Relevant fields of application
Materials characterization is used in a wide variety of fields, some of which include the following.
Renewable energy
Advanced materials are the key to improving energy production. They can help boost efficiency and lower costs involved in additive manufacturing. Fuel cells are a useful power source that convert energy from fuel, such as hydrogen, into electrical energy.
Manufacturing
Metals are all around us, from cosmetics to batteries. They are strong, yet moldable, act as electricity conductors and are often made up of multiple elements. Advancements in steel, for example, allow us to access unique properties while lowering the carbon footprint.
Biomedicine
In order to treat symptoms and diseases, researchers need to understand the cellular components of our bodies and the medications/devices helping us. Microscopy is used to understand the inner workings of cellular materials and structures.
Information Technology
Developing new materials is essential to creating faster, more energy efficient computers, cell phones, data storage, and so on. The integration of more magnetic materials is one large opportunity in the field.