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About us

The Biomimetic and Multifunctional Materials Group, directed by Ph. D. Julián Martínez Fernández, is part of the Physics of the Condensed Matter Department of the University of Seville. Our main research lines are as follows:

• Biomimetic ceramics: We have developed a process which allows for the fabrication of silicon carbide ceramics mimicking natural (mostly wood-based) preforms (bioSiC). The obtained material has outstanding mechanical properties, because of the fact that it profits from natural structures resulting of millions of years of evolution, and also because of the excellent characteristics of SiC. Furthermore, complex-shaped pieces can be obtained very easily, cheaply, and in an environmentally-friendly way.
• Characterization of advanced materials for structural applications: We have a strong knowledge of the techniques and protocols for mechanical characterization of state-of-the-art materials. We could cite eutectics (zircona-alumina-YAG), whose unique microstructure ---which gives them excellent mechanical properties--- has been studied in depth, and whose mechanical behaviour has been modelled; single-crystal sapphire, ruby and zirconia-erbia fibers, whose subcritical crack growth has been characterized with mechanical tests and fractographical analysis; layered metal-ceramic materials, with microstructural and interphase characterization; as well as magnetic microwire characterization, in collaboration with the University of the Basque Country.
• High temperature protonic conductors: Fuel cells are a core part of our hydrogen-based energetic future, cleaner and more efficient. In fuel cells, protonic conductor membranes play a key role; as cell yield increases with the working temperature, high-temperature ready membranes are desired. Our Group works on the syntesis of these membranes, its characterization, and (via collaborations with the industry) their testing.

In case you are interested in more information, please download a brief account of the recent scientific history of the Group:

	Download scientific history in English
	Download scientific history in Spanish

For any suggestion or contact, please email cepe (at) gmbm (dot) net.