Professors: prof. dr. ir. A. Bakker, prof. dr. ir. S. van der Zwaag, prof. ir. L. Katgerman, prof. dr. ir. G. den Ouden, prof. dr. ir. A. Posthuma de Boer.

This field of specialization is focused on the mechanical engineering aspects of the manufacturing, application and properties research of construction materials. When producing materials, emphasis is put on the development of process equipment and controlling manufacturing processes. When applying materials, both the choice of materials in connection with modelling techniques and attachment methods as well as the long-term behaviour of materials are considered (creep, fatigue and wear). To a great extent, the research of materials is focused on the mechanical properties of materials in constructions (fracture mechanics). Studies in this main subject may be aimed at various materials: metals, plastics and composite materials. Completing ones's studies can take place in various groups of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Marine Technology and the Faculty of Chemical Technology and Materials Science.

Specific fields of research are:

• casting and solidifying of liquid metals;

• powder metallurgy;

• heat treatment of metals;

• welding and non-destructive research;

• mechanical properties and fracture mechanics;

• tribology;

• properties of fibre reinforced plastics;

• properties of polymer blends;

• composites of polymers and metals.