Recent research:
The body of work presented centers on advancing the understanding and design of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) and composite materials manufactured via additive and subtractive processes, with a focus on fracture mechanics, interlaminar toughness, and micromechanical modeling under multidirectional interfaces. Across studies, experimental characterization and numerical/FE analyses are integrated to address delamination and interfacial failure in multidirectional laminates and 3D-printed composites, using configurations that ensure stable crack propagation and realistic interfaces. Several investigations explore how fiber orientation, interface geometry, and processing variability influence mode I and mixed-mode fracture toughness, revealing nuanced behaviors in novel materials such as continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastics, natural-fiber composites, and CF/PA systems. Complementary work applies micromechanical modeling and imaging (e.g., X-ray microtomography) to extract parameters like IFSS, ηFOD, ηFLD, and lc, enabling accurate reproduction of stress–strain responses and informing design for improved damage tolerance. The research collectively contributes to better predictive models, validated by mechanical testing and fractography, and offers guidelines for specimen configuration and testing to avoid misleading results in additive manufacturing contexts. The overall impact lies in enabling safer, more reliable, and ecologically conscious use of advanced composites in transportation, infrastructure, and industrial applications through improved material characterization, design methodologies, and simulation capabilities.