Prof. Dilum Fernando is a researcher and educator in structural engineering with a particular interest in the application of fundamental theories of material behaviors and geometric concepts to develop novel efficient hybrid/composite structural systems. Prof. Fernando received his doctoral degree from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2010, and then joined Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich as a postdoctoral fellow. In 2013, he joined the University of Queensland as a lecturer and subsequently promoted to senior lecturer and associate professor in 2016 and 2019 respectively. He joined The University of Edinburgh in 2021 as the Chair of Structural Engineering.

At his current position, Prof. Fernando continue to develop composite research programs to address the technological challenges associated with the use of advanced composites in infrastructure by investigating various processes for FRP materials as well as systems for innovative infrastructure solutions through theoretical and experimental research projects that bring together architectural, manufacturing, material, design, and construction challenges.

报告摘要:

Fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are commonly used in many industries including aerospace, automotive, and construction due to many advantages of FRPs including lightweight and high strength. This talk will discuss some of the composite materials and structures related research carried out by the Mechanics of Architected Structures and Systems (MASS) research group at the University of Edinburgh. Specific topics discussed will include, (a) bonded joints and the appropriate use of cohesive zone modelling approach, (b) inverse design of cellular core sandwich panels, (c) hybrid FRP-timber thin-walled members, (d) novel composite bridge systems, and (e) novel tidal rotor blades. In addition, some other ongoing research related to architected materials will be briefly introduced.