Research at the MAX-Nuclear Research Institute is supported by a Senior University Network of Excellence in Nuclear Engineering (UNENE) Research Chair in nuclear materials and a Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Impact of Radiation on Energy and Advanced Technologies.
A primary objective of both programs is to develop the next generation of scientists and engineers in close collaboration with the Canadian nuclear industry, other academic institutions, and the international nuclear materials community.
Mark Daymond
Senior UNENE Research Chair in Nuclear Materials
The goals of Dr. Daymond's program are to understand the materials of the CANDU fuel channel, and in particular impacts of processing choices and their aging mechanisms. His research currently concentrates on the effect of manufacturing variables on the properties, microstructure and texture of pressure tubes, the anisotropic creep of Zr-2.5Nb, the plastic anisotropy of Zr-2.5Nb, Zircaloy-2, the behaviour of hydrides in bulk Zr- 2.5Nb, delayed hydride cracking of Zr-2.5Nb, irradiation induced degradation of X-750 spacers.
Yanwen Zhang
Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Impact of Radiation on Energy and Advanced Technologies
Dr. Zhang's research addresses both fundamental and applied aspects of equilibrium and non-equilibrium defect dynamics and radiation effects. Focusing on the electronic and atomic levels, extending up to bulk materials, her research investigates materials properties relevant to nuclear reactor structural applications. The broad goal is to understand deformation tolerance and structural stability of materials under far-from-equilibrium conditions, enabling the rapid development and nuclear qualification of materials to meet the growing demands for safe and economical performance in harsh and aggressive in-service environments.