How do solid materials deform and fail?  Structural metallic alloys, high-temperature ceramics, polymers, composites, and carbon nanotubes are all characterized by a specific microstructure and specific deformation and failure mechanism. In manufacturing and service industries, these components are subjected to loads, heat, and chemically aggressive environments. The first challenge of solid mechanics is understanding microstructures and deformation/failure mechanisms operating over different length and time scales, from understanding atoms to the wing of an airplane.  

After gaining a qualitative understanding of deformation and failure, the next challenge is dealing in the area of predictive models for manufacturing and service arises. Mathematical formulations give rise to computational models that are then used to simulate deformation and failure processes on different scales with variable resolution. The overall goal is to design new materials and new manufacturing processes and to improve the performance of existing components.

Faculty in Solid Mechanics

Display Name	Contact Information	Photo
Boddeti, Narasimha Berry Assistant Professor	narasimha.boddeti@wsu.edu 509-335-4446 Sloan 213 Pullman
Ding, Jow-Lian Professor, Associate Director for Administration	jowlian_ding@wsu.edu 509-335-3226 EME B25 Pullman
Field, David P Director, Institute of Materials Research, Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture	dfield@wsu.edu 509-335-3524 ETRL 303A Pullman
Hu, Yueqi Assistant Professor (Career Track), WSU Everett	yueqi_hu@wsu.edu 425-405-1732 WSU NPS 423 Everett
Mesarovic, Sinisa Professor	smesarovic@wsu.edu 509-335-7936 EME 145 Pullman
Smith, Lloyd V Professor, Deputy Director, School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering	lvsmith@wsu.edu 509-335-3221 EME 155 Pullman