ʵ

News

The first Finnish introductory work on materials science is published

Professor Sami Franssila’s book Aine (“Matter”) introduces the fundamentals and phenomena of materials science in a way that speaks to both students and readers interested in science. The work is the first Finnish-language general university-level presentation in the field. 'Aine' covers the full spectrum of materials, from metals to polymers and from ceramics to composites.
Cover of the book Aine

At the heart of the book is the idea that there are only a handful of concepts needed to explain materials, yet they can explain the essential properties of materials. Materials science is a fundamental basis in electronics, mechanical engineering, medicine, textiles, energy, space exploration and many other applications.

The publication event is timely, as materials science is a central engine of innovation in the face of sustainable development challenges. Lightweight structures, better catalysts, new batteries and efficient recycling cannot succeed without deep materials expertise. Innovations in materials science are also of interest to the defence industry.

The work is primarily written as an introductory textbook for university studies, but it is also suitable for talented high school students or those interested in the basics of the field. The book is born from Professor Franssila's teaching experience: he has taught the basic course in materials science for seven years and has been in need of a suitable text for teaching.

According to Professor Franssila, materials science will grow into a significant area in Finland and globally, particularly with the development of nanotechnology, coatings and electronic systems. Materials science is behind both traditional and high technology.

Aine answers questions such as:

  • How are artificial diamonds made?
  • What connects the sinking of the Titanic and the explosion of the Challenger space shuttle?
  • Why are red glass items more expensive than those of other colours?
  • How to compare the properties of steel and silk?
  • How does ceramic shrink during drying and firing?
  • What kind of magnet is needed for a hotel room key card?
  • What do jute and carbon fibre have in common?
  • How are quantum dots manufactured?
  • Why are samarium, dysprosium and neodymium critical materials?
Sami Franssila

Sami Franssila

Professori
T105 Chemistry and Materials
  • Updated:
  • Published:
Share
URL copied!

Read more news

Close-up of a complex scientific instrument with golden components and various wires, in a laboratory setting.
Press releases Published:

Time crystals could power future quantum computers

A time crystal, a long-life quantum system approaching perpetual motion, has been hooked up to its environment for the first time, unlocking an intriguing way to increase quantum computational and sensing power.
A person in black touches a large stone sculpture outside a brick building under a blue sky.
Campus, Research & Art, University Published:

Glitch artwork challenges to see art in a different light

Laura Könönen's sculpture was unveiled on 14 October at the Otaniemi campus.
Book cover of 'Nanoparticles Integrated Functional Textiles' edited by Md. Reazuddin Repon, Daiva Mikučioniene, and Aminoddin Haji.
Research & Art Published:

Nanoparticles in Functional Textiles

Dr. Md. Reazuddin Repon, Postdoctoral Researcher at the Textile Chemistry Group, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, has contributed as an editor to a newly published academic volume titled “Nanoparticles Integrated Functional Textiles”.
Person standing outdoors in autumn, wearing a grey hoodie and green jacket. Trees in the background with orange leaves.
Appointments Published:

Introducing Qi Chen: Trustworthy AI requires algorithms that can handle unexpected situations

AI developers must focus on safer and fairer AI methods, as the trust and equality of societies are at stake, says new ELLIS Institute Finland principal investigator Qi Chen