Introduction: A Journey Through the World of Steel and Metallurgy
Steel has been a cornerstone material in the evolution of modern society. Its strength, durability, and versatility make it indispensable in a wide range of industries, from construction to transportation to defense. However, the steel we know today has undergone an evolution, much of it thanks to the work of visionary researchers like Sir Harry Bhadeshia. Bhadeshia’s groundbreaking contributions to the development of new, high-performance steels have not only advanced the field of metallurgy but have also played a vital role in industries requiring materials with extraordinary strength and resilience.
In April 2025, Bhadeshia will be sharing his remarkable knowledge with students, faculty, and the public during the 27th A. Frank Golick Memorial Lectureship at Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T). The lectureship, a longstanding tradition at Missouri S&T, brings prominent figures from the metallurgical engineering community to the university to share their expertise with future engineers. Bhadeshia’s two lectures, focused on the history, evolution, and future of steel, promise to be both informative and inspiring for anyone interested in materials science, engineering, and industrial innovation.
Sir Harry Bhadeshia: A Metallurgical Icon
Sir Harry Bhadeshia is considered one of the foremost authorities in the field of metallurgy. A professor of metallurgy at Queen Mary University of London and the Emeritus Tata Steel Professor of Metallurgy at the University of Cambridge, Bhadeshia’s career has been marked by numerous scientific breakthroughs and practical innovations. His research focuses on the properties of steel and how to make it stronger, more durable, and more sustainable.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the field, Bhadeshia was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2015. Over the course of his career, he has developed new steel alloys that have become industry standards, such as carbide-free steel and super bainite. These innovations are utilized in high-demand applications like railway lines and military armor, providing enhanced performance and safety.
Bhadeshia’s work has been published extensively, with over 700 research papers to his name. His ability to bridge the gap between theoretical research and industrial application has made him a leading figure in both academic and industry circles. He is also a fellow of the Royal Society, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and other prestigious bodies, further solidifying his place among the elite in the field of metallurgy.
The 27th A. Frank Golick Memorial Lectureship at Missouri S&T
The A. Frank Golick Memorial Lectureship is an annual event that honors the memory of A. Frank Golick, a 1918 alumnus of Missouri S&T, formerly known as the University of Missouri–Rolla. Golick, a metallurgical engineering pioneer, had a profound impact on the steel industry, and in 1969, his widow, Loree Golick, established the lectureship in his honor. The Golick Lectureship brings nationally recognized metallurgical engineers to Missouri S&T, where they present lectures and engage with students, faculty, and industry professionals.
The 2025 lectureship will feature Sir Harry Bhadeshia, whose career aligns perfectly with the legacy of Golick, focusing on the technical aspects of steel metallurgy and alloy development. Bhadeshia’s visit offers attendees an invaluable opportunity to learn from one of the leading experts in the field.
Lecture 1: "The Wonder of Iron" – April 16, 2025
The first of Bhadeshia’s two lectures, titled “The Wonder of Iron”, will take place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. in Room 125, Butler Carlton Civil Engineering Hall. This lecture will focus on the scientific evolution of steel and the material properties that have made it one of the most crucial materials in modern society.
Bhadeshia will take the audience on a journey through the history of iron, from its discovery to the complex processes that make steel one of the most versatile materials today. He will delve into the chemical composition of steel and explore the mechanisms that give different steels their unique properties. The lecture will also touch on the latest innovations in steel production technologies, particularly focusing on how modern advancements in metallurgy are pushing the boundaries of steel's capabilities.
This first talk will set the stage for deeper technical discussions, with refreshments provided at 11:30 a.m. before the presentation.
Lecture 2: "The Intriguing Alloys of Iron, By Design?" – April 17, 2025
The second lecture, which will be more technical, will take place on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. in Planje Auditorium, Room 204, McNutt Hall. Titled “The Intriguing Alloys of Iron, By Design?”, Bhadeshia will explore the potential for creating new alloys of iron, designed to address real-world engineering challenges.
In this lecture, Bhadeshia will discuss the concept of alloy design—the intentional creation of new steel alloys to meet specific performance requirements in various industries. Drawing from his extensive experience, Bhadeshia will present both conceptual alloys (those with limited practical applications) and practical alloys (those that could be produced on a large scale to address real-world problems). The lecture will focus on the design principles behind these new alloys and how they are formulated to meet specific industrial needs.
As with the first lecture, refreshments will be served at 3:00 p.m., providing an opportunity for informal discussion before the presentation.
The Role of Steel in Modern Industry
The talks by Bhadeshia will underscore the pivotal role that steel continues to play in modern industrial applications. Steel is a cornerstone material in many of the world’s most important industries, from construction to automobile manufacturing to aerospace and defense. Steel’s ability to provide strength, durability, and flexibility under extreme conditions makes it indispensable for industries that require high-performance materials.
Through his research, Bhadeshia has helped redefine what is possible with steel. His development of carbide-free steel, for example, has revolutionized railway infrastructure, providing a stronger and more durable material for railway tracks. His creation of super bainite has enhanced the performance of armor plates used in military applications, improving protection without sacrificing weight.
Steel, however, faces challenges in the modern world, especially concerning sustainability. Bhadeshia’s work also focuses on how steel can be produced more efficiently and with less environmental impact, creating the foundation for more sustainable industrial practices.
Key Takeaways
• Sir Harry Bhadeshia, knighted for his contributions to metallurgy, will present at Missouri S&T on April 16-17, 2025, as part of the 27th A. Frank Golick Memorial Lectureship.
• His first lecture, "The Wonder of Iron", will cover the scientific evolution of steel, focusing on the material's properties, production, and technological advancements.
• The second lecture, "The Intriguing Alloys of Iron, By Design?", will explore how new alloys are designed for real-world applications and the engineering challenges they address.
• Bhadeshia has developed carbide-free steel and super bainite, which are used in railways and military armor, respectively, enhancing both performance and safety.
• With over 700 research papers and numerous accolades, Bhadeshia is recognized globally for his innovative contributions to steel production and metallurgical engineering.
• The Golick Lectureship provides an opportunity to engage with leading metallurgical engineers, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and ideas in the field of metallurgy.
Bhadeshia’s visit to Missouri S&T is an exciting event for anyone interested in materials science, metallurgy, and industrial innovation. His lectures will provide valuable insights into the future of steel and alloy development, offering a glimpse into how these materials will continue to shape the industries of tomorrow.
