Fellows 2009-2010

Image descriptionRobert Eckhardt 2

Ph.D. (1st year), Mechanical Engineering

Year in graduate program: 1st year (September 2009)
Research Topic: Fracture Mechanics
Partner School: IS 318 Eugenio Maria De Hostos
Partner Teacher: Russ Holstein
Email Robert


Research

Under the guidance of Professors Maurizio Porfiri and Nikhil Gupta, Robert is developing mathematical models that explain and predict the fracture mechanics characteristics of syntactic foams. Syntactic foams are composite materials synthesized by mixing hollow particles with a matrix material. This type of foam is used extensively in both underwater and space applications. Specifically, Robert is working on developing theoretical models that can account for material micromechanics. In turn these models are able to predict the macroscopic properties and structures of the composites, including toughness and strength, given controllable micro structural features. Mathematical modeling is needed to relate toughness and strength variable features. Such features include the volume fraction of particles, their wall thickness, as well as the matrix material properties and strength of the particle-matrix interfacial bond. The models are expected to include currently overlooked parameters such as particle-particle interaction, which are relevant in composites containing a high volume fraction or percentage of inclusion particles. Experimental studies are used for generating data that can validate these models. The new models that Robert is developing, will help in optimizing the properties of composite in applications such as blast mitigating armors, aircraft parts, and bone scaffolds.

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Figure: The images (a-d) show a crack propagating along a single specimen.

Integration in The Class Room

Robert is integrating his research into sixth, seventh, and eighth-grade technology classes by facilitating physics-based activities in the technology curriculum using mechatronic sensors. To teach concepts like such as force and pressure, hands-on experiments on paper bridges were conducted. These experiments, that tested bridge strength using mechatronic sensors, gave students an introduction into the science of fracture mechanics and an introduction into mechatronics. This emerging field will be the focus of a class during the second half of the year. Data acquisition devices similar to those used in his research were used and the acquired data was processed by the students in a lesson on Excel. Robert's mechanics background has allowed him to make real and pertinent connections between the students' class work and the physical world around them. For example, as an introduction to fracture mechanics, he showed a video of a car crash, and then led a discussion on crumple zones, acknowledging how the study of material failure is important in the students' daily lives. In addition to the work directly in the classroom, Robert is working intensively with a partner teacher, Russell Holstein, to develop a mechatronics based curriculum using Lego NXT robotics and the Basic Stamp. In addition to classroom implementation these lessons are being submitted for publication on the TeachEngineering website.

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Figure: Two students collaborate to attach a touch sensor for a robot wall following activity.


1 - AMPS Fellow; 2 - CBRI Fellow