ADVANCED MATERIALS & PROCESSES | JULY/AUGUST 2025 6 SYMPHONY OF ELEMENTS EXHIBITION AT SLOSS FURNACES OFFERS METALLOGRAPHY EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT Against the backdrop of towering smokestacks and steel-laden history, the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark in Birmingham, Alabama, became a portal into the inner workings of modern metallurgy with the opening of the Symphony of Elements: Art and Science of Metals exhibition. This innovative showcase, running through August 2025, offers a rare and compelling fusion of technical achievements, advanced materials science, and visual art. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a collection of 25 striking micrographs revealing the internal structure of metal components taken from the Honda J35 V6 engine. Each micrograph is paired with the physical engine part it represents, from crankshafts to connecting rods, allowing visitors to trace the direct link between microstructure and mechanical function. A full J35 engine with precision cutaways brings the system to life. In motion, viewers can observe how pistons rise and fall, valves open and close, and the crankshaft turns— all while signage breaks down the underlying metallurgy that makes this performance possible. The exhibit shows how the grain structures, phase transformations, and heat treatments define strength, wear resistance, and durability in each critical component. The grand opening on May 23 drew a crowd of 90 attendees including educators, engineers, artists, and community leaders. Representing ASM International, Vice President Daniel P. Dennies, FASM, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of public engagement with materials science. “Metallurgy is at the heart of every technological leap—from steam engines to spacecraft. This exhibition of microstructures makes that truth visible, tangible, and inspiring,” he said. As the event’s curator and director of the exhibition, it’s important to me to highlight its broader mission. Our goal isn’t just to show what metal looks like under a microscope. It’s to connect people— especially students—with the idea that materials science is not just useful, it’s beautiful. And it’s essential to the future. Beyond the technical depth, Symphony of Elements stands as a bold STEM outreach effort. By arranging advanced concepts in a hands-on, visually arresting context, the exhibition speaks to audiences ranging from Families discuss the displays. From left: ASM Vice President Dan Dennies, FASM, with exhibit director Raymond Thompson, FASM. Symphony of Elements exhibit on its grand opening day. FEEDBACK
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