Lourdes Salamanca-Riba

Lourdes Salamanca-Riba is a Professor of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Maryland, affiliated with the Department of Materials Science and Engineering within the College of Engineering. Her research focuses on advanced materials including nanocomposites of ferroelectric-magnetic oxides, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), and nanocarbon-infused metals like covetics. She specializes in analytical techniques such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and STEM-EELS for studying semiconductor interfaces and nanostructure formation.

Her work spans energy materials, high-temperature processing, and multifunctional composites. Key areas include improving the electrical/thermal properties of metal-ceramic systems and developing novel nanocarbon-matrix composites via electro-charging processes. Recent studies emphasize interface characterization in MOS devices and durability of SOFC cathodes under operational stress.

Publications highlight innovations in graphene nanoribbon synthesis within metals, tunable mechanical properties of nanocomposites, and EMI shielding effectiveness. While no explicit awards are listed, her prolific output (over 100 articles from 2006–2025) underscores sustained contributions to materials science.