Multiscale Modeling of Ceramic Matrix Composites
Sponsor: Aerojet Rocketdyne
Development of multiscale modeling framework to capture the response of woven C/SiC composites
Predict behavior of C/SiC– Inconel 625 adhesively bonded joints
Biaxial Testing of Advanced Hybrid Fiber Metal Laminate and Monolithic Materials
Sponsor: ALCOA
The goal of this project is to understand and characterize the mechanical properties of the hybrid composites. The project consists of biaxially loaded static and fatigue testing of metallic and glass laminate reinforced epoxy (GLARE) cruciforms. The material performance, especially the fracture properties, will be used to help design aircraft components.
Modeling of Adhesively Bonded Joints in Composite Laminates
Sponsor: Honeywell Aerospace and Science Foundation of Arizona
Evaluating available data and resources that can be applied to solving the project, includes surveying literature, manufacturer’s data and HON data
Development of modeling Techniques for adhesively bonded joints
Guidelines and analysis procedures for adhesively bonded joints
Validation Testing for Bolted Joint & Sandwich Panel Repair Analysis Tools
Sponsor: Advatech Pacific
Multi-Modal Data Acquisition Strategy for Progressive Failure Analysis
Calibration, Validation, and Uncertainty Quantification of Analysis Models
Fatigue, Modes of Fracture & Durability of Advanced Polymer Matrix Composite Materials
Sponsor: Pipe Reconstruction Inc. (PRI)
Fracture Modes I, II, III & mixed modes I & II crack initiation & propagation behavior including environmental effects
Delamination criteria for mode I & II interaction for stitch-bonded composites
Determine ‘safe load’ levels & residual strength/stiffness for biaxial fatigue including environmental effects
Develop a micro-mechanic based FE model
Model validation & implementation
Viscoelastic & Fracture Behavior of Polymer Matrix Composite Laminates for Pipe Coatings, Repair & Rehabilitation of Structures
Sponsor: Pipe Reconstruction Inc. (PRI)
Characterization of stitch-bonded biaxial polymer matrix composites
Understanding damage initiation & evolution under different load cases & environmental conditions
Develop design guidelines for short-term & long-term mechanical behavior
Self-sensing Adhesive for Monitoring Composite Bonded Joints
Sponsor: NAVAIR
Develop of self-sensing capabilities in composite adhesive joints using single-walled and multi-walled CNTs.
Investigate sensing performance under complex loading conditions, such as impact and fatigue.
Study the effects of local agglomeration on the self-sensing capability.
Validate the use of CNT integrated self-sensing epoxy in complex joints (such as stiffened structures).
EAGER: Smart Particles for Investigating Damage Initiation in Polymer Composites
Sponsor: National Science Foundation
Establish relationship between structural properties & multifunctional particles
Identify nanoparticle-matrix interactions & detection capabilities of damage precursor
Validate environmental responsiveness & multifunctionality in composite particles
Investigate impact on structural composites
A Stochastic Approach to Structural Health Monitoring of Advanced Composites
Sponsor: U.S. Army Research Office
The goal is to derive a fundamental understanding of the physical phenomena that are unique to multiple damage modes and failure mechanisms in composites with significant material/geometric complexity and under complex loading. A stochastic multiscale analysis will be developed to address propagation of uncertainty across the length scales. Methodological developments will be steered by a closed-loop validation plan that incorporates both simulation and experimental test data focused on test articles relevant to Army applications. The research output is expected to make a significant impact on a number of U.S. Army applications including armored vehicles, rotary wing aircraft, and missiles.
Damage Precursor Detection in Polymer Matrix Composites Using Novel Smart Composite Particles
Sponsor: Air Force Office of Scientific Research
Develop hybrid and multifunctional smart composite particles
Exploit stress sensitive properties such as color and conductivity changes to provide information on damage precursor and propagation
Integrate particle synthesis, characterization, sensing/monitoring in polymer matrix composites (PMCs)
Multiscale Modeling Framework for CNT-enhanced Nanocomposites
Sponsor: Office of Naval Research
The focus of this project is to develop a multiscale modeling methodology bridging nanoscale to the structural scale for woven fiber reinforced composites integrated with CNTs. The multiscale framework adopts a stochastic approach to quantify the effects of material property scatter and architectural variability. Length scale specific damage criteria will be used to capture damage initiation and propagation. This project employs molecular dynamics (MD) simulations at the nanoscale, and micromechanical network models that integrate results to obtain full-scale structural response of CNT-embedded nanocomposites.
Multilevel Adaptive Remote Sensing System
Sponsor: US DOT, Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA)
This program aims at significantly advancing the ability to develop smarter, more efficient and more reliable commercial remote sensing and spatial information (CRS&SI) technology products applicable to bridge scour monitoring. The framework integrates remote sensing and wireless technology for scour monitoring, adaptive information processing, prognosis and decision support systems (DSS) to provide valuable scour data, which is currently unavailable. Features from sensors and Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) are combined to obtain three-dimensional (3D) information about scour, necessary for detection and prognosis of structurally deficient bridges. The adaptive detection approaches provide continuous and near real-time monitoring capability, while the improved DSS significantly reduces the amount of data required for processing by DOT personnel.
Characterization and Testing of Biaxial and Triaxial Braided Composites for Fan Containment Structures in Turbofan Engines (Completed)
Sponsor: Honeywell Aerospace
Analysis (thermal and mechanical) of the adhesively bonded load paths in engine fan containment structures
Hygrothermal/mechanical testing of resin transfer molded triaxially braided composites and polymer matrix coupons
Thermal/mechanical testing of adhesively bonded joints