Research Area

Precision processes for next-generation energetic systems

Performance is decided in the microstructure. CECD's manufacturing program builds the computational and experimental tools to design, characterize, and control the structure of energetic and structural materials, from atomic-layer epitaxy through additive synthesis to scalable formulation.

Process classes

MBE · CVD · Direct-write · Solvent cast

Modeled length

Atomic layers → bulk

Simulation

KMC · MD · Phase field

Materials

III-V · MoS₂ · HfS₂ · Polymer composites

Representative work

Recent investigations

A sample of process-modeling and synthesis work that informs how CECD's sponsors design tomorrow's materials.

See Publications
Mater. Today Comms 2021 Peng, Najmaei, Dubey, Chung

Reversible 300 K transition in HfS₂ atomic layers

A low-symmetry polytype of hafnium disulfide accessible at room temperature, opening a new design knob for atomic-layer electronics.

J. Vac. Sci. Tech. B 2011 Zhang, Chatterjee, Grein, Ciani, Chung

Atomic-scale modeling of InGaN quantum dot self-assembly

KMC simulations resolve how composition and substrate condition steer dot size and density during self-assembly.

Langmuir 2011 Henz, Chung, Andzelm, Chantawansri, Lenhart, Beyer

Binding energy of functionalized gold nanoparticles

Atomistic determination of solubility parameters for engineering nanoparticle dispersions in polymer matrices.

Capabilities

What we bring to the work

Manufacturing modeling at CECD is grounded in the same multiscale tooling used in our mechanics and energetic-materials programs.

Kinetic Monte Carlo

Scalable 3D KMC for prepatterned growth, quantum-dot island formation, and surface-driven self-assembly.

Multiscale homogenization

Asymptotic and computational homogenization for woven-fabric composites and heterogeneous media.

Process-structure modeling

Sensitivity analysis of resin transfer molding and other liquid-composite processes.

Generative materials design

ML pipelines that suggest candidate molecules and microstructures for further synthesis.

Partner on Advanced Manufacturing

Inquiries about sponsored research, graduate training, or technology transitions in this area can be directed to the center.