Gu Research Group in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Behavior of Nanostructured Materials
The Gu Group works at the intersection of solid mechanics, materials science and nano-chemistry. We study the mechanical behavior and functional performance of nanostructured and hybrid next generation materials.
Recent News
Ink-based laser powder bed fusion of barium titanate
Barium titanate is a widely used functional ceramic in transducers and actuators, requiring increasingly complex geometries and quicker design iteration. To address this challenge, a nanoparticle ink feedstock was employed in the laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing technique. A process map is developed and the structure of the printed material investigated.
Published in Additive Manufacturing in January 2026!
Direct observation of strain-enhanced hydrogen segregation and failure at high-angle grain boundaries in nickel
Understanding the mechanisms underlying hydrogen embrittlement remains difficult, even in single-element metals. Both microstructure and stress state influence hydrogen distribution in metals and alloys, which impacts deformation and failure. In this work, a suite of novel in situ investigation techniques are employed to reveal the influence of strain on hydrogen segregation in nickel.
Published in Acta Materialia in July 2025!
Heterogeneous doping via nanoscale coating impacts the mechanics of Li intrusion in brittle solid electrolytes
Lithium dendrite intrusion in solid-state batteries limits fast charging and causes short-circuiting, yet the underlying regulating mechanisms are not well-understood. This study reveals a chemo-mechanical mechanism via surface heterogeneous Ag+ doping affecting lithium intrusion into a brittle solid electrolyte (LLZO), complementing present bulk design rules to minimize mechanical failures in solid-state batteries.
Published in Nature Materials in January 2026!
Open Positions
Prospective postdocs and graduate students who have already been accepted to Stanford University can contact us with a CV, and a request to set up a meeting to discuss research interests.
