2022 NASA Langley/Ames EDL Seminar for Summer Interns: Porous Microstructure Analysis (PuMA)

Abstract: This talk discusses the capabilities of an open-source, NASA-developed software called Porous Microstructure Analysis (PuMA). The code was developed to provide a robust and efficient framework for computing material properties based on 3D microstructures. The development was motivated by advancements in X-ray microtomography, an imaging technology that can resolve the structure of a material at a sub-micron scale, in 3D and even in 4D (over time). At NASA, this technique has provided unprecedented insights into materials relevant for different missions, from heat shields, to parachute fabrics, to meteorites and other advanced composites. PuMA provides the ability to compute a comprehensive spectrum of material properties, from the most fundamental geometric features of a microstructure, to advanced anisotropic thermo-elastic and chemical properties. In addition, the software can generate artificial microstructures, including complex fibrous woven and non-woven geometries, allowing to perform optimization studies that inform the design of new materials.

Federico Semeraro

3/15/2023 12:34:00 PM