Boulton & Watt Lecture 2026: Critical Materials for the Future

We are delighted to be hosting our Annnual Boulton & Watt Lecture on 18 February 2026 at The University of Birmingham.

Professor David Brown, School of Metallurgy and Materials, University of Birmingham will be speaking about the current status of critical materials from global and national perspectives. Particular focus will be given to the Rare Earths and the remarkable magnetic devices they enable.

Critical materials are integral to our modern way of life and are helping us power the green transition. Examples range from the lithium in smartphones batteries to Rare Earth Elements (REEs) in the permanent magnets that drive electric vehicles and generate power from wind turbines. These vital metals are used in communications, critical infrastructure, defence, renewable energy, transport and life sciences. Without them, our lifestyles would be much diminished.

Sourcing natural resources has dominated human history. A major reason for the Roman Empire expanding into Britain two thousand years ago was the need for the critical materials of their day (tin, lead and iron).

This talk will discuss the current status of critical materials from the global and national perspectives. Particular focus will be given to the Rare Earths and the remarkable magnetic devices they enable. The University of Birmingham has been at the forefront of magnetic material developments for many decades. The Cavity Magnetron was conceived on this campus 85 years ago and it went on to play a crucial role in radar technology during World War II, as well as in modern microwave ovens. The University’s Magnetic Materials Group has been behind many of the processing innovations for the highest performing magnet known, neodymium iron boride (Nd2Fe14B). With neodymium metal being one of the most critical elements for the UK, the group has pioneered recycling technologies that offer a solution to the UK need for this vital technology material.

The evening will commence with networking and a welcome drink, followed by Professor David Brown's presentation and a chance to ask questions and share your thoughts with him.

Parking

Parking is available on site in the North East Car Park on Pritchatts Road, Charges do apply.

Many thanks for registering for a Lunar Society event.

Once registered we will add you to our database and you will receive mailings regarding future events, membership and surveys.

By registering for this event you have given your consent for The Lunar Society to add your data to their database and receive future mailings.

This event will be recorded and may be posted on our social media/website - by booking this event you have agreed to be recorded.

Your information will not be shared with any other organisations and is used for Lunar Society purposes only.

If you do not wish to receive these mailings please click unsubscribe on the next mailing you receive or email [email protected].

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher The Lunar Society, Birmingham