Prof.dr.ir. J. (Jilt) Sietsma

Prof.dr.ir. J. (Jilt) Sietsma

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Background & biography

Metals have been determining our technological society for many centuries and will continue to do so in any foreseeable future, provided that their production and application can be transformed in order to become more sustainable, i.e. provided metals can undergo a materials transition towards sustainability. Research on metallic microstructures is crucial in this.

The aim of the research on metallic microstructures is to develop understanding of the behaviour of metals at the level of the microstructure, with a focus on steel, when subjected to conditions of elevated temperatures, mechanical loading, high-energy radiation and combinations thereof. These conditions occur both in the manufacturing phase and in the use phase of the materials life cycle. The research approach is to combine experimental evidence and physics-based modelling at different length scales. Relevant microstructural processes are phase transformation, precipitation, recrystallisation, texture formation, evolution of dislocation structure, development of radiation damage and mechanical damage, and others, on which we develop fundamental understanding in order to optimise industrial processes and sustainability.

The industrial collaborations of the group are extensive due to the extensive societal applications of metals. Prominent examples of application areas are transport (automotive, rail, maritime), energy (wind, nuclear), steel production, high-tech construction. Prominent examples of industrial partners are Tata Steel, SKF, Siemens Gamesa, ProRail, NRG, VDL Weweler.

Jilt Sietsma has been at the department Materials Science and Engineering since 1987 and is a full professor since 2009. He will retire in April 2023.


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