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CURRENT RESEARCHES
Gradient elasticity theory for the mechanics of fiber-reinforced composite
Mechanics of materials with distinct microstructures have consistently been the subject of intense study due to their practical importance in materials science and engineering. In this research, we develop continuum-based models which can accommodate fibers' resistance to stretch, flexure and twist.
1. Estimations of extension and bending responses of fibers using Molecular Dynamics Simulations.
2. Predictions from the developed continuum model
1. Development of continuum-based prediction models which integrate the properties of fibers and predict the general responses of the resulting composite materials
3. Shear angle distributions
2. Continuum-based modeling for out of plane deformations of fiber composite films
& predictions of local structures
1. Local structure predictions from the developed continuum model: Fiber mesh orientation (left) Shear angle prediction (right)
2. Predictions for the curvatures of a tunable lenses using transparent dielectric elastomeric actuators
3. Simulations of spherical indentation using the obtained model:
Theoretical predictions (left), Experimental results (right, Sutherland )2016)
Mechanics of biological membranes (lipid bilayer membranes)
Analysis of the mechanical responses of lipid membrane is crucial to understand and predict essential cellular functions such as budding and thickness distension. In our lab, we propose series of modified Helfrich potentials to predict/estimate the morphological transitions of membranes. Both analytical and numerical approaches are adopted in solving the resulting shape equations of membranes
1. Budding formation & Thickness Distension of lipid membranes
2. Effects of intra-membrane viscosity on lipid bilayer membrane (wrinkle & local straining)
3. Deformation analyses of non-uniform lipid bilayer membranes
a) Multiple peak formations of abnormal cell membranes:
Theoretical predictions (left)
Scanning electron micrograph of stomatocytosis and echinocytosis (Geekiyanage, NM et. al. (2019), (right))
b) Off-centered protrusion of Red Blood Cell (RBC) membranes:
Theoretical predictions (left)
Scanning electron micrograph of Blasi et. al. (2012), (right))
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