Current Research:
Ben’s research interests are in physical metallurgy, alloy development, and characterization of materials. Current work includes implementing a combinatorial approach and a laser metal deposition process (LENSTM) to study and improve the creep properties of Timetal 21S while maintaining superior oxidation and cold working properties. Several elemental variations of Timetal 21S are deposited in the LENSTM and then tested in simulated creep conditions with an electrothermal mechanical tester (ETMT). The ETMT is a state of the art apparatus that uses resistive heating of the sample for excellent temperature control and precise measurement. Coupled with stereological practices and Bayesian neural networks, virtual experiments are performed to help understand how composition affects microstructure and how composition and microstructure affect properties. Fundamental mechanisms are also identified by novel techniques with the ETMT and several characterization methods including the TEM, SEM, and FIB.

Ben Peterson graduated from Arizona State University (ASU) in May 2004 with a BS in Materials Science and Engineering before joining The Center for the Accelerated Maturation of Materials (CAMM) at The Ohio State University (OSU). He has since earned his MS in Materials Science and Engineering (December 2006) and is currently working toward his PhD in the same field.

Peterson BP, Collins PC, Evans D, Martin P, Fox S, Williams J, and Fraser HL. “A Combinatorial Approach to the Elemental Optimization of a Beta Titanium Alloy for Elevated Temperature Application,” TMS 2006, San Antonio, TX, March 2006.

Peterson BP, Barry E, Koduri S, Collins PC, Viswanathan GB, Levit V, and Fraser HL. “ A Novel Approach to the Rapid Population of Databases for Modeling of Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties,” TMS 2007, Orlando, FL, February 2007.

Peterson BP, Collins PC, Evans D, Martin P, Williams J, and Fraser HL. “Progress towards the Development of a Creep-Resistant Beta Titanium Alloy based on Timetal-21S,” TMS 2007, Orlando, FL, February 2007.

Ben is from Gilbert, AZ, and enjoys wake boarding, basketball, and Mexican food. He and his wife, Vanessa, are excited to have a two children, Tyler and Casey, running around the house.