William W. Predebon
Professor and Chair

Personal Web Page
E-mail: wwpredeb@mtu.edu

Room 808 MEEM

PhD, Iowa State University

Expertise: Ceramics, Impact Phenomena, Wave Propagation, Computer Simulation of Explosive - Metal Systems

William Predebon CV PDF

Research Interests

Dr. Predebon's research includes mechanical behavior, characterization and processing of ceramics, shock deformation including microstructural effects and dynamic fracture of metals and ceramics, impact phenomena, computer simulation of wave phenomena, explosive-metal interaction and fragmentation. His research usually involves experimental, analytical, and computational elements.

Dr. Predebon's research in mechanical behavior and processing of alumina has recently resulted in two patents. This newly developed alumina has exceptional compressive and tensile strength properties which increase with strain rate. It has also increased toughness. It has an enhanced dynamic yield strength (Hugoniot Elastic Limit) and spall strength. Potential applications being considered are ceramic cutting tools, engine components (pistons, valves, etc.), bioceramics, electronic structures, and armor.

Publications

• Staehler, J.M., Predebon, W. W., Pletka, B. J., and Subhash, G., “Micromechanisms of Deformation in High-Purity Hot-Pressed Alumina,” Material Science and Engineering Journal A291, pp. 37-45, 2000.
• Lankford, J., Predebon, W. W., Staehler, J. M., Subhash, G., Pletka, B. J., and Anderson, C. L., “The Role of Plasticity as a Limiting Factor in the Compressive Failure of High Strength Ceramics,” Mechanics of Materials Journal 29, pp. 205-18, 1998.
• Staehler, J. M., Predebon, W. W., Pletka, B. J., and Subhash, G., “Strain-Rate Effects in High-Purity Alumina,” JOM, 47, No. 5, pp. 60-63, 1995.