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WVU Computational Materials Science Lab
Dr. Terence Musho, P.E. - Department of Mechanical, Materials & Aerospace Engineering

Research

  1. Multi-scale Electrical and Thermal Transport
    1. Focuses on first-principle modeling of materials using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Non-equilibrium Green's Functions (NEGF):
      • Uses DFT to calculate the electronic structure of materials at the atomic level.
      • Applies NEGF to study the transport properties of materials under non-equilibrium conditions, aiding in understanding electrical and thermal conductivity at various scales.
  2. Spin-based Quantum Materials
    1. Involves modeling and device development of spin-based thermoelectric and quantum computing, communication, and sensing materials:
      • Models spintronic materials where electron spin, rather than charge, is used to store and transfer information.
      • Develops devices that leverage these properties for applications in energy conversion, quantum computing, and advanced sensing technologies.
  3. Metal-Organic Framework Materials
    1. Explores the transport and electrochemical properties of MOF-based materials:
      • Investigates how MOFs, which consist of metal ions coordinated to organic ligands, facilitate the movement of ions and molecules.
      • Studies their electrochemical behavior for potential applications in batteries, supercapacitors, and gas storage.
  4. Microwave Induced Plasma Chemistries
    1. Investigates the microwave refining metallurgical process:
      • Studies the use of microwave energy to induce plasmas, facilitating the refining and purification of metals.
      • Explores the efficiency and effectiveness of this method compared to traditional metallurgical processes.
    2. Investigates modeling thermionic energy conversion devices:
      • Develops models for devices that convert heat directly into electrical energy using thermionic emission.
      • Analyzes how microwave-induced plasmas can enhance the efficiency of these devices.
  5. Materials in Extreme Environments
    1. Involves first-principle modeling of the creep-fatigue properties of high-temperature materials:
      • Uses fundamental physics-based models to predict how materials deform and fail under high-stress, high-temperature conditions over time.
      • Aims to improve the durability and performance of materials used in aerospace, power generation, and other high-temperature applications.
    2. Examines the performance of materials for geothermal applications:
      • Studies materials used in geothermal energy systems, focusing on their ability to withstand extreme conditions such as high temperatures and corrosive environments.
      • Seeks to enhance the efficiency and lifespan of geothermal power plants.
  6. Multiphysics Finite Element Analysis
    1. Focuses on the development and application of multiphysics finite element analysis software:
      • Develops advanced FEA tools that integrate multiple physical phenomena (e.g., thermal, structural, radio frequency, chemistry) into a single simulation.
      • Applies these tools to solve complex engineering problems, improving the design and analysis of materials and systems in various industries.

Sponsors

arpa-e changing what's possible logo  NSF logo      U.S. Department of Energy logo

NREL Logo          NETL Logo DARPA Logo

            American Made Geothermal Prize        NAVY SBIR STTR NSF I-Corp Logo
EERE HFTO Logo