Education

Research Description

Dr. Zhu is interested in mEMS/NEMS design, fabrication and characterization; mechanics and materials issues in nanostructures and thin films; and mechanics of soft materials (including polymers and biological cells) and interfaces. Dr. Zhu is currently 1) developing micro/nano electromechanical transducers (NEMS/MEMS), 2) studying mechanical, electrical, and thermal inter-relations at the nanoscale, and 3) studying mechanical behavior of biological cells, thin films, and adhesion.

Honors and Awards

• ASME Fellow, 2017
• Eshelby Mechanics Award, 2017
• University Faculty Scholar, 2015
• MAE Outstanding Research Award, 2015
• Alcoa Foundation Engineering Research Achievement Award (College of Engineering), 2015
• ASME Sia Nemat-Nasser Early Career Award, 2015
• Society of Experimental Mechanics Young Investigator Lecture Award, 2013
• Sigma Xi Faculty Research Award, 2012

Publications

Evoked haptic sensations in the hand via non-invasive proximal nerve stimulation

Shin, H., Watkins, Z., Huang, H., Zhu, Y., & Hu, X. G. (2018), Journal of Neural Engineering, 15(4).

Electrohydrodynamic printing of silver nanowires for flexible and stretchable electronics

Cui, Z., Han, Y. W., Huang, Q. J., Dong, J. Y., & Zhu, Y. (2018), Nanoscale, 10(15), 6806-6811.

Controlled bending and folding of a bilayer structure consisting of a thin stiff film and a heat shrinkable polymer sheet

Cui, J. X., Adams, J. G. M., & Zhu, Y. (2018), Smart Materials & Structures, 27(5).

A novel finger kinematic tracking method based on skin-like wearable strain sensors

Yao, S. S., Vargas, L., Hu, X. G., & Zhu, Y. (2018), IEEE Sensors Journal, 18(7), 3010-3015.

A novel finger kinematic tracking method based on skin-like wearable strain sensors

Yao, S. S., Vargas, L., Hu, X. G., & Zhu, Y. (2018), IEEE Sensors Journal, 18(7), 3010-3015.

Nanomaterial-enabled wearable sensors for healthcare

Yao, S. S., Swetha, P., & Zhu, Y. (2018), Advanced Healthcare Materials, 7(1).

Anomalous tensile detwinning in twinned nanowires

Cheng, G. M., Yin, S., Chang, T. H., Richter, G., Gao, H. J., & Zhu, Y. (2017), Physical Review Letters, 19(25).

Pop-up assembly of 3D structures actuated by heat shrinkable polymers

Cui, J. X., Adams, J. G. M., & Zhu, Y. (2017), Smart Materials & Structures, 26(12).

Large-area nanolattice film with enhanced modulus, hardness, and energy dissipation

Bagal, A., Zhang, X. A., Shahrin, R., Dandley, E. C., Zhao, J. J., Poblete, F. R., Oldham, C. J., Zhu, Y., Parsons, G. N., Bobko, C., & Chang, C. H. (2017), Scientific Reports, 7.

A review on mechanics and mechanical properties of 2D materials-Graphene and beyond

Akinwande, D., Brennan, C. J., Bunch, J. S., Egberts, P., Felts, J. R., Gao, H. J., Huang, R., Kim, J. S., Li, T., Li, Y., Liechti, K. M., Lu, N. S., Park, H. S., Reed, E. J., Wang, P., Yakobson, B. I., Zhang, T., Zhang, Y. W., Zhou, Y., & Zhu, Y. (2017), Extreme Mechanics Letters, 13, 42-77.

View all publications via NC State Libraries

View publications on Google Scholar

Grants

SNM: Printing and Integration of Metal Nanowires and Organic Semiconductors for Large-Area Stretchable Electronics and Sensors

National Science Foundation (NSF)(7/01/17 - 6/30/21)

×

SNM: Printing and Integration of Metal Nanowires and Organic Semiconductors for Large-Area Stretchable Electronics and Sensors

Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)

Start Date: 7/01/17

End Date: 6/30/21

Abstract

The overarching goal of this project is to fabricate large-area, high-resolution, stretchable pressure sensor arrays for e-skin at low cost by integrating organic semiconductors, AgNW conductors, and elastomers. The devices will be fabricated using several scalable nanomanufacturing techniques including gravure printing, transfer printing, and electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing.

Close

Towards Restoring Natural Sensation of Hand Amputees via Wearable Surface Grid Electrodes

National Science Foundation (NSF)(9/01/16 - 8/31/19)

×

Towards Restoring Natural Sensation of Hand Amputees via Wearable Surface Grid Electrodes

Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)

Start Date: 9/01/16

End Date: 8/31/19

Abstract

Hand amputation can severely limit the quality of life such as manipulating and sensing objects or expressing gestures. Attempt to replace the lost hand can be traced back 500 years ago, reflecting the strong desire of restoring hand functions. Currently, many robotic prosthetic hands have been developed, that have the dexterity capability approaching a human hand. However, very few state-of-art prosthetic hands have been successfully translated to end users. One key factor that limit the user acceptance is the lack of natural and reliable sensory communication to the user. Specifically, the sensory feedback to the user was substituted through un-natural stimuli, such as skin vibration, visual or audio cues. These stimuli can be implemented readily, but require user’s interpretation and conscious attention, imposing extra cognitive burden to the user. Alternatively, peripheral sensory nerves, transmitting haptic information to the central nervous system, can be activated electrically to provide natural haptic sensation. However, invasive open surgery procedures are typically required to implant electrodes interfacing with the nerves, and the resolution of elicited sensory regions is also typically low. To overcome these limitations, the objective of the current proposed project is to restore natural self-sensation of the missing hand via non-invasive grid electrodes, ultimately allowing arm amputees to explore and communicate with the world freely. The success of this project will completely transform the way for human being to communicate with robotic prostheses.

Close

Nanocellulose Microneedle Array for Intradermal ISF Extraction

NCSU Advanced Self Powered Systems of Sensors and Technologies (ASSIST) Center(9/01/15 - 8/31/16)

×

Nanocellulose Microneedle Array for Intradermal ISF Extraction

Sponsor: NCSU Advanced Self Powered Systems of Sensors and Technologies (ASSIST) Center

Start Date: 9/01/15

End Date: 8/31/16

Abstract

Biomarker-based immunoassays are specific and quantitative; however, they depend on intradermal or subcutaneous extraction of fluid. One of the hurdles to intradermal extraction is the stratum corneum, the uppermost layer of “dead skin.” A method to bypass the stratum corneum and extract or probe ISF would be an invaluable tool for the development of real-time health monitors. Herein the design, fabrication and evaluation of a nanocellulose-coated microneedle array (NMA) to extract ISF is proposed. The underlying microneedles will be molded from soft, compliant materials and subsequently coated in nanocellulose. The nanocellulose-coating enables the extraction of ISF by capillary force and diffusion; it is also a mechanically tough coating which will protect the soft underlying microneedle and support long-term use. The proposed platform represents the first step towards the realization of a transdermal ISF sensor.

Close

Flexible and Stretchable Sensor Technology Research, Advanced Self Powered Systems of Sensors and Technologies Center, ASSIST Enhancement Project

Samsung Research America Inc.(4/01/15 - 12/31/16)

×

Flexible and Stretchable Sensor Technology Research, Advanced Self Powered Systems of Sensors and Technologies Center, ASSIST Enhancement Project

Sponsor: Samsung Research America Inc.

Start Date: 4/01/15

End Date: 12/31/16

Abstract

The objective of this project is to investigate the electromechanical performances of the flexible and stretchable strain sensors under cyclic loading in order to improve the long-term reliability of the sensors. The strain sensors are built using the silver nanowire technology at NCSU. We specifically propose to improve the reliability at the interfaces (e.g., lead wire to the silver nanowires). We will work closely with the team at SRA-Dallas to identify the failure modes. If successful, this project will provide insights into the failure mechanisms of the strain sensors and develop new methods to improve the sensor reliability.

Close

Interlayer Design for Optimal Noise Reduction, Phase II

Eastman Chemical Company(9/01/14 - 8/31/15)

×

Interlayer Design for Optimal Noise Reduction, Phase II

Sponsor: Eastman Chemical Company

Start Date: 9/01/14

End Date: 8/31/15

Abstract

In this phase II project, we will further our investigation on the interlayer design for better noise reduction performance. Both numerical analysis and experimental study will be carried out. The main goal is to shift the coincidence frequency to a higher frequency or eventually remove the coincidence frequency.

Close

Nanowire Synthesis for Gas and Bioelectronic Sensing

NCSU Advanced Self Powered Systems of Sensors and Technologies (ASSIST) Center(9/01/13 - 5/31/17)

×

Nanowire Synthesis for Gas and Bioelectronic Sensing

Sponsor: NCSU Advanced Self Powered Systems of Sensors and Technologies (ASSIST) Center

Start Date: 9/01/13

End Date: 5/31/17

Abstract

A person’s water content is crucial to the body, as it regulates body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate and etc. An accepted way to obtain the body water level is through hydration testing. One common method to characterize skin hydration levels is measuring skin electrical impedance. The objective of this project is to develop wearable sensor system that can continuously monitor skin hydration level. Such continuous monitoring could help prevent the wearer from falling into a severely dehydrated state. A compliant and wearable electrode is the key to continuous hydration monitoring.

Close

EMN-14-S-S-03 Understanding PVB Adhesion to Glass and Its Effect on Mechanical Performance: An Integrated Modeling and Experimental Approach

Eastman Chemical Company(11/30/-1 - 12/31/16)

×

EMN-14-S-S-03 Understanding PVB Adhesion to Glass and Its Effect on Mechanical Performance: An Integrated Modeling and Experimental Approach

Sponsor: Eastman Chemical Company

Start Date: 11/30/-1

End Date: 12/31/16

Abstract

The objective of the proposed research is to understand adhesion at the interface between polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and glass and the effect of interface adhesion on the overall mechanical performance of glass/PVB/glass panels following an integrated modeling and experimental approach.

Close

Evaluation of Flexible Micropost Arrays for Shear Stress Measurement

National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA)(7/10/14 - 7/09/16)

×

Evaluation of Flexible Micropost Arrays for Shear Stress Measurement

Sponsor: National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA)

Start Date: 7/10/14

End Date: 7/09/16

Abstract

Micropillar arrays will be developed for shear stress measurement in NCSU subsonic wind tunnel. Micropillar array sensors will be characterized first, and then assembled into a test model and calibrated in the wind tunnel. Such a measurement device enables new aerodynamics research needed to design more fuel efficient, quieter aircraft with improved dynamics for smoother and safer flight.

Close

Poptube Technology, Enabling Multifunctional Hybrid Composites for Next Generation Aircrafts

National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA)(3/16/14 - 9/15/16)

×

Poptube Technology, Enabling Multifunctional Hybrid Composites for Next Generation Aircrafts

Sponsor: National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA)

Start Date: 3/16/14

End Date: 9/15/16

Abstract

Extraordinary mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties make carbon nanotubes (CNTs) ideal candidates to reinforce, toughen, and introduce multifunction to composite materials. As a response to this research need, this study proposes a novel, low-cost, continuous processing technique to directly grow CNTs on carbon fabrics to create high-performance, highly durable, multifunctional, hierarchical hybrid structural composites.

Close

Collaborative Research: Investigation of Deformation Mechanisms Governing the Tensile Ductility of Twinned Metal Nanowires

National Science Foundation (NSF)(9/01/14 - 8/31/18)

×

Collaborative Research: Investigation of Deformation Mechanisms Governing the Tensile Ductility of Twinned Metal Nanowires

Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)

Start Date: 9/01/14

End Date: 8/31/18

Abstract

The metallic nanostructures such as nanowires usually exhibit ultra-high strength, but low tensile ductility (i.e., tensile strain to fracture) owing to their limited strain hardening capability. The low ductility can severely affect the mechanical integrity of the constituent nanostructures in nanomechancial devices and other technological applications. The objective of this proposal is to synergistically integrate experiment and modeling to study the mechanical properties and deformation mechanisms governing the tensile ductility in twinned nanowires.

Close