Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics - Pathirage Research Group
Research Area 1: Analytical and Computational Methods in Fracture Mechanics
We develop fundamental theoretical frameworks and advanced computational tools that enable accurate prediction of fracture behavior across multiple material systems. Our innovations provide the methodological foundation for solving critical engineering challenges in nuclear engineering, biomechanics, and resilient civil infrastructure.
Current and Completed Projects
Mathematical Theory and Solution to the Cohesive Crack Model
Cohesive and Inelastic Strain-Based Damage Model and Implementation
Discrete Method with Damage and Friction Models and Implementation
Regression Statistics in Fracture and Size-effect Tests (completed)
Research Area 2: Fracture Mechanics in Nuclear and Extreme Environments
Our research addresses critical national security and energy infrastructure and material challenges through advanced modeling of material degradation and structural response under extreme conditions. This work directly supports nuclear facility safety assessment and next-generation reactor design.
Current and Completed Projects
Radiation Effects on Cement Microstructure
Nuclear Containment Structure Subjected to Blast Loading (completed)
Research Area 3: Injury and Biomechanical Fracture Mechanics
We develop computational models to predict biological tissue failure and injury mechanisms, contributing to improved safety standards, protective equipment design, and health monitoring strategies. Our work has direct applications to traumatic brain injury prevention and bone fracture quantification.
Current and Completed Projects
Modeling of Traumatic Brain Injury due to Head Impact
Bone Modeling based on Cosserat Continuum Theory
Research Area 4: Fracture Mechanics in Novel Cementitious Composites
Our research advances novel construction materials through fundamental understanding of fracture behavior in advanced cement systems, including recycled materials and high-performance composites. This work supports national infrastructure resilience goals.
Current and Completed Projects
Formulation of a Synthetic S-Type Asteroid Rock
Harvested Fly Ash in Concrete and Modeling
About the University
The University of New Mexico (UNM) is New Mexico’s flagship university. UNM graduate students enjoy access to nationally recognized faculty and degree programs, cutting edge research, student support organizations, professional and academic workshops, health and counseling services, and beyond.
The UNM School of Engineering is the highest-ranked engineering program in New Mexico, and is among Carnegie R1 (highest research activity) universities, putting it in the same class as MIT, Stanford, Northwestern, and other well-respected engineering programs in the country.
The Gerald May Department of Civil, Construction & Environmental Engineering (CCEE) is ranked first in the State. It delivers nationally accredited programs in civil engineering. In addition to domestic internship opportunities, the CCEE department enjoys strong ties with the national laboratories, local high-tech companies, and engineering firms, and actively collaborates with other departments at UNM and with universities worldwide.