BRYAN/COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS — Texas A&M University just hosted the inaugural meeting of the Manufacturing University Initiative for Qualification & Certification (MUI-QC) program. This event marked the official kickoff for students in the program, led by Dr. Pablo Tarazaga, a mechanical engineering professor at Texas A&M and project lead, along with TJ Ulrich, Director of University Research & Relations at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL).
MUI-QC embodies a long-standing strategic partnership between Texas A&M and LANL to foster innovation through a comprehensive, cyclical approach. This program spans the entire lifecycle of material development, from initial design through rigorous testing and validation for structural applications.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Tarazaga framed the meeting around the essential question: How do we effectively build what’s necessary for the future? He emphasized the interconnectedness of materials, technologies, and evaluation processes, arguing that their synergistic interaction is vital to expedite development from conception to real-world application. Ultimately, this program aims to enhance the legacy technologies that drive our nation’s security.
Ulrich then discussed how, by collaborating closely with LANL, MUI-QC serves as a conduit for advancing and maturing cutting-edge technologies. Importantly, it also offers students invaluable opportunities to engage with LANL professionals, potentially paving the way for careers in the lab or other research institutions post-graduation.
Following the meeting’s introduction, the floor was opened for students to introduce themselves and share insights into the early stages of their projects.
Chris Hardcastle – Computational Design of Refractory High Entropy Alloys for Additive Manufacturing
Chris is focusing on developing refractory high-entropy alloys suitable for additive manufacturing (AM). His project aims to harness a Bayesian optimization framework to design alloys that withstand high temperatures and resist thermal shock, while remaining cost-effective. He hopes to streamline the alloy selection process, ultimately enabling the creation of new, more effective materials in AM applications.
Chase Somodi – Shock Dissipation in Solid-Solid Phase Transformations
Chase’s research focuses on understanding how energy is dissipated during solid-solid phase changes. This knowledge is crucial to develop efficient protective armor and ensuring that systems continue to function after an impact. His project aims to assess how quickly shifting between ordered and disordered states in materials can enhance energy absorption during impacts. To achieve this, Chase uses Laser-Induced Projectile Impact Testing (LIPIT) to measure the energy-absorption capabilities of materials before, during, and after these transitions.
Susan Peterson – Nanomechanical Analysis of SLS Printed Polyethylene
Susan’s project delves into the nanomechanical properties of polyethylene parts produced through Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). Her goal is to understand how variations in laser power, scan speed, and hatch distance during the SLS process influence part quality and mechanical performance. By examining six different samples with altered parameters, Susan plans to establish baseline properties for the nanomechanical characteristics of the fabricated polyethylene parts.
Matthew Betz – Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis (SHS) of Complex Intermetallic and Ceramic Shapes
Matthew explores the Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis (SHS) technique to produce dense intermetallic and ceramic shapes. He focuses on maximizing the efficiency of this process to create high-density components while minimizing defects. His work includes the synthesis of complex shapes in a vacuum chamber, addressing challenges such as mold degradation and gas-induced cavities.
Hugh Ta – In-situ Geometry Reconstruction in DED
Hugh’s project aims to improve the accuracy of Direct Energy Deposition (DED) additive manufacturing processes, which are often prone to geometrical inaccuracies and internal defects. He is developing a system that uses Fringe Projection Profilometry for real-time optical inspection, enabling precise coordinate reconstruction and setting the stage for closed-loop control, leading to more efficient, reliable, and scalable AM processes.
Adelynn Butler – Computational Models for the AM of Shape Memory Alloy Lattices Addressing Thermal-Mechanical-Metallurgical Change
Adelynn is working to advance predictive modeling for AM shape memory alloy lattices. Her research focuses on understanding the process-induced characteristics, such as residual stresses and warpage, that affect material performance. Adelynn intends to improve predictive modeling and analysis, refine existing AM models by incorporating modifications to material properties derived from literature, and conduct experimental validation using a simple geometry to evaluate both local and global responses.
Pranav Sundar – Smart and Secure Manufacturing: An Open-Architecture CNC Testbed for Real-Time Cyber-Physical Resilience
Pranav’s project investigates the potential to transform low-cost Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines into intelligent, secure systems. His focus is on overcoming the limitations of traditional closed-architecture CNCs, enabling real-time monitoring and resilience. By using open systems, he aims to enhance the security and functionality of these machines, paving the way for smarter manufacturing solutions.
Christian Mcgovern – DBD Heating of Cured Phenolic/Milled Carbon Fiber Samples
Christian’s project seeks to create structures using Phenolic and milled carbon fiber through a combination of direct ink writing and in-situ curing with electric fields. A crucial aspect of his research is determining the optimal filler loading to create an effective ink formulation. This involves adjusting the filler levels and measuring the resulting electric heating responses. To do this, Christian places cured phenolic bars infused with milled carbon fiber between a wire and a substrate and subjects them to dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) to examine the heating effects.
Jack Rahm – Hypervelocity Impact Testing of Novel Lattice Materials and Structures
Jack’s work focuses on developing innovative lattice structures that can absorb energy effectively during high-speed impacts, particularly in aerospace applications. His project involves characterizing the energy dissipation capabilities of these structures when subjected to rapid deceleration, using a specialized single-stage gas breech to launch projectiles. The goal is to ensure that these projectiles stop on target without causing damage, thereby enhancing the safety and functionality of lightweight materials in critical applications.
Luke Nester – Nonlinear Analysis of Weakly Bonded Structures
Luke’s project investigates the mechanical behavior of weakly bonded materials, which are widely used across various fields, including aerospace and electronics. He aims to utilize Nonlinear Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy (NRUS) to analyze the response of gauge blocks under different bonding conditions. By correlating NRUS findings with stress-strain data, Luke’s research seeks to refine the understanding of bonded interfaces and improve damage detection through Nondestructive Testing methods.
Ferris Turney – Photoacoustic and Optical Emission Spectroscopy using Tailored Femtosecond Laser Pulses for In-Situ Characterization of Additively Manufactured Metal Layers
In his project, Ferris explores the potential of using laser-generated acoustic waves to detect defects in AM metal parts in real-time. By employing femtosecond laser pulses, he aims to capture and analyze acoustic waveforms that reveal the presence of manufacturing flaws. His objective is to develop a comprehensive understanding of these interactions to enhance quality control in AM processes.
Nicholas Sandoval – Acoustic Nondestructive Testing of Additively Manufactured Lattice Structures based on Digital Twins
Nicholas is working on a new approach that incorporates Digital Twin technology for Acoustic Nondestructive Testing (NDT) to detect internal structural flaws in lattice components produced through AM. This method focuses on modeling the connections between unit cells and effectively simulating their vibroacoustic responses. To validate and measure these responses, he will use laser vibrometry, which will enable accurate identification of defects in the lattice structures and enhance the accuracy and reliability of inspections in AM.
Eric Campbell – Response to TPMS Dynamic Load
Eric’s research focuses on optimizing complex AM geometries for energy dissipation under dynamic loads. By correlating structural geometry with energy response, he combines modeling, simulation, and physical testing to develop reliable designs for various applications. His work employs techniques such as 3D Gaussian splatting to improve the predictive capabilities of these designs during testing under different conditions.
Joshua Bartlett – Integrating Continuous Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometry into Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy for Enhanced HE Characterization and Qualification
Joshua’s project aims to improve the characterization of high-energy (HE) materials by integrating Continuous Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometry (CSLDV) with Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy (RUS). Joshua’s research addresses the intricate challenges of linking experimental results with theoretical models, particularly when dealing with unusual specimens. By acquiring detailed vibrational data, he aims to improve the methodology for assessing bulk mechanical properties, thereby improving the overall quality of materials.
Nathan Long – Design of an Autonomous Guided Vehicle (AGV) for Nuclear Waste Storage and Retaining Structures
Nathan’s project focuses on developing an Autonomous Guided Vehicle (AGV) to facilitate the safe storage and management of nuclear waste. He aims to create a vehicle capable of efficiently and securely navigating complex environments while securely transporting hazardous materials, while ensuring compliance with safety regulations. This project highlights the critical intersection of automation technology and nuclear safety, providing innovative solutions to challenging waste management issues.
Ultimately, this meeting set the stage for an exciting exploration of new research in nuclear science. The diverse range of student projects reflects the program’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technology. In addition to a strong partnership with LANL, MUI-QC offers students the opportunity to advance materials crucial to future applications.
As these talented students embark on their projects, they are poised to address pressing challenges and drive forward change, embodying the program’s vision for a secure and innovative future.
