 1969, the American Society of Metals (ASM) established the Fellow of the Society. This provides recognition to members for distinguished contributions to materials science and engineering, and aids in the development of a broadly based forum of technical and professional leaders to serve as advisors to the society. Distinguished Professor Ma Qian, from RMIT University has been recognised by ASM, earning a well-deserved place in their 2020 list of Fellows. Professor Qian was recognised by ASM for “innovations in solidification processing, additive manufacturing and powder metallurgy to manufacture metallic materials and products with enhanced performance and reduced cost or emissions.” About Dr Ma Qian Dr Ma Qian is a Professor and Deputy Director of the Centre for Additive Manufacturing (AM) at RMIT University. He joined RMIT from The University of Queensland in 2013, where he was the Reader in Materials Engineering, School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering. His current research centres on:

• •

Solidification processing

•

C oncentrated metallic alloys (HEAs and MEAs)

• • •

etallic biomaterials (Ti, Ta, Zr) and M biomimetic surface designs

Micro-nano-architectured materials De-alloying and re-alloying Thermodynamics of materials

He and his team have recently developed an ultrasound assisted metal 3D printing process, which can convert the long columnar grains into fine equiaxed grains, demonstrated on Ti-6Al-4V and Inconel 625. In addition, the process allows for the fabrication of gradient materials by switching on and off the ultrasound during metal 3D printing. Dr Qian co-developed The Interdependence Theory for Grain Formation in Solidification, which is being applied to metal additive manufacturing today. He also developed a novel selective laser melting process for Ti-6Al-4V. Alongside his team, Dr Qian also identified massive phase transformation in AM Ti-6Al-4V.

etal 3D printing or additive M manufacturing

His other fundamental contributions include those that focused on heterogeneous nucleation, powder metallurgy of titanium alloys and aluminium alloys, de-alloying and realloying and thermodynamics of materials.

owder Metallurgy of Light Metals and P Alloys (Ti, Al, TiAl)

He co-authored the 5th edition Ian Polmear book, Light Alloys: Metallurgy of

the Light Metals (2017, Elsevier) with Ian Polmear, David StJohn and Jian-Feng Nie, and edited two Elsevier books on titanium with F. H. Froes. With his collaborators and students, Dr Qian has published 202 journal papers, which have resulted in the Australian CAST-CRC Industry Partner’s Award (2002, inaugural), TMS Magnesium Technology Award (2003), ASM Henry Howe Medal (2006), the Australian ARC CoE for Design in Light Metals best paper awards (2012; 2103) and five other awards. He initiated the biannual international conference on Titanium Powder Metallurgy in 2011 (co-sponsored by Materials Australia, TiDA, TMS, JSPM and CSM). Dr Qian currently serves as an Associate Editor for both Acta Materialia and Scripta Materialia, and is on the editorial board for a number of other journals. In addition, he is the Series Editor of Elsevier on Additive Manufacturing, and an Advisory Editor of Elsevier on Advanced Manufacturing and Materials. Also, he serves as the Publications Committee Chair of Materials Australia. As recipients of one of the highest honours in the field of materials, ASM Fellows are technical and professional leaders who have been recognised by their colleagues, and now serve as advisors to the society. Their solicited guidance, provided to the ASM Board of Trustees, enhances the society’s standing as a leading organisation for materials, and provides a unique resource to serve the worldwide community of materials scientists and engineers in the years ahead. Professor Ma Quian and Carmelo inspect a 3D printed titanium alloy cube on the tip of an ultrasound rod.

8 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

Advancing Materials and Manufacturing The 7th conference of the Combined Australian Materials Societies; incorporating Materials Australia and the Australian Ceramic Society.

1-3 December 2021 | The University of Melbourne

Call For Papers Closing Date: 30 July 2021

Join Australia’s largest interdisciplinary technical meeting on the latest advances in materials science, engineering and technology. Our technical program will cover a range of themes, identified by researchers and industry, as issues of topical interest. CONFERENCE CO-CHAIRS

Prof Xinhua Wu Monash University

Dr Andrew Ang Swinburne University

xinhua.wu@monash.edu

aang@swin.edu.au

Opportunities for sponsorships and exhibitions are available. CAMS2021 1-3 December 2021 The University of Melbourne VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA www.cams2021.com.au

Conference Secretariat: Tanya Smith hemes tanya@materialsaustralia.com.au dvances in materials characterisation T +61 3 9326 7266 dvances in steel technology

dvanced manufacturing Photos courtesy of George Vander Voort iomaterials ements & geopolymers omposites in roadmaking & bridge uilding erroelectrics ight metals design

Symposia Themes • Additive, advanced & future manufacturing, processes and products • Advances in materials characterisation • Advances in steel technology • Biomaterials & nanomaterials for medicine • Ceramics, glass & refractories • Corrosion & degradation of materials • Durable & wear resistant materials for demanding environments • Light metals design • Materials for energy generation, conversion & storage • Materials for nuclear waste forms & fuels • Materials simulation & modelling • Metal casting & thermomechanical processing • Nanostructured & nanoscale materials & interfaces • Innovative building materials in civil infrastructures • Photonics, sensors & optoelectronics & ferro electrics • Progress in cements & geopolymers • Surfaces, thin films & coatings • Translational research in polymers and composites • Use of waste materials & environmental remediation

www.cams2021.com.au

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

Professor Simon Ringer Wins Materials Australia Silver Medal Source: Sally Wood

Materials Australia is pleased to announce that Professor Simon Ringer has been awarded the institute’s prestigious Silver Medal. Professor Ringer received the award for his outstanding contribution to the advancement of materials science and engineering through research scholarship in microstructure-propertyprocessing relationships, research leadership in establishing worldclass infrastructure for materials research, and service in the promotion and dissemination of materials issues to the wider community. Professor Simon Ringer’s achievements as a materials scientist and engineer have opened new relationships between the microstructure, properties and processing of advanced materials. The achievements are both outstanding and comprehensive, spanning both fundamental scientific breakthroughs and technological advances in partnership with industry. They span structural materials such as steels, and the light metals, through to functional materials such as semiconductors and magnetic materials. Collectively, Professor Ringer’s research, from the atomic-scale, has opened new pathways for the development of stronger, lighter structural alloys and functional nanomaterials that have economic and environmental advantages. His leadership has forged a world-class research infrastructure for Australia’s materials community, and this now underpins a nationally significant scientific and industrial research and development capacity. His generous service has contributed significantly to the strong standing of the Australian materials research and development community. About Professor Simon Ringer Professor Ringer was awarded a Bachelor of Applied Science (Metallurgy) from the 10 | SEPTEMBER 2020

University of South Australia in 1986, and a PhD from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in 1991. He has held academic roles in Sweden and Japan, worked at a start-up in the USA, and held academic positions at Monash University, UNSW and the University of Sydney. A materials engineer, he specialises in the relationships between the microstructure of materials and their engineering performance. Professor Ringer’s research is themed around structural, electronic and magnetic properties of materials. He is an expert in electron microscopy, atom probe microscopy and first principles ab-initio materials simulations. His research scholarship has led to key advances in the structural property relationships of materials, some of which is patented. He has published over 300 papers that have been cited over 12,500 times with a h-index of 62. He is listed as one of the world’s top researchers, across all fields of research, in the 2019 analysis by Ioannidis et al. on the quality and quantity of research publications. Contributing significant leadership and service to his communities, Professor Ringer was the foundational executive director of the Australian Microscopy and Microanalysis Research Facility (now BACK TO CONTENTS

Microscopy Australia) and a founding director of Sydney Nano. He also served as the Director of the Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis at the University of Sydney from 2001-2014. Professor Ringer is presently responsible for research infrastructure strategy and operations at the University of Sydney, where he serves as the Academic Director of the Core Research Facilities. His service roles include his work as Chair of the 19th International Microscopy Congress, held in Sydney in September 2018. Professor Ringer has been a member of Materials Australia since 1985, and is a CMatP and Fellow of IEAust. The Silver Medal The Silver Medal is awarded for outstanding contributions to the advancement of metallurgy, metallurgical engineering, materials science or materials engineering through management, teaching, innovation, development or research. The Medal was last awarded in 2009 to Emeritus Professor David StJohn. Professor Ringer joins an especially prestigious group of recipients of the Silver Medal, who have all contributed so significantly to the last 63 years of Australian Materials Science and Engineering. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

NEWCONFERENCE DATES

Due to the uncertainty of COVOD-19, we have had to postpone both the APICAM and LMT conferences.

APICAM2022 Asia-Pacific International Conference on Additive Manufacturing

6 - 8 July 2022 RMIT University, Melbourne The 3rd Asia-Pacific International Conference on Additive Manufacturing (APICAM) is the not-to-be-missed industry conference of 2022. APICAM was created to provide an opportunity for industry professionals and thinkers to come together, share knowledge and engage in the type of networking that is vital to the furthering of the additive manufacturing industry. The purpose of this conference is to provide a focused forum for the presentation of advanced research and improved understanding of various aspects of additive manufacturing. This conference will include lectures from invited internationally distinguished researchers, contributed presentations and posters. Contributions will be encouraged in the following areas of interest:

Additive Manufacturing of Metals

Additive Manufacturing of Polymers

Additive Manufacturing of Concretes

Advanced Characterisation Techniques and Feedstocks

Computational Modelling of Thermal Processes for MetallicÂ Parts

Part Design for Additive Manufacturing

Failure Mechanisms and Analysis

Mechanical Properties of Additively Manufactured Materials

New Frontiers in Additive Manufacturing

Process Parameter and Defect Control

Process-Microstructure-Property Relationships

Testing and Qualification in Additive Manufacturing

www.apicam2022.com.au Opportunities for sponsorships WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

The Light Metals Technology (LMT) Conference is a biennial event that focuses on recent advances in science and technologies associated with the development and manufacture of aluminium, magnesium and titanium alloys and their translation into commercial products. The conference presents an opportunity for academic researchers, students and industry to discuss cutting edge developments and to facilitate new collaborations.

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS You are invited to submit abstracts on topics within the themes of Net Shape Manufacturing, Solid State Transformations and Mechanical Performance, and Translation to Applications. For example, but not limited to: > Alloy development > Solidification and casting > Thermomechanical processing and forming > Machining and subtractive processes > Mechanical behaviour of light metal alloys > Corrosion and surface modification > Advanced characterisation techniques > Joining > Applications in bio-medical, automotive, aerospace, and energy industries > Simulation and modelling > Integrated computational materials engineering

www.lmt2022.com

and exhibitionsBACK areTOavailable and 2020 LMT2022. CONTENTS for both APICAM2022 SEPTEMBER | 11 Enquiries: Tanya Smith | Materials Australia +61 3 9326 7266 | imea@materialsaustralia.com.au

2 M ATERIAL S 0 AND 2 M AINTENANCE 0 ADVANCEMENTS IN THE

SOUTH WEST

BU N BU RY – 22 OCTOBE R 2020 TH E DOLPH IN DISCOVE RY C E NTRE LOT 556, KOOMBANA DRIVE, BUNBURY 7:0 0A M – 5:0 0PM (Including Site Visit to Ge ographe)

PL ATI N UM SP O NS O R

12 | SEPTEMBER 2020

G O L D SP O N S O R

BACK TO CONTENTS

REGI ONAL TEC H N ICAL SEM INAR SERIES

BRO NZE SP O N S O RS

SU PP O RTER

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.A

M A M AS|2020 TECHNICAL SEMINAR DETAILS – THURSDAY 22 OCTOBER 2020 Following the successful inaugural event in 2018, the Western Australia Branch of Materials Australia (the Materials Society of Engineers Australia) and the AINDT are proud to host this event, for the second time in Bunbury, after many delegates indicated that they would like to attend future events in the region.

REGI ONAL TEC H N ICAL SEM INAR SERIES

This regional technical seminar represents recent and relevant advancements in materials and maintenance practices in various industries active in the South West of Western Australia. The successful application of materials and maintenance programs to plant and equipment is critical to the optimisation of an asset life cycle. The life extension of mining, processing and infrastructure assets is critical in the current industry environment. Within this, the performance of materials, during ever increasing extended maintenance periods, is a major component. Maintenance based technologies continue to evolve, and their interplay with advanced materials will be presented and discussed. This is a great opportunity to learn from real industry case studies, and to hear from a number of West Australian experts, including local experts, at this exclusive event.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER DR PETER FARINHA PRINCIPAL, EXTRIN CORROSION CONSULTANTS As a specialist corrosion engineer, holding both a Masters and PhD in Corrosion Science and Engineering, Dr Peter Farinha has been involved in identification and problem solving of corrosion related issues in steel corrosion and reinforced concrete, including inspection, identification, failure analysis, materials selections, coatings, specification and repair methodology, for over 30 years. He is a specialist in microbiological corrosion, heavily involved in ALWC and he has published broadly.

GOLF DAY – WEDNESDAY 21 OCTOBER 2020 CAPEL GOLF COURSE

SPONSORSHIP Various opportunities are available for sponsorship, with three levels: Bronze $500, Silver $1200 and Gold $1750. Please contact: PAUL HOWARD on 0407 711 008 or paulh@gerard-daniels.com PAUL HUGGETT on 0411 868 289 or paul.huggett@applusrtd.com to discuss.

SITE VISIT – GEOGRAPHE 57 CRAIGIE STREET, DAVENPORT The seminar will be followed by a Plant Visit to the Geographe facilities in Bunbury. Delegates will be transported by bus from the Dolphin Discovery Centre to the Geographe facilities at 2:30pm, returning at 4pm.

The seminar will be preceded by a Golf Day at the Capel Golf Course. Tee off will be at 1:00pm, Ambrose rules will apply. You can register as an individual (and be allocated onto a team) or as a team of four. The cost will be: $80 per person or $320 for a team of four. The cost includes nine holes, a golf cart shared between two people and a BBQ dinner at the venue. Please contact Colm Kinsella on Colm.Kinsella@Olympus.com.au or register yourself or your team at Trybooking.

Geographe has recently commissioned three new manufacturing cells and facilities, all of which will be available for demonstration on the day.

To stay overnight at the venue contact Capel Golf Course on (08) 9725 2777.

PL ATI N UM SP O NS O R

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

G O L D SP O N S O R

BRO NZE SP O N S O RS

BACK TO CONTENTS

SU PP O RTER

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 13

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

WA Branch Technical Meeting - 8 June 2020

Material Characterisation: An Integral Part of Advanced Manufacturing and 3D Printing Source: Dr Zakaria Quadir, Microscopy and Microanalysis Facility (MMF), Curtin University

With restrictions on face-to-face meetings in place as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Western Australia Branch recently re-commenced its technical program after a two-month break. The Branch held a virtual technical meeting via the Zoom videoconferencing platform on the topic Material Characterisation: An Integral Part of Advanced Manufacturing and 3D Printing. The virtual format proved popular, with 33 people registering for the event. Dr Zak Quadir is a physical metallurgist and electron microscopist. He has 20 years of research experience in assessing material properties via microscopy characterisation after thermo-mechanical (rolling, forging, extrusion etc.) and powder metallurgical processing. He heads the Microscopy and Microanalysis Facility (MMF) unit within Curtin University’s John de Laeter Centre (JdLC), and manages the recently launched 3D Microfactory for Additive Manufacturing, which offers a 3D printing platform aimed at academia-industry interactions. The world-class research facilities in the JdLC, the cost of which exceeds $50 million, are of national significance. As such, it is little surprise that the Centre is part of several alliances and collaborative networks. Capital costs were funded by ARC, State and Federal Governments, Curtin University, and other cooperating universities. Operating costs are funded by charges for instrument usage and fees from consultancies. Dr Quadir’s presentation provided examples of the extensive range of capabilities available in the MMF, illustrated with images from his own published studies. Dr Quadir then continued his presentation with examples of ongoing research using 3D additive manufacturing. Dr Quadir’s first set of examples dealt with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies of recrystallisation textures in interstitial-free (IF) steels and roll-bonded aluminium alloys. He then showed the use 14 | SEPTEMBER 2020

of correlated scanning EM, transmission EM (TEM) and stored energy (kernel average misorientation, KAM) studies of substructural phenomena in laser-assisted manufacturing in electronic packaging. Transmission EM was also used in a study of precipitation hardening of a magnesium alloy, described as ‘the lightest alloy on Earth’. Dr Quadir concluded this section of his presentation with two industrial failure analyses involving the use of SEM, ion milling, and electron back scatter diffraction (EBSD), before moving on to describe work in the 3D Microfactory for Additive Manufacturing (AM). The 3D Microfactory is described as a ‘multi-disciplinary platform for industryacademic research’, offering ‘critical service supply chains within an integrated support facility system’. Dr Quadir’s presentation covered two examples of AM research, one based on bound metal deposition (BMD) and another based on selected laser melting (SLM). The BMD method uses metal powder and polymer bound together in the form of a solid rod, suitable for 3D printing. Curtin has BMD rods for deposition of 17-4 PF SS, 316L SS, copper, Inconel 625, and Kovar F-15. After printing, the polymer binder is removed, and the powdered metal is densified by sintering. The Microfactory has the facilities for printing, and the MMF has the facilities for analysis. Processing and performance evaluation can be undertaken in associated schools and centres within Curtin. Dr Quadir illustrated the complete cycle with an investigation of 17-4 PH SS test pieces, 3D printed, sintered and subjected to several heat treatment processes. Mechanical testing was complemented with SEM, TEM, EBSD and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. His final example was 3D printing of 316 SS by SLM; in this case analysis of the effect of solution heat treating include high-angle annular dark-field (HAADF) imaging. This was an entirely virtual presentation, with Dr Quadir alone in his office, sharing his screen with his muted audience, BACK TO CONTENTS

also alone at their own screens. While this restricted the usual free-wheeling question time, the meeting was a success, showing a way for Branch meetings to be extended to a wider audience. The Western Australia Branch greatly appreciates Dr Quadir’s generosity and flexibility in adapting to the format, and in showcasing local capabilities for working at the leading edge of materials characterisation and additive manufacturing. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

LIFE LIFE INSURANCE INSURANCE FOR FOR MATERIALS MATERIALS AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA READERS READERS

10% 10%

lifetime discount lifetime on Lifediscount cover * on Life cover *

Why NobleOak Life Insurance? Why NobleOak Life Insurance?

10% lifetime discount on Life cover for readers* 10% lifetime discount on Life cover for readers* Australia’s most awarded Direct Life Insurer of 2018 & 2019^ Australia’s most awarded Direct Life Insurer of 2018 & 2019^ Claims processed within 5 business days on average Claims processed within 5 business days on average 94.4% client satisfaction rating## 94.4% client satisfaction rating

Life Life Insurance Insurance

Income Income Protection Protection Insurance Insurance

Total & Total & Permanent Permanent Disablement Disablement Insurance Insurance

Trauma Trauma Insurance Insurance

Get an instant quote at: Get an instant quote at:

nobleoak.com.au/materialsaustralia nobleoak.com.au/materialsaustralia Or call NobleOak for a quote: Or call NobleOak for a quote:

1300 108 490 1300 108 490 and mention ‘MATERIALS

AUSTRALIA’ to switch and save. and mention ‘MATERIALS AUSTRALIA’ to switch and save. *Important information – Discount – Materials Australia readers are entitled to a 10% discount (which remains for the life of the cover) on NobleOak’s Premium Life Direct standard premium rates on Life Insurance cover. *Important information – Discount – Materials Australia readers are entitled to a 10% discount (which remains for the life of the cover) on NobleOak’s Premium Life Direct standard premium ratesawards on Lifeinformation Insurance cover. ^NobleOak found at https://www.nobleoak.com.au/award-winning-life-insurance/ ^NobleOak awards information found at https://www.nobleoak.com.au/award-winning-life-insurance/ #2019 client survey by Pureprofile. #2019 client surveyPremium by Pureprofile. Legal statements. Life Direct is issued by NobleOak Life Limited ABN 85 087 648 708 AFSL No. 247302. Address: 66 Clarence Street, Sydney NSW 2000. Phone: 1300 108 490. Email: sales@nobleoak.com.au. Cover is available to Australian residents and is subject to acceptance of the application and the terms and conditions set out in the Premium Life Direct Legal statements. Premium Direct is issued by NobleOak Life Limited 247302. Address: 66 Clarence Street, Sydney NSW 2000.situation Phone: 1300 108 Product Disclosure StatementLife (PDS). This information is of a general natureABN only 85 and087 does648 not708 takeAFSL into No. consideration your individual circumstances, objectives, financial or needs. 490. Email: sales@nobleoak.com.au. Coveryou is available Australian residents and istosubject theThe application the terms and NobleOak conditions set in the Life Direct Before you purchase an Insurance product, should to carefully consider the PDS decidetoif itacceptance is right forofyou. PDS is and available by calling on out 1300 108Premium 490 or from www. Product DisclosureClients Statement (PDS). This information of aInsurance general nature and does take into consideration your individual circumstances, financialcannot situation or needs. nobleoak.com.au. should not cancel any existingisLife policy only until they have not been informed in writing that their replacement cover is inobjectives, place. NobleOak provide you Before you purchase product, yougeneral should information carefully consider PDS to Life decide if it is right you. The PDS is available calling on be 1300 108 490 from www. with personal advice, an butInsurance our staff may provide about the NobleOak Insurance. By for supplying your contact details,byyou are NobleOak consenting to contacted byor NobleOak, in nobleoak.com.au. Clients should not cancel any existing Life Insurance policy until they have been informed in writing that their replacement cover is in place. NobleOak cannot provide you accordance with NobleOak’s Privacy Policy. with personal advice, but our staff may provide general information about NobleOak Life Insurance. By supplying your contact details, you are consenting to be contacted by NobleOak, in accordance with NobleOak’s Privacy Policy.

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

WA Branch Technical Meeting - 13 July 2020

Western Australian Branch Site visit. Applus Pty Ltd Materials Centre, Bibra Lake. Source: Dr Paul Huggett CMP, Principal Scientist and Materials Manager

Based in Bibra Lake, Western Australia, Applus provides onsite non-destructive testing (NDT) services, focused the training of NDT operators including the use of rope-access techniques. The Materials Centre, which undertakes failure investigations, is a new and growing aspect of the services offered by Applus throughout Australia. To conform with COVID-19 physical distancing rules, the visitors split into three groups and cycled through demonstrations of phased array eddy current inspection, virtual reality techniques for planning on-site inspections, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Visitors also passed through the ropeaccess training facility, where they were assured that using rope access techniques does not, as many had imagined, require great physical strength. However, it clearly demands a ‘good head’ for working at height! The eddy current technique is based on

16 | SEPTEMBER 2020

interpretation of impedance changes in a coil carrying an alternating current, caused by changes in conductivity and permeability of the adjacent material. This was demonstrated by showing how the use of a single coil can detect pitting corrosion, measure coating thickness, and sort different materials. The disadvantage of the single coil technique is that it is highly dependent on the skill of the operator, and the inspection rate per unit area is relatively slow. The eddy current array technique uses a set of coils arranged to target specific defects, such as corrosion pitting on pipes. This allows wider coverage, simpler interpretation and improved identification of location and size of defects. The associated reduction in workload, on rope access operators, is a notable benefit. Applus is known as a leader in the use of drone photography for visual inspection of operating process plants. Visitors were shown the most recent advancement in the use of photography, which involves the combination of tens of thousands of separate images, from drones and surface vehicles, to produce 3D models, viewable by the use of virtual reality headsets.

BACK TO CONTENTS

These models, sometimes supplemented by LIDAR scans, are used, in combination with CAD software, to plan operator entry for NDT inspections. Techniques demonstrated combined photogrammetry and computer games development. Applus Materials Manager, and current WA Branch President, Paul Huggett, gave a hands-on demonstration of SEM for investigation of failures and critical flaws detected by NDT. This included demonstrating the differences between back-scattered and secondary electron imaging modes. The demonstration showed that ‘what you see’ depends on imaging mode and sample orientation. Hence, it is essential to “engage with the microscopist” in planning and interpreting an SEM investigation. Dr Huggett then demonstrated elemental elemental X-ray mapping and the ‘environmental’ (low vacuum) mode of SEM operation, which is applicable to non-conductive samples. The three groups reconvened for general discussion and refreshments, with with Dr Huggett offering to go into more depth on his materials investigation work in a future presentation.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

WA Branch Technical Meeting - 10 August 2020

It’s Not Magic – The Chemistry And Physics Of The Lithium-Ion Battery Source: Dr Chris Jones, National Secretary, Australian Electric Vehicle Association

Dr Chris Jones describes himself as a passionate advocate for reducing mankind’s impact on the planet which sustains us, and sees electric vehicles (EV) as the ‘least worst’ option for transport in the 21st century. As a long-time EV enthusiast, he recently had the opportunity to undertake a major desktop review of lithiumion battery technology, as used in EVs, as a first stage in a potential commercial development project. The review redirected his activities from his home base in plant genetics and biochemistry, into the field of electrochemistry. Characterising the periodic table as ‘a fundamental of the universe’, Dr Jones explained why lithium is the ideal choice for EV batteries. It is the lightest metal, and with its high electrode potential, allows higher energy storage capacity, both per unit mass and unit volume, as compared to potential alternatives. At the same time, it is relatively more abundant, and hence cheaper, though, as it turns out, lithium is not the major cost component in lithiumion batteries. Dr Jones described the three aspects of EV batteries as the cell (a single anodecathode unit), the battery (or module) which is a collection of cells connected in series or parallel to produce the required voltage or storage capacity, and the pack. The battery pack is the ‘bolt-in unit’ containing the module, fuses, contactors, and battery management system, which commonly includes a cooling system. The challenge in EV development is the design and production of high-energy battery packs. The electrochemical basis for lithium ion batteries is the oxidation of lithium metal to lithium ions, with the corresponding release of electrons. This occurs at the anode during discharge. However, the anode material is not solid lithium metal. Instead, the anode is made of conductive graphite, in which metallic lithium atoms are weakly bound (intercalated) between two-dimensional graphite sheets. Oxidation takes place in situ, with WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

L to R: Dr Chris Jones with fellow EV enthusiast Colin Lorrimar.

lithium ions diffusing out of anode into the adjacent electrolyte. There are many options for the corresponding reduction reaction at the cathode, but the most common choice, at present, being reduction of tetravalent cobalt ions to the trivalent state. The necessary chemical linkage between the lithium and the cobalt is made by using a cobalt dioxide cathode, which has a crystal structure that allows two-dimensional diffusion of unbonded lithium ions within the solid. When cobalt is reduced to the trivalent state, the charge on the oxygen anions is balanced by chemical (ionic) bonding of lithium ions into the structure. Thus, as the cell is discharged, lithium ions are drawn from the adjacent electrolyte into the cathode, converting it from CoO2 (tetravalent cobalt) to LiCoO2 (trivalent cobalt). The electrolyte is replenished at the anode side with the lithium ions from the oxidation of the metallic lithium atoms. The usual non-aqueous organic carbonate electrolyte is highly flammable, and side reactions generating carbon dioxide and ethylene must also be minimised. Both the anodic and the cathodic reactions are reversible during charging, and stability of all materials determines the maximum number of charge-discharge cycles the battery can withstand. The cobalt cathode is the most expensive component of such cells; there are alternatives, but these have disadvantages in achieving the desired combination of BACK TO CONTENTS

power density and current density. The current practical limit is about 265Wh/ kg (700Wh/litre). Whilst his is orders of magnitude less than the energy density of liquid hydrocarbon fuels, Chris’ view is that if capacity could be improved to 500Wh/ kg, EVs would effectively be better overall than diesel vehicles. Dr Jones described the pros and cons of various techniques used for packing cells into batteries, and then into packs; this must balance size, allowable current, heating, and cost. Thermal management strategy is the key to battery longevity, and high temperatures combined with high states of charge are especially damaging. Even though the battery management system built into the pack is essentially there to make it ‘idiot-proof’, the strong advice is ‘do NOT keep your EV fully charged during summer in Perth!’ In answering questions from the audience about differences between lithium-ion cells and other types of lithium-based batteries, Dr Jones referred to the promise offered by the lithium sulfur cell, which has potential for use in powering aircraft. Questions also dealt with the future of car ownership and of the car industry, and Dr Jones’ experiences with electric motorcycle road racing. He also reflected on the commercial factors involved in the forty-year development of lithium-ion batteries (forty years being the period since the operating principles, of lithium-ion batteries, were first established.). SEPTEMBER 2020 | 17

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

Enhancing Protection from COVID-19 Source: Dr Roujun Toh

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, an event was held on 25 June 2020 to bring together entrepreneurs, industrialists and researchers, who have pivoted their manufacturing to help solve the shortage in personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical equipment. Three organisations joined the Materials Australia community in an open discussion forum. Our speakers were Victoria Wells (Co-founder and Chair of 3DEME), Sophia Cole (Coordinator of Australian National University (ANU) MakerSpace @Engineering), Rachael Hanrick (Lead Maker at ANU MakerSpace @Physics) and Neil Wilson (Managing Director of Romar Engineering). Through the stories they shared, we celebrated their contributions, and learned about the manufacturing and materials challenges in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cole and Hanrick shared their experiences in regards to how the ANU MakerSpace responded to the pandemic, and the subsequent closure of the ANU campus. As users and healthcare workers approached them to make PPE, their ability to pivot, quickly and easily, was was mainly attributed to the open-source and openaccess culture of MakerSpace. Designs and manufacturing methods were openly distributed by MakerSpace worldwide, right at the beginning of the pandemic. In addition, through their community and network of former members, MakerSpace was able to identify a specific need, and gather feedback from clinicians, in order to optimise designs for face shields; the product that was most in shortage at the beginning of the pandemic. With the need to source new materials, that were foreign to their usual work, the arduous task of building up a supply chain, from scratch, proved to be challenging. The initial project plan of producing 2,000 face shields had to be adjusted, as the minimum order quantity for foam would have generated 17,000 face shields. However, with the support of ANU, they were able to go ahead with the order. Moreover, they were able to distribute the free products to three hospital networks and 23 medical practices and health organisations. As a relatively small-scale fabricator, the speed at which they could pivot made a significant contribution. They managed to 18 | SEPTEMBER 2020

make PPE, as a stop gap measure in the interim, before larger manufacturers could jump on board. Their story underlined the importance of meticulous project planning, open, frequent and wellorganised communications, both internally and externally, and a community network to access knowledge, skill and the manpower required for rapid response. As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Victoria Wells shared how she co-founded 3DEME, and steered her career into the medical technology sector. With Toyota as their partner, 3DEME had access to an established network of manufacturers and product design team. As the company pivoted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, working long days of 22 to 23 hours was necessary, in order to ensure the design of important products for the community. Feedback was also gathered in order to make improvements to the design. In many cases, the end users of the products were consulted, such as the respiratory department in hospitals. A few challenges were highlighted in Wells’ story: (1) Getting raw materials imported into Australia (2) Expediting various classes of devices (3) Intellectual property (IP) issues Leveraging her previous role as a contract lawyer at Toyota, and her understanding of their culture, Wells was able to use appropriate language and techniques in communications to the executive level at Toyota. Engagement with senior management helped streamline the process of navigating an uninterrupted supply chain. While decision making processes in large organisations may be tedious, Wells’ advice is to try to understand the structures and stress factors in place, rather than pushing against them. The result of her team’s tenacity has not only contributed to the production of face shields and hyperbaric hoods to support Australia’s frontline workers during the pandemic, but has also created a bridge BACK TO CONTENTS

Project timeline and face shields production at the ANU MakerSpace.

between the local medical community and the manufacturing community. Attendees also heard from Neil Wilson from Romar Engineering, a diverse small to medium enterprise based in medical device manufacturing and 3D printing. Sharing his insights on the change in thinking amongst the manufacturing community, Wilson pointed out that many manufacturing companies have had to make difficult decisions due to the loss of business, while having to still deal with existing fixed costs during the pandemic. At the same time, customers and government agencies were consulting the company about pivoting the business to produce PPE. In some cases, very short-term requirements, or work outside the bounds of their capability, were presented. In other cases, large capital investments may be necessary. Navigating through such a chaotic period of time, it was necessary to utilise the existing skill-base and equipment capabilities available, in order to pivot. Wilson talked about two main factors affecting their decision-making processes: long-term and short-term financial considerations, and compliance of medical devices. Given the small molecular size of the coronavirus, the high volumes of filtering products currently offered were not compliant. By working closely with regulatory bodies such as the Therapeutic Goods Administration and Food and Drug Administration, Romar Engineering is working to produce products that contain antibacterial capabilities, and where possible, include materials that are able to sterilise or kill the virus. As they told their stories, a number of strong trends became apparent: the need for clear communication within their teams, and with the clinicians that will use their products; product compliance; and the need for persistence and creativity to overcome supply chain issues that could halt production. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

VIC & TAS Branch Technical Meeting How to Build Long Lasting Collaborations Source: RMIT

In early July, Materials Australia brought together materials experts from both industry and academia who have established successful cross-sector engagements. The second of the Branch’s virtual events was chaired by our new committee member Dr Rou Jun Toh (SEAM Postdoctoral Fellow). Speakers included Peter Voigt (Founder and Chief Technical Officer of Clean TeQ), Richard Taube (Australia Manager, University Programs at Ford Motor Company), Professor Madhu Bhaskaran (RMIT University), Professor Milan Brandt (RMIT University), Professor Peter Hodgson (Deakin University), Dr Cathy Foley (Chief Scientist at CSIRO), and Dr Kathie McGregor (Director, Active Integrated Matter Future Science Platform at CSIRO). Each speaker used aspects of their own career to highlight how academic and industry collaborations are built, and what the crucial factors are in making them successful. Peter Voigt was our first speaker. He briefly outlined the history of CleanTeQ; how a small company, built to commercialise ion exchange resins, developed into a major entity valued at around $1 billion, with interests in mineral extraction, water treatment, batteries and energy. Richard Taube outlined how his career took him from Melbourne University to Daimler Chrysler, and then to Ford, working on body structure, from which he transitioned into innovation and university collaboration. Madhu Bhaskaran outlined how she had transitioned her career from that of an early career academic focused primarily on publications, to a professor, passionate about industrial engagement. She highlighted how her industry partners found her through her media releases, public forums and her LinkedIn posts – not through academic papers. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

Peter Hodgson outlined how he came from BHP and built up materials research at Deakin University, so that it has many industrial collaborations and startups. His do’s were to be interested in possible collaborators, and to take young researchers to client meetings. His don’ts were to not talk about money, but to focus on the partners’ problem and how to help overcome the problem. Cathy Foley outlined a successful and varied career at CSIRO, but one where the emphasis had always been on impact. She likened forming a partnership with marital prenuptials. In this early state, it was vital to sort out the roles of the partners and the ‘ownership’ of project outputs, such as IP and publications. She stressed the need to be generous in setting up partnerships, the value of building networks and having a focus on major issues. Kathie McGregor explained that the focus of Active Integrated Matter Future Science Platform was to work at the interface of materials science and the digital world. She highlighted how her career had always been focused on research with a purpose. Kathie emphasised that it is important to understand the value proposition for all partners, what each needed, how a business proposition is set out and time frames agreed. In her experience, working with early adopters is often more successful than technology followers. Milan Brandt completed a PhD in laser physics at Macquarie University prior to a varied career at the Department of Defence, CSIRO and RMIT. In each position, his focus has been on the application of laser technology, which has now morphed into additive manufacturing. His key advice was to listen to the customer. There followed an interesting Q&A session, skilfully chaired by Rou Jun. Peter Voigt emphasised that it is difficult for a company to judge exactly what level university research has reached in terms of technical readiness; his company frequently has to spend one to two years finishing research that academics thought was ready.

that it is very important to understand the problem that the company is actually trying to solve. It is vital to develop a collaborative approach to solve the problem; without one, the problem could be made more complex, as both companies and universities often do not understand both their own and their partners’ limitations Hodgson indicated that in a good relationship, education is two ways – the company educates academics and academics educate the company. However, this is limited in Australia as many companies do not have a technology transfer arm. Unfortunately, this leaves a gap, as Universities only develop a new idea to the proofof-concept stage, before industry commercialises it. US and Chinese companies normally have this technology transfer arm. Richard Taube emphasised that Ford linked its own well-established development arm to its well-established academic networks, for the benefit of the company. The panel then discussed the current crises – COVID-19 and climate change. Taube indicated that it was leading to a reset on our policy towards sovereign capability. Peter Voigt indicated that what we do now is “pretty crook” – we just dig up resources and send them offshore to be processed. This is not sustainable. Brandt indicated that if we were to rebuild sovereign capability, we would need government policy to show a constant and continuous commitment. McGregor expressed the opinion that COVID-19 may reset the agenda, so that we make what we need. Overall, the panellists emphasised that relationships needed to be long-term, and built on trust and an appreciation of the roles and needs of each party. The value propositions for each need to be understood, as well as the limitations of each party, and this can only be developed by a lot of discussion.

Hodgson’s comments received an interesting reinforcement from the university side, with Brandt emphasising BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 19

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

CMatP Profile: Dr Evelyn Ng PhD, PEng, CPEng, CMatP Where do you work? Describe your job. I work for the Callidus Group, which encompasses Callidus Process Solutions and Callidus Welding Solutions. Callidus Process Solutions specialises in the management, maintenance, servicing and diagnostics of valves, actuators and instrumentation, in addition to providing fully integrated engineering services from identification to implementation. Callidus Welding Solutions specialises in welding exotic metals and surface hardening for wear and abrasion resistance applications, as well as corrosion control services. With this diverse range of capabilities, Callidus Group provides a complete flow control package for companies in the oil and gas and mining industries.

Dr Evelyn Ng is the Materials and Corrosion Engineer, Subject Matter Expert for the Callidus Group, whose headquarters are located in Perth, Western Australia. The Callidus Group comprises Callidus Process Solutions and Callidus Welding Solutions. Callidus is a high-end valve company with locations Australia-wide and throughout the Asia-Pacific region, with clients in the oil and gas and mining industries, as well as the power generation and marine industries.

I am the Materials and Corrosion Engineer Subject Matter Expert for Callidus Group’s two divisions. I am the only materials engineer, amongst 20 mechanical engineers, at the company. My portfolio is diverse—reviewing and recommending materials selection for maintaining or improving asset integrity, conducting forensic root cause failure analysis investigations, working with in-house lab equipment for quality assurance, as well as leading research in developing new products and filing patents for Callidus’ intellectual property.

Evelyn obtained her PhD (2012), Master of Applied Science (2006) and Bachelor of Applied Science (2004), each in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Toronto in Canada. Born in Canada, Evelyn settled in Australia three years ago, having worked on five continents in countries spanning Canada, Japan, Finland, Zambia and Australia.

Callidus has recently filed two patents: one for a bi-metallic coating system and another that involves TiN surface hardening, both of which have immense potential to be gamechangers to the industry. I am fortunate to work for a progressive company that values the importance of material selection working harmoniously with mechanical design and supports materials advancements.

Her previous professional experience includes engineering roles in diverse settings from on-site mining operations, research and development laboratories, consulting firms and academia. She is a registered Professional Engineer (PEng) and Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) in Canada and Australia, respectively.

In my role, I am challenged to evaluate and select materials—often exotic metals and alloys, advanced ceramics and elastomers—that are compatible with each other and installed in the same component, as well as being corrosionresistant and wear-resistant. The materials chosen must be able to perform in a range of extreme environments including

20 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

acid, oxygen, hydrocarbon, sea water and at a range of temperatures from cryogenic temperatures to beyond 800°C. In researching and recommending the most appropriate materials, I am also an investigator examining the situation when a failure occurs. To illustrate, components have failed on-site at mining or offshore sites, the components are brought to me and I investigate the failure using a range of characterisation techniques. At times, I design and conduct experiments to reconstruct the failure, analysing the results and providing the findings and recommendations to the client. A recent investigation concerned severe corrosion in butterfly valves installed in an offshore firewater system. The outcome was an overhaul to replace all valves with new ones made out of a material that is compatible with the service conditions and existing piping system.

What inspired you to choose a career in materials science and engineering? The University of Toronto held an engineering fair, for new students, aimed at assisting them in their selection of a discipline. At the materials science and engineering booth, the liaison officer showed me that the knowledge taught in materials science and engineering can be applied to solve investigations. He used an airplane crash as the main example. Years later, I was investigating cracks in airplane landing gear, which likely would have caused fatalities had it remained undetected. The outcome resulted in an entire fleet of planes being grounded due to casting defects in the landing gear. It was then that my choice to follow a career in materials science and engineering felt it had come full circle.

Who or what has influenced you most professionally? My parents have influenced me greatly. The engineering aspect of my career comes from my dad, who is a registered professional industrial engineer. I have seen how my parents have advanced WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

in their careers with hard work and persistence, while continuing to be a person of integrity, and I strive to do the same. I have also been fortunate to have had the benefit of several mentors whose knowledge, advice and support have been extremely helpful and influential. For instance, one of the top forensic engineers in Canada encouraged me to join him in attending the initial examination of the Radiohead stage collapse, so I could see first-hand the steps involved in conducting a large-scale investigation. The exposure motivated me to seek to attain a position where my knowledge in materials science and engineering would also be requested.

What has been the most challenging project you’ve worked on to date and why? As I have worked in several companies in different countries before settling in Australia, I have come across a number of challenges. Some of the most challenging situations for me have involved adjusting to a country’s work culture and overcoming language barriers. For example, when working in Zambia for Africa’s largest copper plant, there were limited resources and I was working with a cross-section of people from different countries on their own projects but all working towards the same goal of commissioning a smelter. It was not just having a Plan A and B, but also having a plan for all the other letters of the alphabet. I have found that being adaptable and having a good sense of humour work well. Since arriving in Australia, I have had a number of challenges, both personally and professionally. I enjoy my work at Callidus and am trying to find the right work-life balance, especially with a toddler at hand.

What does being a CMatP mean to you? In Canada, the Professional Engineer (PEng) designation is attained by completing the required engineering education and work experience, as well as writing both law and ethics examinations to qualify. The PEng designation is the only one for all fields of engineering, as WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

there is no further post-nominal initials to distinguish one’s engineering discipline. Accordingly, I am impressed with the CMatP designation in Australia, as this indicates acknowledgement and respect for materials professionals as a distinct group of experts. It demonstrates that materials professionals have taken it upon themselves to create a community to support each other’s technical initiatives and share knowledge.

What gives you the most satisfaction at work? This is a difficult question as I enjoy all aspects of my work. My roles allow me to investigate, problem-solve, provide recommendations and produce quality work that is well-received by clients and work colleagues. I love learning. When thrown a curve ball, or when asked questions that I may not know the answer to, the challenge of researching and finding an answer is always satisfying. I also enjoy teaching and mentoring others, as I have been very fortunate to have had a number of generous mentors who have influenced my career.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? To work hard, have fun and make a positive difference.

What are you optimistic about? I think CMatPs are in a unique position as our world changes. With new technology and limited natural resources, we will be challenged to find solutions, and this is something our profession will be able to meet head-on. Our knowledge will be in greater demand by more companies and services in the future. This is exciting and encouraging for all CMatPs.

What have been your greatest professional and personal achievements? Professionally, I’m proud of contributing to the companies I have worked for and I’m proud of what I have contributed to Callidus to date. Examples would be failure investigations whose outcomes BACK TO CONTENTS

include recommendations that improve the safety and reliability of equipment, as well as contributing towards developing patents that may be a gamechanger to the industry in which I work. I have gained experience and knowledge in each of my roles, and with ongoing learning, I am able to apply this knowledge to enable solutions and technological advancements. The role of a professional engineer encompasses a responsibility towards the public, and I have tried to uphold this in my daily work and as a role model. Personally, I’m proud to have earned my advanced professional classical ballet certificate from the Royal Academy of Dance, that includes the post-nominal title ARAD, for Associate of the Royal Academy of Dance. This was a difficult challenge as it demanded perfection and daily training over a span of almost 30 years. I was determined to achieve this and eventually did so. I feel this accomplishment built character, discipline and appreciation for success through hard work.

What are the top three things on your ‘bucket list’? Career-wise I am working towards obtaining Corrosion Specialist Certification from the NACE Institute. In the future, I want to strive to become recognised as an International Welding Engineer, from the International Institute of Welding. The knowledge gained from earning these globally recognised certifications will only aid me in doing my job even better. I love to travel and would like to travel from London to Tokyo without getting on an airplane. This would instead be via the Eurostar rail, Trans-Siberian railway and ferries, as the main modes of transportation. Another trip would be an expedition to Antartica, as I miss the winter weather of Canada, and I still have my parka and boots, which are gathering dust in Perth. One more item on my bucket list is to be on The Amazing Race with either my husband or Dad. This would be a great experience to test one’s self, as well as bond even more with my partner. It would be fun to race and tackle various challenges, but my partner would have to complete the weird eating challenges. SEPTEMBER 2020 | 21

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

Our Certified Materials Professionals (CMatPs) The following members of Materials Australia have been certified by the Certification Panel of Materials Australia as Certified Materials Professionals. They can now use the post nominal ‘CMatP‘ after their name. These individuals have demonstrated the required level of qualification and experience to obtain this status. They are also required to regularly maintain their professional standing through ongoing education and commitment to the materials community. We now have over one hundred Certified Materials Professionals, who are being called upon to lead activities within Materials Australia. These activities include heading special interest group networks, representation on Standards Australia Committees, and representing Materials Australia at international conferences and society meetings. To become a CMatP visit our website:

www.materialsaustralia.com.au Dr Syed Islam Prof Yun Liu Dr Takuya Tsuzuki Prof Klaus-Dieter Liss Mr Debdutta Mallik Mr Dashty Akrawi Ms Maree Anast Ms Megan Blamires Dr Todd Byrnes Dr Phillip Carter Dr Anna Ceguerra Mr Ken Chau Dr Zhenxiang Cheng Mr Peter Crick Prof Madeleine Du Toit Dr Azdiar MCGazder Prof Michael Ferry Dr Bernd Gludovatz Mr Buluc Guner Dr Alan Hellier Prof Mark Hoffman Mr Simon Krismer Prof Jamie Kruzic Prof Huijun Li Prof Valerie Linton Mr Rodney Mackay-Sim Dr Matthew Mansell 22 | SEPTEMBER 2020

ACT ACT ACT CHINA MALAYSIA NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW

Dr Warren McKenzie NSW Dr David Mitchell NSW Dr Anna Paradowska NSW Prof Elena Pereloma NSW A/Prof Sophie Primig NSW Dr Gwenaelle Proust NSW Prof Simon Ringer NSW Dr Richard Roest NSW Mr Sameer Sameen NSW Dr Luming Shen NSW Mr Sasanka Sinha NSW Mr Carl Strautins NSW Mr Alan Todhunter NSW Ms Judy Turnbull NSW Mr Jeremy Unsworth NSW Dr Philip Walls NSW Dr Rachel White NSW Dr Alan Whittle NSW Dr Richard Wuhrer NSW Mr Payam Ghafoori NT Mr Michael Chan QLD Prof Richard Clegg QLD Mr Andrew Dark QLD Dr Ian Dover QLD Mr Oscar Duyvestyn QLD Mr John Edgley QLD Dr Jayantha Epaarachchi QLD Dr Jeff Gates QLD Miss Mozhgan Kermajani QLD Dr Andrii Kostryzhev QLD Mr Jeezreel Malacad QLD Mr Arya Mirsepasi QLD Dr Jason Nairn QLD Mr Bhavin Panchal QLD Mr Bob Samuels QLD Mr David Schonfeld QLD Ms Ingrid Brundin SA Mr Neville Cornish SA A/Prof Colin Hall SA Mr Mikael Johansson SA Mr Rahim Kurji SA Mr Greg Moore SA Mr Andrew Sales SA Thomas Schläfer SA Dr Christiane Schulz SA Ms Deborah Ward SA Mr Ashley Bell SCOTLAND Mr Kok Toong Leong SINGAPORE Mr Devadoss Suresh Kumar UAE Dr Ivan Cole VIC Dr John Cookson VIC Dr Evan Copland VIC Dr Malcolm Couper VIC Miss Ana Celine Del Rosario VIC Dr Yvonne Durandet VIC Dr Mark Easton VIC Dr Rajiv Edavan VIC Dr Peter Ford VIC BACK TO CONTENTS

Mrs Liz Goodall Mr Bruce Ham Ms Edith Hamilton Mr Hugo Howse Mr Long Huynh Dr Amita Iyer Dr John Kariuki Mr Robert Le Hunt Dr Thomas Ludwig Dr Roger Lumley Mr Michael Mansfield Dr Gary Martin Dr Siao Ming (Andrew) Ang Dr Eustathios Petinakis Mr Paul Plater Dr Dong Qiu Mr John Rea Dr M Akbar Rhamdhani Dr Christine Scala Mr Khan Sharp Dr Vadim Shterner Dr Antonella Sola Mr Mark Stephens Dr Graham Sussex Dr Jenna Tong Mr Pranay Wadyalkar Mr John Watson Dr Wei Xu Dr Sam Yang Mr Graeme Brown Mr Graham Carlisle Mr John Carroll Mr Sridharan Chandran Mr Conrad Classen Mr Chris Cobain Ms Jessica Down Mr Jeff Dunning Mr Stuart Folkard Prof Vladimir Golovanevskiy Mr Chris Grant Dr Cathy Hewett Mr Paul Howard Dr Paul Huggett Mr Ehsan Karaji Mr Biju Kurian Pottayil Mr Mathieu Lancien Dr Yanan Li Mr Michael Lison-Pick Mr Ben Miller Mr Sadiq Nawaz Dr Evelyn Ng Mr Deny Nugraha Mr Stephen Oswald Mrs Mary Louise Petrick Mr Johann Petrick Mr Stephen Rennie Mr James Travers

VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA WA

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

CMatP

Why You Should Become a Certified Materials Professional Source: Materials Australia

Accreditation as a Certified Materials Professional (CMatP) gives you recognition, not only amongst your peers, but within the materials engineering industry at large. You will be recognised as a materials scientist who maintains professional integrity, keeps up to date with developments in technology, and strives for continued personal development. The CMatP, like a Certified Practicing Accountant or CPA, is promoted globally as the recognised standard for professionals working in the field of materials science. There are now well over one hundred CMatPs who lead activities within Materials Australia. These activities include heading special interest group networks, representation on Standards Australia Committees, and representing Materials Australia at international conferences and society meetings.

Benefits of Becoming a CMatP • A Certificate of Membership, often presented by the State Chapter, together with a unique Materials Australia badge. • Access to exclusive CMatP resources and website content.

• The opportunity to attend CMatP only networking meetings. • Promotion through Materials Australia magazine, website, social media and other public channels. • A Certified Materials Professional can use the post nominal CMatP. • Materials Australia will actively promote the CMatP status to the community and employers and internationally, through our partner organisations. • A CMatP may be requested to represent Materials Australia throughout Australia and overseas, with Government, media and other important activities. • A CMatP may be offered an opportunity as a mentor for student members. • Networking directly with other CMatPs who have recognised levels of qualifications and experience. • The opportunity to assume leadership roles in Special Interest Networks, to assist in the facilitation of new knowledge amongst peers and members.

What is a Certified Materials Professional? A Certified Materials Professional is a person to whom Materials Australia has issued a certificate declaring they have attained all required professional standards. They are

recognised as demonstrating excellence and possessing special knowledge in the practice of materials science and engineering, through their profession or workplace. A CMatP is prepared to share their knowledge and skills in the interest of others, and promotes excellence and innovation in all their professional endeavours.

The Criteria The criteria for recognition as a CMatP are structured around the applicant demonstrating substantial and sustained practice in a field of materials science and engineering. The criteria are measured by qualifications, years of employment and relevant experience, as evidenced by the applicant’s CV or submitted documentation. Certification will be retained as long as there is evidence of continuing professional development and adherence to the Code of Ethics and Professional behaviour.

Further Information For further information on becoming a CMatP, contact Materials Australia today: on +61 3 9326 7266 or imea@ materialsaustralia.com.au, or visit our website: www. materialsaustralia.com.au.

GLOBAL STEEL HEAT TREATMENT FLAME & INDUCTION HARDENING • Induction hardening to 400 Dia x 4000 Long (External), 200 Dia x 200 Long (Internal). • High & low frequency induction generators to suit required hardening depth. • Flame hardening to 650 Dia. • Tooth by tooth flame or induction hardening of gears & sprockets to 3500 OD using standard or specially designed inductors or burners.

3 Stanton Road, Seven Hills NSW 2147 T: (02) 9624 6270 F: (02) 9674 6215 E: globalheattreatment@bigpond.com WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 23

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

LOGO COMPETITION We are pleased to announce the launch of a competition to create a brand new logo for Materials Australia. The new Materials Australia logo should be simple, crisp and clean, with a font that is sleek, yet easy to read. The majority of Materials Australia’s members are scientists, engineers, academics and highly educated professionals, familiar with seeing and commissioning effective and efficient design. As such, the new logo needs to be sophisticated and modern, yet classic. It should communicate that the organisation is progressive, innovative and future focused.

Terms and Conditions By entering the competition, you agree to the following terms and conditions: 1. You must be aged 18 years or over and a member of Materials Australia to enter this competition. Click here to become a member now. 2. The winner will be selected by Materials Australia. Materials Australia’s decision is final — no correspondence will be entered into. 3. T he winner will receive $500.

5. If none of the proposed logos fit the needs of Materials Australia, there may be a second round of competition. If, after a second round of competition, none of the proposed logos fit the needs of Materials Australia, the competition will be closed without a winner. 6. The winner will be obligated to transfer all copyright and intellectual property rights associated with the logo in any way, and sign an agreement to this effect.

Deliverables Designs must be delivered in either a high-res PDF or JPG file format.

How to Enter All designs must be submitted via email to Tanya Smith (Executive Officer, Materials Australia) on tanya@materialsaustralia.com.au by Saturday 31st October. 24 | SEPTEMBER 2020

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

Chosen design win s

Materials Australia Logo Design Brief

$500 prize !

Objectives Colours

Position the organisation as the peak bodyÂ forÂ materials scientists and engineers throughout Australia.

The new logo should maintain the same colour palette as the existing logo:

Be timeless. Regardless of the future direction of the organisation, the new logo should stand the test of time.

PMS 314

PMS 631

Position the organisation as a modern, dynamic, forwardthinking organisation.

PMS 548

Be much more memorable.

All other elements of the existing logo can be changed or discarded, including the font, format and graphic.

Refresh the look and feel of the existing brand, which is somewhat out-dated and limiting in terms of design functionality.

Style Attributes Classic

Modern

Mature

Youthful

Feminine

Masculine

Playful

Sophisticated

Ecconomical

Luxurious

Geometric

Organic

Abstract

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

Literal

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 25

WOMEN IN THE INDUSTRY

Professor Julie Cairney Source: Sally Wood

Professor Julie Cairney undertaking her leading research. Credit: Professor Julie Cairney, supplied.

Professor Julie Cairney is a global leader in materials science, with extensive international experience and industry knowledge. This means she is well positioned to lead the charge in materials characterisation at the University of Sydney’s School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering. Professor Cairney’s role is primarily focused on studying materials by using sophisticated microscopy techniques to study their matter down to the atomic scale. By analysing their microstructure, experts like Professor Cairney are able to relate it to their properties, and engineer other advanced materials with unique properties. Through this approach, Professor Cairney contributes her expertise to the development of stronger and lighter materials that are sustainable and cost 26 | SEPTEMBER 2020

effective. These materials have practical utilisation objectives in the aerospace, manufacturing and construction sectors. The professor’s humble beginnings in rural New South Wales paved the way for what she does today. Growing up in Broken Hill, in the heart of the Australian outback and a 15 hour drive from Sydney, Professor Cairney recalls meeting may engineers and geologists in her childhood. As a bright maths and science student, she knew early on that she wanted to study something in that area. She received a scholarship from Pasminco Limited – a former mining company in the area – to study a mining-related subject at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). “That was really when I first came across the materials engineering course.” “I remember seeing subjects like crystallography and x-ray diffraction on BACK TO CONTENTS

the curriculum, and thinking, ‘ooh that sounds cool’. I’m not sure I was particularly strategic or thoughtful about my choice of degree – I just went with what looked interesting,” Professor Cairney said. Professor Cairney’s experience at UNSW was where she first studied materials science and engineering, and in 2002, she was awarded a PhD in Physical Metallurgy. After completing her PhD, she was granted a Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellowship, which saw her move abroad to work as a researcher at the University of Birmingham, in the United Kingdom. Later, she spent some time at the Max Planck Institute for Metals Research in Stuttgart, Germany, and still collaborates today with researchers that she met during that period. In 2007, Professor Cairney started an academic role at the University of Sydney, where she now heads up a group that undertake research in the field of atomic WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

WOMEN IN THE INDUSTRY

scale materials characterisation. This group sits within the Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, and specialises in the study of 3D structures of materials at the atomic scale. “I was lucky enough to be awarded a few grants early in my career that allowed me to set up a small research group and remain productive when I took maternity leave in 2009 and 2011,” she said. The research group consists of 15 researchers, including postdoctoral research fellows, current PhD students, undergraduate research students and international visitors. In addition to her role at the University of Sydney, Professor Cairney is also the Chief Executive Officer of Microscopy Australia – a consortium of open access microscopy facilities housed at different Australian universities. Together, over 3,500 researchers from universities and industry bodies use the facilities and expertise available through this initiative. Including over 150,000 international trainees who use their online training tools. Microscopy Australia hopes to position Australia at the forefront of global research. It has been working for enhanced excellence in research for over a decade, with government support to deliver industry solutions. Professor Cairney’s research heavily relies on access to world-class infrastructure for materials characterisation. At the Australian Centre for Microscopy and

Microanalysis, Professor Cairney has access to a wide variety of technologically like advanced microscopes, to examine materials for precise characterisation. “Because our facilities are open access, all researchers can access all microscopes, so we can be strategic across Australia about what we invest in rather than compete. I’m proud of the fact that our infrastructure is available to everyone who needs it, no matter what type of research environment they come from,” Professor Cairney said. Professor Cairney is also the Director of the Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis. The Centre is the home of interdisciplinary microscopy research at the University of Sydney. “I love working with microscopes. In a parallel to astronomy, we’re able to explore the unseen world of ‘inner space’ with the amazing scientific instrumentation available today.” “I think it’s incredible that we can actually detect and visualise single atoms. To give some perspective, a single human hair is approximately the width of a million carbon 12 atoms lying side by side,” Professor Cairney said.

Real World Applications for Research Professor Cairney’s research covers a wide variety of materials, including, but not limited to, steels, corrosion products, functional materials, geological materials,

and biominerals. Professor Cairney also supervises a range of fundamental and industry-sponsored research. She employs a consultative approach to research management, providing her team with the autonomy to complete tasks and make discoveries at their own pace. Professor Cairney places a high emphasis on research utilisation objectives. She has worked with BlueScope Steel on the design of new strip cast steels that are strengthened by the atomic-scale clustering of atoms. She has also worked with Weir Minerals Australia to produce stronger, wear resistant alloys for components aimed at reducing the downtime in the Australian mining sector. These products both reached production trials.

Funding for More Leading Research In 2019, Professor Cairney and her colleague Dr Yi-Sheng Chen worked with Chinese company, CITIC Metal, to analyse the decrease in the ductility of hydrogen in steel. This process, known as embrittlement, typically focuses on how certain metals become susceptible to early fracture as they absorb hydrogen. “Our research will elucidate how a proposed solution, hydrogen trapping, reduces hydrogen embrittlement, contributing to design criteria for hydrogen-resistant steels. “To image the hydrogen in the steels, we replaced it with deuterium – the rarer isotope of hydrogen, allowing us to distinguish it from background noise and create 3D maps of the distribution of the hydrogen at the atomic scale,” says Professor Cairney. This research was supported by a $321,000 Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Project grant. In a key paper, published in Science in January of this year, the project described the process where hydrogen is trapped by microstructural defects in steel such as dislocations, grain boundaries and niobium carbide precipitates.

Hydrogen at dislocations in steel, obtained from the CITIC Linkage project, which Professor Cairney worked on. Credit: Professor Julie Cairney, supplied.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

This is key information for the design of steels that resist hydrogen embrittlement. SEPTEMBER 2020 | 27

INDUSTRY NEWS

Flexible Phone Screen Chemicals Kick Off New Industry Partnership for South Korea and Australia Source: Sally Wood

The next generation of flexible phone screens, and other high tech products, are one step closer to development following an international partnership agreement between South Korean manufacturer the Kyung-In Synthetic Corporation (KISCO); Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, and Melbourne-based company, Boron Molecular.

technological leadership in chemical processing and polymers, which has led to Australia’s plastic banknote technology, extended wear contact lenses, biodegradable plastics for biomedical applications, and many other products,” he continued.

The investment, recently announced in Seoul, South Korea, will enable the continued growth of Boron Molecular’s manufacturing capacity in Australia, and use CSIRO technologies, to open up global markets. As part of the agreement, KISCO and CSIRO will both take a minority shareholding in Boron Molecular.

While there is scope for further innovation, KISCO CEO and President, Dr Sung Yong Cho, said they will initially focus on flexible electronics.

Zoran Manev is the Managing Director of Boron Molecular, which was originally formed around a suite of process patents on organic molecules called boronic acids, which were developed by CSIRO. “We thank CSIRO for their long-term trust in, and support for our company,” Manev said. “Now with the manufacturing capability, international reach and reputation of KISCO, we can offer CSIRO’s chemical technologies at scale to a global market.” Boron Molecular and KISCO will use a range of CSIRO technologies to enable manufacturing of high purity precision engineered polymers for flexible electronics, and many other applications in health, industry and agriculture.

Boron Molecular is commercialising several CSIRO processes and technologies, including flow chemistry, reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT), metal organic frameworks and MS3 art conservation resin.

“We’re looking forward to making the first products, from this new partnership, available to Korean electronics companies this year.” “CSIRO is a powerhouse of chemistry and materials research and through our partnership with Boron Molecular we can scale up and deliver this research to new markets,” Dr Cho said. Australian Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, His Excellency James Choi, addressed delegates at the launch of the partnership, which was also available online due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions. For almost 50 years the KISCO group of companies has been creating colours and chemical solutions including dyes, inks, fine chemicals and other materials, for

Zoran Manev, Managing Director of Boron Molecular, at CSIRO’s FloWorks Centre for Industrial Flow Chemistry. ©Nick Pitsas

textiles, food, agriculture and electronics. The company has large-scale production facilities in 11 plants across South Korea, China and Turkey. The collaborative nature of CSIRO’s research turns science into solutions for food security and quality; clean energy and resources; health and wellbeing; resilient and valuable environments; innovative industries; and a secure Australia and region. Boron Molecular is a leading specialist chemical manufacturer, that signed a master license agreement with CSIRO in 2015 for the commercial exploitation of a range of polymer and advanced material technologies, including RAFT. This investment led to increased jobs, exports, and manufacturing of diversified products. Boron Molecular has manufacturing facilities in Melbourne and Raleigh, North Carolina, and partners across four continents.

Dr John Tsanaktsidis, Advanced Fibres and Chemical Industries Research Director at CSIRO, said this partnership will see CSIRO continue to use its science to strengthen local businesses and create future industries and jobs. “The new agreement will bolster Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capability, create local jobs and open the door for Boron Molecular to further commercialise CSIRO’s technology in new global markets via KISCO’s international links and production capacity,” Dr Tsanaktsidis said. “Our partnership with KISCO and Boron Molecular builds on over 40 years of CSIRO’s 28 | SEPTEMBER 2020

South Korean manufacturer Kyung-In Synthetic Corporation (KISCO) has partnered with CSIRO and Melbourne-based company Boron Molecular.

BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

AINDT & MATERIALS AUSTRALIA

GOLF DAY 2020

Date: Wednesday 21st October, 2020 Course: Capel Golf Club Address: 1380 Bussell Highway Stratham, WA Tee Time: 1:00 pm shotgun Golf Format: Ambrose Format Note: A bus has been arranged to collect and drop off players at Mercure Sanctuary Resort.

Teams: You can register as an individual (and be allocated onto a team) or as a team of four. Cost: The costs will be: â&#x20AC;˘

$80 per person or

â&#x20AC;˘

$320 for team of four.

This cost includes 9 holes and a Golf Cart shared between 2 people. Food: BBQ Dinner will be provided at the venue.

Compe titi ons include... Longest Drive

Nearest to the Pin Best Overall team score

To register for a team or for further enquiries around the event, please contact Colm Kinsella on colm.kinsella@olympus.com.au To stay overnight at the venue, contact Mercure Sanctuary Resort on (08) 9725 2777. Materials and Maintenance Advancements in the South West Seminar will follow on 22nd October from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm at The Dolphin Discovery Centre, Bunbury (including Site Visit to Geographe). Major Sponsor

Supporting Sponsor

INDUSTRY NEWS

Liquid Metal Synthesis for Better Piezoelectrics: Atomically-Thin Tin-Monosulfide Source: Sally Wood

A collaboration between RMIT University and the University of New South Wales has applied liquidmetal synthesis to piezoelectrics, advancing future flexible, wearable FLEET PhD student Hareem Khan was first electronics, author on the paper. and biosensors drawing their power from the body’s movements. Materials such as atomically-thin tinmonosulfide (SnS) are predicted to exhibit strong piezoelectric properties, converting mechanical forces or movement into electrical energy. This property, along with their inherent flexibility, makes them likely candidates for developing flexible nanogenerators that could be used in wearable electronics or internal, self-powered biosensors. However, to date, this potential has been held back by limitations in synthesising large, highly crystalline monolayer tin-monosulfide (and other group IV monochalcogenides), with difficulties caused by strong interlayer coupling. The new study resolves this issue by applying a new liquid-metal technique, developed at RMIT, to synthesise the materials. Subsequent measurements confirm that tin-monosulfide synthesised using the new method, displays excellent electronic and piezoelectric properties. The resulting stable, flexible monolayer tinmonosulfide can be incorporated in a variety of devices for efficient energy harvesting. Hareem Khan, the first author of the paper

Output voltage in a practical, wearable device: voltage output during tensile bending and relaxing (two-electrode device).

30 | SEPTEMBER 2020

alongside Professor Yongxiang Li, showed remarkable perseverance to surmount many technical challenges, to demonstrate the viability of the concept.

Transmission electron microscope (TEM) image: atomically thin (monolayer) tin-sulfide nanosheet (scale bar is 500nm).

Liquid Metal Synthesis The unprecedented technique of synthesis involves the van der Waals exfoliation of a tin sulphide (SnS), which is formed on the surface of tin when it is melted, while being exposed to the ambient of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas. H2S breaks down on the interface and sulfurises the surface of the melt to form SnS. The technique is equally applicable to other monolayer group IV monochalcogenide that are predicted to exhibit the same strong piezoelectricity. This liquid metal based method allowed researchers to extract homogenous and large scale monolayers of SnS with minimal grain boundaries. Measurements confirm the material has high carrier mobility and piezoelectric coefficient, which translates into exceptional peak values of generated voltage and loading power for a particular applied strain, impressively higher than any previously reported 2D nanogenerator. High durability and flexibility of the devices are also demonstrated. This is evidence that the very stable as-synthesised monolayer SnS can be commercially implemented into power generating nanodevices. They can also be used for developing transducers for harvesting mechanical human movements, in accordance to the current technological inclinations towards smart, portable and flexible electronics. The results are a step towards piezoelectric-based, flexible, wearable energy-scavenging devices.

Synthesis process: an atomically-thin layer of tin-sulfide is applied onto a flexible nanogenerator transducer.

BACK TO CONTENTS

Two-electrode device (left, with scale bar 1mm), and response of output voltage using tapping mode (right, with scale bar 50µm).

Piezoelectric Materials Piezoelectric materials can convert applied mechanical force or strain into electrical energy. Best known by name in the simple ‘piezo’ lighter used for gas BBQs and stovetops, piezo-electric devices sensing sudden changes in acceleration are used to trigger vehicle air bags, and more-sensitive devices recognise orientation changes in mobile phones, or form the basis of sound and pressure sensors. Even more sensitive piezoelectric materials can take advantage of the small voltages generated by extremely small mechanical displacement, vibration, bending or stretching, to power miniaturised devices, for example biosensors embedded in the human body, thereby removing the need for an external power source. The Study Liquid metal-based synthesis of high performance monolayer SnS piezoelectric nanogenerators was recently published in Nature Communications. The study represents a collaboration between two Australian Research Council Centres of Excellence: the Centre for Exciton Science, and the Centre for Future LowEnergy Electronics Technologies. ARC funding also comes from the Discovery Project, DECRA and ARC Laureate programs, and from the RMIT Vice-Chancellor Fellowship. Facilities and advice from the Australian Microscopy and Microanalysis Research Facility, RMIT Micro Nano Research Facility and the Centre for Advanced Solid and Liquid based Electronics and Optics was critical to the success of the study, as was assistance from the CSIRO for PESA measurements. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

INDUSTRY NEWS

Look For The Simple Things Source: Fortescue Metals Group

The following short investigation shows that events may not be as complicated as they first seem, and that it is sometimes the simple things that go wrong. A broken M26 bolt was received, from Fortescue Metals Group, for examination into the cause and mode of its failure. It was reported that the material was a 16MnCr5 low alloy steel. The bolt was found to have failed at the first thread, and an area of fatigue was visible on the fracture faces, while the rest of the fracture had sustained post fracture damage. The area of fatigue covered about a quarter of the fracture surface. The small area of fatigue, compared to the rest of the fracture, indicates that the bolt was under a high stress for the bolt material. Transverse cracking was observed at the threads roots and this was consistent with secondary fatigue cracking. On the opposite side of the bolt from the fatigue, cracking on both sides of the thread flanks was found. This indicates that loading on the bolt could have exceeded the material strength. The microstructure was seen to be ferrite and pearlite and the threads had been machined. The chemical analysis of the bolt showed that it met the requirements of a 16MnCr5 low alloy steel. In the annealed condition, such a steel has a hardness of 147 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 187HB (1). The hardness of the bolt under investigation was measured to be 160HB giving a UTS of 540MPa (2) and demonstrates, with the microstructure of ferrite and pearlite, that the material was in the annealed condition. However, when heat treated by quenching and tempering, a UTS of >900MPa is obtainable (1). Such a material strength would greatly increase the fatigue life and stop the thread cracking seen in the present investigation. It was therefore considered that the bolt had not been given the correct heat treatment to obtain the full mechanical properties that the material was capable of attaining. Top: The as received bolt showing failure at the first thread. Middle: Fracture face showing a small crescent of fatigue and the rest of the face suffering from post fracture damage. Bottom left: Microsection showing secondary fatigue cracking at the roots of the machined threads. Bottom right: Microsection showing cracking on the flanks of the threads.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 31

ISO 9001:2015 Cer tiﬁed ISO 9001:2015 Cer tiﬁed

INDUSTRY NEWS

Five Things You May Not Know About Choosing a Batch Glass Melt Furnace Source: Deltech

Corrosion Resistance Is Essential

The most important characteristic of any batch glass melt furnace is that the lining be able to withstand the highly corrosive fumes frequently generated by glass chemistry at high temperatures. High alumina ceramic for temperatures up to 1800° C and cast zirconia for temperatures above 1800°C are optimal corrosion resistant materials. In addition, the use of a “spill trap”, rather than a flat hearth plate, to catch spills from broken crucibles or “boil-overs” is highly recommended.

How To Facilitate High Temperature Pours

If you are pouring the glass at temperature, then the furnace you select should be designed for optimal ease of loading and removal of the melts, and and for maximum operator safety. Pneumatic door operation permits very rapid access to crucibles.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

Elements Need Protection Too

Some glasses, such as those containing significant amounts of sodium, fluorine, or chlorine, will also attack molydisilicide heating elements. In these cases an element protection liner should be used to separate the elements from the furnace hot zone.

Does The Furnace Allow You To Easily Fine Your Glasses?

If you are fining the glass with a stirring apparatus or gases bubbled into the melt, the furnace you select should have a top opening to permit the use of a stirring apparatus or gas supply tube. The opening must be designed to resist heat and any corrosive fumes escaping from the furnace chimney. You may also want the manufacturer to supply the stirring mechanism, or make modifications for your equipment.

Experience Counts

Choose a supplier whose glass melt furnaces have been performance proven in the field. Ask your colleagues for recommendations and ask manufacturers for references. Do not settle for an all-purpose off-the-shelf fiber lined furnace, which will require frequent relining. Get a furnace designed to withstand glass attack, and that is also custom designed and sized to fit your need. Also, get a control system that matches the level of sophistication you want. Robotic movement of the melts, and remote operation, monitoring, and data logging of any and all parameters desired, are all available options. Visit our website for examples of custom and standard bench top and small production models. Call us to discuss how our 45 years of experience in customer driven glass furnace design can serve your application requirements.

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 33

INDUSTRY NEWS

Innovative New Ship Cladding Creates Jobs and Reduces Emissions Source: Sally Wood

LEFT: CBG Systems has been a manufacturer of passive fire protection systems for the past 30 years, and their panelling is currently found on 90 per cent of the world’s high-speed ferries. MIDDLE: Senior experimental scientist, Mel Dell’Olio, holds up a sample of the new and improved RAC Plus fire-resistant panel. RIGHT: The RAC Plus panels are fully noncombustible and remain structurally strong after exposure to extreme heat. ©FLOODLIGHT MEDIA

A new lightweight, fire-resistant cladding, that can withstand temperatures of more than 1,000°C is set to change the face of ships around the world. The material has been developed by Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, in collaboration with Tasmanian small business, CBG Systems, and has already been installed on two new ships and used to replace cladding on another. The prototype panelling, called Rapid Access Composite (RAC) Plus, is the first of its kind in the world that uses a thermal protective coating, and remains structurally stronger than conventional fire protection coatings. The innovative panels are also reversible and can repel water, potentially doubling their service life. The current design is specific for high speed aluminium ships, but the composite has the potential to be modified for construction products. Weighing about half as much as traditional metal cladding, the resulting reduction in fuel consumption will lower carbon emissions, leading to greener ships across the globe, as well as enhancing overall operational efficiencies.

science to solve real world challenges. “By working side by side with industry, innovative science and technology creates new value and growth for Australian businesses to grow our way back from the current crisis,” Dr Marshall said. “This home-grown Aussie innovation has enabled CBG Systems to become an advanced manufacturer of globallycompetitive marine insulation products and services, which is now bringing in valuable export dollars from around the world.” CSIRO Senior Experimental Scientist, Mel Dell’Olio, spent four months at CBG in Hobart, training and upskilling employees in advanced manufacturing techniques and assisting with the commercialisation process. During that time, the team manufactured 2,500 insulation panels, which are now being built into new ships, internationally, all meeting the relevant fire standard tests for the marine industry, and offering at least 60 minutes of fire protection. Dell’Olio said CBG Systems’ long history of research and development in marine fire protection had been demonstrated again through the innovative RAC Plus.

The new technology was supported through several Federal Government programs, and has created new jobs and increased international trade to Hobart.

“To be filling production orders, within two years of the first project meeting, demonstrates how Australian SME manufacturers can benefit from positive research partnerships,” Dell’Olio said.

CSIRO Chief Executive, Dr Larry Marshall, said the partnership showed the power of

Managing Director of CBG, Javier Herbon, said that CSIRO had decades of experience

34 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

and expertise in developing advanced new materials with special properties for industry, such as fire resistance, durability and protection. “Being able to access the wealth of scientific knowledge and innovation within CSIRO has been an incredibly enriching experience for everyone at CBG Systems,” Herbon said. “With three ships already ordered, and two ships complete, CBG systems has hired six new roles, with partners and suppliers also increasing their staff as a result.” “This project shows how innovations from CSIRO can help Australian businesses create manufacturing jobs,” Herbon added. CBG Systems has lodged their own patent on RAC Plus, and recent fire tests indicate the new and improved panels, with greater durability and fire-resistance, can be used on steel ships and aluminium high-speed crafts. There are also potential applications in aerospace for battery enclosures, and also the civil construction industry, enabling CBG to expand into new markets. CBG Systems has been a leading innovator in marine insulation, communications and lightweight passive fire protection, for over 30 years. Their products strike the balance between saving lives and saving money, with military operators worldwide recognising CBG for their excellence – including the US Navy. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

INDUSTRY NEWS

Ultrathin Nanosheets Separate Ions from Water Source: Sally Wood

An international research team has created an ultrathin membrane to completely separate potentially harmful ions from water.

In a world-first, an international research team has created an ultrathin membrane that can filter potentially harmful ions, such as lead and mercury, from water, or be used in the separation of gas and solvents. The innovation, led by Monash University and ANSTO, could enhance the desalination process and transform the dirtiest water into something potable, for millions of people across the world. The membrane performed steadily for more than 750 hours using limited energy, and could also be manufactured on a global scale, pending further testing. For the first time, researchers developed water-stable monolayer aluminium tetra(4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin frameworks (termed AI-MOFs) nanosheets, and demonstrated their near perfection as building materials for membranes in ion separation from water. These Al-MOFs nanosheets, exfoliated to just a nanoscale in thickness (one thousand-millionths of a metre), can help remove harmful carcinogens from the atmosphere by creating highly porous membranes to facilitate the separation processes of gases and organic solvents, such as paint. Results from the study were published in the international journal, Science Advances. The study was led by Professor Xiwang Zhang, Researcher in the Department WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

of Chemical Engineering at Monash University and the Director of the Australian Research Council Research Hub for Energy-Efficient Separation, and Dr Qinfen Gu, Principal Scientist at ANSTO’s Australian Synchrotron. “Owing to the rich porosity and uniform pore size, Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) offer significant advantages over other materials for the precise and fast membrane separation,” Professor Zhang said. “However, it remains a daunting challenge to fabricate ultrathin MOFs membranes (less than 100 nanometres) for waterrelated processing, since most reported MOFs membranes are typically thick, and suffer from insufficient hydrolytic stability,” Professor Zhang continued. “In this world-first study, we were able to use these ultrathin Al-MOFs to create a membrane that is permeable to water, while achieving maximum porosity with nearly 100 per cent rejection of ions. This study shows promise for the future application of this membrane to other filtration processes, such as gas separation.” Polymers are by far the most widespread membrane materials, largely owing to the ease with which they can be processed and their low cost, the study suggests. However, traditional polymeric membranes for ion separation from water usually contain a dense selective layer, leading to limited selectivity. In contrast, nanoporous membranes, where uniform nanopores act as the sieving role, may overcome this limitation. BACK TO CONTENTS

This breakthrough study confirms that the intrinsic nanopores of Al-MOFs nanosheets facilitate the ion and water separation, by creating vertically-aligned channels as the main transport pathway for water molecules, and was enabled by the unique capability of the Australian Synchrotron, that was able to analyse materials at the molecular level. “We use an instrument called the Powder Diffraction beamline at ANSTO’s Australian Synchrotron, to understand the difference between the molecular structure of nanosheet samples, and samples at different temperatures, in order to test water purification performance,” Dr Gu said. “The technique, called in-situ, high temperature powder X-ray diffraction characterisation, was conducted on the nanosheets, and during the process there were no obvious variations in the samples at increasing temperature, demonstrating their robustness.” This innovation has the potential to benefit many countries where drinking water delivered through lead pipes, or pipes joined with lead solder, may cause adverse health effects. Lead exposure is particularly harmful to young children, as it accumulates over time across vital parts of the body. In addition to Professor Xiwang Zhang and Dr Qinfen Gu, the research team comprised a vast collaboration of international researchers, including staff from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Tsinghua University in Beijing. SEPTEMBER 2020 | 35

INDUSTRY NEWS

New Desktop SEM Helps Improve Quality Control, Production Efficiency and Material Cleanliness Source: ATA Scientific New Phenom ParticleX SEM To maintain an effective, cost-efficient operation, a growing number of manufacturing companies are establishing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) systems in-house. The ability to carry out high resolution imaging quickly, and easily, to assess the structure, surface morphology, in addition to chemical verification can help support and improve product development and process control. Easy-To-Use, Multi-Purpose Desktop SEM The Thermo Scientific Phenom ParticleX Desktop SEM is a versatile solution for high-quality analysis, that is both simple to operate and fast to learn, opening up the use of particle and material analysis to a wider group of users. The system requires little training and no expert oversight, and is automated for multiple sample analysis. Its ease-of-use, rapid sample preparation and handling, produce unparalleled time to data. Users can obtain high-quality images in just 40 secondsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;three times faster than other desktop SEM systems. With an improved resolution of 10 nanometres, it enables even more resolving power, and the ability to explore large samples of up to 100 by 100 millimetres. When compared to the more

common tungsten filament electron sources, its Cerium hexaboride (CeB6) electron source is longer lasting with higher brightness. The standard detector in the Phenom ParticleX Desktop SEM is a four-segment backscattered electron detector (BSD), that yields sharp images and provides chemical contrast information. An optional secondary electron detector (SED) collects low-energy electrons from the top surface layer of the sample, exposing detailed sample surface information. The SED is ideal for applications where topography and morphology are important, such as when studying microstructures, fibers or particles. Elemental Mapping and Line Scan In addition to fast, high-resolution imaging, the Phenom ParticleX has an integrated energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDX) detector for elemental analysis. A simple click on the spot of interest will provide a list of elements present using live energydispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Elemental distribution can be visualised with the elemental mapping and line scan option, which is especially useful for coatings, paints and other applications with multiple layers for analysing edges and cross sections. The

all-new 24-inch diagonal user interface, combines what were once separate screens for images, and analyses them into a single full-screen image, providing faster and convenient access to information. Additive Manufacturing, Steel Manufacturing and Technical Cleanliness The ParticleX SEM (based on the Phenom XL-G2) offers a growing range of fully automated solutions, to help with specific industries and applications. These include particle analysis of metal powders at the microscale for the additive manufacturing industry, investigating inclusions in steel, and confirming that components fulfill technical cleanliness specifications according to VDA19 or ISO16232 standards. Users can monitor particle size distributions, revealing individual particle morphology, and identify foreign particles, providing great insights into production processes and environments.

For further information, contact us. ATA Scientific Pty Ltd +61 2 9541 3500 enquiries@atascientific.com.au

Left: Poor powder characteristics can lead to 3D-printed failures. Below: Automated Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) and Particle Analysis.

Phenom ParticleX Desktop Scanning Electron Microscope.

36 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

•

Easy to learn, easy to use—Users of any experience level can quickly start producing results.

•

Fast, high-resolution imaging—Long-lifetime CeB6 electron source that offers high brightness and low maintenance, high quality images in just 40s.

•

Advanced automation— New 24’’ Full screen image, Magnification 200,000x, <10nm resolution (SED & BSD).

•

Large samples— up to 100 x 100 mm, eucentric sample holder enables tilt and rotation.

•

Live element ID - using integrated X-ray (EDS) detector.

One monitor controls imaging & analysis

•

Easy to learn, easy to use—Users of any experience level can quickly start producing results.

•

Fast, high-resolution imaging—Long-lifetime CeB6 electron source that offers high brightness and low maintenance, high quality images in just 30s.

•

Advanced automation— New 24’’ Full screen image, Magnification 350,000x, <6nm resolution (SED & BSD).

•

Live element ID - using integrated X-ray (EDS) detector.

•

Compact and stable— generates reliable results in almost any environment including mobile labs.

Platinum-coated metal grid (SED)

Elemental mapping of a mineral sample

3D roughness reconstruction

Fastest desktop SEM with EDS capability for robust, effortless, and versatile elemental analysis.

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE ATA Scientific Pty Ltd | enquiries@atascientific.com.au | www.atascientific.com.au | +61 2 9541 3500

INDUSTRY NEWS

Building New Knowledge of Advanced Materials in Extreme Environments Source: Sally Wood

An international research collaboration between the University of New South Wales (UNSW), the Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics and ANSTO, has provided insights into the performance of an advanced material for use in the hightemperature environment of molten salt systems. Molten salt systems are being explored as next-generation low-emission energy generation systems, as well as energy storage systems, due to the superior. physical properties and the safety advantages of molten salts. A study published in Corrosion Science, led by UNSW student, Alexander Danon, and Dr Ondrej Muránsky identified the microstructural characteristics of a nickelmolybdenum-chromium alloy (GH3535) that accounted for its corrosion resistance in a metal used both as a structural material and for weld joints. Danon won third place at the Materials Australia NSW 2019 undergraduate student presentation competition with this research. Dr Muránsky is the Research Program Manager for the Reactor Systems group. The group is focused on the development, performance and degradation of materials in extreme environments, such as hightemperature, radiation, and molten salt corrosion, of near-future energygeneration and energy-storage systems, in Nuclear Fuel Cycle research at ANSTO. “Understanding the corrosion performance of structural materials, and their weld joints, is of technological importance in the design of molten salt-based energy generation and energy storage systems,” Dr Muránsky said. In general, the degradation of salt-facing materials in molten salt environments is known to be brought about by the thermodynamically-driven leaching of alloying elements, which is enhanced by the salt impurities and galvanic interactions between dissimilar metals. The investigators, however, reported that microstructural characteristics of an alloy, such as grain size, can further 38 | SEPTEMBER 2020

promote leaching of alloying elements, and thus accelerate their molten salt corrosion—leading to an increased material mass loss over time of exposure. The research examined the corrosion behaviour of the alloy GH3535, and its welds, in fluoride molten salt (FLiNaK), which has a low melting point, high heat capacity, and chemical stability at high temperatures. In an experiment conducted by Dr Inna Karatchevtseva at ANSTO, samples of the parent and weld metal alloy were immersed in FLiNaK salt for 500 hours at 750°C, simulating the upper-temperature limit for molten salt systems. The investigators then used Electron Back-Scatter Diffraction (EBSD) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) techniques to characterise the chemical composition, and investigate the microstructure of the parent and weld metals after exposure to FLiNaK salt. “The parent metal lost more mass than the weld metal, suggesting a stronger corrosion attack,” Dr Muránsky said. EBSD and EDS revealed significant differences in the microstructure of the alloy matrix, in both the parent metal and the weld metal, following immersion in FLiNaK. The weld metal microstructure was characterised by large elongated grains, BACK TO CONTENTS

growing in the direction of the heat flow during the welding process, while the parent metal featured much smaller equiaxed grains. “Hence, the parent metal had a significantly higher density of High Angle Grain Boundaries (HAGBs), which are known to promote the diffusion of the present alloying elements towards the salt-alloy interface, and thus promote dealloying of the near-surface corrosion-affected layer of the alloy,” Dr Muránsky said. In contrast, the investigators found a greater density of Low Angle Grain Boundaries (LAGBs) and crystal lattice defects (dislocations) in the weld metal; these are also known to promote the diffusion of the alloying elements, but not to the extent of HAGBs. Furthermore, it was found that HAGBs, which contained large Mo-rich M6C carbides, were impacted by corrosion to a greater extent than those without them. Other contributors to the publications from ANSTO included Tim Palmer, Dr Zhaoming Zhang, Dr Nick Scales and Professor Lyndon Edwards. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

INDUSTRY NEWS

Researchers Just Recorded World’s Fastest Internet Speeds Using a Single Optical Chip Source: Sally Wood

Researchers have achieved the world’s fastest internet data speed – enough to download 1,000 HD movies in a split second – using a single optical chip. The ground-breaking results, published in Nature Communications by researchers from RMIT University, Monash University and Swinburne University of Technology, could fast-track Australia’s telecommunications capacity and also that of other countries struggling with demand on internet infrastructure. The research team, led by Monash University’s Dr Bill Corcoran, RMIT’s Distinguished Professor Arnan Mitchell and Swinburne’s Professor David Moss, recorded a data speed of 44.2 Terabits per second (Tbps) from a single light source. Professor Mitchell said these speeds were importantly achieved by attaching their new device to existing fibreoptic technology, similar to that used across Australia’s National Broadband Network (NBN). He said the future ambition of the project was to scale up the current transmitters from hundreds of gigabytes per second towards tens of terabytes per second, without increasing size, weight or cost. “Long-term, we hope to create integrated photonic chips that could enable this sort of data rate to be achieved across existing optical fibre links with minimal cost,” Professor Mitchell said. “Initially, these would be attractive for ultra-high speed communications between data centres. However, we could imagine this technology becoming sufficiently low cost and compact, that it could be deployed for commercial use by the general public in cities across the world.” How it Works Optical fibres, like those used in the NBN, transmit data on pulses of light. The team’s new device, known as an optical microcomb, creates a rainbow of infrared light, allowing data to be transmitted on many frequencies of light at the same time, vastly increasing bandwidth. Microcombs had not been used in field

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

trials before this study, when researchers placed the fingernail-sized chip – contributed by Swinburne University – onto

Arnan Mitchell creates innovative microchip technologies advancing photonics, fluidics and biomedical research.

Optical fibres transmit information as pulses of light.

optical fibres, and sent maximum data down each channel to simulate peak internet usage. That is when data speeds of 40Tbps were reached - about three times the record data rate for the entire NBN network, and approximately 100 times the speed of any single device currently used in Australian fibre networks. Out of the Lab and Into the Testbed Significantly, this was tested on 76.6km of ‘dark’ optical fibres between RMIT’s Melbourne City Campus and Monash University’s Clayton Campus. The fibre loop is part of the Australian Lightwave Infrastructure Research Testbed, established with investment from the Australian Research Council, by a consortium led by Professor Mitchell. The testbed allows researchers to investigate innovative new approaches to continually increase the amount of data capacity of existing optical fibre networks. “Having RMIT University as the central node of this world-leading communications testbed gives us insight into the challenges and opportunities for next generation fibre optic communications, in a real-world setting,” Professor Mitchell said. “It also gives us the ability to rapidly test new ideas,” he added.

BACK TO CONTENTS

The test was carried out on a 75km optical fibre loop between RMIT and Monash University in Melbourne.

A Solution for the World’s Insatiable Demand for Bandwidth? Dr Corcoran, Lecturer in Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering at Monash University, said the unprecedented number of people using the internet for remote work, socialising and streaming, during the coronavirus pandemic, indicated how normal demand for internet infrastructure will look in two to three years’ time. “It’s really showing us that we need to be able to scale the capacity of our internet connections,” he said. “And it’s not just Netflix we’re talking about here – it’s the broader scale of what we use our communication networks for. This data can be used for self-driving cars and future transportation, and it can help the medicine, education, finance and e-commerce industries, as well as enable us to read with our grandchildren from kilometres away.”

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 39

INDUSTRY NEWS

Miscibility Gap Alloys: Commercialising A ‘Missing Link’ For Renewable Energy Source: MGA Thermal Industry

Large scale (>200 MWh) gridconnected energy storage is arguably the greatest challenge standing in the way of a complete transition to renewable energy. Lack of adequate storage is preventing full penetration of renewables into the market, and the continued burning of fossil fuels is adding to the problem. There are very long lead times for the implementation of new gridscale storage technologies such as photosynthetic production of hydrogen, efficient ammonia production, Na ion batteries, flow batteries, as well as for older large-scale technologies such as pumped hydro. What is missing is a transitional technology that builds off existing infrastructure to the maximum extent. New macroscopically solid Thermal Energy Storage (TES) materials, known as Miscibility Gap Alloys (MGA), may pave the way for this transition. What is an MGA? Miscibility Gap Alloys (MGA) are a class of thermal energy storage materials comprising a high thermal conductivity matrix enhanced by an internal Phase Change Material (PCM) dispersed as fine particles. The particles, which are typically present at 50% by volume, are completely encapsulated and separated by the matrix phase into a non-percolating microstructure. The PCM embedded within the MGA melts and stores energy as latent heat, while the material remains macroscopically solid and stores sensible heat. MGA were originally devised from pairs of essentially immiscible metals. However, traditional methods of production, such and melting and casting, lead to the unsuitable ‘natural microstructure’, in which the lower melting point metal forms the matrix around the particulate high melting point metal. Processing adaptations and design are required to produce the desired ‘inverse microstructure’, in which the metal acting as a PCM is trapped within the conducting matrix. 40 | SEPTEMBER 2020

Natural microstructure (Sn white, Al dark).

Competing TES materials Thermal energy storage can be accomplished by simply raising the temperature of a solid or liquid (sensible heat), accessing the enthalpy associated with a phase change (latent heat) or moving a compound through a dissociation and re-combination cycle (thermochemical storage). Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Thermochemical storage promises very high energy density, however in order to separate and then recombine reactants. generally requires a particulate system. Particulate systems have extremely poor thermal transport properties and so large scale implementation has proven elusive. Latent heat storage also has the allure of high energy density, however containment, erosion, thermal expansion and thermal contact problems have made it similarly elusive. Sensible heat storage often relies on large quantities of very low cost materials (concrete, rocks, sand and various salts) which also generally have very poor thermal transport properties. This can be overcome with liquid sensible heat storage, by vigorous circulation of hot liquids using pumps, and extensive heat exchange infrastructure leading to the state-ofthe-art TES technology, two-tank molten (nitrate) salt storage. Graphite overcomes the thermal transport problem in a solid material, but at increased material cost.

Inverse microstructure (Sn white, Al dark).

and so by choosing a different PCM component, an MGA material can be made to match a particular end use such as a steam Rankine cycle operating around 600 C. This gives a consistent quality heat such as is required by many thermodynamic systems. Latent heat also means that the energy density is high. If we include 100 C of sensible heat around the phase change, MGA systems store and deliver between 0.65 and 2.2 MJ/L. High thermal conductivity means that thermal energy is accepted and delivered, from storage, by conduction. This allows the materials to be agnostic to the source of heat, adapting equally well to heating via a heat transfer fluid, electrical resistance or direct absorption of concentrated sunlight. An additional benefit is derived because the materials are macroscopically solid with no secondary heat transfer fluids. Compared with two-tank molten salt storage, there is greater system simplicity for thermal energy storage systems, and no parasitic energy consumption for trace heating, which can be as high as 24% in those

Enter MGA By accessing the latent heat of fusion of the included metal particles, MGA offer a number of advantages over other TES media. Latent heat is accepted and delivered at near constant temperature, BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

INDUSTRY NEWS

systems. The final advantages are that by choosing a suitable PCM, higher operating temperatures are accessible and the constituents are recyclable. Stored thermal energy for some MGA systems as a function of temperature

MGA Thermal Pty Ltd The commercialisation of MGA materials has been taken up by MGA Thermal Pty Ltd. Several technical advances have been made which allow the manufacture of larger storage modules. Current manufacturing capacity produces 6.4 litre modules with a thermal storage capacity of 5.8kWh. The company has partnered with E2S Power AG, based in Switzerland, which

is developing a TES product to repurpose retired power stations. Valuable infrastructure, from the more than 6,000 power stations worldwide that currently run on coal combustion, can be converted into large scale energy storage facilities, by accepting surplus (otherwise curtailed) renewable energy via the grid, storing it as heat, and re-dispatching as electricity. The repurpose process commences by fitting modular storage units, containing MGA materials, to augment the boiler. MGA used in this application operates in the temperature band of 500 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 700 ď&#x201A;°C, to ensure a good fit with power station infrastructure such as the turbines, generators, and grid connection. This allows plants to run on stored renewable energy charged from the grid at times of excess availability, which is growing exponentially. As the transition to renewable energy progresses, additional storage units will be added, until the heat source for the plant is completely supplied by stored renewable energy.

Pilot Manufacturing Plant MGA Thermal has recently taken seed investment from Capital Pitch Ventures, and been awarded an Accelerating Commercialisation Grant from the Australian Government Department of Industry, Science, Energy and WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

Founder and CRO Dr Dylan Cuskelly holding an MGA block. Photo by Jedidiah Cranfield.

Resources. Together, the investment and grant will fund the development of a Pilot Manufacturing Plant to demonstrate scale up and semi-automation of MGA module production. Heat is ubiquitous in energy systems as a source, intermediate or final form, and 52% of energy worldwide is consumed as heat. MGA materials possess properties which make them amenable to use in a wide array of applications where thermal storage can assist in power generation, and the distribution and regulation of energy. In addition to the conversion of existing power stations, this includes concentrated solar thermal power, waste heat recovery, process heat, domestic and commercial building heating, grid stabilisation and electric vehicle heating. SEPTEMBER 2020 | 41

INDUSTRY NEWS

AXT and Delmic Install Unique Cathodoluminescence and CLEM Solution at UTS Source: Dr Cameron Chai, AXT Pty Ltd

AXT and Delmic are proud of a first in the world installation. They recently installed a Delmic SPARC cathodoluminescence (CL) and SECOM correlative light and scanning electron microscope (CLEM) on the same FIB-SEM at the Microstructural Analysis Unit at the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS). The SPARC is the most comprehensive and versatile CL system available, offering more measurement modes than any other system. This installation is made even more significant by virtue of the fact that it is the first in the world to feature the Delmic LAB Cube time-resolved CL module which provides invaluable information in the research of photovoltaics, light emitting devices and single emitters. It also features outstanding light collection efficiency and other optimised optics, in order to maximise collection 42 | SEPTEMBER 2020

efficiency. The specific system installed at UTS includes three high sensitivity CCD cameras covering the UV, visible and NIR spectral ranges (180 to 1600nm). Combining optical fluorescence microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) in situ, the unique SECOM instrument is normally used for biological applications. While the system will be used for this application, it has also been adapted to study advanced light-emitting materials using photoluminescence (PL). By installing both systems on the same FIB-SEM instrument, the UTS researchers have unlocked the potential to carry out some unique correlative experiments. These experiments can provide new insights into novel materials such as multifunctional 2D materials, advanced metamaterials and single photon emitters, with applications in quantum plasmonics and nanophotonics. Commenting on the newly installed BACK TO CONTENTS

Delmic systems, Professor Matthew Phillips, who was key to the acquisition of these systems said, “We have been involved with CL research for many years, and the new SPARC expands and enhances our capabilities. I am very interested in exploring the new angleresolved, time-resolved and polarised CL modes, as well as looking at how we can apply the complimentary datasets from the SECOM system.” This unique setup was acquired thanks to funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC grant LE180100030), involving collaboration between several universities in NSW, Queensland and Victoria. This will see the system used by many researchers who will be involved in the characterisation of a wide range of materials such as nanophotonics, optoelectronics, plasmonics and other emerging materials. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

INDUSTRY NEWS

Plasma FIB-SEMs – Advantages and Applications Source: Dr Cameron Chai and Dr Kamran Khajehpour

Gallium FIB-SEMs (Focussed ion Beam- Scanning Electron Microscope) have been and continue to be valuable instruments in materials researchers’ arsenals. However, more recent variants like the TESCAN AMBER X, Xe plasma FIB-SEM raise the bar. The main advantages of plasma FIBs over more traditional gallium FIBs are their ability to remove material at a much faster rate and the fact that they are far less prone to poisoning the material being analysed. Gallium ion implantation can affect chemical analysis via techniques such as EDS (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) or ToF-SIMS (Time of Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy) and can alter the electrical and physical properties of the material.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

FIB-SEMs have 3 main applications: • 3D materials analysis • TEM sample preparation • Nanofabrication SEMs have the ability to image materials at magnifications far greater than optical microscopes. With the addition of a FIB column, layers can be progressively be removed, while images of each layer can be reconstructed into a 3D model, in a process called FIB-SEM tomography. FIB-SEMs can be equipped with any number of detectors e.g. EDS, EBSD (Electron Beam Backscatter Diffraction) etc., turning them into valuable analytical tools that can perform 3D analyses which can be extremely useful for coatings or materials that vary as a function of depth. Plasma FIB-SEMs can perform these measurements many times faster than gallium FIB-SEMs. While gallium poisoning is avoided, the

BACK TO CONTENTS

possibility of xenon poisoning is significantly reduced. FIB-SEMs can be used to remove material in a controlled 3D EBSD of cold drawn copper wire way. This enables users to fabricate nano and micro-scale structures as well as prepare TEM lamellae. Again, the faster material removal rates possible with plasma FIBSEMs mean higher throughput rates are a reality.

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 43

UNIVERSITY SPOTLIGHT

University of Adelaide Source: Sally Wood

The University of Adelaide stands tall as one of the world’s leading organisations for education and innovation. Founded in 1874, the University became the first in Australia to grant science degrees. In addition, it offered degrees in arts, law, medicine and music before the 1900s. Today, it is a member of The Group of Eight, which includes Australia’s top research-intensive universities. It consistently features as a high ranking institution, with many international bodies placing the University in the top one per cent worldwide. Over 100 countries are represented in the student population. The total number of students is 21,142, of which 7,868 are from overseas. The University also has an impressive list of alumni, including five Nobel Laureates; Australia’s first Indigenous Rhodes Scholar recipient; and Australia’s first female Prime Minister – Julia Gillard.

The University of Adelaide’s Contribution to Materials Science and the Centre for Energy Technology The University of Adelaide has generated $181.6 million in total research income, with a strong emphasis on research utilisation. The University’s Centre for Energy Technology (CET) links research teams with end-users in their respective industries. These partnerships work together to develop innovative methods for fuel sustainability, minerals processing and other power needs.

The key intention of the Centre is to fast-track Australia’s transition to a carbon neutral economy and environment. It is underpinned by four key research challenges, including: • Sustainable secure power • Sustainable fuels • Sustainable minerals • Sustainable networks and grids. Over 115 researchers and students operate across CET’s 20 projects, which span across unique challenges and scales. Together, the team publishes 170 papers per annum, in leading academic journals, and registers an average of two patents per annum. Professor Gus Nathan leads the team of researchers, whose expertise is focused on energy engineering; particularly in systems relevant to geothermal, solar, and the combustion of fossil and bio-fuels. Professor Nathan was responsible for leading a team which designed the fuel and combustion technique for the relay torch during the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. In addition, he co-invented the patented combustor used in the stadium flame and torch for the 2004 Athens, and 2016 Rio Olympic Games. CET’s research is divided into nine themes: • Solar thermal • Energy materials • Wind, wave and tidal power • Low carbon materials • Biomass to energy • Two phase flow • Sooting flames

• Chemical looping • Laser diagnostics. Over $12 million worth of infrastructure is housed at CET’s facilities, where international researchers gather to seek solutions to the challenges of the modern world. The nine research themes at CET are supported by state-of-the-art facilities, including: • Energy storage testing facility • Solar simulation facilities • Biomass and coal research laboratory • Photocatalysis laboratory • Wind tunnel • Laser diagnostic systems and research laboratories • Micro-algae cultivation and processing facilities.

ARENA Solar Thermal in the Bayer Alumina Process Project Researchers that are part CET’s solar thermal research theme, are seeking to achieve 50 per cent concentration of solar thermal (CST) into the commercial Bayer alumina process. The Bayer alumina process involves the heating of bauxite ore, along with a sodium hydroxide solution. This forces the aluminium to dissolve, as a sodium aluminate, as part of an extraction process. The production of calcined alumina in Australia generates over $5 billion each year, and accounts for around 27 per cent of Australia’s industrial carbon emissions. This University of Adelaide’s project intends to establish a path to progressively integrate three CST energy technologies into the Bayer alumina process. The project team has found that the introduction of concentrated solar thermal technologies to the Bayer alumina process, could currently lead to a 29-45 per cent solar share. CET research, as part of this body of work, is separated into three programs: • Low temperature process heat: which seeks to understand the conditions that CST can be integrated into low temperature process heat for increased evaporation, digestion, and pre-heating.

44 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

UNIVERSITY SPOTLIGHT

• Solar reforming of natural gas: which examines the economic viability of generating syngas, through solar reform, for the Bayer alumina process.

theory and other experiments to develop a framework for catalysts. These catalysts focus on the energy material’s chemical and physical structures.

• High temperature calcination: which investigates if CST can be economically introduced to the calcination stage of the Bayer alumina process, or directly to the reactor, or indirectly by heating particles.

Through this discovery, Professor Qiao’s team can offer better performance for cutting edge energy storage and conversion processes.

The solar share developed by CET research could potentially alter natural gas reliance, and reduce fuel costs. This $15.1 million project receives funding support from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

Wind, Wave and Tidal Power

The project is led by the University of Adelaide, but also encompasses CSIRO and the University of New South Wales. Its industry partners include Alcoa of Australia, IT Power and Hatch.

High Performance Electrocatalysts Project Electrochemical devices, such as fuel and water-splitting cells, and batteries, require energy materials to operate. Researchers at CET are creating high performance catalysts to bring greater efficiency to these electrochemical devices. Professor Shizhang Qiao leads research through CET to design these devices for greater use. This may include use in oxygen reduction reactions, hydrogen evolution reactions, and oxygen evolution reactions. The team has used a computational

Heavy Industry Lowcarbon Transition Cooperative Research Centre Proposal Under the Australian Government’s Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) program, researchers link with government and industry to provide advice and solutions to modern challenges. Professor Nathan, from CET, led the bid for the Heavy Industry Low-Carbon Transition CRC. “The industrial sector is expected to be the slowest to transform, because

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

Similarly, wave and tidal power research, undertaken at CET, is focusing on the potentials of ocean energy. Professor Ben Cazzolato and Associate Professor Maziar Arjomandi are modelling electromechanical systems, which are matched with incoming waves for power generation. When captured, wave energy can provide electricity, water desalination, and pump water.

Another key area of research, for CET, is the optimisation of components in wind and wave turbines. The research works in collaboration with Carnegie Clean Energy, and is aimed at technology that extracts energy from untapped wave energy resources. Associate Professor Nesimi Ertugrul leads the CET team, which is examining the unique elements of wind power. The team is working to optimise wind power generation across Australia’s 52 wind farms. As part of their research, the team has developed an algorithm-based optimisation method that will benefit wind farm design. The software uses computing power and advanced algorithms to test up to thousands of potential network options, which can then inform Australia’s wind farm layouts. Industry partners are already reaping the benefits of the software through a reduction in time, and a corresponding saving in cost, due to the increased efficiencies in the design process. the technology do this is less well established,” he said.

- Hydrogen utilisation, electrification and solar thermal energy

“It is also critical to our national and global economies. There is a growing demand, a lot of economic drivers for this transition, but also environment imperative,” Nathan added.

- CO2 capture, storage and re-use - Flexible integration, use of digital twins, and systems engineering. • Facilitating transformation:

The proposed CRC will focus on three research program areas:

- Roadmaps, strategy and upscaling challenges

• Process technologies:

- Supply chain and value chain mapping

- Blast furnaces - Iron pellets - Steam and calcination - Roasting and drying - New, high value products. • Cross-cutting technologies: -B iomass and waste-derived feedstock utilisation

BACK TO CONTENTS

- Markets, policy and regulation - Future industry planning. Each area will be led by a research and industry leader, with the University of Adelaide in the prime seat to drive this next generation of research. If the bid is successful, the CRC will commence in October 2021.

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 45

INDUSTRY NEWS

BREAKING NEWS Unusual State of Matter in New Material Holds Promise for Transformative Quantum Technologies

Spin-Gapless Semiconductors Review: More Candidates for Next-Generation Low Energy and High Efficient Spintronics

ANSTO has provided supporting experimental evidence of a highly unusual quantum state, a quantum spin liquid (QSL), in a two-dimensional material as reported by an international collaboration led by Tokyo University of Science. Materials with quantum spin liquid states could be used in the development of spintronic devices, quantum computers and other transformative quantum technologies. In a quantum spin liquid, an elusive state of matter that is the subject of much investigation worldwide, the electron spins, in a magnetic material, never align, but continue to fluctuate even at the lowest temperatures. This phenomena has been described as a fluctuating liquid-like state. Low energy spin excitations, evidence of a QSL, were detected at a range of very low temperatures during experiments in Japan. Importantly, the expected spin ordering or freezing was not detected in the inelastic neutron scattering spectra. Scientists Dr Richard Mole and Dr Dehong Yu used inelastic neutron scattering, a spectroscopic technique to detect the vibrations of atoms. “When we analysed the Pelican data at 25K, 15K and 48mK, we could see the same spin excitations and they persisted to the lowest temperature, which is only slightly above absolute zero,” Dr Mole said. In order to create these low-temperature environments, a special type of cryostat, called a dilution insert, was optimised on the Pelican instrument. “A quantum spin liquid state possesses extensive many-body entanglements, a kind of correlation, or a link between all the spins. As an analogy, think of a bucket of water with several fishing floats on the surface. If you disturb one float, all the floats will also be disturbed,” Dr Yu explained.

The University of Wollongong recently published an extensive review of spin-gapless semiconductors (SGSs). SGSs are a new class of zero gap materials that have fully spin polarised electrons and holes. The study enhances the search for materials that would allow for ultra-fast, ultra-low energy spintronic electronics, with no wasted dissipation of energy from electrical conduction. The defining property of SGS materials relates to their ‘bandgap’ – the gap between the material’s valence and conduction bands – which defines their electronic properties. In general, one spin channel is semiconducting with a finite band gap, while the other spin channel has a closed (zero) band gap. The band structures of the SGSs can have two types of energymomentum dispersions: Dirac (linear) dispersion or parabolic dispersion. The new review investigates both Dirac and the three sub-types of parabolic SGSs in different material systems. For Dirac type SGS, the electron mobility is two to four orders of magnitude higher than in classical semiconductors. Very little energy is needed to excite electrons in an SGS, charge concentrations are very easily ‘tuneable’. The Dirac type spin gapless semiconductors exhibit fully spin polarised Dirac cones, and offer a platform for spintronics and low-energy consumption electronics through dissipation-less edge states, driven by the quantum anomalous Hall effect. In a spin-gapless semiconductor, conduction and valence band edges touch in one spin channel, and no threshold energy is required to move electrons from occupied (valence) states to empty (conduction) states. This property gives these materials unique properties, as their band structures are extremely sensitive to external influences such as pressure or magnetic field. Most SGS materials are all ferromagnetic materials with high Curie temperatures.

Inelastic neutron scattering data of KCu6AlBiO4(SO4)5Cl. Pelican measurements plotted at h. Image courtesy of ANSTO.

46 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

LEFT: The band structures of parabolic and Dirac type SGS materials with spin-orbital coupling, which leads to the quantum anomalous Hall effect. ABOVE: FLEET Chief Investigator Professor Xiaolin Wang

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

INDUSTRY NEWS

BREAKING NEWS Through The Nanoscale Looking Glass: Fleet Researchers Determine Boson Peak Frequency in Ultra-Thin Alumina Glasses, which are disordered materials with no long-range chemical order, have some mysterious properties that have remained enigmatic for several decades. Recent collaborative work between the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies (FLEET) partners, the University of Wollongong, RMIT University and ANSTO has revealed the frequency of the boson-peak in the density of states of ultrathin alumina with thicknesses of two nanometres. However, many of the fundamental properties of alumina remain unknown owing to the fact it is thermodynamically unstable at the macroscale. The research team overcame this issue by focusing on nanoscale glasses, in the context of core-shell particles of an aluminium sphere wrapped in a thin skin of its native alumina oxide. Armed with the novel (and slightly explosive) samples, researchers deployed neutron spectroscopy, at ANSTO, to measure the lattice vibrations in the core shell particles. Using the small particles to enhance the surface contrast, the group revealed a THz-frequency feature for the feature, for the boson peak, that aligns with theoretical calculations. “I was excited to see the match between the molecular dynamics performed by the Cole group and our neutron experiment,” said lead author Dr David Cortie. “Our ability to predict the vibrational and electronic properties of ultra-thin materials and heterointerfaces is getting better year-on-year.” The new measurements are useful in identifying methods to control heat transfer through ultra-thin alumina. In addition to the FLEET experimentalists at the University of Wollongong and ANSTO, and theorists from RMIT, the study also represents a research partnership between two ARC Centres of Excellence in molecular dynamics modelling and exciton science.

Scientists Discover How to Smash Quantum Limits A team of Australian researchers has made a surprising discovery, working out how to break quantum limits. Scientists from The University of Western Australia’s (UWA) Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav) surpassed the limit in their quest to build better gravitational wave detectors using squeezed light technology on 40kg test masses in LIGO detectors. A quantum limit comes about from the interaction between light and a test mass, and breaking this limit, just like breaking the sound barrier, once seemed impossible. Gravitational wave detectors are the most precise measurement devices ever built, and the result shows they are now poised to see, and exploit, the effects of quantum physics, which governs the smallest objects in the universe, on human-sized objects such as their 40kg test masses.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

TOP LEFT: Co-author (experimental): FLEET AI Dr David Cortie (University of Wollongong). TOP RIGHT: Co-author (theoretical) FLEET CI Prof Jared Cole (RMIT). BOTTOM (L to R): Modelling nanoscale glass: Molecular dynamics model of 3-nmthick glass interface on a crystalline substrate. Experimental verification: neutron spectroscopy study of aluminium particle spheres wrapped in a thin alumina skin. Theoretical modelling and experiment verification combined: molecular dynamics model overlaid on TEM image of interface between crystalline core and oxide shell. (Image: Martin Cyster)

UWA physicist Dr Carl Blair, who was part of the team to make the discovery said discovering how to break quantum limits was significant for physics and science. “It’s amazing to think that sitting in the control room at LIGO, by manipulating some controls on a computer, you can manipulate the quantum noise of a 40kg mirror,” Dr Blair said. “We were able to break the limit doing something very mysterious – squeezing the quantum vacuum,” he continued. “In breaking this limit, we are now entering a world where quantum limits on measurements can be routinely surpassed.” Scientist Dr Xu Chen, also from UWA, said OzGrav and their collaborators were able to smash through the quantum noise barrier of gravitational-wave detectors. “At UWA, we aim to improve the sensitivity further with a white-light cavity. This works best at higher frequencies where we can see more binary neutron stars colliding,” Dr Chen said.

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 47

INDUSTRY NEWS

BREAKING NEWS Supercharged Bandages to Revolutionise Chronic Wound Treatment World-first plasma-coated bandages, with the power to attack infection and inflammation, could revolutionise the treatment of chronic wounds such as pressure, diabetic or vascular ulcers that do not heal on their own.

Publication: The Multi-Faceted MechanoBactericidal Mechanism of Nanostructured Surfaces

Developed by the University of South Australia (UniSA), the novel coating comprises a special antioxidant that can be applied to any wound dressing to simultaneously reduce inflammation and break up infection to aid in wound repair. In Australia, nearly half a million people suffer from chronic wounds, costing the health system an estimated $3 billion each year. More than 5.7 million people suffer from chronic wounds in the United States. In the United Kingdom, more than two million people are currently living with chronic wounds at a cost of £5 billion per year. With growing rates of global obesity, diabetes and an ageing population, chronic wounds are increasingly affecting large proportions of the general population, yet few treatments have historically shown such positive results. Dr Thomas Michl, who leads the project at UniSA, said that upgrading current dressings with this state-of-the-art coating will promote effective healing on chronic wounds and reduce patient suffering. “Proper care for chronic wounds requires frequent changes of wound dressings, but currently, these wound dressings are passive actors in wound management,” Dr Michl said. “Our novel coatings change this, turning any wound dressing into an active participant in the healing process – not only covering and protecting the wound, but also knocking down excessive inflammation and infection.” The technology is highly scalable and sustainable, making it a viable option for broad application worldwide.

A publication from Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM) on the bactericidal action delivered by rigid nanopillar arrays stems from the mechanical rupture of the bacterial cell membrane. Image courtesy of SEAM.

A publication from Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM) on the bactericidal action delivered by rigid nanopillar arrays, stems from the mechanical rupture of the bacterial cell membrane; however, the precise mechanism may be unique to the individual nanopillar geometries. In this work, researchers presented a new model of mechanobactericidal action, which is specific to the elasticity of highly ordered arrays of symmetrical silicon nanopillars. Specific control over the height and spacing, simultaneously, was achieved using carefully controlled deep UV immersion lithography and plasma etching. At a certain aspect ratio, nanopillar elasticity contributes to the onset of pillar-to-pillar interactions upon bacterial adsorption to the surface. Previous mechano-bactericidal models have described the nanopillar surface as a ‘bed of nails’, which assumes complete rigidity in the surface structures. However, this work confirms the elastic pillar-pillar interactions to be reversible cluster formations, that are capable of delivering pillar-induced tension to the bacterial membrane due to their flexible bending and straightening motions. The enhanced rates of bactericidal activity observed in this study, for pillars of 360nm and 35nm diameters, can be attributed to the stress-induced deflection of the nanopillars upon bacterial membrane adsorption. This generates increased stretching of the membrane as the pillars deflect and revert to their original position, as opposed to the mechanistic action developed for rigid nanopillars.

World-first plasma-coated bandages, with the power to attack infection and inflammation, could revolutionise the treatment of chronic wounds.

48 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

The Australian Research Council Industrial Transformation Training Centre in SEAM is Australia’s premier manufacturing research and development centre, which focuses on applied research with tangible outcomes.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

INDUSTRY NEWS

BREAKING NEWS Applying ‘Magic Angle’ Twistronics to Manipulate the Flow of Light

Towards Ultra-Sensitive Diagnostic Chips

Monash University researchers, who are part of an international collaboration applying ‘twistronic’ concepts, are seeking to manipulate the flow of light in extreme ways. Twistronic concepts – the science of layering and twisting two-dimensional materials to control their electrical properties – can lead to advances in a variety of light-driven technologies, including nano-imaging devices; high-speed, low-energy optical computers; and biosensors. It is the first application of Moiré physics and twistronics to the light-based technologies, photonics and polaritonics, opening unique opportunities for extreme photonic dispersion engineering and robust control of polaritons on two-dimensional materials. The research team took inspiration from the recent discovery of superconductivity in a pair of stacked graphene layers that were rotated to the ‘magic twist angle’ of 1.1 degrees. Researchers discovered that an analogous principle can be applied to manipulate light in highly unusual ways. At a specific rotation angle between two ultrathin layers of molybdenumtrioxide, the researchers were able to prevent optical diffraction and enable robust light propagation in a tightly focused beam at desired wavelengths. “Our experiments were far beyond our expectations,” said Dr Qingdong Ou, who led the experimental component of the study at Monash. “By stacking ‘with a twist’ two thin slabs of a natural 2D material, we can manipulate infrared light propagation, most intriguingly, in a highly collimated style,” Dr Ou explained.

An ultra-thin nanostructure gold film – or metasurface – with the potential to revolutionise next-generation bio-sensing chips, has been developed by an international team, led by Swinburne University of Technology. Image courtesy of Swinburne University.

In addition to support from the Australian Research Council, there were other stakeholders with a vested interest, including the US Air Force Office of Scientific Research; Singapore’s Agency for Science Technology and Research; and China’s National Natural Science Foundation.

The researchers include Founding Director of the Centre for Translational Atomaterials at Swinburne, Professor Baohua Jia and Distinguished Professor Yuri Kivshar from the Australian National University, who recently developed the metasurface, which is capable of strong light-matter interaction with higher sensitivity.

BELOW: Field distributions (top panel) and corresponding dispersion (bottom panel) at varying rotation angles. BOTTOM L-R: Twisted bi-layer (tBL) α-MoO3. A bilayer of molybdenum trioxides supports highly collimated, directive, and diffractionless propagation of nano-light when the two layers are aligned at the photonic ‘magic angle’. Dr Qingdong Ou (Monash University) with s-SNOM facility at Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication (MCN)

The metasurface consists of an array of standing double-pillar meta-molecules that support strong dark mode resonances or electromagnetic configurations, that can ‘trap’ light energy and prevent it from escaping. Once the dark modes are excited, the structure ‘squeezes’ light into the tips of the pillars. “When the metasurface is illuminated by light at some specific oblique angles, dark modes can be excited and they can ‘trap’ all the energy of incident light, leading to the highest field enhancements at the tips of pillars,” said Swinburne PhD candidate Yao Liang, who also co-authored the paper. The strong light field enhancement in the infrared molecular fingerprint wavelength region has many applications. “For example, it could be applied to build an ultra-compact and extremely sensitive diagnostic chip that can detect disease in small samples of blood or saliva, helping people monitor their health in real-time,” said co-author Dr Fengchun Zhang from South China Normal University. The breakthrough shows great potential for other applications such as ultra-fast thermal imaging and quantum emitters.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 49

INDUSTRY NEWS

BREAKING NEWS Weird Science

New Partnership in Lightning Protection A new partnership between Swinburne University of Technology and Lightning Protection International (LPI) will develop novel materials for LPI’s lightning protection devices, known as ‘air terminals’. The industry-led research project has been awarded $154,000 by the Australian Government, through the Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (IMCRC), matching LPI’s research and development investment. It will enable the launch of nextgeneration air terminals that focus on corona minimisation. The project will be led by Swinburne’s Dr Andrew Ang and Dr Rosalie Hocking, and LPI’s Dr Franco D’Alessandro. “One of the challenges with air terminals is that water droplets and air pollution deposits can impact their performance,” Dr Rosalie Hocking said. “The novel materials we are developing will overcome this issue,” Dr Franco D’Alessandro, Chief Technology Officer of LPI added.

New research from the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the Australian Catholic University (ACU) shows how gender stereotypes influence young people’s perceptions of scientists.

White lab coats and dangerous experiments all epitomise the ‘mad scientist’, but beyond Hollywood, the stereotype lives on, and according to new research, it could influence the next generation of potential scientists. New research from the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the Australian Catholic University (ACU) shows how gender stereotypes influence young people’s perceptions of scientists. UniSA researcher Dr Garth Stahl, and Dr Laura Scholes from ACU, said understanding how stereotypes of science and scientists can influence children’s career aspirations – even at the primary school level – is important to address the skills shortage in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). “In the case of science, media often shows scientists to be eccentric men in white coats,” Dr Stahl said. “The problem with stereotypes is that they tend to stick, so what we’re seeing with primary school students is that their perceptions of science and scientists are influencing their ideas of future careers.”

During a thunderstorm, all objects, especially sharp ones, can produce a charge in the air around their extremities that can be counterproductive for air terminals, whose job it is to capture the lightning strike. Air terminals intercept lightning strikes and safely pass their extremely high currents to ground through connected ‘downconductors’, which protect structures. The project aims to benefit manufacturing and other industry sectors, both in Australia and internationally. David Chuter, Managing Director and CEO of IMCRC, said the value of collaborative research and development will be highly beneficial. “This research collaboration is a great example of a manufacturing SME being ambitious, and strategically entering a partnership with an Australian university to solve real world problems and develop tangible and exportable technology. We are delighted to see Tasmania’s LPI work with Victoria’s Swinburne University,” Chuter said. Image courtesy of LPI: LPI’s international air terminal installations (two terminals visible). These air terminals are protecting a hospital in India.

Forty-five year four primary school students, across six economically and geographically diverse schools, were interviewed about their future job ambitions; their interest in becoming a scientist; what kind of work a scientist did; and what a scientist might look like. The majority of students (55 per cent) had no aspirations to be a scientist; six were ambivalent; and 13 said they would strongly consider a job as a scientist. Nearly 40 per cent of students said they ‘did not like’ science, and that it was ‘boring’ or ‘weird’. Researchers found that most students did not see gender as a defining factor for a scientist, with only two students saying a scientist was ‘usually a man’.

50 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

INDUSTRY NEWS

BREAKING NEWS Now You See It, Now You Don’t: Adding Chameleon-Like Capabilities to Defence Drones

Australia’s Future Industries Institute (FII), the solution is at hand.

In conjunction with the Department of Defence, University of South Australia material scientists have developed a range of lightweight panels that can change colour on demand, allowing drones to match their appearance to the background colours of the sky. Ever since the French had the bright idea of using hydrogen balloons for military surveillance in the late 18th century, aviation capability has played a central role in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. Today unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, are a huge asset for ISR. The Australian Army has drones ranging from the tiny Black Hornet – which is about the size of a whiteboard marker – to larger models with wide ranging surveillance capabilities. Despite their ubiquity and utility, all military UAVs are currently hindered by the same simple problem – the sky changes colour, but they do not. Given the huge importance of remaining undetected during ISR operations, the static colour of drones can be a significant problem, but now, thanks to researchers at The University of South

Unexpectedly-Fast Conduction Electrons in Na3Bi An Australian-led study uses a scanningtunnelling microscope ‘trick’ to map electronic structure in Na3Bi, seeking an answer to that material’s extremely high electron mobility. In studying the topological Dirac semimetal, the team found that exchange and correlation effects are crucial to electron speed, and therefore mobility, and thus, to the use of this exciting class of materials in future ultra-low energy electronics. To date, little has been known about the band dispersion of Na3Bi in the conduction WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

In a collaboration with the Department of Defence, FII researchers, led by Dr Kamil Zuber, have developed a range of lightweight polymer panels that can change colour on demand. The polymers are what are known as electrochromic materials, meaning they change colour in response to an electric field, and the exact colours can be tuned to specific voltages. “Similar technology has been used in luxury cars, for dimming mirrors, and on the windows of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner,” Dr Zuber said. “But those applications are slow, require high power consumption to switch, and the electric flow must be maintained to sustain the change state.” “Our panels, on the other hand, have switching speeds in the range of seconds and offer colour memory, which means they retain their switched colour without a continuously applied voltage. They also operate in the range from -1.5 to +1.5 volts, which means you only need to use an AA battery to activate the change.” In addition to their chameleon-like characteristics, the panels are inexpensive, lightweight and durable, and can be either rigid or flexible, making them ideal for use on drones of all sizes and specifications.

band (above the Fermi level), though there have been tantalising hints that the actual velocity of the electrons is much larger than theoretical predictions. “We grew thin films of Na3Bi and investigated their band structure via quasiparticle interference,” said lead author Dr Iolanda di Bernardo. “Our calculations revealed that to understand the extremely high experimental velocities of the charge carriers, particularly in the conduction band, exchange and correlation effects are crucial.” FLEET Research Fellow Dr Iolanda di Bernardo, School of Physics and Astronomy, Monash University.

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 51

FEATURE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Materials for Energy and the Environment

Materials for Energy and the Environment Sustaining the future

52 | SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

FEATURE – Materials for Energy and the Environment

In 2016-2017 Australia produced approximately 67 million tonnes of waste, but only 58 per cent of all generated waste was recovered. Not surprisingly then, the creation of new materials from waste products for increased energy demand, which are also environmentally compatible, is a growing area of interest for governments, researchers and industry bodies alike.

maintaining the value of resources over a prolonged period of time. The report estimated that Australia’s gross domestic product could benefit by as much as $24 billion if there was a five per cent improvement in material usage efficiency.

Since the 1950s, there has been a shift from biomass, or renewable materials, to non-renewables, which include metals, fossil fuels and minerals. Today, the global population heavily relies on the goods and services delivered by these materials like shelter, communication, nourishment and education.

Dr Lisa Heinze from the University of Sydney said that avoiding waste and maximising the use of resources is a cultural shift.

But the impacts of extracting these materials are taking their toll on the natural world, and leading to landscape degradation, habitat loss, waste generation, decreased water quality, and ecosystem pollution. It also results in substantial energy usage. The global population is likely to rise to nine billion over the next three to four decades. By comparison, the population increased from 1.6 billion to 6.1 billion during the 20th Century alone. The need for environmental requirements to be introduced into design and development of materials has become a vital issue to meet the increased demands. In 2018, Australia adopted a National Waste Policy, which sought to shift away from the idea of ‘take, make, use and dispose’ to a circular economy. Under this new model, greater emphasis is placed on

The report also suggests waste is responsible for two per cent of Australia’s overall greenhouse gas emissions. It suggests avoiding waste altogether is the most preferable option, and highlights the role that all levels of government have to achieve that outcome.

“Our landfills, landscapes and waterways are choking with plastic. Despite recent ‘plastic-free’ campaigns, global demand for plastic is on the rise, and nationally, our plastic recycling rates are below ten per cent.” “Addressing the environmental and health concerns associated with plastics will depend on all of us – individuals, institutions and governments – working together and alongside industry, toward a truly petroleum-based plastic-free future,” she said. Similarly, Professor Thomas Maschmeyer, also from the University of Sydney, said that while non-renewables, like plastic, are harmful to the environment, researchers need to focus on turning these resources into new products. “Plastic waste is a serious environmental issue, but also presents a great resource opportunity,” said Professor Maschmeyer. Australian research is leading a new era of innovation to create and maximise the benefits of a sustainable future.

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 53

FEATURE – Materials for Energy and the Environment

Players in the Australian Market Australia’s commitment to enhanced materials management is led by a vast coalition of research bodies and universities, who partner with industry to create real-world outcomes. The Australian Research Council (ARC), founded in 2001, is a Commonwealth entity that advises the Australian Government on research matters, administers the National Competitive Grants Program, and has responsibility for Excellence in Research for Australia. ARC is one of the Australian Government’s two central agencies for allocating research funding to academics and researchers at Australian universities.

SMaRT Green Materials Working in partnership with business and industry, SMaRT develops green materials that are made entirely, or primarily, from the rubbish that communities throw away. The materials are cheaper and more sustainable, which result in better products for businesses, consumers, communities and the environment. Australia is responsible for almost half the global production of macadamia nuts per

54 | SEPTEMBER 2020

annum – making Australia the world’s main commercial producer. However, research undertaken by SMaRT’s Andrea Wechsler in 2013 explored the use of wasted macadamia shells, alongside pine cones and eucalyptus capsules, which were bonded with recycled polypropylene and a castor oil adhesive to be used in composite panel materials.

construction panels and insulation (both thermal and acoustic).

Similarly, truck tarpaulins and advertising banners are not typically on display for a long-term. To maximise the use of these materials, SMaRT worked cohesively with an Australian manufacturer to recycle them, rather than send them to landfill. The research team finely shredded the advertising banners and used wax to hold the materials together, this created strong and waterproof flooring materials, which are resistant to chemicals and absorb no moisture. The creative method is a highly versatile material for the construction industry.

The SMaRT green materials reduce demand for energy, which also helps to cut pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. All production processes are designed to minimise energy consumption, and to replace the finite natural resources, that industry relies on, with alternatives derived from waste.

Over 1.25 million mattresses are dumped in Australian landfill every year. Many mattresses are illegally disposed and not readily recycled. The average mattress consists of 12.5kg of steel, 2kg of wood, 1.5kg of foam, and produces a large amount of residual waste. However, a collaboration between SMaRT and Resource Recovery Australia, has developed and refined a range of

Professor Sahajwalla is positive that her work will assist with the ongoing national commitment towards a circular economy.

BACK TO CONTENTS

These case studies show the vast use of formerly wasted materials, and the innovative approach adopted by SMaRT. Other materials that have been sustainably recycled include tyres, glass and electronics.

The Centre describes the process as taking ‘virgin resources’ to save the energy otherwise used in mining and transport, and produce non-toxic materials that are useful.

“The world is actually facing challenges related to waste plastics and the pollution that it causes, what we developed now is the world’s first micro-factory that is actually going to address this crisis,” Professor Sahajwalla said.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

FEATURE – Materials for Energy and the Environment

University of New South Wales Twelve years ago, ARC Laureate Fellow Scientia Professor Veena Sahajwalla founded the Centre for Sustainable Materials Research and Technology (SMaRT) at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). SMaRT works with industry, global research partners, not-for-profits, local, state and federal governments, on the development of innovative environmental solutions for the world’s biggest waste challenges. The centre boasts 30 personnel, state-ofthe-art furnaces and laboratories, and sophisticated analytical and processing equipment. SMaRT’s key intentions include: • Leading scientific and engineering research advances in the sustainability of materials and manufacturing processes • Developing novel and innovative technologies and products that reduce environmental impact and enhance community benefits • Activating sustainability research through the innovation-researchdevelopment-translation value chain in partnership with industry. Underlying these aims, SMaRT also engages the wider community with sustainability research to address global waste issues. Professor Sahajwalla is an internationally recognised materials scientist, with expertise in revolutionising recycling. She said her work at SMaRT is about producing a new generation of green materials and products. “It’s really all about taking different products and materials that typically might have ended up in landfill, recycling it, reforming it. This is what’s going to ultimately be good for our economy and good for our environment,” she said.

University of South Australia The Future Industries Institute (FII) at the University of South Australia (UniSA) is primarily focused on transforming current industries to more sustainable practices in the future. The multi-million dollar institute specialises on four key topic areas: 1. Minerals and resources engineering strives to improve rates of discovery, optimise process performance, reduce WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

energy and water usage, and assist in the assessment and introduction of technological innovations across the resources value chain 2. Energy and advanced manufacturing involves scientists and engineers who specialise in polymer chemistry, materials science and surface engineering technologies working closely with industry partners to develop new products and innovative ideas in the automotive, defence, health care and renewable energy sectors 3. E nvironmental science and engineering draws on expertise in biogeochemical processes to develop innovative solutions to the challenges facing agriculture and the environment 4. Biomaterials engineering and nanomedicine supports the development of precision medicine by leveraging long standing expertise in nanomedicine. ‘Living within limits’ is a key element of UniSA’s approach to materials management, as researchers seek to develop management systems to create sustainable living under a changing environment and population. The research theme of ‘scarce resources’ brings researchers together to create and implement those strategies that restore, protect and optimise social, cultural, economic and environmental resources. Professor Christopher Saint is the Dean of Research and Innovation in the Division of Information Technology, Engineering and the Environment at UniSA. “The scarce resources theme at the University of South Australia is looking to answer one big question: how do we eliminate waste in this state?” Professor Saint asked. Researchers have used ground concrete, and old tiles to produce a new, more environmentally sustainable concrete. Similarly, toxics and plastics, which can be quite dangerous, have also been transformed into new materials that are safe for industry-wide use. “It’s about building a circular economy from waste, creating more jobs and new industry. There are so many ways that we can restore, protect and optimise our resources,” Professor Saint added. BACK TO CONTENTS

CSIRO CSIRO’s Materials for Energy and the Environment (MEE) Group is responsible for solution-focused outcomes for industrial challenges, and reducing the impact that many materials and processes create on the environment. At the height of Australia’s recyclable waste crisis in 2017, where over 80 per cent of all recycled waste was exported to countries in Asia, CSIRO published The Recycled Plastics Market: Global Analysis and Trends Report. The report focused on developing a comprehensive and authoritative analysis on the plastics recycling industry. Through this, the report assists with the future identification of research and development opportunities to overcome market challenges and support growth. The recommendations in the report included: • The research suggests that there is a strong case for the development of innovative technologies that overcome identified challenges and support continued growth • There are opportunities across the recycling industry, including: - increasing the cost effectiveness of waste collection - providing more efficient sorting and reducing rates of contamination - using low value or underutilised feedstocks - delivering higher quality resins that can compete with virgin materials on price and quality. The report also undertook a macroeconomic analysis of the political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental factors that may influence the implementation of a successful waste management scheme in Australia. Ten stakeholder interviews were conducted as part of the report, in addition to independent intellectual property landscape studies, CSIRO-authored and independent market analysis reports into the plastic recycling industry. The results from the interviews showed that there is an increasing consumer focus on environmental issues and sustainability, which has helped to drive the market. This has translated into both a shift in preference towards global brand owners with sustainable processes, and increased political action from governments to introduce legislation and policies that support plastic recycling measures. SEPTEMBER 2020 | 55

FEATURE – Materials for Energy and the Environment

for everyday items in the home. “Archimats are also suitable for micro manufacturing. They can be produced using desktop or benchtop manufacturing processes, without the need for heavy equipment and large amounts of material.”

Monash University Researchers at Monash University’s Materials Science and Engineering Department are interested in maximising a wide range of materials for a suite of applications. The materials range from nanostructured to electronics, energy storage and also magnetic materials, which can be used in healthcare. Professor Yuri Estrin, an Honorary Professorial Fellow, has led a project that could revolutionise the construction industry, assist areas affected by natural hazards, and even become used in space exploration. The project has developed archimats, which is an emerging area of ‘architectured’ materials that have an organised intertwined or interlocked inner architecture. Professor Estrin explains that archimats can expand the design space that conventional composite materials cannot process. They also provide an ease of assembly and disassembly and nearly full recyclability of the elements used. “Archimats therefore offer smarter, safer and more sustainable materials for use in manufacturing and industrial design, with the building industry being arguably the greatest potential beneficiary of this design concept,” Professor Estrin said. They can be engineered to possess superior strength, undergo significant plastic deformation, tolerate damage, good thermal insulation and sound absorption. While the European Space Agency is already considering archimats for the construction of a lunar base, Professor Estrin said the material could also be used 56 | SEPTEMBER 2020

“This opens up new possibilities for industry to explore the use of archimats for application in smart manufacturing, in particular the development of gear for microelectromechanical systems, micro devices and miniaturised drones, as well as superior structural materials for the automotive and aerospace industries,” Professor Estrin said.

University of Queensland In Australia’s sunshine state – where there is an abundance of natural resources – there is a range of impactful research being undertaken, led by the University of Queensland. Solar Technology A milestone was achieved earlier this year as researchers from the university set a world record for the conversion of solar energy to electricity. The process used tiny nanoparticles called ‘quantum dotes’, which pass electrons between one another to generate electrical current when exposed to solar energy. The breakthrough was led by Professor Lianzhou Wang. “This opens up a huge range of potential applications, including the possibility to use it as a transparent skin to power cars, planes, homes and wearable technology,” he said.

Low Carbon Future Professor Andrew Garnett proposed a scheme that could reduce carbon emissions by 13 million tonnes, or the equivalent of taking 2.8 million cars off the road each year. The research investigated benefits of a carbon capture and storage scheme, which transports carbon from power stations through a pipeline and stores it more than 2.3km underground. “Carbon capture and storage may be essential to buy us the significant amount of time required to develop reliable, affordable, low-carbon, baseload power, and other decarbonisation technologies,” Professor Garnett said. The International Energy Agency and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change believe that this technology is a critical tool to ensure global emission reductions are met over the next several decades. Professor Garnett said three to four years may be required to confirm the option as feasible, then a further timeframe to commercialise and finalise engineering processes. “The next steps would be to gather more field data, consult with communities, carry out regulatory investigations and conduct a full feasibility study.” Waste Glass Liquid silicate from waste glass can be used in thousands of products such as concrete sealers, fertilisers, detergents and toothpaste, according to research from PhD candidate Rhys Pirie and Professor Damien Batstone. The liquid can be extracted and turned into marketable products, leaving minimal waste behind. The researchers also say it is environmentally sustainable and cost effective. “We estimate the process is more than 50 per cent cheaper than conventional ways of producing silicate,” Pirie said. “It requires less energy, raw materials and capital, and that’s before you consider the reduced social and economic costs compared to landfilling material.”

The researcher also discussed the extent of the discovery at a global level.

The two researchers said the motivation for their innovation came from the ABC’s War on Waste series, which challenged the way that Australians dispose of their waste.

“Eventually it could play a major part in meeting the United Nations’ goal to increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix,” Professor Wang said.

The investigation is researching methods by which waste glass could be used to create a low-cost silicon-based additive to increase fertiliser efficiency.

BACK TO CONTENTS

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

FEATURE – Materials for Energy and the Environment

Australian National University Multidisciplinary research at the Australian National University (ANU) is providing sustainable and scalable solutions for industries and the broader community. The research focuses on discovering new materials to meet the needs of future applications in the electronic, mechanical, energy, biological, manufacturing and public health sectors. ANU’s School of Electrical, Energy and Materials Engineering has four major research areas:

Specifically, the composite materials research identifies, creates and modifies existing and future materials for practical applications. It addresses the fundamental question – will it fail? – through collaborative partnerships within ANU and with industry partners, like the Ford Motor Company. An example of the work undertaken at ANU includes the reduction in weight of automobiles in order to ensure the use of less fuel and to reduce emissions.

The research is a direct response to the increasing industry reliance on new light-weight, strong, durable and environmentally sustainable materials for the future. While there are some complex, multi-year projects, others are conducted over a shorter period. The University uses Australia’s fasted supercomputer facility and state-of-the-art testing equipment to conduct their research.

1. Composite Materials research develops new and improved recyclable and sustainable materials with an ease of manufacturing 2. N anomaterials research explores how tiny structures can be applied to reduce environmental risks and address challenges in health and global energy 3. Biomaterials research explores bionanotechnology to create new materials and imaging sensor technologies with a focus on improving health 4. Computational Mechanics research investigates prototyping and testing materials for automotive, aerospace and biomedical applications.

Victoria University Victoria University is another important player in Australian materials research. The Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities investigates Australia’s ageing infrastructure, particularly those that are susceptible to further damage, such as bridges and buildings. It then develops and considers alternative aspects of designing and assessing structures.

the carbon footprints and embodied energy of new projects to guarantee that they are environmentally efficient. The Australian Government identified nine scientific research priorities in consultation with industry leaders, government and

research bodies to position support on the most important challenges facing Australia. The priorities include energy; resources; advanced manufacturing; environmental change; transport; food; soil and water; cybersecurity and health.

The Institute utilises dynamic analysis techniques, simulated blasting techniques and fire modelling to base its research on the National Research Priorities of the Australian Research Council (ARC) under an environmentally sustainable Australia and safeguarding Australia priorities. Victoria University researchers consider how to mitigate damage and build resilient infrastructure through the usability of recycled materials to create sustainable buildings and enhance their structural properties. They also examine

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 57

FEATURE – Materials Additive Manufacturing for Energy and the Environment

New Research Hub to Tackle Global Waste Crisis Source: Sally Wood

Minister for Education, the Honourable Dan Tehan recently announced an $18 million collaboration, which will focus on reducing Australia’s landfill waste and transforming reclaimed waste into new materials for use in construction and other manufacturing sectors. The Australian Research Council Industrial Transformation Research Hub for Transformation of Reclaimed Waste Resources to Engineered Materials and Solutions (TREMS) for a Circular Economy, will bring together leading scientists, researchers and industrial experts from nine Australian universities and 36 state, industry and international partners. It will be led by RMIT University. Australia’s landfill space is expected to reach capacity by 2025, with roughly 67 million tonnes of waste generated every year, and 30 per cent of that waste going to landfill. The hub will draw from expertise across multiple disciplines including civil, chemical, materials and construction engineering, artificial intelligence, behavioural sciences, environmental procurements and policies and standards. Minister Tehan said the research hub will undertake research with applications in the real world. “Our Government is investing in research that will foster strategic partnerships between university-based researchers and industry organisations, to find practical solutions to challenges facing Australian industry,” Tehan said. RMIT Professor Sujeeva Setunge, who will lead the research hub, said the multisector collaboration will focus on holistic solutions to address the waste crisis, codesigned in partnership with stakeholders. “Our investigations will include changing behaviours, smart designs to minimise waste, optimum processing of waste and converting waste to energy, developing novel materials using recycling and upcycling technologies, and metrics and tools to encourage uptake of new materials and solutions,” she said. Partnering closely with Deputy Director of 58 | SEPTEMBER 2020

the TREMS Hub, University of Melbourne Professor Priyan Mendis, Professor Setunge also said she is looking forward to working with local, national and international partners and acknowledged existing long-term collaborations with several Victorian municipalities including the Cities of Brimbank, Kingston and Hobsons Bay, as well as the Municipal Association of Victoria. “There is currently a material shortage for Australia’s $14 billion heavy construction industry, so this research to reclaim waste and transform it into new materials will deliver benefits both economically and environmentally,” Professor Setunge said. Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation and Vice-President Professor at RMIT, Calum Drummond said the hub would deliver novel solutions for reclaiming Australia’s waste resources and position Australia as a leader in research contributing to a circular economy. “At RMIT we work closely with industry and other partners to tackle complex environmental, economic and social issues,” he said. “We are proud to be leading such a globally significant research hub that will help transformation towards a circular economy and contribute to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.” The new hub will focus on 10 challenging waste streams: textile waste; biomass; tyres; glass; paper and cardboard; construction and demolition waste; fly ash; plastics; biochar and timber. BACK TO CONTENTS

RMIT’s Professor Sujeeva Setunge will lead the TREMS research hub.

It will feature eight Australian universities who will partner with state and industry bodies. The industry-based stakeholders come from a large suite of sectors including energy networks, engineering, urban After the demise of Victoria’s premium recycling service, SKM Recycling, over 30 local governments began shifting recycled waste into landfill in 2019. At a national level, waste management has also been impacted. China restricted the importation of foreign wastage in 2017, which impacted 30 per cent of Australia’s recyclables. It also placed increased pressure on other countries in the region like Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia who could not cope with the increased demand. At the height of the waste crisis, Australia was exporting 80 to 87 per cent of all recycled plastics to South-East Asia.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

FEATURE – Materials for Energy and the Environment

Engineers Use Electricity to Clean Up Toxic Water Source: Sally Wood

Engineers at the University of Sydney have used electricity to clean up heavily polluted industrial wastewater. The School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering developed an electrochemical oxidation process with the aim of cleaning up complex wastewater that contained a toxic mix of chemical pollutants. They hope the findings will help wineries, pharmaceutical manufacturers and other industries that must comply with strict wastewater regulations. The study was completed by Julia Ciarlini Junger Soares, who is completing a PhD in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering under the supervision of Dr Alejandro Montoya. “Our study, published in Algal Research, involved industrial wastewater that had been heavily contaminated with a cocktail of organic and inorganic species during a biofuel production process,” said Junger Soares. The wastewater, which contained carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus, was generated in a pilot plant, designed by the team for the production of biofuels using naturally abundant microalgae. The process involved treating wastewater with electricity using specialised electrodes. They discharged electricity, then drove oxidation reactions near the electrode surfaces, transforming the organic contaminants into harmless gasses, ions or minerals. The research team employed a powerful

process to eliminate even the most persistent non-biodegradable pollutants, like pharmaceuticals and pesticides, and other various classes of organic compounds, which are typically found in many industrial effluents. “The process is relatively simple, does not require the addition of chemicals or severe operation conditions, and does not produce additional waste streams,” said Junger Soares. “Wastewater is a significant issue for our environment, as well as for many industries who use substantial volumes of water in their processes, such as in reactions, transport, and washing and cooling. “The electrochemical method that we used can be readily applied to industries that must comply with strict regulations for wastewater disposal, such as pulp and paper processing, wineries, as well as pharmaceutical production facilities,” she added. Junger Soares says that globally researchers are investigating other methods for the development of biofuels from algae. “Developing alternatives for the treatment and reuse of this industrial effluent is a hot research topic and can bring opportunities for energy and resource recovery within a circular bio-economy framework,” she said. The team will soon carry out research focused on specific contaminants to better understand the chemical transformations that take place during electrochemical

Julia Ciarlini Junger Soares showcasing her work at the University of Sydney. The researchers used an advanced oxidation process that eliminated stubborn organic aqueous pollutants. Credit: Julia Ciarlini Junger Soares, University of Sydney

oxidation and will upscale the process. In 2017, a UNESCO report discovered that the opportunities from exploiting wastewater as a resource were vast, and that safely managed wastewater is an affordable and sustainable source of water, energy, nutrients and other recoverable materials. The World Water Development Programme (WWAP), devised by UNESCO, encourages countries to adopt sustainable water management practices in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Agenda calls for united action to improve the lives of people, therefore achieving a large number of SDGs can partly be measured by assessing a particular country’s water management. The School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering focuses on five research themes that cover: biomolecular and cellular engineering; carbon and neutral futures; chemical and process innovation; food industry transformation; and water, resources and the environment. It offered Australia’s first university-level chemical engineering program. Since then, researchers have been committed to both teaching and research in chemical engineering; biochemical engineering and biotechnology; energy and environment; green product and process design; minerals processing; process systems engineering and sustainability. Junger Soares is two and a half years into her PhD, which is dedicated to the advancement of electrochemical processes applied to industrial wastewater treatment and resource recovery.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 59

FEATURE – Materials Additive Manufacturing for Energy and the Environment

Next-Generation Solar Cells Pass Strict International Tests Source: Sally Wood

For the first time, Australian scientists have produced a new generation of experimental solar energy cells that pass strict International Electrotechnical Commission testing standards for heat and humidity. The light-weight, cheap and ultra-thin, perovskite crystals have promised to shake-up renewable energy for some time and research undertaken by Professor Anita Ho-Baillie at the University of Sydney means they are ready to take the next steps towards commercialisation. The research, which was recently published in Science journal, is an important step towards commercial viability of perovskite solar cells. “Perovskites are a really promising prospect for solar energy systems,” said Professor Ho-Baillie. “They are a very inexpensive, 500 times thinner than silicon and are therefore flexible and ultralightweight. They also have tremendous energy enabling properties and high solar conversion rates.” Solar energy systems are now widespread in both industry and domestic housing. Most current systems rely on silicon to convert sunlight into useful energy. However, the energy conversion rate of silicon in solar panels is close to reaching its natural limits. Scientists have been exploring new materials that can be stacked on top of silicon in order to improve energy conversion rates. One of the most promising materials to date is a metal halide perovskite, which may even outperform silicon on its own. The past ten years has seen the performance of perovskite cells improve from low levels to being able to convert 25.2 per cent of energy from the Sun into electricity. It took around 40 years for scientists to develop silicon-cell conversion rates of 26.7 per cent. However, unprotected perovskite cells do not have the durability of silicon-based cells, which means they are not yet commercially viable. 60 | SEPTEMBER 2020

ABOVE LEFT: Professor Anita Ho-Baillie in the lab. Photo courtesy of UNSW. ABOVE: A sample of some of the perovskite cells used in the experiment. Photo courtesy of UNSW.

“Perovskite cells will need to stack up against the current commercial standards. That’s what is so exciting about our research. We have shown that we can drastically improve their thermal stability,” Professor Ho-Baillie said.

For the first time, the research team used gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify the signature volatile products and decomposition pathways of the thermally stressed hybrid perovskites commonly used in high-performance cells.

The scientists achieved this by suppressing the decomposition of the perovskite cells using a simple, low-cost polymer-glass blanket.

Using this method, they found that a lowcost polymer-glass stack with a pressuretight seal was effective in suppressing the perovskite ‘outgassing’, the process that leads to its decomposition.

Professor Ho-Baillie remains an adjunct professor at the University of New South Wales, where the research work was completed by lead author Dr Lei Shi at the School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering. Under continual exposure to the Sun and other elements, solar panels experience extremes of heat and humidity. Experiments have shown that under such stress, unprotected perovskite cells become unstable, releasing gas from within their structures. “Understanding this process, called ‘outgassing’, is a central part of our work to develop this technology and to improve its durability,” Professor Ho-Baillie said. “I have always been interested in exploring how perovskite solar cells could be incorporated into thermal insulated windows, such as vacuum glazing. So, we need to know the outgassing properties of these materials,” she added. BACK TO CONTENTS

When put to strict international testing standards, the cells the team was working on outperformed expectations. “Another exciting outcome of our research is that we are able to stabilise perovskite cells under the harsh International Electrotechnical Commission standard environmental testing conditions. “Not only did the cells pass the thermal cycling tests, they exceeded the demanding requirements of damp-heat and humidity-freeze tests as well,” Professor Ho-Baillie said. Professor Ho-Baillie joined the University of Sydney’s Nano Institute earlier this year where she is a recipient of the inaugural John Hooke Chair of Nanoscience. In this role, she hopes to harness the enabling properties of new and emerging materials for lost-cost, high-performance clean energy devices at the nanoscale. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

FEATURE – Materials for Energy and the Environment

Your Commuter Coffee Made Sustainable Thanks to South Australia Industry Partnership Source: Sally Wood

In an innovative local collaboration, design and manufacturing packaging company, Detpak, has teamed up with the University of South Australia’s (UniSA) Future Industries Institute (FII) to ensure it stays at the forefront of innovation in the production of resilient but recyclable takeaway coffee cups. Associate Professor Drew Evans, who is the lead collaborating researcher from UniSA, says the design problem for disposable coffee cups has always been about delivering a product that offers recycling opportunities and does not leak. “Being able to work with Detpak on a sustainability challenge is very rewarding,” Associate Professor Evans said. “Our expertise in thin film coatings is helping Detpak to further test innovative sustainable products.” It is estimated that Australians use one billion throw away coffee cups each year, around the world that figure skyrockets to 16 billion. “Regular takeaway cups have relied on a plastic lining, making them difficult or impossible to recycle.” “We have been working with Detpak to

test coffee cups and understand the full benefits of their next generation lining, that is readily removable. With Detpak cups no changes to the recycling process have been required, so the cups can live again as recycled paper products,” Associate Professor Evans explained. Through the Future Industries Accelerator program supported by the South Australian Government, Detpak teamed up with South Australia’s Coatings Group at UniSA’s FII to conduct an analysis on coatings applied to takeaway coffee cups in the market today. Detpak Innovation and Marketing General Manager Tom Lunn says the research collaboration with UniSA will continue to improve sustainability. “At Detpak, we are constantly assessing new technologies to improve the sustainability of our products and working with UniSA gives us the opportunity to validate coating technology and continue to bring the best solutions to the market such as the new Detpak RecycleMe™ cups.” “Previously recognised with the Excellence in Sustainable Packaging Award from the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation, Detpak is proud to be working at the forefront of packaging innovations that promote recycling and

recovery of materials because we want to be part of recycling solutions,” Lunn said. Lunn said the partnership with UniSA is beneficial to Detpak’s line of work in building a sustainable future that focuses on the environment and corporate social responsibility. “Their scientific analysis, expertise in research and development, and understanding of the chemistry of coatings technologies has been invaluable and we are excited carry on that relationship as we continue to explore how we can employ innovative coatings in the manufacture of other packaging products to encourage easy recycling,” he said. As a member of the Detmold Group, Detpak is a specialist paper and board packaging manufacturer dedicated to the foodservice industry. They have been recognised by the Australian Packaging Covenant with Excellence in Sustainability. Detpak’s range of packaging solutions are primarily focused on the grocery and food service sector, including cups, napkins, trays, wraps, and paper. However they also provide custom print packaging solutions and have been assisting Australians with their production of face masks during the COVID-19 crisis. The company is based in Adelaide but operates ten manufacturing sites across seven countries including: the Philippines, South Africa, Vietnam, Indonesia, India and China. It has also partnered with brands of every size, led by a sales teams in 23 global offices. Detpak combines global reach with local expertise and offers a large range of ready-to-go packaging items as well as custom-print, tailored packaging solutions.

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 61

FEATURE – Materials Additive Manufacturing for Energy and the Environment

Engineers Find Neat Way to Turn Waste Carbon Dioxide into Useful Material Source: Sally Wood

Previous technology to convert waste carbon dioxide into useful industrial products has been expensive and complicated.

at 2000 degrees, to create nanoparticles of zinc oxide that can then be used to convert CO2, using electricity, into syngas,” said Dr Lovell.

But chemical engineers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have developed new technology that helps convert harmful carbon dioxide emissions into chemical building blocks to make useful industrial products like fuel and plastics.

“Syngas is often considered the chemical equivalent of Lego because the two building blocks – hydrogen and carbon monoxide – can be used in different ratios to make things like synthetic diesel, methanol, alcohol or plastics, which are very important industrial precursors.

The new process could give the world breathing space as it transitions towards a green economy.

“So essentially what we’re doing is converting CO2 into these precursors that can be used to make all these vital industrial chemicals,” Dr Lovell explained.

The research, published in the Advanced Energy Materials journal by Dr Rahman Daiyan and Dr Emma Lovell from UNSW’s School of Chemical Engineering, details a way of creating nanoparticles that promote conversion of waste carbon dioxide into useful industrial components. The researchers show that by making zinc oxide at very high temperatures using a technique called flame spray pyrolysis (FSP), they can create nanoparticles that act as the catalyst for turning carbon dioxide into ‘syngas’ – a mix of hydrogen and carbon monoxide used in the manufacture of industrial products. The researchers describe this method as cheaper and more scalable to the requirements of heavy industry than what is available today. “We used an open flame, which burns 62 | SEPTEMBER 2020

Closing the Loop In an industrial setting, an electrolyser containing the FSP-produced zinc oxide particles could be used to convert the waste CO2 into useful permutations of syngas, said Dr Daiyan. “Waste CO2 from say, a power plant or cement factory, can be passed through this electrolyser, and inside we have our flame-sprayed zinc oxide material in the form of an electrode. When we pass the waste CO2 in, it is processed using electricity and is released from an outlet as syngas in a mix of CO and hydrogen,” he said. The researchers close the carbon loop in other industrial processes that create harmful greenhouse gases, by making small adjustments to the way BACK TO CONTENTS

the nanoparticles are burned by the FSP technique, they can determine the eventual mix of the syngas building blocks produced by the carbon dioxide conversion. “At the moment you generate syngas by using natural gas – so from fossil fuels,” Dr Daiyan said. “But we’re using waste carbon dioxide and then converting it to syngas in a ratio depending on which industry you want to use it in.” Cheap and Accessible In choosing zinc oxide as their catalyst, the researchers ensured that their solution has remained a cheaper alternative to what has been previously attempted in this space. “Past attempts have used expensive materials such as palladium, but this is the first instance where a very cheap and abundant material, mined locally in Australia, has been successfully applied to the problem of waste carbon dioxide conversion,” Dr Daiyan said. Dr Lovell adds that FSP flame system to create and control these valuable materials also makes this method more appealing. The group’s next project will be to test their nanomaterials in a flue gas setting to ensure they are tolerant to the harsh conditions and other chemicals found in industrial waste gas. WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

MATERIALS AUSTRALIA – Short Courses

Short Courses - Study at Home

These short courses provide you with an engaging learning experience. Courses may include flash animations, video of instructors teaching the course in a classroom, video segments from ASM’s DVD series relevant to the learning material, and PDFs of instructor Power Points used in the instructor led training. All online courses require internet access for reading and viewing course content. Both HTML pages and PDF files for each lesson are downloadable and printable for easy offline access.

www.materialsaustralia.com.au/training/online-training BASICS OF HEAT TREATING

HEAT TREATING FURNACES AND EQUIPMENT

Steel is the most common and the most important structural material. In order to properly select and apply this basic engineering material, it is necessary to have a fundamental understanding of the structure of steel and how it can be modified to suit its application. The course is designed as a basic introduction to the fundamentals of steel heat treatment and metallurgical processing. Read More

This course is designed as an extension of the Introduction to Heat Treatment course. It discusses advanced concepts in thermal and thermo-chemical surface treatments, such as case hardening, as well as the principles of thermal engineering (furnace design). Read More

NEW - INTRODUCTION TO COMPOSITES HOW TO ORGANIZE AND RUN A FAILURE INVESTIGATION Have you ever been handed a failure investigation and were not quite sure of all the steps required to complete the investigation? Or perhaps you had to review a failure investigation and wondered if all the aspects had been properly covered? Or perhaps you read a failure investigation and wondered what to do next? Here is a chance to learn the steps to organize a failure investigation. Read More

MEDICAL DEVICE DESIGN VALIDATION AND FAILURE ANALYSIS This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of the design process necessary to make robust medical devices. Fracture, fatigue, stress analysis, and corrosion design validation approaches are examined, and real-world medical device design validations are reviewed. Further, since failures often provide us with important information about any design, mechanical and materials failure analysis techniques are covered. Several medical device failure analysis case studies are provided. Read More

Composites are a specialty material, used at increasing levels throughout our engineered environment, from high-performance aircraft and ground vehicles, to relatively low-tech applications in our daily lives. This course, designed for technical and non-technical professionals alike, provides an overarching introduction to composite materials. The course content is organized in a manner that guides the student from design to raw materials to manufacturing, assembly, quality assurance, testing, use, and life-cycle support. Read More

METALLURGY FOR THE NON-METALLURGIST™ An ideal first course for anyone who needs a working understanding of metals and their applications. It has been designed for those with no previous training in metallurgy, such as technical, laboratory, and sales personnel; engineers from other disciplines; management and administrative staff; and non-technical support staff, such as purchasing and receiving agents who order and inspect incoming material. Read More

PRACTICAL INDUCTION HEAT TREATING

This course provides essential knowledge to those who do not have a technical background in metallurgical engineering, but have a need to understand more about the technical aspects of steel manufacturing, properties and applications. Read More

Taking a fundamentals approach, this course is presented as an introduction to the world of induction heat treating. The course will cover the role of induction heating in producing reliable products, as well as the considerable savings in energy, labor, space, and time. You will gain in-depth knowledge on topics such as selecting equipment, designs of multiple systems, current application, and sources and solutions of induction heat treating problems. Read More

PRINCIPLES OF FAILURE ANALYSIS

TITANIUM AND ITS ALLOYS

Profit from failure analysis techniques, Understand general failure analysis procedures, Learn fundamental sources of failures. This course is designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice of failure analysis. Read More

Titanium occupies an important position in the family of metals because of its light weight and corrosion resistance. Its unique combination of physical, chemical and mechanical properties, make titanium alloys attractive for aerospace and industrial applications. Read More

METALLURGY OF STEEL FOR THE NON-METALLURGIST

WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

BACK TO CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2020 | 63

Kemet

Precision Lapping | Polishing | Cleaning | Materialography

ts n e m e r i u q e R c i h ap au r g o l l a t e m. M o c r . t u e o m y www.ke For all

Kemet Diamond Products

Kemet offer the complete programme of Cutting, Mounting, Grinding and Polishing consumables, Metallographic machines and Ultrasonic cleaning for Metallographic, Metallurgical, Spectroscopic and Geological sample preparation. Easypol is a new diamond suspension and lubricant combination, resulting in faster and simpler metallographic sample preparation. Contact us for a free quotation. Kemet Australia Pty Ltd, 4/11 Turbo Road, Kings Park, Marayong 2148

(02) 9831 4922

Mob: 0408 222 405

info@kemet.com.au

Materials Australia Magazine | September 2020 | Volume 53 | No 3

Articles inside

Materials for Energy and the Environment

Materials Australia - Short Courses www.materialsaustralia.com.au/training/online-training

Breaking News

University Spotlight: University of Adelaide

AXT and Delmic Install Unique Cathodoluminescence and CLEM Solution at UTS

Plasma FIB-SEMs – Advantages and Applications

Miscibility Gap Alloys: Commercialising A ‘Missing Link’ For Renewable Energy

New Desktop SEM Helps Improve Quality Control, Production Efficiency and Material Cleanliness

Ultrathin Nanosheets Separate Ions from Water

Innovative New Ship Cladding Creates Jobs and Reduces Emissions

Five Things You May Not Know About Choosing a Batch Glass Melt Furnace

Flexible Phone Screen Chemicals Kick Off New Industry Partnership for South Korea and Australia

Look For The Simple Things

Liquid Metal Synthesis for Better Piezoelectrics: Atomically-Thin Tin-Monosulfide

Women in the Industry Professor Julie Cairney

Our Certified Materials Professionals (CMatPs

Why You Should Become a CMatP

CMatP Profile: Dr Evelyn Ng

Reports

WA Branch Technical Meeting - 13 July 2020

WA Branch Technical Meeting - 10 August 2020

Enhancing Protection from COVID-19

VIC & TAS Branch Technical Meeting

WA Branch Technical Meeting - 8 June 2020

Professor Simon Ringer Wins Materials Australia Silver Medal

MAMAS 2020