In Search Of Novel, High Performance And Intelligent Materials For Applications In Severe And Unconditioned Environments (A Feature Article)

For extreme operating conditions in aerospace, nuclear power plants and medical applications, novel materials have become more competitive over traditional materials because of the unique characteristics. Extensive resea-rch programmes are being undertaken to develop high performance and knowledge-intensive new materials, sin-ce existing materials cannot meet the stringent technological requirements of advanced materials for emerging industries. The technologies of intermetallic compounds, nanostructural materials, advanced composites, and photonics materials are presented. In addition, medical biomaterial implants of high functional performance based on biocompatibility, resistance against corrosion and degradation, and for applications in hostile environ-ment of human body are discussed. The opportunities for African researchers to collaborate in international research programmes to develop local raw materials into high performance materials are also highlighted. Journal of Applied Science and Technology Vol. 12 (1&2) 2007: pp. 1-1