Thin film growth and materials physics of complex oxides: Thin films coatings using chemical vapour deposition (CVD),
plasma assisted CVD (PACVD) and Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD); Full support (operation, troubleshooting,
modification) of the PLD equipment; Extensive use and analysis of RHEED method, basic growth mechanisms
studies; Nucleation and growth of thin films; Structure-Property-Processing interrelationships; Functional metal
oxide thin film deposition and processing for SOFC applications.
Magnetic refrigeration: Magnetocaloric effect and magnetic refrigeration; Permanent magnet design;
Modelling of the active magnetic regenerator (AMR); Materials development; system design.
Nanoscale materials modelling and characterization: Understanding the mechanical, structural and magnetic properties of
nanocrystalline metals and bulk amorphous alloys; disordered materials, undercooling and glass transition; rapid
solidification processes and the modelling of such processes; Powder metallurgy.
Materials Processing for Devices: Nano-micro fabrication technologies; Shaping of nano-mico component;
biocompatible materials for devices; Extrusion; Spray forming; Atomization.
Magnetic refrigeration
Magnetic refrigeration is a new and exciting technology that can be used to create low noise energyefficient cooling with environmentally friendly materials.