The continual need for lightweight and high performing materials demanded the research and development of unique materials with improved properties and lesser weight. This is possible by creating composite materials with new manufacturing methods. By altering the microstructure of the materials, properties can be improved while keeping the weight of the materials the same or less. Sandwich structures are one of these materials where two facesheets are separated with a low-density foam core. The material property depends essentially on the core geometry of the sandwich structures. 3D printing offers exceptional capabilities for creating different and intricate sandwich foam cores which are limited to conventional manufacturing. The overall goal of our research is to manufacture and understand the effect of these core geometry on the overall performance of the materials. Also, we carry out the thermal and mechanical characterization of the structure and properties of these materials for applications including airplane, military, thermal insulation, vibration isolation, and automotive industries.
Current Openings: Looking for highly qualified and motivated undergraduate, M.S., and Ph.D. students who want to work on collaborative projects. Interested applicants, please contact us.
Contact:
Dr. Sabrina Nilufar
School of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Materials Engineering
Office: ENGR E12
Phone: (618) 453-1167
Email: sabrina.nilufar@siu.edu