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Ceramics Scientist & Engineer  

Definition of Occupation

Ceramic scientists and engineers are specialized materials engineers who work with ceramics to develop new ceramic products for a wide variety of applications. They convert processed materials and raw materials which are nonmetallic, inorganic materials (e.g. clay, sand, etc.) at high temperatures into useful products. They must apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design and development of new products. They evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials such as porcelains, cements, industrial ceramics, ceramic superconductors, and abrasives for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. They work with a wide variety of products, ranging from bone and dental implants, windshields, fuel cells, spark plugs, computer chips, nuclear reactors, to capacitors, laser amplifiers and the linings for blast furnaces and jet engines.

Ceramic engineers often specialize. For example, some ceramic engineers teach and do research in universities. Others work for government agencies and research centers. Some develop new ceramic materials. Others advance the technology of ceramics such as improving heat and fire resistance. They may also explore and develop new uses for ceramic products, be involved in production, or design equipment needed in the manufacturing processes.