Mechanical and Civil Engineering Seminar
Mechanical and Civil Engineering Seminar Series
Title: "Engineering Emergent Material Behaviors with Controlled Microstructures"
Abstract: The performance of advanced materials has traditionally been controlled by engineering ordered, periodic microstructures, but this approach can often be performance-limiting. Recent research has shown that disordered microstructures can enhance material properties by leveraging inherent irregularities to tune macroscale responses. This talk will explore the emergent behaviors of both ordered and disordered systems through two case studies: the dynamic responses of multi-material additively manufactured kerf structures and the DC electrical conductivities of metal-ceramic powder mixtures. Additionally, the challenges of characterizing irregular, particle-based systems—where a disordered network of hard elements is cemented by soft bonds—will be contrasted with new opportunities for tailoring performance in shock environments. The discussion will highlight how engineering irregularity can unlock novel material behaviors for a wide range of applications.
Bio: Marcia Cooper is an Associate Professor in the Mechanical Engineering department at Texas A&M University with a courtesy appointment in the Materials Science and Engineering department. Her Dynamic Material Response Lab at the Texas A&M University Turbomachinery Laboratory center combines aspects of shock physics, mechanics of materials, material science, thermal science, and combustion to study the performance of materials in severe environments. Prior to joining Texas A&M in fall 2021, she was a Senior Scientist in the Component Science, Engineering, and Production Center at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She currently serves as Chair of the American Physical Society, Compression of Condensed Matter Topical Group. She is an associate technical editor for Experimental Techniques and on the advisory board for Propellants, Explosives, and Pyrotechnics. Marcia has a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Purdue University (1999), and a M.S. (2000) and a Ph.D. (2004) in mechanical engineering from the California Institute of Technology.
NOTE: At this time, in-person Mechanical and Civil Engineering Lectures are open to all Caltech students/staff/faculty/visitors.