Multiscale Mechanics of Heterogeneous Materials Understanding multiscale implications of heterogeneity on structural and electronic properties of solids and nanostructured materials constitutes my research interests. The goal is to predict new properties that emanate from careful consideration of the details of heterogeneity at multiple lengthscales, ranging from quantum to the continuum. Our research is at the intersection of mechanics and physics of heterogeneous materials. Current efforts are focused on the following three topics:
B. Mechanics of energy absorption and conversion in solids C. Mechanics of nanostructured materials Deformation and disorder at the nanoscale are inevitable in materials and exploring their implications on fundamental properties and mechanisms constitute this research. The objective is to exploit nanoscale heterogeneity and deformation to enhance fundamental material properties and processes in electronic materials. Example materials include SiGe, graphene, carbon nanotube, quantum dots, and quantum heterostructures -- all of which have important applications in the fields of energy, nanotechnology, defense, and aerospace. o Interfacial deformation and electron transport o Deformation and quantum transport in graphene o Modulating mechanics of solar-energy absorption using heterogeneity o Modulating thermoelectric energy transport by heterogeneity o Impact induced nanoscale deformation and instability o Impact induced energy deposition in solids o kT sensitive spontaneous instability in carbon nanotube |