Séminaire : Francis Aviles Cetina

Smart hierarchical composites with self-sensing capabilities for electrical monitoring of structural health

Abstract

Smart materials can render coupling between an external stimulus (mechanical stress/strain, temperature, moisture) and a controlled response (electrical resistance, current, voltage, actuation). The correct interpretation of this response and the elucidation of the transduction function could lead to the development of smart materials which are able to sense their own strain and damage, self-monitoring their structural health. Knowledge generated through the electrical response of these materials can be used to develop condition-based maintenance programs of large composite structures, saving resources and possible even human lives. This talk will discuss ongoing research of Dr. Avilés’ group at CICY (Mexico) on load-bearing carbon-nanostructured hierarchical composites for their application as smart materials for structural health monitoring and self-sensing of damage initiation and progression. 

Short biography

Bachelor's degree. Mechanical Engineer, Instituto Tecnológico de Mérida, 2000.
Master's degree. Applied Physics, CINVESTAV, 2002
PhD. Solid Mechanics, Florida Atlantic University, 2005
Post-doctorate. Composite Materials, University of Delaware 2006