Two major materials challenges: integrating advanced semiconductors with high-performance substrates that can withstand the conditions and dissipate heat, and developing durable, oxidation-resistant alloys that can withstand extreme-temperature environments including hypersonic flight.
What it powers: the materials that survive extreme heat, speed and stress. The enabling layer behind hypersonic flight, atmospheric re-entry, and next-generation aerospace and defence.
Why it matters: in these systems, the materials themselves are the limiting factor. Better materials directly unlock new capability.
Refractory alloys for hypersonicsWhat it powers: the specialised chips behind radar, electronic warfare, and high-power defence and energy systems.
Why it matters: the most demanding applications are outgrowing what today's technology can deliver, leaving a clear performance gap to close.
Wide-bandgap semiconductor integrationPenn State and Battalion Advanced Technology Ltd have entered into two research agreements worth up to $6 million. Battalion will provide up to $1 million per year for each project. The agreements went into effect on 16 July 2026 and will run for three years.
The collaboration draws on the University's interdisciplinary materials research community, as well as specialised facilities and technical capabilities available through the MRI and other University research units.
The research agreements provide the opportunity to acquire an exclusive licence on 100% of the developed intellectual property over the initial three-year sponsored research period.
“The projects reflect MRI's role in connecting researchers and facilities across Penn State with external partners to move materials discoveries toward technologies that can operate in demanding, real-world environments. This is an important step for MRI's and Penn State's research future.”
Joshua A. Robinson · Director, Materials Research Institute
“Pennsylvania has the talent, research institutions, and innovative spirit to help America lead in the technologies that will define our economic and national security. This research collaboration, backed by up to $6 million from Battalion Advanced Technology, will help Penn State advance critical work in semiconductors, aerospace, defense, and other strategic industries while strengthening Pennsylvania's role as a hub for American innovation.”
U.S. Senator Dave McCormick
Talk to us about research collaboration, licensing and partnership opportunities.