We have substantial expertise in the behaviour of materials in harsh environments, particularly high temperatures. We run a dedicated creep laboratory for long-term high-temperature experiments. Since 2008 we have had a partnership with EDF Energy on the ‘High Temperature Centre’, helping to support EDF’s fleet of AGR nuclear power stations.

We are expanding the work we do in respect of other harsh environments, such as high pressures and corrosive materials. Our access includes UKAEA’s Materials Research Facility (MRF) at Culham and the High Temperature Facility (HTF) Alliance facilities in Warrington. We also have excellent links with the Royce Institute and expect to be a major user of the new Royce facilities as they come on-line.