Ragnvald Mathiesen

Ragnvald Mathiesen serves as Professor in the Department of Physics at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim. His research leverages advanced synchrotron-based X-ray and neutron imaging techniques to investigate dynamic solidification processes in metallic alloys and geomaterials, with significant contributions to understanding microstructure evolution under varied conditions including microgravity.

His primary research interests focus on solidification physics, in-situ X-ray radiography/tomography, and microstructure characterization of metallic systems. Key specialties include dendrite growth kinetics, phase transformation dynamics, grain refinement mechanisms in aluminum alloys, and the application of 4D imaging to capture transient phenomena in materials processing. His work bridges fundamental physics with industrial metallurgy applications, particularly in aluminum and magnesium alloy systems.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2019-2025) reveals a consistent emphasis on time-resolved imaging methodologies applied to solidification phenomena. His research demonstrates increasing sophistication in multi-modal imaging (X-ray/neutron), with growing applications in geomaterials and electro-active systems. The publications show strong international collaboration patterns, particularly with European synchrotron facilities like ESRF, and address both fundamental questions in solidification physics and practical challenges in materials processing.

Professor Mathiesen actively contributes to the development of advanced X-ray microscopy techniques, as evidenced by his 2017 doctoral dissertation on high-energy X-ray transmission microscopy and recent publications on dark-field imaging and diamond lens optimization. His laboratory work utilizes NTNU's materials characterization infrastructure alongside major international facilities including the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility.