Project Info
Optical furnace for fast and efficient sintering
Geoff Brennecka
gbrennec@mines.edu
Joy Gockel
joygockel@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
Many current additive manufacturing techniques rely on melt processing, but this limits the types of materials that can be formed using these techniques. Similarly, traditional furnace-based sintering / annealing techniques for ceramics and powder metallurgy are incredibly inefficient, delivering only ~1 part per million of energy to the actual part being sintered / annealed. This project will build on earlier work that combines the expertise of the two co-advisors to help extend the technology of optical sintering to enable rapid and efficient sintering and annealing of any powder-based sample using optical energy without melting. This will add both flexibility and efficiency gains to materials fabrication and manufacturing.
Geoff and Joy have collaborated for several years on a variety of projects. This project will build on that history and will involve both undergraduate and graduate students from both groups. The team will plan to meet once every ~2 weeks, so both a collaborative spirit and willingness to occasionally work independently will be important.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery.
adapt.mines.edu
Primary Contacts:
Geoff Brennecka, gbrennec@mines.edu | Joy Gockel, | joygockel@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
The most important is interest and enthusiasm for learning. Simple coding and familiarity with python, arduino, raspberry pi, etc. would be helpful.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
3-5h/wk would be good; 10-15 would be better and can be supported with additional funds
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
The students working on this project will develop better understanding of building and controlling mechanical/optical/electrical systems while also understanding and improving materials properties and processing.
MENTORING PLAN
Geoff and Joy have had several successful undergraduate researchers in their groups. The undergrad join broader group meetings when their schedules allow, and project-specific meetings are scheduled for every ~1-2 weeks. Mentorship is shared by faculty and graduate students in the group(s).
Preferred Student Status
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior