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Tell us about your main area of expertise.
My focus is in nondestructive analysis of strain and stress in polymer-based composite materials. These materials are becoming increasingly popular across various industries due to their lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and cost-effective manufacturing. However, the complexity and variability in the manufacturing process of polymer composites can lead to less reliability in the final structure compared to traditional materials like metals.
My work involves using advanced full field measurement techniques, which offer a comprehensive view of strain and stress distribution across the entire material. This approach helps identify discrepancies between expected and actual performance, guiding necessary adjustments in the manufacturing process or design to prevent failures.
What are some ways you and UWM can help companies?
I am often called upon to help companies manage the complexities of composite materials testing as they relate to production challenges. Many companies face difficulties in conducting specialized tests and navigating the extensive array of testing requirements, particularly if they have limited R&D capabilities.
At UWM, we provide access to specialized fixtures recommended by ASTM standards for comprehensive testing. We also have the unique capability to both make composites and subject them to rigorous destructive and non-destructive testing across various environmental conditions. This integrated approach allows us to not only help companies assess the performance and durability of their materials but also to optimize production processes and mitigate potential issues early on.
Give us a few examples of how you have helped companies in the past.
I've had the opportunity to work with various companies, both large and small, on fascinating projects involving composite materials. At SpaceX, for instance, I was involved in analyzing the quality of composite spacecraft parts they manufacture. I contributed by writing a book titled Effects of Defects in Composite Structures, which they still use. The book details potential issues from material arrival to assembly and curing, and provides procedures for managing these defects. My role included setting up documentation and processes to control and assess the severity of these defects. We conducted extensive testing to understand how different types of defects affected the structural properties of composite materials, which are inherently more variable than metals. The same composite material was used to make about 150 parts. Using labor-saving full field analysis techniques, we measured over 50 defects in the material that needed to be addressed.
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