SEMI Laboratory

Laboratory for Surface Engineering and Manufacturing Innovation (SEMI)

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As the world enters the era of the Internet of things (IoT), sensor networks, and in-space manufacturing, the demand for highly functional smart surfaces has become increasingly critical. At the SEMI Lab, we aim to shape the future of surface engineering by developing cutting-edge additive manufacturing capabilities that enable next-generation functionality. We craft theoretical and fundamental frameworks to push the boundaries of surface manufacturing while targeting innovations in additive manufacturing manufacturing and rapid prototyping. These endeavors are geared towards designing and fabricating functional smart surfaces for a wide range of practical applications, including in-space manufacturing, physical unclonable functions, 3-D printed electronics, smart films, energy devices, electronic textiles, and product design.

We are committed to humbly and tirelessly tackling intricate surface structures for seamlessly merging surface engineering and additive manufacturing. If you wish to be a part of this endeavor, please contact Prof. Semih Akin at akins@rpi.edu.

"God made the bulk; the surface was invented by the devil."
-Wolfgang Pauli-

news

Jun 23, 2025 Dr. Akin has been awarded as the Outstanding Reviewer by the Journal of Manufacturing Processess. [Link].
Jun 22, 2025 Our group recieved the Best Paper Award from the SME Journal of Manufacturing Processess. [Link].
Mar 23, 2025 Dr. Akin has been awarded as the Reviewer of the Year by the ASME Journal of Micro and Nano Science and Engineering. [Link].
Dec 23, 2024 Our group has been awarded a grant from the NSF Engines R&D Awards - New York Energy Storage Engine Projects.
Nov 11, 2024 Our work has received the Best Paper Award at the ASME's International Mechanical Engineering Congress & Exposition (IMECE-2024). 👍