Philip Grimm conducted research on additively manufactured aluminum alloys in South Korea

Philip Grimm, a doctoral student in the RTG GRK 2868 D³ – Data-Driven Design of Resilient Metamaterials, completed an international research stay in South Korea in the spring of 2026 (March through May). The focus of his work was on subproject M2, “Tailored aluminum alloys for laser powder bed fusion,” which deals with the development of customized aluminum alloys for additive manufacturing using powder-bed-based laser beam melting.

The host institution was the Korea National Institute of Rare Metals (KORAM), an Institute of the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH). Among other things, KORAM conducts research on the development of alloys for high-temperature applications and on processes for the production of metal powders. As part of KITECH, the institute also works on future-oriented technologies in the fields of smart manufacturing and materials science.

The focus of Philip Grimm’s research visit was on investigating the influence of different heat treatments on the microstructure of an additively manufactured AlMgSiZr alloy. The as-received condition was compared with various heat-treated conditions. Philip Grimm used various electron microscopy techniques for characterization. These included, among others, electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (TEM-EDXS). The investigations provided detailed insights into the grain morphology and size, the phase distribution, and the formation of nanoscale precipitates within the alloy.

During his stay, Philip Grimm worked in Dr. Han’s group alongside the doctoral students Jongtae, Jinwoo, and Juree. The research visit allowed him to engage in direct exchange with the Korean researchers and gain insights into the local research infrastructure, including the X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy systems in use.

In addition to his scientific work, Philip Grimm took the opportunity to explore Korea and its culture. Among other places, he visited Busan and Seoraksan National Park, went hiking, and gained insights into Korean cuisine and daily life there.

Philip Grimm would like to express his special thanks to Dr. Han, as well as to the doctoral students Jongtae, Jinwoo, and Juree, for their guidance and support during his research stay. He also extends his thanks to Min-Ha Lee, his international advisor, who facilitated this stay, and to his advisors in Dresden, Prof. Cuniberti and Prof. Hufenbach.