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Phase transformations in the solid state play an important role in materials manufacturing, especially for the optimisation of microstructures and thereby properties. We strive for an understanding the kinetics and thermodynamics of such processes, which is the basis for their quantitative modelling. Such modelling can then serve as basis for an aimed optimisation of the process parameters.

The task is to characterise the processes associated with a phase transformation by employing in-situ and ex-situ X-ray diffraction methods with respect to the occurring structural and microstructural changes. This involves, in particular, analysis of the developing stresses and structural non-idealities like disorder and lattice faults by the use of X-ray stress and texture analysis as well line-profile analysis. Supplementary to our modern in-house X-ray equipment – at need – instrumentation provided at international synchrotron and neutron large-scale facilities will be employed. The scientific environment in our department and at the Max Planck Institute as a whole allows easy use of additional important experimental techniques like metallography, thermal analysis and (high resolution) transmission electron microscopy.

Examples of research projects:
- Diffusion and phase transformations in nanomaterials (thin films; ball-milled metals).
- Defects and stress development in thin metallic films.
- Investigation of microstructures obtained by thermochemical surface-heat treatment of iron- and nickel-based alloys.
- Phase transformations in shape memory alloys; the role of applied stress.

For interested applicants, please send your application (CV, List of publications, and Research summary) to Prof. Eric Mittemeijer and/or Dr. Andreas Leineweber.