Physics and Mechanics of Materials (PMM)

The Physics and Mechanics of Materials (PMM) department is dedicated to studying microstructural evolutions induced by advanced forming and manufacturing processes. Its main activity is based on the measurement, modeling, and prediction of these evolutions. It also develops alloy design methodologies, relying on in-depth mastery of processing techniques to quantify their performance. In parallel, the department develops advanced analysis techniques to better understand and model microstructural evolutions, both in volume and on surfaces.

Head
Julien Favre
Email: julien.favre@mines-stetienne.fr
Phone: +33 4 77 42 00 55

13 faculty-researchers and researchers
10 engineers, technicians, and administrative staff
1 research unit
1 additive manufacturing platform of annual valorization
The PMM department is affiliated with the Center for Materials and Structures

Areas of Expertise

Our team is dedicated to the study and development of innovative structural materials, combining academic expertise and industrial applications. Our unique multi-scale methodology enables us to address both microscopic phenomena and macroscopic modeling of manufacturing processes. This approach allows us to optimize microstructures in order to significantly improve the mechanical properties of materials.

Core Competencies

Our technical excellence rests on four fundamental pillars.

  • Material processing and transformation
    We develop and transform model and industrial materials to obtain samples of several kilograms, thus ensuring their representativeness for real-world applications.
  • Advanced rheological characterization
    We analyze the rheology of materials by applying complex paths, controlled and representative of the thermomechanical treatment processes studied.
  • Fine microstructural characterization
    We use scanning and transmission electron microscopy tools, coupled with chemical (EDX), crystallographic (EBSD, X-ray diffraction), and mechanical (nanoindentation, microcompression) analysis techniques to study the structure of materials in detail.
  • Modeling of microstructural evolutions
    We employ mesoscopic (mean-field) and microscopic (full-field, crystal plasticity) approaches to predict and optimize the behavior of materials at different scales.

Fields of activity

Our research is organized around three strategic industrial sectors.

  • Energy
    We address the challenges of energy transition and the nuclear industry by developing materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions. Our expertise extends from optimized conventional materials (stainless steels, refractory metals) to next-generation metallurgical solutions (HEA, CCA alloys), constantly pushing the limits in terms of mechanical and thermal resistance.
  • Aerospace and automotive
    We innovate to meet the challenges of structural lightweighting. We focus on the development of lightweight alloys and exploiting the potential of 3D printing, while ensuring precise microstructural control to guarantee the reliability of produced parts. In parallel, our expertise in advanced characterization enables us to excel in the field of microelectronics, where we study miniaturized metallic systems such as solders and thin films.
  • Sustainable development and recycling
    Aware of current environmental challenges, we integrate sustainability principles into our research, particularly through the development of recycled materials and the substitution of critical elements in alloys. This responsible approach is part of close collaboration with our territorial ecosystem (Labex Manutech-SISE, Initiative3D), thereby strengthening the impact and relevance of our innovations.

Research Areas

The department structures its research activities around six main areas.

Alloy design

Development of new metallurgical compositions to meet the mechanical, thermal, and environmental performance requirements of advanced industries.

Additive Manufacturing

Exploration of metal 3D printing technologies (LPBF, WAAM) to design innovative parts with complex geometries, while optimizing their microstructural properties.

Thermomechanical treatments

Development and optimization of processes aimed at improving the mechanical and functional characteristics of materials through treatments combining temperature and deformation.

Surface engineering

Development of advanced solutions (coatings, surface treatments) to increase resistance to wear, corrosion, and thermal stresses.

Characterization methods

Use of advanced analysis tools to study the microstructure, chemical composition, and mechanical behavior of materials at different scales.

Numerical Methods

Modeling and simulation of microstructures and material behavior to optimize their functional properties.

These complementary areas enable us to address industrial and scientific challenges related to metallic materials, combining innovation and performance.

Research unit

UMR CNRS 5307 – LGF – Georges Friedel Laboratory: Materials, Mechanics, Processes

The work of the PMM department fully benefits from the high-performance computing capabilities of the LGF laboratory, which supports the development and maintenance of internal codes dedicated to alloy design, material characterization methods, and simulation of microstructural evolutions. This synergy enables work at the interface between metallic materials and advanced manufacturing processes, particularly additive manufacturing. In this context, the metallurgical approach plays a key role in understanding the new induced microstructures, modeling their evolution, and predicting their behavior based on process and material parameters. This approach is fully aligned with the challenges of the industry of the future and territorial reindustrialization.

Contact and Practical Information

  • Address
    École des mines de Saint-Étienne
    Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering
    158, cours Fauriel,
    42000 Saint-Étienne, France
  • Transportation
    Bus: Line 6, stop “École des Mines”

Research