Design and Processing of Modern Metallic Materials

Dear Colleagues,

The design of modern metallic materials increasingly relies on advanced processing routes that enable precise control of composition, microstructure, and performance. Powder metallurgy (PM) and additive manufacturing (AM) have emerged as key technologies in this context, offering unique capabilities for fabricating near-net-shape components with tailored properties and complex geometries. PM techniques enable controlled densification, porosity control, and microstructural refinement through advanced sintering methods such as spark plasma sintering and hot isostatic pressing. In parallel, AM processes—including laser powder bed fusion and directed energy deposition—introduce rapid solidification and cyclic thermal effects, resulting in distinct microstructures and anisotropic behavior. Understanding the relationships between processing parameters, defect formation, and microstructure evolution remains essential for optimizing the performance of PM- and AM-produced metallic materials.

Complementing these approaches, joining and welding technologies are critical for integrating PM and AM components into functional structures and hybrid systems. Advanced techniques such as laser and electron beam welding, as well as friction stir welding, enable the joining of similar and dissimilar materials, while introducing challenges related to residual stresses, heat-affected zone evolution, and defect formation. The combination of AM and welding also enables novel hybrid manufacturing and repair strategies, extending component service life and supporting sustainability goals. This Special Issue invites contributions focused on process–structure–property relationships, alloy design for PM and AM, welding metallurgy, interface engineering, defect mitigation, and computational or data-driven process optimization, with the aim of advancing the scientific and technological foundations of modern metallic materials processing.

Dr. Robert Bidulský
Guest Editors

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