Federal funds support future materials

TWO leading research institutes at Deakin University will combine their globally-recognised materials science and artificial intelligence expertise to produce lighter, stronger alloy for the aerospace, automotive, mining and medical industries, thanks to federal government funding.

Deakin commercial research executive Director Ben Spincer today welcomed the $250,000 in support for four new translational research projects, recently announced by Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson at Conflux
Technology, located inside ManuFutures at the university’s Waurn Ponds campus.

The research projects, to be jointly funded by Deakin, are being developed by the University’s Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute (A²I²) and the Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM).

Mr Spincer said the projects would be developed using the new Deakin-created Rapid Ally Process Innovation and Design (RAPID) – a design platform which uses complex algorithms and artificial intelligence combined with material science insight to predict and optimise sophisticated, high performance alloy compositions.

He said the government funding is expected to also support a new spin-out company to fully commercialise the RAPID process.

“The platform means we can develop and optimise purpose-specific alloys in timeframes not achievable using traditional design methods.

“We are delighted the federal government understands the potential these projects have to dramatically improve the way alloys are produced across so many vital industries. Commercialising the process will enable the alloys to make a real difference within industries and beyond.”

Ms Henderson welcomed the success of RAPID.

“This grant will not only help Deakin University to accelerate its project, it provides inspiration to other local businesses to think outside the square and come up with ways to improve their business.

“It shows that local companies can compete at a high level and create job opportunities in Corangamite.

“The grant also shows that businesses can enhance their success, both locally and globally through partnerships with government.”

She said Conflux Technology was a good example, as it had used a $1.1 million grant from the Regional Jobs and Investment Package to grow from a start-up to a company turning over $1.5 million a year and eight employees.