Released on August 6, 2010

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) has used a new federal grant to launch the Center for Advanced Materials Manufacturing (CAMM), which will support research in bulk nanostructure materials primarily for the metalcasting industry.

The $1.2 million grant is part of a cooperative agreement between UWM and the U.S. Army Research Laboratory. The groups have been working together for several years to develop materials that meet the Army’s need for heavy-duty vehicles that can be airlifted and operate for prolonged periods before refueling.

In January, UMW began an unrelated five-year project to develop nanostructure materials. The project was funded by the National Institute of Standards and Technology through the Technology Innovation Program. The institute is expected to provide $5 million in funding over the life of the project.

Nanostructure metallic materials are embedded with atomic-scale particles that can make them cheaper, lighter and stronger than the original metal alloys. They can also deliver high-performance qualities, such as self-lubrication and energy-absorption.

Bulk nanostructure materials can be produced using conventional metalcasting techniques, according to Pradeep Rohatgi, a UWM distinguished professor of engineering and director of CAMM.

“[Metalcasting facilities] could start making these modern products without having to update their equipment,” he said. “CAMM will also educate students and help train industry workers in the manufacturing of high-tech materials for civilian and defense sectors.”

CAMM researchers will work with Oshkosh Corp., Oshkosh, Wis., and other companies to develop an infrastructure for scaling up the production of the materials for use in production metalcasting facilities. In addition to studying the large-scale production of the materials, CAMM scientists are working on simulation software and impact/fracture modeling to optimize their manufacture.