The Strategic Partnership in Structural Materials was established in 2009 when Rolls-Royce and the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC) agreed on a programme of research and training with Swansea, Cambridge and Birmingham Universities to address metallic systems for gas turbine applications.

It aims to provide the foundation for next-generation aero-engines that can operate at increased temperatures compared to current designs, delivering significant improvements in engine efficiency and environmental impact.

Picture of the Trent XWB 97 by Rolls Royce

Since then, it has generated impressive results. Developing new nickel and cobalt-based super-alloys for turbine disks, new intermetallic alloys for turbine blades and associated test techniques for the mechanical characterisation of these materials - outcomes of the radical thinking applied by the team.

In addition to this, it has created an outstanding student-training programme, a large body of publications, several patent applications, support for STEM and outreach activity and employment for the next generation of highly trained scientists and engineers - to combat skills loss in this market sector.

Professor Martin Bache, a professor at Swansea University’s College of Engineering, said:

“It’s fantastic to be part of a team that has been awarded this award by a major UK engineering institution. This award is a testament to the hard work that the Strategic Partnership has been performing for nearly a decade.

“I am incredibly proud of the research we have delivered and its impact towards industrial application, plus our support for STEM outreach and employment for the next generation of materials scientists and engineers.”