Researchers from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Professor Amogelang Sylvester Bolokang and Dr Maria Ntsoaki Mathabathe, have co-authored an insightful book delving into the complex realm of advanced materials processing and manufacturing. Titled "Advances in Materials Processing and Manufacturing," this book offers a thorough examination of state-of-the-art materials production. It features in-depth discussions on a wide range of subjects, such as powder metallurgy processing, mechanisms of deformation, analysis of machining, material disposal, gear cutting, and laser cladding.

The book is a crucial resource designed to benefit researchers and graduate students in the field of materials and manufacturing engineering. It offers a range of valuable features, including:

• Coverage of innovative and diverse techniques in materials processing and manufacturing;
• Detailed examination of key process variables and fundamental operations related to advanced materials;
• Comprehensive discussions on fundamental and engineering machining analysis;
• Insights into the novel fabrication of titanium aluminide (TiAl) alloys using powder and ingot metallurgy methods; and
• A valuable tool for fostering critical thinking through technical problem-solving, especially for local service manufacturers.

The authors of this publication bring a wealth of expertise to the field of advanced materials processing and manufacturing. Professor Bolokang has a PhD in physics and an M-Tech in metallurgical engineering. He serves as a principal researcher at the Council of Scientific Industrial Research (CSIR), holds an adjunct professorship at the University of the Western Cape, and is an associate professor at the University of the Free State. His research primarily focuses on titanium and titanium alloys within the advanced materials engineering field. Professor Bolokang's areas of research expertise encompass high-temperature alloys, non-ferrous and ferrous alloys (metal casting), composites, sensing and hard materials.

He collaborates with modelling departments to validate innovations in materials product development, with a particular focus on microstructure, mechanical properties, crystallography and phase transformations of metals and alloys. Professor Bolokang said, "Our aim was to create a comprehensive resource that not only explores the latest advancements in advanced materials but also encourages critical thinking in the field. This book is a culmination of years of research and collaboration and we are excited to share it with the scientific and engineering communities."

Dr Maria Mathabathe holds a PhD in metallurgical engineering and is a senior researcher specialising on materials science and manufacturing within CSIR Advanced Materials Engineering.

Dr Mathabathe's research areas encompass physical metallurgy, including oxidation and corrosion at high temperatures. Her research activities revolve around the relationship between processing, structure, properties and performance. She focuses on the manipulation of materials processing parameters through alloying, casting, texture analysis, laser cladding and thermomechanical processing. Her interests extend to the crystallography of phase domains, as well as the machining and development of high-temperature advanced materials, such as γ-TiAl, Ti and its alloys, NiAl-based alloys, artificial intelligence and their composites, and ferrous alloys.

Dr Robert Tshikhudo, Manager of CSIR Advanced Materials Engineering said "It is a significant contribution to the field of materials engineering and showcases the exceptional work being done at the CSIR."

For more information about the book  or to obtain a copy , please contact Dr Ntsoaki Mathabathe at nmathabathe@csir.co.za.