AIAA Lecture (September 20th)
Predicting Impact Behavior of Structural Composite Materials
Combining Nano-indentation with Computational Mechanics
Dr. L. Roy Xu
Research Associate Professor, University of New Mexico
Abstract:
Composite materials are extensively used in numerous defense systems such as stealth jets F-35, battle ships and helmets. Civilian applications include Boeing 787 Dreamliner, small BMW cars to huge wind turbines because of composites’ high strength to density ratio. However, one major concern of layered composite materials is their weak impact resistance. This research project sponsored by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research is intended to break new ground in predicting the mechanical behavior of advanced composites subjected to low-speed impact across multiple time- (from slow nano-indentation to fast projectile impact) and length-scales (nanometers to inches). A combined experimental and compu-tational approach is proposed here with which highly specialized—and invariably time-consuming and expensive—impact tests can be supplanted by simple nano-indentation tests and simulations to predict impact-induced damage in composites. This transformative research has the potential to yield a novel predictive tool that will be especially attractive to practicing engineers who have to carry out multitudes of preliminary analyses and design iterations for estimating damage initiation and tolerance.
Speaker Bio:
Bio L. Roy Xu received his Ph.D. in Aeronautics and Materials Science from the California Institute of Technology. His honor and award include an Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Award, and a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). He was the Chair of the ASME Fracture and Failure Mechanics Technical Committee, Chair of the Composite Material Technical Committee of the Society of Experimental Mechanics. As an author of 46 journal papers (total citation >1,100), his interdis-ciplinary research includes failure analysis and material designs for aerospace, civil and marine struc-tures; nanotechnology including nanocomposite materials and nano-indentation; experimental mechan-ics and fracture/failure mechanics, funded by the National Science Foundation and the Department of Defense (ONR, AFOSR and ARO) as the Principal Investigator (nine federal research grants).
When: September 20, 2018 (Thursday) COST: Pay for your own meal
Where: Copper Canyon Café, (505-266-6318)
5:30 - 5:45 Meet and Greet
5:45 - 6:30 Dinner (order when ready)
6:30 ~ 7:30 Presentation & Discussion
Students: Don’t forget that we offer free dinners (up to $15) for up to six students!