Improving materials processing capabilities is of fundamental importance to meeting the manufacturing requirements for the next generation of materials. However, processing problems are increasingly more difficult as we seek to manufacture new materials, achieve greater control over material microstructure, and meet stringent performance requirements.

The research of the Advanced Materials Process Control Laboratory is focused on developing and applying a controls based approach to enhancing materials processing capabilities which includes an integrated effort of physical modelling, sensor development, system design and control development. Design of both the system and control structure needs to be conducted with an understanding of the dominant process physics. Thus, much of the research in the PCL involves modeling which provides insight into the dominant process physics. A control perspective, however, provides the basis for determining what modeling is important.

Research projects typically conducted with industry partners, span a range of important applications areas including enhanced materials processing for optical opto-electronic applications, advanced engines, power systems and cutting tools. Ongoing research projects include real-time control for plasma spray, e-beam and chemical vapor deposition, and Czochralski crystal growth.