Andrew (Chihpin) Chuang, Ph.D., is a physicist in Materials Physics & Engineering group in X-ray Science Division of Advanced Photon Source. His research focus on using synchrotron X-ray based scattering and imaging techniques to study the structure-property relationship of engineering alloys under in-service conditions.  These techniques include radiography, tomography and diffraction microscopy using both monochromatic and polychromatic (white beam) high-energy X-rays from the APS.

In addition to developing these techniques, Andrew’s interests include developing non-conventional X-ray apparatuses to study material behavior under non-equilibrium, extreme conditions, such as laser additive manufacturing (AM) processes. He leads the development of a high-speed diffraction setup at the 1-ID beamline to enable this work.  As one example, researchers have used the AM setup to aid development of next generation of 17-4 PH stainless steel, a durable metal with many industrial uses.

Andrew has collaborated with several industry partners including Caterpillar, Pratt & Whitney and GE, to develop solutions for real-world applications and problems. One of his projects with Caterpillar aims to develop next generation high strength cast iron for heavy-duty vehicles. Using X-ray tomography and radiography he investigated 3D morphology of graphite in cast iron, its relationship with process parameters and the growing mechanism during solidification. The work was reported by Journal of Synchrotron Radiation as APS facility highlight as well as Foundry Magazine.