University of Cambridge Student Visit 2026

Last week we had the pleasure of welcoming 40 third-year Materials Science students from the University of Cambridge to Almath for an industrial visit — and incredibly, this marks the 10th year we’ve been running this one-day event.

What makes this visit special for us is the opportunity to bridge the gap between university theory and real-world ceramics manufacturing. The day covered a broad look at advanced materials, with discussions around high-purity alumina, zirconia and MgO, and how material selection impacts high-temperature performance.

We also walked through different forming technologies, from traditional pressing methods to more specialised techniques, like cold isostatic pressing, explaining the practical challenges that come with shrinkage, density control and defect prevention. Manufacturing ceramics isn’t just about chemistry — it’s about understanding processes, precision and lots of experience.

One of the sessions focused on crucible use and furnace loading. We explored how design, placement, and handling influence furnace and crucible life, contamination risk and service life. It’s always interesting to see the moment when theory connects with the realities of running a furnace at extreme temperatures.

Dr Yu Yu, delivered a fascinating talk on solid-state battery technology and the growing role of advanced ceramics in next-generation energy storage. It was a brilliant way to show how materials science is shaping the future.

To round off the day, the students took part in a multiple-choice quiz covering everything they’d learned. It was fiercely competitive and ultimately came down to a tie-breaker: best materials-themed joke.

The winning entry was slightly cheeky — “What do you get if you mix human DNA with goat DNA? You get kicked out of the petting zoo.”

A bit rude? Maybe. But it made the Almath team chuckle.

Winners went home with bottles of wine and losers went home with tea towels and wooden spoons. Everyone was a winner really !

Thanks to the engaged students and faculty staff Prof. Jessica Gwynne and Rosemary who had the task of escorting this year’s feral students.