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Multidisciplinary Research Projects

Overview

Fundamental improvements to the performance of composite materials cascade through to more capable and higher value products. The greatest opportunities for innovation are currently in the area of nano-enhancement of existing materials to provide multi-functional capabilities. Carbon nano tubes (CNTs) and graphene have extraordinary potential to fundamentally change the electrical, thermal and mechanical properties of composite matrices IF they can be integrated into the production chain. ANU has recently invested in a pilot scale facility to produce up to 2 tons of graphene annually. AMAC has identified a key opportunity to integrate graphene treated polymers into the automated manufacturing chain by embedding them in tapes used by the AFP facilities.

  • Project A1 – Graphene enhanced prepreg tapes for thermal and electrical conductivity
  • Project A2 - Durable nano-scale surface treatments to improve wear and environmental resistance
    1. Puneet Garg, Zbigniew Stachurski, David Nisbet, Antonio Tricoli. "Colloidal stability and gel prevention of urethane-acrylate interpenetrating polymer network systems." ANTEC 2022. Charlotte, NC: Society of Plastic Engineers, U.S.A, 2022. (Awarded best overall paper)
    2. Lotfi, A., Li, H., Dao, D. V., & Prusty, G. (2021). Natural fiber–reinforced composites: A review on material, manufacturing, and machinability. Journal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials, 34(2), 238-284. doi:10.1177/0892705719844546
    3. Shaheen, W. H. A., Kanapathipillai, S., Mathew, P., & Prusty, B. G. (2017). Improving the cutting quality of metal products in compound dies. Paper presented at the 9th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2017.
    4. Vanian, G. G., Hellier, A. K., Zarrabi, K., & Prusty, B. G. (2013). Fracture toughness determination for aluminium alloy 2011-T6 using tensile notched round bar (NRB) test pieces. International Journal of Fracture, 181(1), 147-154. doi:10.1007/s10704-013-9827-2
    5. Khawaja, M. A., Prusty, G. B., Ford, R. A. J., Marcus, N., & Russell, C. (2013). Can more become less? Effects of an intensive assessment environment on students' learning performance. European Journal of Engineering Education, 38(6), 631-651. doi:10.1080/03043797.2013.834295
    6. Djukic, L. P., Herszberg, I., Walsh, W. R., Schoeppner, G. A., & Gangadhara Prusty, B. (2009). Contrast enhancement in visualisation of woven composite architecture using a MicroCT Scanner. Part 2: Tow and preform coatings. Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 40(12), 1870-1879. doi:10.1016/j.compositesa.2009.04.002
    7. Djukic, L. P., Herszberg, I., Walsh, W. R., Schoeppner, G. A., Gangadhara Prusty, B., & Kelly, D. W. (2009). Contrast enhancement in visualisation of woven composite tow architecture using a MicroCT Scanner. Part 1: Fabric coating and resin additives. Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 40(5), 553-565. doi:10.1016/j.compositesa.2008.12.016

Automated manufacture disrupts composites processing norms. Part quality is less of a function of cure cycles and infusion rates and more related to the mechanics of adding material to a mould: consolidation pressure, consolidation temperature, tape lay down rate, tape distortion, etc. This is still an immature area of research with huge potential for investigation and optimisation. Gains in this area will come from creating and optimising robust models for part performance and quality indicators by specifically addressing the complex thermal and mechanical environment at the point of material application onto the mould. Optimising the process parameters for multi-material interfaces, such as thermoplastic/thermoset or composite/alloy, unlocks new opportunities for industry.

  • Project B1 – Automated integration of process monitoring sensors
  • Project B2 – Thermoplastic AFP optimisation for metallic bonding
  • Project B3 - Post-forming of thermoplastic AFP composite tubes
  • Project B4 – Automation of the Thermoset Composite Welding (TCW) technology
    1. Oromiehie E, Kong A, Djukic L, Mata J, Rodgers DC, Prusty GB. Nanostructure characterisation of welded polyethylene using small angle X-ray scattering. Journal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites. 2024;0(0). doi:10.1177/07316844241242194​
    2. Serubibi, A., Hazell, P. J., Escobedo, J. P., Wang, H., Oromiehie, E., Prusty, G. B., Philips A.W., St John, N. A. (2023). Fibre-metal laminate structures: High-velocity impact, penetration, and blast loading – A review. Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 173. doi:10.1016/j.compositesa.2023.107674
    3. S. Fazeli, C. Stokes-Griffin, J. Gilbert, P. Compston, Analytical and experimental investigation of bend-twist coupling on the vibrational response of multi-layered stepped composite beams, Composite Structures, Volume 294, 2022, 115756, ISSN 0263-8223, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compstruct.2022.115756.
    4. Serubibi, A., Hazell, P. J., Escobedo, J. P., Wang, H., Oromiehie, E., & Prusty, B. G. (2022). Low-velocity impact behaviours of AFP manufactured fibre metal laminate structures. Materials Today: Proceedings, 59, 421-429. doi:10.1016/j.matpr.2021.11.362
    5. S. Fazeli, C. Stokes-Griffin, J. Gilbert, P. Compston, An analytical solution for the vibrational response of stepped smart cross-ply laminated composite beams with experimental validation, Composite Structures, Volume 266, 2021, 113823, ISSN 0263-8223, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compstruct.2021.113823.
    6. V. Zinnecker, S. Madden, C. Stokes-Griffin, P. Compston, A.V. Rode, L. Rapp, Ultrashort pulse laser ablation of steel in ambient air, Optics & Laser Technology, Volume 148, 2022, 107757, ISSN 0030-3992, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.optlastec.2021.107757.
    7. Gharleghi, R., Wright, H., Luvio, V., Jepson, N., Luo, Z., Senthurnathan, A., Babaei, B., Prusty, B.G., Ray, T., Beier, S. (2021). A multi-objective optimization of stent geometries. Journal of Biomechanics, 125. doi:10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110575
    8. Banerjee, A., Prusty, B. G., Bhattacharyya, S., & Zhu, Q. (2020). An investigation on the deformation mechanisms of high carbon steel under the influence of thermal and rate-dependent loading. Materials Science and Engineering: A, 772. doi:10.1016/j.msea.2019.138766
    9. Banerjee, A., Prusty, B. G., & Zhu, Q. (2020). Experimental and numerical investigation on the impact resistance of high-carbon low-alloy steel. Archives of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, 20(3). doi:10.1007/s43452-020-00066-6
    10. Banerjee, A., Wang, H., Brown, A., Ameri, A., Zhu, Q., Bhattacharyya, S., Hazell, P., Prusty, B. G. (2020). Experimental investigation on the dynamic flow behaviour and structure-property correlation of dual-phase high carbon steel at elevated temperatures. Materials Science and Engineering: A, 771. doi:10.1016/j.msea.2019.138655
    11. Prusty, B. G., & Banerjee, A. (2020). Structure-property correlation and constitutive description of structural steels during hot working and strain rate deformation. Materials, 13(3). doi:10.3390/ma13030556
    12. V. Zinnecker, C.M. Stokes-Griffin, A. Khudiakova, M. Wolfahrt, P. Compston, A comparative study for shear testing of thermoplastic-based composites and metal-composite hybrids, Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, Volume 137, 2020, 105953, ISSN 1359-835X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2020.105953.
    13. Jojibabu, P., Zhang, Y. X., & Prusty, B. G. (2020). A review of research advances in epoxy-based nanocomposites as adhesive materials. International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives, 96. doi:10.1016/j.ijadhadh.2019.102454
    14. Jojibabu, P., Zhang, Y. X., Rider, A. N., Wang, J., Wuhrer, R., & Prusty, B. G. (2020). High-performance epoxy-based adhesives modified with functionalized graphene nanoplatelets and triblock copolymers. International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives, 98. doi:10.1016/j.ijadhadh.2019.102521
    15. Victoria Zinnecker, Vincent Backmann, Chris Stokes-Griffin, Klaus Drechsler, Paul Compston. Laser-assisted thermoplastic tape placement: Effects of consolidation roller diameter on wedge peel strength of CF/PA 6. SAMPE Europe Conference 2020 Amsterdam,  Netherlands
    16. Banerjee, A., & Gangadhara Prusty, B. (2019). Fatigue and fracture behaviour of austenitic-martensitic high carbon steel under high cycle fatigue: An experimental investigation. Materials Science and Engineering: A, 749, 79-88. doi:10.1016/j.msea.2019.02.010
    17. Banerjee, A., Gangadhara Prusty, B., Zhu, Q., Pahlevani, F., & Sahajwalla, V. (2019). Strain-Rate-Dependent Deformation Behavior of High-Carbon Steel under Tensile–Compressive Loading. JOM, 71(8), 2757-2769. doi:10.1007/s11837-019-03594-6
    18. 18.  Banerjee, A., Hossain, R., Pahlevani, F., Zhu, Q., Sahajwalla, V., & Prusty, B. G. (2019). Strain-rate-dependent deformation behaviour of high-carbon steel in compression: mechanical and structural characterisation. Journal of Materials Science, 54(8), 6594-6607. doi:10.1007/s10853-018-03301-x
    19. 19.  Banerjee, A., Prusty, B. G., & Bhattacharyya, S. (2019). Rate-dependent mechanical strength and flow behaviour of dual-phase high carbon steel at elevated temperatures: An experimental investigation. Materials Science and Engineering: A, 744, 224-234. doi:10.1016/j.msea.2018.12.002
    20. 20.  Jojibabu, P., Zhang, Y. X., Rider, A. N., Wang, J., & Gangadhara Prusty, B. (2019). Synergetic effects of carbon nanotubes and triblock copolymer on the lap shear strength of epoxy adhesive joints. Composites Part B: Engineering, 178. doi:10.1016/j.compositesb.2019.107457
    21. 21.  Banerjee, A., Pahlevani, F., Sahajwalla, V., & Prusty, B. G. (2017). Compressive deformation behaviour of high carbon steel at quasi-static strain rates. Paper presented at the 9th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2017.
    22. 22.  Hellier, A. K., Chaphalkar, P. P., & Prusty, B. G. (2017). Fracture toughness measurement for aluminium 6061-T6 using notched round bars. Paper presented at the 9th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2017.
    23. 23.  Watson, I. T., Gangadhara Prusty, B., Olsen, J., & Farrell, D. (2011). A parameter investigation into the Thompson constant-velocity coupling. Journal of Mechanical Design, Transactions of the ASME, 133(12). doi:10.1115/1.4005229

AFP laminates can be manufactured in a greater variety of shapes than normal laminates, also with exotic mechanical properties, at the expense of including far more localised defects. The manufacturing process is, however, still constrained by the mechanics of the robot, tool and fibre tapes. It is critical that simulation tools are developed to: identify risks in the manufacturing process; identify likely defect locations; predict the as-manufactured properties; and predict the stiffness and strength of manufactured components.

  • Project C1 – Advanced microCT for in-situ defect and damage characterisation
  • Project C2 – Hybrid deterministic/stochastic failure models for AFP composites
  • Project C3 – Selective stiffness modification and performance prediction for composite components
    1. Choi, J. Y., Jeon, J. H., Lyu, J. H., Park, J., Kim, G. Y., Chey, S. Y, Quan Y. J., Bhandari. B., Prusty B.G., Ahn, S. H. (2023). Current Applications and Development of Composite Manufacturing Processes for Future Mobility. International Journal of Precision Engineering and Manufacturing - Green Technology, 10(1), 269-291. doi:10.1007/s40684-022-00483-3
    2. Garg, N., Donough, M. J., Song, C., Phillips, A. W., & Prusty, B. G. (2023). Three-dimensional scaled boundary finite element method to study interfacial imperfections in thick laminated composite plates undergoing bi-axial bending. Engineering Analysis with Boundary Elements, 146, 34-43. doi:10.1016/j.enganabound.2022.10.003
    3. Donough, M. J., Prusty, B. G., Van Donselaar, M. J., Morozov, E. V., Wang, H., Hazell, P. J.,  Philips A.W., John, N. A. S. (2023). In-Plane and Oblique Edge-on Impact on Thick Glass-Fibre/Epoxy Composite Laminates. International Journal of Impact Engineering, 171. doi:10.1016/j.ijimpeng.2022.104373
    4. John Holmes, Raj Das, Zbigniew Stachurski, Paul Compston, 3D topographical analysis for defect detection during loading of woven thermoplastic composites, Composites Communications, Volume 29, 2022, 100991, ISSN 2452-2139, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coco.2021.100991.
    5. Garg, N., Saputra, A., Donough, M., Song, C., Phillips, A. W., & Prusty, B. G. (2022). Application of scaled boundary finite element method for three-dimensional modeling of bi-axial bending in thick laminated composite plates. Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, 29(27), 6935-6947. doi:10.1080/15376494.2021.1989526
    6. Xie Li, Sonya A. Brown, Mathew W. Joosten, Garth M. Pearce, A segment-to-segment cohesive contact network approach for mesoscale composites failure modelling, Composite Structures, Volume 284, 2022, 115205, ISSN 0263-8223, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compstruct.2022.115205.
    7. Xie Li, Sonya A. Brown, Mathew W. Joosten, Garth M. Pearce, Tow wise modelling of non-conventional automated fibre placement composites: short beam shear study, Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, Volume 154, 2022, 106767, ISSN 1359-835X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2021.106767.
    8. John Holmes, George Vlandis, Zbigniew Stachurski, Raj Das, Paul Compston, Failure behaviour in woven thermoplastic composites subjected to various deformation modes, Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, Volume 146, 2021, 106410, ISSN 1359-835X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2021.106410.
    9. Xie Li, Jonathan Dufty, Garth M Pearce, Automation of tow wise modelling for automated fibre placement and filament wound composites, Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, Volume 147, 2021, 106449, ISSN 1359-835X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2021.106449
    10. Garg, N., and Prusty, B. G., (20202). Scaled Boundary Finite Element Analysis of Laminated Composites. Proceedings of The Fifth Australiasian Conference on Computational Mechanics (ACCM 2021), Sydney, Australia, 13-15 December 2021.
    11. Ford, R., Vigentini, L., Vulic, J., Chitsaz, M., & Prusty, B. G. (2021). A Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on engineering mechanics: data analytics informing learning design and improvement. Australian Journal of Mechanical Engineering, 19(2), 163-172. doi:10.1080/14484846.2019.1596049
    12. Xie Li, Garth Pearce (2021). Progressive Failure Analysis of AP-Ply Laminate using Tow Wise Modelling Technique. Proceedings of The Fifth Australiasian Conference on Computational Mechanics (ACCM 2021), Sydney, Australia, 13-15 December 2021.
    13. Garg, N., Chakladar, N. D., Prusty, B. G., Song, C., & Phillips, A. W. (2020). Modelling of laminated composite plates with weakly bonded interfaces using scaled boundary finite element method. International Journal of Mechanical Sciences, 170. doi:10.1016/j.ijmecsci.2019.105349
    14. Garg, N., Prusty, B. G., Ooi, E. T., Song, C., Pearce, G., & Phillips, A. W. (2020). Application of scaled boundary finite element method for delamination analysis of composite laminates using cohesive zone modelling. Composite Structures, 253. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2020.112773
    15. Garg, N., Prusty, B. G., Song, C., & Phillips, A. W. (2020). Cylindrical bending of thick laminated composite plates using scaled boundary finite element method. Engineering Analysis with Boundary Elements, 120, 73-81. doi:10.1016/j.enganabound.2020.08.009
    16. Shaheen, W., Kanapathipillai, S., Mathew, P., & Prusty, B. G. (2020). Optimization of compound die piercing punches and double cutting process parameters using finite element analysis. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture, 234(1-2), 3-13. doi:10.1177/0954405419855507
    17. Budarapu, P. R., Kumar, S., Prusty, B. G., & Paggi, M. (2019). Stress transfer through the interphase in curved-fiber pullout tests of nanocomposites. Composites Part B: Engineering, 165, 417-434. doi:10.1016/j.compositesb.2018.12.116
    18. Pearce, G. M. K., Mukkavilli, A., Chowdhury, N. T., Lim, S. H., Prusty, B. G., Crosky, A., & Kelly, D. W. (2019). Strain Invariant Failure Theory – Part 1: An extensible framework for predicting the mechanical performance of fibre reinforced polymer composites. Composite Structures, 209, 1022-1034. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2018.03.084
    19. Mitral, A., Vigentini, L., Djatmiko, M., Prusty, G., Sharma, Y., & King, M. E. (2019). MOOC-O-Bot: Using Cognitive Technologies to Extend Knowledge Support in MOOCs. Paper presented at the Proceedings of 2018 IEEE International Conference on Teaching, Assessment, and Learning for Engineering, TALE 2018.
    20. Sul, J. H., Prusty, B. G., & Crosky, A. (2017). Effect of the addition of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on the thermomechanical properties of epoxy resin. Polymer Composites, 38(9), 1873-1880. doi:10.1002/pc.23757
    21. Pearce, G. M., Lim, S. H., Sul, J. H. J., Prusty, B. G., & Kelly, D. W. (2014). Atoms to assemblies: A physics-based hierachical modelling approach for polymer composite components. Paper presented at the Applied Mechanics and Materials.
    22. Ni, X. Y., Prusty, B. G., & Hellier, A. K. (2016). Buckling and post-buckling of isotropic and composite stiffened panels: A review on optimisation (2000-2015). Transactions of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects Part A: International Journal of Maritime Engineering, 158, 251-267. doi:10.3940/rina.ijme.2016.a3.388
    23. Ni, X. Y., Prusty, B. G., & Hellier, A. K. (2016). BUCKLING AND POST-BUCKLING OF ISOTROPIC AND COMPOSITE STIFFENED PANELS: A REVIEW ON OPTIMISATION (2000-2015). Transactions of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects Part A: International Journal of Maritime Engineering, 158(A3), A251-A267. doi:10.5750/ijme.v158iA3.994
    24. Lim, S. H., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., Prusty, B. G., & Crosky, A. (2015). Application of onset theory to onset of transverse cracking in fabric composites. Paper presented at the ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials.
    25. Kepple, J., Herath, M., Pearce, G., Prusty, G., Thomson, R., & Degenhardt, R. (2015). Improved stochastic methods for modelling imperfections for buckling analysis of composite cylindrical shells. Engineering Structures, 100, 385-398. doi:10.1016/j.engstruct.2015.06.013
    26. Kepple, J., Herath, M. T., Pearce, G., Gangadhara Prusty, B., Thomson, R., & Degenhardt, R. (2015). Stochastic analysis of imperfection sensitive unstiffened composite cylinders using realistic imperfection models. Composite Structures, 126, 159-173. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2015.02.063
    27. Ni, X. Y., Pan, C. W., & Gangadhara Prusty, B. (2015). Numerical investigations of the mechanical properties of a braided non-vascular stent design using finite element method. Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering, 18(10), 1117-1125. doi:10.1080/10255842.2013.873420
    28. Ni, X. Y., Prusty, B. G., & Hellier, A. K. (2015a). Buckling and post-buckling of isotropic and composite stiffened panels: A review on analysis and experiment (2000-2012). Transactions of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects Part A: International Journal of Maritime Engineering, 157, A9-A30. doi:10.3940/rina.ijme.2015.al.300
    29. Ni, X. Y., Prusty, B. G., & Hellier, A. K. (2015b). BUCKLING AND POST-BUCKLING OF ISOTROPIC AND COMPOSITE STIFFENED PANELS: A REVIEW ON ANALYSIS AND EXPERIMENT (2000-2012). Transactions of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects Part A: International Journal of Maritime Engineering, 157(1 A), A9-A29. doi:10.5750/ijme.v157iA1.945
    30. Sul, J. H., Gangadhara Prusty, B., & Kelly, D. W. (2015). Molecular dynamics study on effects of aspect ratio of carbon nanotubes in thermosetting epoxy based nanocomposites including modeling of crosslinking process. Advanced Manufacturing: Polymer and Composites Science, 1(2), 94-104. doi:10.1179/2055035914Y.0000000009
    31. Vassar, A., Prusty, B. G., & Marcus, N. (2015). The adaptive virtual workshop: Improving engineering education with the use of online Adaptive Tutorials. Paper presented at the 6th Research in Engineering Education Symposium: Translating Research into Practice, REES 2015.
    32. Kepple, J., Prusty, G., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., & Thomson, R. (2014). Improved methods for modelling imperfections for buckling analysis of composite cylindrical shells. Paper presented at the 29th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences, ICAS 2014.
    33. Sul, J. H., Prusty, B. G., & Kelly, D. W. (2014). Application of molecular dynamics to evaluate the design performance of low aspect ratio carbon nanotubes in fibre reinforced polymer resin. Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 65, 64-72. doi:10.1016/j.compositesa.2014.03.004
    34. Vassar, A., Prusty, B. G., Marcus, N., & Ford, R. (2014). The virtual design workshop: An online adaptive resource for teaching design in engineering. Paper presented at the CSEDU 2014 - Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Computer Supported Education.
    35. Tran, T., Kelly, D., Prusty, B. G., Pearce, G., & Gosse, J. (2013). A micromechanical sub-modelling technique for implementing onset theory. Composite Structures, 103, 1-8. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2013.03.016
    36. Kepple, J., Prusty, B. G., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., Thomson, R., & Degenhardt, R. (2013). Influence of imperfections on axial buckling load of composite cylindrical shells. Paper presented at the ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials.
    37. Lee, A., Guan, H. Y., Shen, H. L., & Prusty, B. G. (2013). Investigation of the effect of magnetic field on ferrofluid in micro electro-mechanical devices (MEMS). Paper presented at the Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering.
    38. Lim, S. H., Gangadhara Prusty, B., Lee, A., & Yeoh, G. H. (2013). Experimental development and control of magnetorheological damper towards smart energy absorption of composite structures. Paper presented at the Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering.
    39. Watson, I., Prusty, B. G., & Olsen, J. (2013). Conceptual design optimisation of a constant-velocity coupling. Mechanism and Machine Theory, 68, 18-34. doi:10.1016/j.mechmachtheory.2013.04.011
    40. Wattanasakulpong, N., Prusty, G. B., & Kelly, D. W. (2013). Free and forced vibration analysis using improved third-order shear deformation theory for functionally graded plates under high temperature loading. Journal of Sandwich Structures and Materials, 15(5), 583-606. doi:10.1177/1099636213495751
    41. Lim, S. H., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., Prusty, B. G., & Crosky, A. (2013). New developments in onset theory for onset of resin failure in fibre reinforced composites. Paper presented at the ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials.
    42. Tran, T. D., Kelly, D., Prusty, B. G., Gosse, J. H., & Christensen, S. (2012). Micromechanical modelling for onset of distortional matrix damage of fiber reinforced composite materials. Composite Structures, 94(2), 745-757. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2011.09.009
    43. Kepple, J. I., Prusty, G. B., Pearce, G. M. K., Kelly, D. W., & Thomson, R. S. (2012). A new multi-objective robust optimisation methodology. Paper presented at the Advances in Applied Mechanics Research, Conference Proceedings - 7th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2012.
    44. Wattanasakulpong, N., Gangadhara Prusty, B., Kelly, D. W., & Hoffman, M. (2012). Free vibration analysis of layered functionally graded beams with experimental validation. Materials and Design, 36, 182-190. doi:10.1016/j.matdes.2011.10.049
    45. Lim, S. H., Prusty, B. G., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., & Thomson, R. (2012). Directional enhancement of composite structures energy absorption using magnetorheological fluids. Paper presented at the 28th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences 2012, ICAS 2012.
    46. Man, H., & Prusty, G. (2011). Neural network modelling for damage behaviour of composites using full-field strain measurements. Composite Structures, 93(2), 383-391. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2010.09.003
    47. Sul, J. H., Gangadhara Prusty, B., & Ray, T. (2011). Prediction of low cycle fatigue life of short fibre composites at elevated temperatures using surrogate modelling. Composites Part B: Engineering, 42(6), 1453-1460. doi:10.1016/j.compositesb.2011.04.047
    48. Wattanasakulpong, N., Gangadhara Prusty, B., & Kelly, D. W. (2011). Thermal buckling and elastic vibration of third-order shear deformable functionally graded beams. International Journal of Mechanical Sciences, 53(9), 734-743. doi:10.1016/j.ijmecsci.2011.06.005
    49. Tran, T. D., Kelly, D., Prusty, G., & Pearce, G. (2011). Micromechanical modelling of test specimens for onset of dilatational damage of polymer matrix in composite materials. Paper presented at the ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials.
    50. Sul, J. H., Prusty, B. G., & Pan, J. W. (2010). A fatigue life prediction model for Chopped Strand Mat GRP at elevated temperatures. Fatigue and Fracture of Engineering Materials and Structures, 33(8), 513-521. doi:10.1111/j.1460-2695.2010.01460.x
    51. Wattanasakulpong, N., Prusty, B. G., Kelly, D. W., & Hoffman, M. (2010). A theoretical investigation on the free vibration of functionally graded beams. Paper presented at the Civil-Comp Proceedings.
    52. Man, H., Furukawa, T., Herszberg, I., & Prusty, G. (2009). Implicit modeling of damage behavior for composite materials using an energy-based method. Paper presented at the International SAMPE Symposium and Exhibition (Proceedings).
    53. Prusty, B. G. (2008). Free vibration and buckling response of hat-stiffened composite panels under general loading. International Journal of Mechanical Sciences, 50(8), 1326-1333. doi:10.1016/j.ijmecsci.2008.03.003
    54. Ojeda, R. E., Prusty, B. G., & Lawrence, N. (2008). Geometrie non-linear analysis of stiffened structures: A review. Paper presented at the Royal Institution of Naval Architects - International Maritime Conference, Pacific 2008.
    55. Ojeda, R., Gangadhara Prusty, B., Lawrence, N., & Thomas, G. (2007). A new approach for the large deflection finite element analysis of isotropic and composite plates with arbitrary orientated stiffeners. Finite Elements in Analysis and Design, 43(13), 989-1002. doi:10.1016/j.finel.2007.06.007
    56. Ojeda, R. E., Lawrence, N., Thomas, G., & Prusty, B. G. (2007). Geometrically non-linear analysis of composite stiffened & sandwich structures using the finite element method. Paper presented at the Progress in Mechanics of Structures and Materials - Proceedings of the 19th Australasian Conference on the Mechanics of Structures and Materials, ACMSM19.
    57. Hu, Y., & Prusty, B. G. (2006). Computer-aided maintenance of ship machinery system. Harbin Gongcheng Daxue Xuebao/Journal of Harbin Engineering University, 27(SUPPL. 2), 97-104.
    58. Prusty, B. G. (2005). Progressive failure analysis of laminated unstiffened and stiffened composite panels. Journal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites, 24(6), 633-642. doi:10.1177/0731684405045023
    59. Broekel, J., & Gangadhara Prusty, B. (2004). Experimental and theoretical investigations on stiffened and unstiffened composite panels under uniform transverse loading. Composite Structures, 63(3-4), 293-304. doi:10.1016/S0263-8223(03)00178-8
    60. Gangadhara Prusty, B., & Ray, C. (2004). Free vibration analysis of composite hat-stiffened panels by method of finite elements. Journal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites, 23(5), 533-547. doi:10.1177/0731684404044107
    61. Ojeda, R., Gangadhara Prusty, B., & Salas, M. (2004). Finite element investigation on the static response of a composite catamaran under slamming loads. Ocean Engineering, 31(7), 901-929. doi:10.1016/j.oceaneng.2003.08.008
    62. Prusty, B. G. (2003). Linear static analysis of composite hat-stiffened laminated shells using finite elements. Finite Elements in Analysis and Design, 39(12), 1125-1138. doi:10.1016/S0168-874X(02)00160-9
    63. Prusty, B. G., & Satsangi, S. K. (2001). Finite element transient dynamic analysis of laminated stiffened shells. Journal of Sound and Vibration, 248(2), 215-233. doi:10.1006/jsvi.2001.3678

One of the major obstacles to automated manufacturing of composites, and composite manufacturing in general, is the complexity of design, qualification, manufacture and testing. Automated manufacturing adds additional complexity to this system which imposes unacceptable risks for many businesses. This research theme aims to develop high-level tools (software, guidelines, etc.) that aid the integration of AFP into industry.

  • Project D1 – Robust composite design of thin-walled AFP composites
  • Project D2 – Stiffening regimes for maximum damage/impact resistance
  • Project D3 - Rapid minimum-damage automated machining of composites
    1. Hiew A; Pun CL; Abrahams R; Maung PT; Prusty BG; Yan W, 2025, 'Cyclic plastic deformation and damage initiation of laser-cladded flange tip lift crossings in tramlines', Engineering Failure Analysis, 173, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.engfailanal.2025.109440
    2. Hiew A; Maung PT; Prusty BG; Lai Q; Pun CL; Abrahams R; Yan W, 2025, 'Ratcheting behaviour of Stellite 21 as laser cladding material for flange tip lift crossings repair', International Journal of Fatigue, 192, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijfatigue.2024.108726
    3. Gu, Y., Nguyen, T., Donough, M. J., Gangadhara Prusty, B., & Wang, J. (2022). Mechanisms of pop-up delamination in laminated composites pierced by the initial pure waterjet in abrasive waterjet machining. Composite Structures, 297. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2022.115968
    4. Tanulia, V., Wang, J., Pearce, G. M., Baker, A., Chang, P., & Gangadhara Prusty, B. (2022). Experimental and computational assessment of disbond growth and fatigue life of bonded joints and patch repairs for primary airframe structures. International Journal of Fatigue, 159. doi:10.1016/j.ijfatigue.2022.106776
    5. Tanulia, V., Wang, J., Pearce, G. M., Baker, A., & Prusty, B. G. (2022). Computational assessment of disbond growth behaviour in adhesively bonded wide joints or patch repairs for primary airframe structures. Composites Part C: Open Access, 9. doi:10.1016/j.jcomc.2022.100315
    6. Veldyanto Tanulia, Prusty BG (2021). Static strength and fatigue life prediction of bonded joints/patch repairs used in primary aircraft structures. Proceedings of The Fifth Australiasian Conference on Computational Mechanics (ACCM 2021), Sydney, Australia, 13-15 December 2021
    7. De, S., Fulmali, A. O., Nuli, K. C., Prusty, R. K., Prusty, B. G., & Ray, B. C. (2021). Improving delamination resistance of carbon fiber reinforced polymeric composite by interface engineering using carbonaceous nanofillers through electrophoretic deposition: An assessment at different in-service temperatures. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 138(15). doi:10.1002/app.50208
    8. Prusty, B. G., & Sul, J. (2021). Fatigue and fracture of short fibre composites exposed to extreme temperatures. In Composite Materials in Engineering Structures (pp. 191-228): Nova Science Publishers, Inc.
    9. Tanulia, V., Wang, J., Pearce, G. M., Baker, A., David, M., & Prusty, B. G. (2020). A procedure to assess disbond growth and determine fatigue life of bonded joints and patch repairs for primary airframe structures. International Journal of Fatigue, 137. doi:10.1016/j.ijfatigue.2020.105664
    10. Ryzińska, G., David, M., Prusty, G., Tarasiuk, J., & Wroński, S. (2019). Effect of fibre architecture on the specific energy absorption in carbon epoxy composite tubes under progressive crushing. Composite Structures, 227. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2019.111292
    11. Tanulia, V., Wang, J., Pearce, G. M., Baker, A., David, M., & Gangadhara Prusty, B. (2019). Disbond growth assessment for bonded joints and patch repairs of primary airframe structures. Paper presented at the ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials.
    12. Subbaramaiah, R., Prusty, B. G., Pearce, G. M. K., Lim, S. H., & Thomson, R. S. (2017). Crashworthy response of fibre metal laminate top hat structures. Composite Structures, 160, 773-781. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2016.10.112
    13. Hossain, R., Pahlevani, F., Witteveen, E., Banerjee, A., Joe, B., Prusty, B. G., Dippenaar., R, & Sahajwalla, V. (2017). Hybrid structure of white layer in high carbon steel - Formation mechanism and its properties. Scientific Reports, 7(1). doi:10.1038/s41598-017-13749-7
    14. "9th Australasian Congress for Applied Mechanics (ACAM9), an Engineers Australia-sponsored international conference held at 91É«ÇéƬ Sydney during the 27-29th November 2017. Ganga as Chair"
    15. Atthapreyangkul, A., & Prusty, B. G. (2017). Experimental and numerical analysis on the geometrical parameters towards the maximum SEA of CFRP components. Composite Structures, 164, 229-236. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2016.12.078
    16. Jojibabu, P., Zhang, Y. X., & Prusty, G. (2017). Effect of nanoclay addition on the lap shear strength of epoxy adhesive bonded joints. Paper presented at the 9th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2017.
    17. Lim, S. H., Prusty, B. G., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., & Thomson, R. S. (2016). Study of magnetorheological fluids towards smart energy absorption of composite structures for crashworthiness. Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, 23(5), 538-544. doi:10.1080/15376494.2015.1007187
    18. Hou, T., Pearce, G. M. K., Prusty, B. G., Kelly, D. W., & Thomson, R. S. (2015). Pressurised composite tubes as variable load energy absorbers. Composite Structures, 120, 346-357. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2014.09.060
    19. Hou, T., David, M., Prusty, B. G., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., Thomson, R., & Toso, N. (2014). Experimental and numerical investigation of composite energy absorbers using variable load concept. Paper presented at the 40th European Rotorcraft Forum 2014.
    20. Hou, T., David, M., Prusty, G., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., & Thomson, R. (2014). Impact tests and simulations of crashworthy composite structures using Variable Load Concent. Paper presented at the Annual Forum Proceedings - AHS International.
    21. Hou, T., Prusty, B. G., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., & Thomson, R. (2013). Experimental investigation on energy absorbing pressurised composite tubes. Paper presented at the ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials.
    22. Prusty, B. G., & Sul, J. (2013). Fatigue and fracture of short fibre composites exposed to extreme temperatures. In Composite Materials in Engineering Structures (pp. 191-228): Nova Science Publishers, Inc.
    23. Subbaramaiah, R., Lim, S. H., Prusty, B. G., Pearce, G., Kelly, D., & Thomson, R. (2013). Rubber pad forming of glare cruciform using numerical and experimental analysis. Paper presented at the ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials.
    24. Hou, T., Pearce, G., Prusty, B. G., Lim, S. H., Kelly, D., & Thomson, R. (2012). Experimental development and analysis of an active crushing element using pressurized composite tubes. Paper presented at the 28th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences 2012, ICAS 2012.
    25. Subbaramaiah, R., Prusty, G., Pearce, G., Lim, S. H., Kelly, D., & Thomson, R. (2012). A feasibility study for multi-material retrofittable energy absorbing structure for aged helicopter subfloor. Paper presented at the 28th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences 2012, ICAS 2012.
    26. Mikulik, Z., Kelly, D. W., Thomson, R. S., & Prusty, B. G. (2011). Fracture mechanics based predictions of initiation and growth of multi-level delaminations in a composite specimen. International Journal of Fracture, 170(2), 145-157. doi:10.1007/s10704-011-9619-5
    27. Prusty, B. G., Sul, J. H., & Ray, T. (2011). Fatigue behaviour of short fibre composites: Nova Science Publishers, Inc.
    28. Mikulik, Z., Kelly, D. W., Prusty, B. G., & Thomson, R. S. (2008). Prediction of flange debonding in composite stiffened panels using an analytical crack tip element-based methodology. Composite Structures, 85(3), 233-244. doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2007.10.027
    29. Mikulik, Z., Kelly, D. W., Prusty, B. G., & Thomson, R. S. (2008). Prediction of initiation and growth of single level delaminations in a transversely loaded composite specimen using fracture mechanics. International Journal of Fracture, 149(2), 119-141. doi:10.1007/s10704-008-9220-8
    30. Städtke, H., & Prusty, B. G. (2007). Post-fire fatigue performance of E-glass/polyester CSM composite laminates. Fatigue and Fracture of Engineering Materials and Structures, 30(8), 723-733. doi:10.1111/j.1460-2695.2007.01148.x
    31. Djukic, L. P., Kelly, D. W., Li, R. R., Prusty, G., & Beehag, A. G. (2007). Creep in bonded composite joints. Paper presented at the ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials.
    32. Yihuai, H., Prusty, B. G., & Yijian, L. (2006). Deviation analysis and failure diagnosis of diesel engine. IFIP International Federation for Information Processing, 228, 347-356.

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