Simulations in Paden Chair-related research are performed primarily in a cluster environments using group nodes embedded in the Georgia Tech PACE high performance computing facility. In addition to our in-house codes for nonlinear deformation, fatigue, and fracture analysis, we make use of finite element codes such as ABAQUS (HKS) for simulations of large strain deformation, fracture, and coupled thermomechanical analyses. Molecular dynamics codes include the WARP and LAMMPS codes from Sandia, and variants thereof.
To make a connection with measured properties and observed phenomena, it is essential for simulation tools to be verified. The Mechanical Properties Research Laboratory (MPRL) at Georgia Tech offers a unique complementary environment to enable the Paden Chair to engage in concurrent life cycle engineering research on material systems and process routes:
- Servohydraulic quasistatic and low strain rate tests
- Contact and non-contact extensometry
- Gas gun and split hopkinson bars
- Electron microscopy and x-ray analysis
- Quantitative image analysis of microstructures
- Specimen preparation facilities
Georgia Tech has provided leadership in establishing a campus-wide materials innovation ecosystem through formation of the Institute for Materials (www.materials.gatech.edu). Professor McDowell provides leadership as Executive Director of this Institute, serving over 200 faculty across Georgia Tech with materials-related research interests.
