Laboratory and NDT Research Group

The Laboratory and NDT Research Group plays a crucial role in the research, development and validation of advanced materials and processes, representing one of the centre’s key capabilities, focused on the characterisation and functionalisation of advanced composite materials, particularly in the aerospace sector.

This group is highly specialised and integrates various areas of testing and analysis. Firstly, it possesses mechanical testing capabilities, including universal and dynamic testing machines capable of operating across a wide range of temperatures (from cryogenic conditions to high temperatures), enabling the evaluation of the structural behaviour of materials and components under conditions representative of service. In parallel, the laboratory has a comprehensive physical-chemical characterisation area, equipped with advanced techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), rheology and FTIR spectroscopy. These tools enable the study of the thermal, chemical and processing properties of composite materials, which are fundamental to their development and optimisation.Another key component is the non-destructive testing (NDT) area, which includes manual and semi-automatic systems, as well as immersion tanks for ultrasonic inspection (pulse-echo, transmission, phased-array, etc.). Finally, the group incorporates components into composite materials, such as films or coatings, with a view to enhancing the composite’s properties.

The Laboratory and NDT group collaborates on R&D&I projects for various companies; conducts its own research, which results in scientific articles and patents; and is also a key partner in publicly funded projects. It has participated in the Graphene Flagship initiative and hosts undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as PhD candidates. In terms of PhD training, the group participates in Marie Curie actions such as ENHAnCE and LEGEND.