Research

Research Areas

Our research focuses on the microstructural mechanics of fiber-reinforced composites, metals, and ceramics. We use analytical and numerical methods to characterize and investigate the mechanics of modern, high-performance materials.

In the analytical domain, we use stochastic homogenization methods. These methods link the stochastic microstructures, which arise from random production processes, with macroscopic properties. Conversely, local microstresses can be estimated from measured properties at the macroscopic level to provide an analytical understanding of microscopic failure behavior.

In the numerical domain, we study the microstructural geometries of fiber-reinforced composites and polycrystalline materials that are generated numerically. These geometries can be homogenized using finite element (FE) and fast Fourier transform (FFT) methods. This allows us to derive macroscopic material models directly from the properties of the individual components. We validate theoretical results using simulations, but we can also work directly with experimentally determined microstructure data.

Cooperations

The department welcomes collaborations with research institutions and industry companies. We offer mechanical expertise in materials and structural mechanics at the micro and macro levels, ranging from theory to numerical implementation.

If you are interested in collaborating on research, writing a thesis, or working on a teaching project with an industry partner, please contact us.

Publications

Here you will find an overview of the articles and books published in the field of applied and structural mechanics.