Queen’s University

Research Contributing to Understanding Complex Corrosion Mechanisms for the Nuclear Industry and Beyond

We are a research group in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at Queen’s University. Our primary research involves mechanistic studies related to the corrosion of components in current or proposed nuclear reactor designs. Additional research is ongoing related to the safe long-term disposal of nuclear fuel.

Students with interest in developing multi-disciplinary skills applicable to corrosion of materials, and seeking to analyze materials at the nano-scale are encouraged to apply. Extensive interaction with industry - UNENE partners and NWMO - is paramount to all projects.  Some potential project areas for students to consider include: 

• Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of nickel alloys in aqueous environments. 

• Irradiation-assisted SCC of stainless steels. 

• Degradation of materials relevant to nuclear waste canister materials. 

• Corrosion in aggressive environments relevant to SMRs. 

• High temperature oxidation of model alloys. 

• Development of oxidation-resistant materials (e.g. Fe-Cr-Al) for high temperature applications. 

• High temperature hydrogen attack/creep cracking of carbon steel. 

• Gaseous oxidation of nickel alloys at intermediate temperatures. 

I seek interested students in science and engineering (materials, mechanical, chemical, physics are preferred). All projects will involve collaborating with and/or presenting to interested industrial parties. I also offer a competitive stipend for all incoming students.