Professor Dr Tresa M. Pollock

Research Priorities: High-temperature materials, ultrafast laser-material interactions, alloy design, 3D materials characterisation, integrated computational materials
Tresa Pollock is an American materials scientist and engineering expert. She investigates structural materials and the coatings of ultra-short pulse lasers for use in microfabrication, tomography, and materials diagnostics. One focus in on high-temperature materials for aircraft propulsion and energy generation.
Tresa Pollock’s work deals with ultra-fast laser-material interactions, alloy design, 3Dmaterial characterisation and high-temperature materials. She studies, for example, materials and alloys that have to withstand extreme heat stress. Her research into nickel-based superalloys for turbine engines has helped improve the efficiency and safety of jet engines. She also develops structural materials that are used in the automobile industry and for energy generation and that are subject to immense stress.
In the field of energy generation she works with materials for thermoelectrics, fuel cells, and energy plants that can be powered by natural gas and alternative fuels. Highly resistant light metal alloys and protective coatings that can withstand extreme environments and help protect against corrosion are used as materials. Other aspects of her work include recycling, reprocessing, and reuse.
Her research into integrated computational materials uses computers to connect materials development, product development, and manufacturing processes. Tresa Pollock calculates micromechanical phenomena and microstructural development in order to predict core attributes such as bond strength, chemical potential, cracks and the ability of materials to withstand crashes. The aim of this work is to optimise components, create efficient development processes, and cheaper manufacturing processes.
Her research also looks at the environmental compatibility of materials. She works in an interdisciplinary manner with a focus on the practical use of materials, creating links between science, industry, and professional associations.