The Mechanical Testing Facility enables investigators to create novel materials and structures through crystal growth, hot pressing, vacuum casting, diffusion bonding, and cold iso-static pressing. Once created, materials may be shaped by conventional machining, wire EDM, and specialty surfacing equipment. The mechanical properties of the material may be characterized over a wide range of temperatures, atmospheres, loading rates, and testing regimes. The facility is staffed by a senior research engineer and two senior technical assistants.