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Geoff Wehmeyer

Geoff Wehmeyer

Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

CONTACT

geoff.wehmeyer@rice.edu

WEBSITE(S)| http://wehmeyerlab.rice.edu/

SURF Mentoring

Potential projects/topics: Our research group studies heat transfer in materials and devices used for energy , aerospace, or computing applications. We construct experiments and build theoretical models to better understand heat flow and achieve new engineered thermal capabilities.

Potential skills gained: Researchers will learn skills such as design and analysis of thermal systems; data acquisition and use of precision electronics; research presentation in small and large group contexts; and application of thermal modeling.

Required qualifications: Students who are interested in majoring in mechanical engineering or materials science are encouraged to apply.

Direct mentor: Graduate Student

Student Project Titles List

Optimization of Additive Manufactured Heat Sinks Based on the Performance of a Unit Cell Structure

Modelling an Oscillating Gadolinium Heat Switch with Time Dependent Heating

Carbon Nanotube Fiber (CNTF) Hot Wire Anemometer

Instrument to Measure the Effect of Temperature, Distance, and Strength on Magnetic Forces

Research Areas

Dr. Wehmeyer uses experimental and theoretical techniques to study heat transfer, with an emphasis on nanoscale heat conduction. This research is motivated by applications such as microelectronic thermal management, solid-state energy conversion, and heat-assisted magnetic recording, all of which require a detailed understanding of how heat is conducted through nanostructures and across interfaces. Dr. Wehmeyer seeks to first understand the mechanisms of heat transfer at small lengthscales, and then to use this fundamental knowledge in the design of macroscopic thermal management and energy conversion technologies. Research projects of current interest include developing ultra-high spatial resolution temperature mapping tools, measuring thermal properties of anisotropic thin films, modeling heat transport in superlattices, and building active and nonlinear thermal systems for improved thermal control.