The Materials Performance Group focuses on mechanical properties, deformation processing and fracture, and on the effects of corrosion on metals performance. The Group's primary mission is to assist U.S. industry in these areas through the traditional NIST activities of measurement science and test methodology, standards, data, and metals characterization. The Group also assists other Federal Agencies in investigations requiring unique testing facilities or expertise.
Current thrusts include:
- the development of national hardness standards for the Rockwell "C" and other scales critical to U.S. industry,
- the use of the latest advances in information science and technology to provide industry with convenient and reliable data on materials performance and corrosion control (with NACE International),
- the characterization of the deformation of nanoscale multilayers through the use of state-of-the-art in situ electron microscope techniques, and
- experimental studies to validate models for the processing of lightweight Al metal matrix composites for use by the automobile industry for engine components (with Alcoa and USCAR), and
- basic research to improve understanding of the deformation processes and the development of standard test methods to assist U.S. automakers and their suppliers in advancing the state-of-the-art in sheet metal forming.
| Group Leader: | Dr. William E. Luecke | |
| Group Secretary: | Ms. Janet A. Williams | |
| Staff: | Dr. Steve W. Banovic | |
| Dr. Brian M. Gable | ||
| Dr. Timothy J. Foecke |
 Nanometallurgy | |
| Dr. Mark Iadicola | ||
| Mr. Rodney D. Jiggetts | ||
| Dr. Lyle E. Levine | ||
| Mr. Samuel R. Low, III | ||
| Dr. Steven P. Mates | ||
| Mr. David J. Pitchure | ||
| Dr. Richard E. Ricker | ||
| Dr. Stephen D. Ridder | ||
| Dr. Mark R. Stoudt | ||
| Group Address: | National Institute of Standards and Technology 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 8553 Gaithersburg, MD 20899 |