Abstract:

The seminar explores the relationship between microstructure, deformation mechanisms, and mechanical behavior in a wide range of metallic systems. It covers dislocation motion, stacking faults, twinning, and defect evolution in magnesium alloys, nickel–aluminum–bronze, pipeline steels, and additively manufactured materials. A multiscale, multimodal characterization approach is used to directly link microstructural features with mechanical response under monotonic, cyclic, and hydrogen-assisted loading conditions. The findings highlight the central role of crystalline defects in governing strength, ductility, fatigue resistance, and environmental degradation behavior in advanced structural materials.

Bio:

Dr. Aeriel D.M. Leonard is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at The Ohio State University. She has received several prestigious awards, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (2025), the NSF CAREER Award (2023), and the DOE Early Career Award (2022). She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Michigan and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory