Abstract:

Tunability and tailorability of ceramic microstructure is not a new nor unique concept. Many researchers have provided the rationale for the development of graded and tailored ceramic structures and interfaces as a means for unlocking unique and non-intrinsic mechanical and thermal response; the body of literature in this area is vast. Yet, the primary challenge yet to be overcome is the manufacturing science to enable the development of these cohesive, defect-free, tailorable materials designs. In this work, we highlight the efforts to (1) develop processing tools and capabilities to generate spatially-tailored bulk structural ceramics and interfaces, including the design and implementation of advanced manufacturing tools and adaptations of additive manufacturing approaches, (2) create design optimization tools to generate insight toward reducing defects and stresses during manufacturing and densification, and (3) demonstrate ability for tailoring of bulk ceramic specimens with discussion on current challenges that persist with current approaches.

Bio:

Lionel Vargas-Gonzalez is a materials engineer for the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Army Research Laboratory, currently serving as Chief (A) of the Ceramics and Transparent Materials Branch. His research efforts have focused on the discovery, development and transition of materials and manufacturing sciences towards dismounted Soldier protection technologies. He received a BS degree in Ceramic and Materials Engineering in 2004 from Clemson University and a PhD degree in Materials Science and Engineering in 2009 from the Georgia Institute of Technology.