معرفی
Pedro Vilaça is a **Professor and Head of the Department of Energy and Mechanical Engineering** at **Aalto University's School of Engineering**, Finland. Previously, he worked at the Instituto Superior Técnico (Técnico), University of Lisbon, Portugal (1995–2013). His research focuses on **welding technology**, **solid-state manufacturing**, **non-destructive testing (NDT)**, **hydrogen-related materials science**, and **materials safety**, with applications in energy and aeronautics sectors. He leads R&D teams and has collaborated globally, contributing to 142+ publications (h-index 32 via Scopus).
**Research Interests**: Advanced welding techniques (e.g., friction stir welding), hydrogen embrittlement in steels, supercapacitor materials, and smart composites. He has pioneered methods for **zero-material-loss welding** and **self-sensing metallic materials**.
**Key Projects**: Led initiatives like **THEWFuelCells** (fuel cell welding innovations) and **EARLY/Vilaca** (hydrogen damage assessment). His work aligns with **UN Sustainable Development Goals**, emphasizing renewable energy storage and industrial sustainability.
**Awards**: 2011 Eng. Cruz Azevedo Award for outstanding research in Mecânica Experimental.
**Collaborations**: Active in international networks, including the International Institute of Welding and European research consortia. He has organized conferences, reviewed patents, and advised doctoral students globally.
**Recent Articles**: Focus on corrosion-resistant materials, piezoelectric composites, and hydrogen-induced failure in steels. His 2023–2025 work emphasizes energy storage innovations and advanced joining technologies.
**Grants**: Principal investigator for projects funded by Business Finland, EU EIT, and Academy of Finland.
**Labs/Teams**: Oversees Aalto’s mechanical engineering research teams and collaborates with institutions like Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht.
