Research Projects

This project aims to develop a new class of smart mechanical metamaterials harnessing the concept of non-Hermitian mechanics, flexoelectric and piezoelectric coupling, and active control to achieve enhanced wave localization and energy harvesting. Traditional metamaterials often neglect damping or rely solely on passive behavior. In contrast, this research explores how active feedback, material damping, and electromechanical effects can be strategically used to manipulate wave propagation, induce nonreciprocal behavior, and concentrate energy in targeted regions for superior energy harvesting performance. The core objective is to formulate and validate both theoretical and experimental frameworks for one-dimensional metabeams and two-dimensional periodic lattices, where energy can be extracted from localized modes arising from non-Hermitian topologies. Using a combination of analytical modeling, finite element simulations, control circuitry design, and lab-scale prototyping, the project will deliver scalable design strategies for multifunctional, energy-efficient lattice systems. Scientifically, the project is among the first to integrate flexoelectricity, known for its strain-gradient-induced polarization, with active and damped metamaterials. It will also provide rare experimental validation of non-Hermitian wave mechanics in smart structures. The academic outcomes include high-impact publications, open-source tools, and trained researchers, while the societal benefits span self-powered monitoring systems, vibration energy harvesting in infrastructure, and alignment with national initiatives such as Smart Cities and Atmanirbhar Bharat. The research directly contributes to global sustainability goals (SDG 7 and 11) by enabling next-generation, self-sustaining, and intelligent infrastructure technologies.