The National Science Foundation Division of Civil, Mechanical, and Manufacturing Innovation awarded the University of Florida $403,296 on October 1, 2025, under the Engineering CAREER program (CFDA 47.041) to conduct fundamental research on fatigue performance and processing relationships in laser powder-bed fusion additive manufacturing for high-consequence applications.
The research addresses knowledge gaps in fatigue failure and performance uncertainty of complex metal additive manufacturing parts subject to multiaxial loading. The award funds development of a physics-centric, machine learning framework for fatigue life predictions in laser powder-bed fusion components, investigating fatigue failures through plastic deformation and crack initiation at stress concentrations, with outputs intended to support data-driven fatigue life prediction models for dynamic load-bearing applications in metal additive manufacturing production.
The integrated education and outreach component targets K-12 STEM engagement and recruitment of women and minorities into additive manufacturing research. The University of Florida Division of Sponsored Research administers the award. Work is performed in Gainesville, Florida through April 30, 2028.