Advanced Materials
A highly integrated experimental and multiscale modeling/simulation approach is utilized to engineer a broad range of materials with a desired micro- or nano-structure. Specific areas of interest include dynamics of complex fluids, such as polymeric and biological fluids, fiber suspensions, colloidal systems, as well as synthesis of functional nanoparticles and thin films. The department’s relationship with ORNL allows CBE researchers access to its supercomputers, Spallation Neutron Source, and a wide array of other state-of-the-art facilities.
Research Thrusts
Engineering of Soft Materials
Areas of applications include thin film devices, smart coatings, structural materials, nanomedicine, and renewable energy.
Engineering of Functional and Structural Materials
Areas of application include next generation electronics, printed electronics, renewable energy, drug delivery, clean water, and agro-chemicals.
Computational Materials Science and Engineering
The overarching theme of research in this area is multiscale modeling and simulation of a host of materials including polymer and polymer matrix composites.