Materials engineering chair honored for wide-ranging work in experimental mechanics
Published: Nov 14, 2024 2:30 PM
By Jeremy Henderson
Much of Bart Prorok's work in experimental mechanics is focused on micro and nanoscale mechanisms. But there's nothing small about his most recent achievement in the field.
The mechanical engineering professor and program chair for materials engineering has been named recipient of the 2025 Sia Nemat-Nasser Medal from the Society of Experimental Mechanics (SEM) “for wide‐ranging interdisciplinary scientific advances and the use of these interests in service of the Society and its technical divisions.”
The award is named in honor of the late Sia Nemat-Nasser, a renowned pioneer in experimental mechanics known for his groundbreaking research and passion for collaboration.
"Sia was one of the most brilliant and prolific minds in experimental mechanics — an out-of-the-box thinker who was adept at communicating his insights with those in mainstream mechanics," Prorok said. "His legacy of creativity and dedication to advancing our understanding of mechanics is something I deeply admire."
Prorok has been steadily building a legacy of his own. In addition to nanoidentification, his research in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), additive manufacturing and materials characterization has led to advancements held in high regard in the experimental mechanics community.
In 2019, that research was significantly bolstered with the acquisition of a game-changing X-ray computed tomography (CT) unit. One of the first of its kind in the world, the $1.5 million PSX Macro CT integrates X-ray CT with a tensile testing apparatus, enabling Prorok to observe and measure (in real time) structural changes, cracks or deformation to materials undergoing mechanical loading. With the use of additively manufactured units that Prorok custom built, the machine also allows for quality monitoring of additively manufactured components not only after fabrication but during production.
"Receiving this honor is incredibly humbling, especially as it connects my name to a visionary who has inspired countless researchers, myself included," he said. "This recognition is not only a tribute to my own work but also a reflection of the support and collaboration from mentors, colleagues and students who have been a part of my journey.”
The SEM will formally present the medal at next year's SEM Conference and Exposition, which annually convenes leading researchers and practitioners in experimental mechanics from around the world.
"Going forward, receiving this award motivates me to continue exploring complex questions, collaborating with others and hopefully inspiring the next generation of researchers in experimental mechanics," Prorok said.
