3D Printing Magnetodielectric Materials 

Project Overview 

The growing use of electronic systems and components in miniaturized applications such as smartphones, IOT, and medical devices has created a need for miniaturized antennas, electromagnetic absorbers and electromagnetic reflectors.  Creating such systems in purely metallic or ceramic systems is difficult and requires extreme material properties or geometries.  Shear aligned fused deposition modeling (FDM) allows for the synthesis of materials with high dielectric and magnetic properties that can be made to conform to curved surfaces and enable high throughput manufacturing.  The objectives of this project are to develop a proof of concept of a miniaturized 3D printed magnetodielectric antenna. 

Objectives 

  1. Identify viable methods for fabrication of magnetic and dielectric precursors 
  2. Develop a method for fabricating precursor composite 3D printer filaments 
  3. Demonstrate magnetodielectric properties of 3D printed materials

Major Tasks 

The major tasks of the project are outlined below.  These are nominal and are likely to change somewhat throughout the course of the year.  These are meant to illustrate the general nature of the work that the position entails. 

  1. Literature review on magnetic and dielectric materials 
  1. Design/identification of method for loaded filament extrusion 
  1. Modification of standard printhead to accommodate modified feedstock 
  1. Development of printing parameters to ensure void-free 3D printing 
  1. Electromagnetic characterization of printed materials 
  1. Manage and report 

Open Positions 

Preferred Skills and Interests 

  • 3D printing, specifically fused deposition modeling 
  • Skilled with handtools 
  • CAD experience 
  • Familiarity with materials and materials characterization 
  • Interest in electromagnetism, antennas, etc.  

Preferred Academic Years 

  • Looking for First-year/Sophomore/Junior level students  

Preferred Majors 

  • EE 
  • ME 
  • ISE 
  • MSE 
  • CpE 
  • Design 
  • Art 

How to Apply 

Applications will be reviewed by Dr. Gray and by continuing researchers on the team.  After a review of the application, our team will contact candidates to schedule an interview (likely to be conducted via zoom).  Review for the positions will be conducted over the 2024 Summer break starting around 7/14/24. Please complete the MS Form, uploading the following documents:

  • A brief (~1 page) essay or cover letter explaining which of the projects you are interested in, and why you think you might be a good fit for that project (or those projects).  If you are applying for multiple projects, extend your essay a little and describe your interest and qualifications for each position.  Be sure to let us know your major and where you are in your academic career (sophomore, junior, etc.) 
  • A resume outlining your work experience and education 

Please reach out to Dr. Gray (dagray3@vt.edu) if you have any questions or concerns. 

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