I developed models for interface failures in composite solid rocket propellant, including both particle-matrix dewetting and matrix-liner delamination. I designed and conducted experiments using digital image correlation to calculate strain at the leading edge of interface cracks, processing the results in MATLAB to develop a cohesive zone model (CZM) for the separation process. I used these results to build finite element models in ABAQUS to determine appropriate models for damage accumulation in solid rocket motor grains.

I conducted modeling and DEM simulation of triboelectric charge exchange between simulated zirconia-silica particles. This research built upon the results of my doctorate, in which I ran experiments on granular mixtures of zirconia-silica particles 100-300 microns in diameter. These simulations provided a more realistic representation of the actual charge distribution than existing semi-analytic models developed for determining mean charge distribution. I also led additional experiments into zirconia-silica tribocharging in high-vacuum conditions. These experiments investigated the effect on the charge distribution of mixture parameters like size distribution and mixing duration. The comparison between these experiments and my DEM simulations can be used to validate possible mechanisms for triboelectric charge exchange between dielectric grains.

I developed a technique for electrostatic sorting and beneficiation of lunar regolith. Dielectric granular materials experience triboelectric charge exchange, creating charge segregation within the mixture that follows trends according to the grains' size and material. I developed a predictive model that can be applied to a broad variety of such dielectric mixtures, and calibrated the model with experimental measurements of silica charging in high-vacuum conditions.

I worked at the Electrostatics and Surface Physics Laboratory (ESPL) at NASA Kennedy Space Center (KSC) for three summers as a technology fellow, where I primarily furthered my research into electrostatic charging of dielectric granular media under the guidance of my research collaborator, Dr. Carlos Calle. I designed the experimental apparatus for inducing and measuring triboelectric charge exchange in silica grains, and developed a LabVIEW controller for automated operation of my experiment. I wrote MATLAB tools for tracking and sizing grains in collected images using total light to determine grain diameters, and estimate grain charge based on their observed motion.In addition to my doctoral studies, I supported the researchers at the ESPL in analyzing and modeling the onset of corona discharge in an electrostatic precipitator for filtering particulates from the Martian atmosphere during CO2 harvesting. I also assisted in identifying conditions causing an anomalous arcing observed in the precipitator. I consulted Dr. Paul Mackey on a proposal for the use of electrospraying nutrient-rich solution in microgravity aeroponics, and was awarded first prize for presenting this proposal in the 2017 KSC New Ideas Challenge.

I designed and built micro air vehicles (MAVs) for research purposes, including a 50-gram hummingbird-like flapping-wing vehicle and a modified tilt-rotor model V22 Osprey. I designed vehicle parts using CAD software including SolidWorks, CATIA V5, and AutoCAD. I constructed parts from ABS, acetal, aluminum, and carbon fiber in our machine shop using fabrication methods including CNC milling and 3D-printing, then constructed the vehicles. Flight control was implemented with a PID controller in LabVIEW.