Atakan Peker

Atakan Peker is a Research Professor at the Institute for Shock Physics, Washington State University, where he is affiliated with the Applied Sciences Laboratory and the Dynamic Compression Sector. His work bridges advanced materials research and industrial applications, particularly in bulk metallic glasses and composites.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, California Institute of Technology, 1994
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and Physics, Bogazici University, 1989

Dr. Peker's research focuses on the development, processing, and characterization of advanced materials, especially bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) and their composites. His work includes studying mechanical, dynamic, and corrosion properties, as well as net-shape forming techniques for structural applications. He discovered the Zr-Ti-based Vitreloy series, among the most processable BMGs known. His research has strong implications for defense and industrial sectors, including kinetic energy penetrators and high-performance armor systems.

His publications and patents reveal a consistent focus on material design, fabrication methods, and commercialization of amorphous alloys. Themes include thermoplastic forming, high elastic limit materials, and composite armor systems, showing a trajectory from fundamental discovery to real-world implementation.

Scientific Awards:

• No awards explicitly mentioned in the text.

Dr. Peker has led major research initiatives funded by the Department of Defense and commercial partners, securing over $8M in funding for kinetic energy penetrator development. He has managed intellectual property portfolios and global collaborative research efforts. With over 30 issued or pending patents and commercial products generating over $40M in sales, his impact spans both academic and industrial domains.

He is actively involved in research at the Applied Sciences Laboratory, contributing to the Dynamic Compression Sector’s mission at the Advanced Photon Source. His work integrates experimental techniques, material synthesis, and high-pressure characterization methods.