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Trey Leonard, CEO of Standard Mechanics, featured on the cover of Metals & Mining Review magazine's Metal Testing Edition, with the headline: "Shaping the Future of Engineering with Transformative Mechanical Testing.

Startup Spotlight – Standard Mechanics Turns Research into Reality

Trey Leonard launched Standard Mechanics while finishing his PhD at MSU, transforming his IDEELab research into a top-tier engineering testing startup. Now nationally recognized, the company offers dynamic testing, digital strain mapping, and hardware development across industries—proving that IDEELab isn’t just a lab, it’s a launchpad for innovation.

IDEELab | Mississippi State University

14 hours ago2 min read

Milwaukee impact-rated accessories, including drill bits and drivers, displayed with IDEELab alloy branding.

Forged for Impact – The Ultra-Tough Steel Alloy Born at IDEELab

Mississippi State’s IDEELab developed a new ultra-high-strength steel alloy that balances toughness and durability—perfect for high-impact tools. Licensed by Milwaukee Tool, this alloy improves performance and lifespan for drill bits and accessories. It’s a powerful example of university research driving real-world innovation in manufacturing and materials science.

IDEELab | Mississippi State University

14 hours ago2 min read

Close-up view of the C1-300k High-Speed Optical Extensometer showing camera lenses, light source alignment, and specimen positioning.

Capturing Rapid Deformations: The High-Speed Optical Extensometer

Mississippi State University’s IDEELab has developed a High-Speed Optical Extensometer capable of capturing deformation at up to 300,000 frames per second. Designed for dynamic testing like SHPB experiments, this non-contact tool offers high-resolution strain data without interfering with material response. Now used commercially by REL, Inc., it’s transforming accuracy in material science and impact testing.

IDEELab | Mississippi State University

14 hours ago2 min read

Compact Impact Wave Guide featuring a coiled serpentine striker bar mechanism designed to generate mechanical stress waves within a small footprint. The compact design allows for high-intensity energy transmission in limited lab spaces.

Revolutionizing Impact Testing: The Compact Impact Wave Guide

Mississippi State’s IDEE Lab developed the Compact Impact Wave Guide, a breakthrough tool using serpentine striker bar tech to create high-intensity stress waves in compact setups. Partnering with REL, Inc., the team brought this innovation to industry, enabling precise material testing in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing. It’s a major step forward in high-strain rate research and real-world applications.

IDEELab | Mississippi State University

15 hours ago2 min read