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Research group of the Center for Experimental Mechanics works in the frame of Faculty of
Mechanical Engineering, University of Ljubljana. Our research is focused primarily on the time-dependent
behavior of bio- and synthetic-polymer materials and their composites exposed to extreme thermo-mechanical
loads. Lately, the group is intensively engaged in research in the field of mechanics of dissipative
systems. Dissipative systems are complex systems where
interacting multiple processes run simultaneously. Characteristic of dissipative systems is that
their properties change with time and are therefore strongly dependent on rate of external
load. This cause nonlinear response of a system, that can be demonstrated with a simple experiment:
For example, if a polymer material is exposed to slow load its behavior will be completely
different from its behavior at rapid load. In this consideration our group develops new
experimental and theoretical approaches for researching and modeling of nonlinear behavior
of dissipative structures exposed to extreme thermo-mechanical loads.
In continuation three projects are presented, which are carried out in cooperation with
the leading international corporations and represent a technological breakthrough in
its segment. Complex thermo-mechanical boundary conditions
during processing lead to the polymer nonlinear structure formation which exhibits physical
properties that are different by several orders of magnitude. In this way it is possible to
manufacture products with gradient structure and functionality. This lead to development
of worldwide first bio-compatible osseointegrative implants.
Patent protection and entering to global market is carried out in collaboration with FRESENIUS
Corporation. Our research aims at explaining phenomena
that contradict current knowledge in fracture mechanics. As shown in the movie the lighter
projectile penetrates the target while the heavy one is stopped.
Based on this knowledge our group develops new generation transparent and light bullet-proof
glass-polymer composites in collaboration with SCHOTT corporation.
Another direction of our research in collaboration with BASF corporation is development of Nano-PIM
technology, i.e. advanced technology for manufacturing of small and precise pieces from metal or
ceramic nano-powders. By manipulating the molecular mass distribution
of the polymeric binder and the particle size distribution of fillers, non-conventional
effects are achieved which can reduce viscosity of feedstock material and improve the quality
of the final part. Our research group contributed new experimental
techniques and new theoretical understanding of the effect of thermo-mechanical loading
on the time-dependent behavior of polymers and their composites. This knowledge allows
development of new generation technologies and products.
The most significant socio-economic achievement is establishment of the Institute for Sustainable
Innovative Technologies in 2008, as a spin-off within the National Technology Network. In
ISIT we create an environment, which fills the gap between the fundamental knowledge
and industrial environment and enables fast transition of expert fundamental knowledge
to the market product. Institute works international and integrative.
In order to do that, we are developing cooperation with researchers of Central and Southeast
Europe, Russia and USA. During the last three years the head of research
group received several prestigious international awards and recognitions for his and his group
scientific and professional achievements.