Cavitation: A Noisy Revolution in Modern Science
Oxford Brookes working with NCC
Barrera Lab Research Overview
Materials Processing and Modelling (MPM)
Group Leader(s): Professor Iakovos Tzanakis
Contact: itzanakis@brookes.ac.uk
About us
The Materials Processing and Modelling (MPM) research group established in 2023 is active in the field of materials including:
- light metal alloys, nanomaterials, bio-materials, and composites
- processes related to tribology, joining, additive manufacturing, wastewater treatment, ultrasonic and hydrodynamic technologies.
Research activities span from fundamental studies, to technological developments and industrial applications aligning with the UK's 2050 Net-Zero manufacturing strategy, a key pillar of the Government’s growth agenda.
With expertise in both experimental and numerical materials processing, we aim to turn research into industrial, economic and societal impact through high-quality research, technology transfer, and consulting.
Related courses
- Automotive Engineering with Electric Vehicles (BEng (Hons) / MEng)
- Automotive Engineering with Electric Vehicles (MSc)
- Racing Engine Systems (MSc)
- Electro-Mechanical Engineering BEng (BEng (Hons))
- Electronic Engineering BEng (Final Year Entry) (BEng (Hons))
- Mechanical Engineering (MSc)
- Mechanical Engineering Design (BEng (Hons))
- Motorsport Engineering (MSc)
- Mechanical Engineering (BEng (Hons) / MEng)
- Motorsport Engineering (BEng (Hons) / MEng)
- Motorsport Technology (BEng (Hons))
Research impact
The MPM group’s research is at the forefront of technological innovation, delivering transformative solutions across multiple industries, including casting, manufacturing, energy, water treatment, joining technology, and biomedical applications. By harnessing cavitation bubble technology, the group has significantly enhanced industrial processes, improving casting techniques, refining materials processing, and optimizing water purification processes for clean water. The development of eco-friendly and biocompatible 2D nanomaterials is paving the way for sustainable advancements in materials science, with applications in fuel cells, solar cells, and medicine, including cancer treatment techniques.
In renewable energy, the group’s research has contributed to increasing the efficiency and sustainability of wind turbines, from improving decommissioning strategies to advancing the integration of composite materials in electric motors. Meanwhile, the Joining Technology Lab has made a significant impact across various industries, including the development of composite repair technologies for offshore platforms and training programs for global companies.
Bioinspired engineering is shaping the future of biomedical applications, with breakthroughs in orthopaedic implants, tissue biomechanics, and additive manufacturing. Key innovations include meniscus-inspired energy-absorbing devices, an interactive biomechanics database for soft tissue research, and predictive surgical tools like JointX, designed to enhance preoperative planning with 3D knee mapping.
By bridging fundamental science with real-world applications, the MPM group is not only shaping industry standards but also addressing global challenges in sustainability, healthcare, and energy. Their multidisciplinary efforts, recognized by industry leaders and research councils across the UK and EU, continue to drive meaningful societal and technological progress.
Leadership
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