There is a multitude of situations at CERN in which materials must withstand the close interaction with intense and energetic particle beams, safely operating over an extended range of temperatures in harsh environments and extreme conditions (pressure, strain-rate, radiation), which are to become more demanding with the High Luminosity LHC.
An extensive R&D program has been launched at CERN to develop novel materials capable of replacing or complementing materials used for present equipment. Literature data are scarce or non-existing for these materials and characterization is necessary. For this purpose, the Mechanical Measurement Lab is equipped with an unique set of equipment to perform thermo-physical characterisation of the materials (Solids, liquids and powders) from room temperature up to 2000°C.