
Science of Extreme and Multifunctional Materials
Our team utilizes advanced chemistry, materials science, and computational tools across a variety of areas, inventing the future of research in extreme materials, materials characterization, materials design, synthesis and manufacturing, and multifunctional materials.
Program Manager: Morgan Trexler
Assistant Program Manager: Leslie Hamilton
Focus Areas
Extreme Materials
Creating new materials with extreme survivability, evaluating performance in relevant environments, and linking materials to operational improvements
We develop material solutions and application methods for systems exposed to demanding operating environments such as extreme heat or cold, underwater, and space. We consider the environmental and performance requirements in materials selection and develop solutions and approaches that meet the operational constraints of the intended system. We have developed a suite of test capabilities and methods to characterize material constituent behavior and overall material system performance under extreme environmental conditions, and we have developed unique modeling capabilities to link material properties to enhancements in operational capabilities.
Materials Characterization
Analyzing materials in custom-designed configurations to gain critical insights and assess performance
We utilize extensive analytical instrumentation to solve the most demanding materials problems. We assess the structure and properties of materials using a wide range of techniques, including nondestructive evaluation, microscopy, crystallography, and mechanical and thermal characterization. We test all material types (metal, ceramic, polymer, composite, biological) and specialize in developing custom-designed configurations to provide program-specific insights.
Materials Design, Synthesis, and Manufacturing
Inventing new alloys, understanding formation mechanisms, processing materials in new ways, and creating unique structures
We design and produce custom-tailored, high-quality materials and components for sponsor-defined applications. Design and understanding of new alloys and materials systems is computationally guided and augmented by machine-learning insights. Topology optimization and lattice design are coupled with additive manufacturing to enable novel geometries and enhanced thermal-structural capabilities.
Multifunctional Materials
Developing materials with integrated, novel capabilities for the warfighter, the planet, and beyond
We conceptualize and develop innovative materials with built-in multifunctionality to meet the needs of sponsors. Our team has expertise in fiber synthesis, multifunctional coatings, adhesives, sensors, and stimulus-responsive materials. Multifunctional materials have been developed to enable new capabilities for divers, sensing in the ocean, enhanced armors, and beyond.
Research Highlights
- Biodegradable Sensors Could Explore the Seas More Sustainably (Eos, October 26, 2023)
- Paintable Proteins Provide Environmentally Friendly Way to Protect Ship Hulls at Sea (Corrosion Protection, June 29, 2023)
- A Jellyfish-Inspired Ocean Sensor (Johns Hopkins Magazine, June 2023)
- Can We Destroy "Forever Chemicals"? Plasma or Nanoparticles Could Do the Trick (Inverse, March 20, 2023)
- NASA Awards Advance 3D Printing, Quantum Tech for Climate Research (NASA, March 16, 2023)
- Johns Hopkins, Carnegie Mellon to Co-Lead New NASA Institute (The Hub, March 16, 2023)
- Filtering & Destroying 'Forever Chemicals': JHU Team Hopes to Ensure Clean Drinking Water (Fox 45 News, November 22, 2022)
- Exploring the Advantages of Defects in Laser-Manufactured Materials (Phys.org, July 26, 2021)
- “Hopkins APL is a standout partner [for DARPA] in being able to connect materials developments with platform performance” said William (Bill) Carter, DARPA Program Manager (Voices from DARPA Podcast, Episode 36, December 1, 2020)
- Microcapsule Additive Allows Underwater Glues to Set in One Minute (New Atlas, April 19, 2021)
- Applied Physics Lab Researchers Develop Advanced Soft Robots (JHU Hub, January 22, 2021)
- DSS Works with Top Laboratory to Protect U.S. Embassies and Consulates (US Department of State, September 2, 2020)
- Michael Brupbacher’s Article Selected as an Editor’s Pick in Applied Optics (Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering, September 21, 2017)
- New Generation of Glass Coatings (Coatings World, October 20, 2015)
- Sturdy Silica Coatings Take Tough Stance Against Corrosion (Chemical & Engineering News, August 24, 2015)
- New Super-Reflective Paint Is the Solution to Your Car’s Scorching Summertime Temperatures (Popular Mechanics, August 19, 2015)
- Self-Healing Paint, Chemical Weapons At Home (Chemical & Engineering News, July 14, 2014)