In a groundbreaking collaboration backed by a nearly $11 million federal grant, UF researchers have developed a first-of-its-kind superconducting magnet that could advance metal production and position the United States as a global leader in alloy production.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Manufacturing Office, the project uses Induction-Coupled Thermomagnetic Processing, or ITMP, an advanced manufacturing method that integrates magnetic fields with high-temperature thermal processing.

Read more about UF Develops Breakthrough Magnet That Could Transform Metal Production.

Manuel, who is chair of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, is recognized for her research, implementation and teaching involving dissolving medical implants for surgery as well as self-healing metals and lightweight, high-performance alloys.

In the airline and aerospace industries, as an example, she contributed to the development of self-repairing metals that mend cracks caused by stress and fatigue without the need for skilled technicians or direct contact. Traditionally, the airline industry relies heavily on metallic materials, such as aluminum alloys, that can crack or even fail under the physical stress of frequent reloading. Repairing these fissures typically requires additional materials, an expert in repair techniques or even the replacement of entire components of the air or spacecraft. The self-repairing alloys are also more robust than the traditional repair technology.

Election to the National Academy of Engineering is among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer. Academy membership honors those who have made outstanding contributions to “engineering research, practice, or education, including, where appropriate, significant contributions to the engineering literature” and to “the pioneering of new and developing fields of technology, making major advancements in traditional fields of engineering, or developing/implementing innovative approaches to engineering education.” 

Election of new NAE members is the culmination of a year-long process. The ballot is set in December and the final vote for membership occurs during January.

The Brimacombe Medalist Award recognizes outstanding mid-career scientists with sustained excellence and achievement in business, technology, education, public policy, or science related to materials science and engineering, and who also have a record of continuing service to the profession. TMS recognized Dr. Manuel for her significant contributions in integrating systems-based materials design approaches to light metals and her meaningful service to the materials science profession.

“It is truly an honor to be selected for the Brimacombe Medalist Award. Working alongside distinguished and esteemed TMS colleagues to impact technology, science, engineering and society at all levels has been a truly enriching and impactful experience. It’s helped me to grow and learn in remarkable and beautifully unpredictable ways,” said Dr. Manuel. “I am thankful for my mentors, colleagues, friends and especially my family who have continuously supported my career endeavors. I greatly look forward to continuing my professional growth and excellence in the field while maintaining distinguished service to TMS and the profession.”

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Backed by a nearly $11 million award from the Department of Energy, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’s Advanced Manufacturing Office, Michele Manuel, Ph.D., professor and chair of the UF Department of Materials Science & Engineering, is leading an industry-national laboratory-university consortium in developing an Induction-coupled Thermomagnetic Processing (ITMP) method to help solve that problem and help position the American steel industry as a world leader in alloy manufacturing.

“We are enthusiastic to partner with the Department of Energy’s Advanced Manufacturing Office to develop a high-impact manufacturing process to increase our global leadership in advanced manufacturing of metals and alloys. We’ve assembled an outstanding team of researchers and corporate partners to not only develop the systems and technology associated with the ITMP method but also the science,” said Dr. Manuel. “An undertaking of this magnitude requires drawing on multiple disciplines and talents to help make it happen, and it’s an honor to work with such talented colleagues across the country.”