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Mechanical Engineering MS Thesis Defense by Mr. Matthew R. Bach

When: Friday, April 24, 2015
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: Textiles Building 101E
Description: The Mechanical Engineering Department is pleased to announce the MS THESIS DEFENSE of Mr. Matthew R. Bach

April 24, 2015
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Textile Building, Room 101E


TOPIC:
FABRICATION AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF NATURAL SANDWICH COMPOSITES


ABSTRACT:
This study examined the flexural and impact properties of natural biodegradable sandwich composites. Sandwich composites consisted of mushroom foam (core material), hard woods (skin layers), and a natural glue (adhesive layer). Mass density and compression testing were conducted to determine the mechanical properties of four different foams. Results indicated that the medium density mushroom foam was the more optimal choice because there were no significant difference in compression properties and it had a better machinability. There were 4 variables that were used for the sandwich composites which were all associated with the skin layer selection; no wood, 1/16 inch hickory, 1/8 inch white oak and 1/8 inch hickory. The sandwich composite with the hickory wood performed the best, (0.255 MPa), which corresponded with previous work because hickory has a higher modulus of elasticity. The flexural energy was also calculated from the 3 point bending yielding the hickory absorbing more than the other sample types as well, absorbing the most energy (44.5 J). The high strain rate impact loading was conducted at two different velocities by using a gas gun assembly. At low impact velocities, no significant difference in the impact energy for different sandwich composites was noticed. However for the higher impact velocities, the hickory absorbed more than the white oak (99.9 J to 78.0 J).


ADVISOR:
Dr. Vijaya Chalivendra


COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Dr. Vijaya Chalivendra, Dr. John Rice,
Dr. Sherif D. El Wakil


Open to the public. All MNE students are encouraged to attend.

For more information please contact Dr. Vijaya Chalivendra (vchalivendra@umassd.edu, 508-910-6572)
Topical Areas: University Community, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering