Emphasis is placed on the hydration characteristics, durability, strength, and fracture properties of concrete. Project uses X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric methods in addition to closed loop mechanical testing of concrete containing copper slag and various flyash compositions. Various durability tests are conducted in order to evaluate the performance. Results are compared with fly ash and silica fume based concrete. Characterization of Toughening and Fracture Behavior in Cement Based Materials Development of testing techniques and theoretical formulations for modeling the fracture process in cementitious materials.
Figure shows the distributed microcracking in a cement based composite laminates.
Additional topics include closed loop testing of concrete, and composite materials. This project involves use of finite element method in order to design the parameters for the eye surgery known as radial keratotomy. The surgery places several incisions on the surface of the cornea and is intended to reduce corneal curvature distribution, thereby eliminating nearsightedness. This project involves mechanical testing, finite element formulation, structural analysis, and design of cold rolled structural steel for single family housing and commercial type roofing applications. This laboratory facility has been developed to address the research and teaching needs of myself and other colleagues who are interested in experimental mechanics and interdisciplinary research in the area of materials-mechanics, and structures.