About
On-Going Research Projects
Creation and characterization of novel superabsorbent polymer hydrogels for use as internal curing agents in cast and printed concrete, sponsored by NSF and INDOT (with CE Prof. Jan Olek). Video of recent lecture at University of Louisville’s ERINC Soft Matter Initiative by Prof. Erk on this project.
Rheophysical characterization of concentrated surfactant solutions and the influence of small molecule additives and processing conditions on their lamellar microstructure (with Seth Lindberg at Procter and Gamble, sponsored by NSF CBET).
Flow behavior of concentrated particle suspensions, including biomass-based slurries for renewable fuels (with ABE Prof. Michael Ladisch and LORRE, sponsored by DOE BETO) and shear thickening ceramic slurries for direct-ink writing (with ME Prof. Arezoo Ardekani and MSE Prof. Jeffrey Youngblood).
Unique Experimental Capabilities
Shear Rheometer + Velocimetry: For investigation of transparent materials, our Anton Paar MCR 302 is equipped with a custom-built optical particle tracking flow visualization system employing a transparent quartz Couette cell, class 3b laser (Coherent, Inc.; OBIS 405 nm, 100 mW), and a high speed camera (dicam pro). For investigation of opaque materials, our MCR is capable of ultrasonic speckle velocimetry flow-visualization measurements in collaboration with Sebastien Manneville at ENS Lyon and with generous support from The Procter and Gamble Company.
Why rheophysical measuresments are important. Additional details on rheophysical capabilities.
