Yesterday, Christoph Waly successfully defended his PhD thesis, entitled “Nature-derived Concepts of Toughening – Mechanisms and Strategies for Polymeric Materials”, with distinction. During the defence, he impressed the committee with his well-founded research, clear methodology and results relevant to practice. The dissertation focused on fracture mechanics mechanisms in layered, inhomogeneous materials: from crack deflection and crack penetration, through the models of He & Hutchinson and Cook & Gordon, to experimental validation. Additively manufactured multi-layer and multi-material structures (Fused Filament Fabrication/FFF) using Lithomers/Lithomimetics demonstrate how biomimetic designs increase fracture toughness and specifically control crack paths.
We offer our warmest congratulations and thank the examination committee and the supervisors for their support.
We wish Christoph continued success in his future career!
