The history of material science can be reviewed from its conception in Paleolithic period, through the emergence of metallurgy at the dusk of Neolithic period to the current age of polymeric composite materials. High strength and light weight remain the winning combination that has propelled composite materials into new arenas. From supersonic aircrafts to sport cars and from bullet trains to tennis rackets, composite materials are increasingly being used in engineering industries for their structures that are stronger than steel yet lighter than aluminum. Breakthroughs in synthesis of polymer chemistries have led to development of highly tailored application oriented materials. As polymeric composites with superior physical and mechanical properties are being developed, optimization of their processing techniques is eagerly being sought. Thus the scope of activities on advanced materials will focus on polymers, composites, nano composites and their peripheral fields with specific emphases on their characteristics, synthesis, design, manufacturing, processing and testing.

A paradigm shift has been observed in materials sciences from traditional materials i.e. metallic, polymeric, ceramics and composites to a revolutionary role of developing nanostructured, multi functionalized, self-assembling and self-healing materials. These novel materials will create breakthroughs that will enable technology developments that are barely imaginable today. This is made possible by integration of composites with sensors, actuators and microprocessors on micro, meso and nano levels. Carbon fibers may be coated with piezoelectric materials for sensing purpose in order to synthesize a smart composite material having microprocessor controlled distributed actuator. This activity will also address processing, identification and characterization of nanomaterials with specific emphasis on their engineering applications.

As the structural complexity of various classes of materials increases, their coupling with coatings, ceramics and special alloys becomes more and more inextricably intertwined. The topics of special interest under the scope of subject activity also include 3D carbon-carbon composites, coatings, ceramics, surface and heat treatment processes of special alloys and related aspects in above mentioned fields.