New research being conducted at the University of North Texas could have a major impact on future military operations.

Herman Shen, chair for UNT’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, and assistant professor Hector Siller have been awarded an $800,000 grant from the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory. Both Shen and Siller will lead teams of UNT undergraduate and postdoctoral researchers to help with the project.

The research will analyze the laser-based powder bed fusion additive manufacturing process, which involves the precise layer-by-layer building of metal parts, similar to 3D printing but with a laser and powder. The manufacturing will be done with equipment in UNT’s Center for Agile and Adaptive Additive Manufacturing.

Their findings could allow military vessels in the future to produce their own replacement parts that are more reliable and durable.

Read the full story on UNT News.