Welcome to the Mechanical Characterization and Analysis User Center (MCAUC)

The Mechanical Characterization and Analysis User Center (MCAUC) specializes in the the mechanical characterization of structural materials, including high-temperature materials. MCAUC performs mechanical testing and analysis, develops test methods and supplemental analytical techniques, and conducts finite-element stress analyses and life-prediction analyses of monolithic ceramics, ceramic composites, and ceramic coatings.

Numerous mechanical test frames are available to visiting researchers from industry and academia. Capabilities to conduct tension, compression, flexure and micromechanical tests in controlled environments and at elevated temperatures on standard and customized specimens.

Staff has expertise with a wide range of materials, mechanical test designs, finite-element and analytical modeling, life-prediction analysis, statistical design, and failure analysis.

Areas of Expertise:

• High-Temperature Tensile Test Facility
• Tensile Creep/Stress Rupture and Stress Relaxation Facility
• Ceramic Flexure Test Facility
• Electromechanical Test Facilities with Environmental Testing
• Test Facility for Composites and their Constituents
• Mechanical Properties Microprobe
• Life-Prediction Analysis (FEA + ERICA / CERAMIC + CARES)
• Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy (RUS) Facility
• Additional Capabilities

The principal technical contact for discussing potential projects in the MCAUC is Dr. Edgar Lara-Curzio, Leader; tel. (865) 574-1749, email: laracurzioe@ornl.gov.