Barry Carter, who is the Bernd T. Matthais Scholar in the Laboratory's Center for Materials Science, will describe the interface of art and science as it comes into play in the study of ceramic materials.
"Ceramics began as a combination of art and science over 5,000 years ago and continues as such today. Sometimes the art uses science; often the science becomes an art," Carter said. "In my talk, I will illustrate how microscopy is helping us to understand better how the structure of interfaces in modern ceramics materials influences the morphology, properties and behavior of those interfaces in technological applications. In doing so, I hope to demonstrate the art of this science. The talk will include something on optics and perhaps a little on optical illusion. I'll look at the interface of materials and the material of interfaces.
"Interfaces are not only ubiquitous, but in many fields of research and life, interfaces are 'where it all happens.' Change, particularly dramatic change, usually occurs at interfaces," Carter said.
The Bernd T. Matthias Visiting Scholar position grew out of a program former Laboratory Director Don Kerr instituted in 1984 to support outstanding scientists to come and interact with Laboratory researchers. Candidates for the position are selected by staff at the Center for Materials Science and approved by the Laboratory director.
Carter is a professor of chemical engineering and materials science at the University of Minnesota.
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