Thorsten Becker

Prof Thorsten Becker is appointed as a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and serves as the director of the Centre of Materials Engineering. Thorsten is also appointed to an Extraordinary Professor position at Stellenbosch University and as a Research Associate at Nelson Mandela University. His research focuses on structural integrity, including fatigue, fracture, and creep. He aims to use advanced techniques, including digital image and volume correlation, high-resolution microscopy, and finite element modelling, to measure and determine engineering parameters for structural integrity assessments. One of his main interests is in the additive manufacturing of metals and high-temperature applications. His work collaborates closely with local and international institutions to better understand the inherent attributes of processes and their connection to the material’s structural performance. Thorsten also participates in various professional bodies and provides consultancy to industry, particularly in the field of Fracture Mechanics.