Xinghang Zhang

Xinghang Zhang is a Professor of Materials Engineering at Purdue University. He joined the School of Materials Engineering in 2016. His research focuses on nanostructured metallic systems, including thin films and bulk materials, with a particular emphasis on materials processing, characterization, and testing under ambient and harsh conditions. Zhang holds a Ph.D. from North Carolina State University (2001), an M.S. from the Institute of Metal Research (1998), and a B.S. from Jilin University (1995). His work has been supported by grants from DOE-Nuclear Energy and the U.S. Office of Naval Research.

Research highlights include studies on radiation damage in nanostructured materials, mechanical behavior of nanotwinned metals, and functional materials design. Zhang leads the Nanometal Group, which explores advanced techniques such as in-situ TEM and micropillar compression to investigate materials' responses under extreme conditions. His group has developed gradient nanostructured steels and high-strength aluminum alloys, with applications in aerospace and energy sectors.

Selected recent publications (2021–2024) emphasize thermal stability of nanocrystalline alloys, defect dynamics in irradiated materials, and novel synthesis methods for ceramic and metallic composites. Zhang has advised over 15 graduate students and collaborates with national labs like Sandia, Argonne, and Los Alamos. His lab is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including an SLM 125 selective laser melter for additive manufacturing research.