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Research Interests 

My research interests center around the cutting-edge fields of additive manufacturing and auxetic metamaterials. My approach to research involves a meticulous analysis of every product from the perspective of additive manufacturing and auxetic materials, with the aim of creating products

that are lightweight, highly functional, better designed, and exhibit enhanced properties.

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We aew particularly focused on developing superior medical implants and building innovative

products for the automotive, aerospace, and defense industries. By leveraging the full potential

of these innovative technologies, we aim to revolutionize these industries by producing products

that are both high-performing and sustainable. Our Auxetic and Additive Manufacturing group is committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible and unlocking the full potential of additive manufacturing and auxetic metamaterials, bringing about a new era of transformative change.

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Join us on our journey as we explore the limitless possibilities of these remarkable

technologies and create a better future for all.

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Research Projects

Biomedical Implants

Printing Plastic Skull
Image by jesse orrico

Our focus on creating better medical implants is fueled by the limitless possibilities offered by additive manufacturing and auxetic metamaterials. With the fabrication process no longer an issue, we can leverage the unique auxetic nature of these materials to create implants that are not only highly functional but exhibit varying mechanical and functional properties.

01

Cardiovascular Implants

Cardiovascular implants made from auxetic materials can be designed to adapt to the changing demands of the body's circulatory system. For example, aortic stents made from auxetic materials can adapt to the natural pulsing of the aorta, providing better support and reducing the risk of complications. Similarly, auxetic heart valves can adjust their shape and size to adapt to changes in blood flow, reducing the risk of valve failure and the need for additional surgeries. The use of auxetic materials in cardiovascular implants represents an exciting area of research and development that has the potential to transform the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

02

Joint Implants

Auxetic joint implants offer a potential solution to a number of issues, such as loosening, wear, and dislocation, that lead to pain, reduced mobility, and the need for revision surgery. Auxetic nature in bone implants allows them to expand in multiple directions when subjected to a mechanical load. This property can help to distribute the load more evenly across the joint, reducing the risk of wear and tear. In addition, auxetic joint implants can be designed to fit the natural shape of the joint more closely, which can improve stability and reduce the risk of dislocation. Auxetic joint implants can also be customized to the specific needs of each patient, using advanced 3D printing techniques. 

Defense Applications

Military Aircraft
Image by israel palacio

The defense applications that can benefit from the auxetic behavior of materials can be broadly categorized into two areas: personal protection and equipment protection. In the area of personal protection, auxetic materials can be used to design body armor, blast protection gear, and anti-ballistic materials to enhance the protection capabilities of military personnel. In the area of equipment protection, auxetic materials can be incorporated into the design of impact-resistant vehicles to reduce the risk of damage to the vehicle and its occupants. The use of auxetic materials offers a promising approach to improving the safety and security of military personnel and equipment in high-risk environments

01

Personal Protection

The use of auxetic materials in the design of protective gear such as body armor, bulletproof vests, and helmets has become increasingly common in recent years. The unique property of auxetic materials to deform under impact and distribute energy over a larger area makes them ideal for use in protective gear. By incorporating auxetic materials into the design of body armor, the armor can better disperse the impact of bullets, shrapnel, or other projectiles, reducing the risk of injury to the wearer. This enhanced protection capability can be critical for military personnel operating in high-risk environments, such as combat zones or bomb disposal operations.

Helmets are another area where auxetic materials have shown promise. By incorporating these materials into the design of helmets, the helmets can better absorb and disperse the energy of an impact, reducing the risk of traumatic brain injuries. This is especially important for military personnel engaged in high-impact activities such as paratroopers, where the risk of head injuries is high.

02

Equipment protection

The use of auxetic materials in the design of blast-resistant structures, vehicles, and other equipment has also shown significant promise. By incorporating auxetic materials into the design of structures or vehicles, the materials can better absorb and distribute the energy of a blast, reducing the risk of damage to the equipment and the occupants. This enhanced protection capability is especially important for military personnel engaged in high-risk activities, such as convoy operations or in combat zones.

In addition to blast protection, auxetic materials can also be used in the design of anti-ballistic materials, such as bulletproof glass or armor plating. By dispersing the impact of bullets or other projectiles, the materials can help protect personnel and equipment from damage. This is particularly important for military personnel who operate in high-risk environments, such as convoy operations or border control, where the risk of being fired upon is high.

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