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ResearchslashSRA 03

Theme 3.1: Nano-Architectures for Ultra-Strong Energy Absorbing Materials

This theme involves three projects. The unifying thrust of this theme is careful study of a range of different materials that are of interest for providing light weight and very high mechanicals strength. These materials include stiff chain polymers based on iptycene and related monomers that incorporate pendant groups at strategic sites along the polymer axis. These polymers provide different mechanisms for absorbing mechanical energy while accommodating appreciable deformation without structural failure. Another project will study the formulation and mechanical deformation behavior of microframe structures with 100 nm size features, that show promise for providing low density and champion resistance to ballistic and blast insults. This theme will also include studies of natural occurring nanostructured materials to establish design laws to guide fabrication of man-made nanocomposites that will exhibit high strength and toughness.

  • Project 3.1.1: Molecular Approached to Mechanical Properties for Ballistic Protection
  • Project 3.1.2: Materials and Structures for Blast Protection and Injury Mitigation
  • Project 3.1.3: Mechanical Property Amplification in Natural Materials
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    Theme 3.1 Researchers

    Prof. Mary C. Boyce, Department of Mechanical Engineering
    Prof. Jianshu Cao, Department of Chemistry
    Prof. Christine Ortiz, Department of Materials Science and Engineering
    Prof. Raul Radovitzky, Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics
    Prof. Timothy M. Swager, Department of Chemistry
    Prof. Edwin L. (Ned) Thomas, Department of Materials Science and Engineering

     

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