The purpose of this project is to modernize the mechanics laboratory to a level beyond that normally encountered in an undergraduate teaching environment. This has been accomplished through the acquisition of a state-of-the-art testing machine and accessories. This apparatus is interfaced with a microcomputer for automatic data collection and analysis. The study of materials properties is enhanced by permitting accurate determination of the stress-strain behavior of materials and associated properties such as Poisson's ratio and the modulus of elasticity. The laboratory's capability is expanded in a broad range of experimental areas such as fatigue, creep, and fracture mechanics. This equipment greatly increases the students' exposure to modern experimental techniques and better prepares them for graduate studies and professional work. The award is being matched by an equal amount from the principal investigator's institution.
