Research

This NSF-funded project develops a novel, location-independent seismic protection system for nuclear power plants using locally resonant particle dampers (PDs). These PDs, embedded as a meta-surface around the reactor, dissipate energy and block seismic waves through tunable frequency band gaps. To overcome the design challenges associated with the highly nonlinear behavior of PDs, the project introduces a topology optimization method for the design of PDs for elastic waveguide propagation control. The research advances vibration damping and elastic waveguide propagation control in high-performance applications such as aerospace, robotics, and energy. In addition, the project includes outreach efforts to expand the energy workforce in Wyoming and beyond through undergraduate student research projects and high school outreach.

The goal of this project is to develop a novel structural acoustics-based design methodology for particle dampers (PDs) specifically tailored for ultralight aerospace structures. The project involves deriving fundamental analytical models that can accurately describe the acoustic signature of a PD and inform its damping coefficient. The analytical models will then be experimentally validated to and the PDs integrated into prototypical aerospace structures, such as rods, beams, and plates to enhance vibration damping and improve failure resistance.