Faculty & Research

personnel profile

Richard M. Christensen

 
Title:Professor
Department(s):Aeronautics and Astronautics, Mechanical Engineering
Location:Durand 387A
Mail Code:4035
Phone:650.723.7969       
Fax:650.723.0062
E-mail: christensen@stanford.edu
URL: http://www.FailureCriteria.com
Administrator: William B. Webster

Research Statement

Professor Christensen's research is concerned with the mechanics of materials. The behavior of polymers and polymeric fiber composites are areas of specialization. Of particular interest is the field of micro-mechanics that focuses on materials' functionality at intermediate-length scales between atomic and the usual macro scale. Applicable techniques involve the methods of homogenization for all types of composite materials. The intended outcomes of his research are useful means of characterizing the yielding, damage accumulation, and failure behavior of modern materials. A related website has been developed to provide critical evaluations for the mathematical failure criteria used with the various classes of engineering materials. Most of these materials types are employed in aerospace structures and products.

Degree Discipline Year School
DEng 1961 Yale
Publication TitleAuthor(s)/Speaker(s)Open Document
Yield Functions/Failure Criteria for Isotropic Materials Richard Christensen
Stress Based Yield/Failure Criteria for Fiber Composites Richard Christensen
The Kink Band Mechanism for the Compressive Failure of Fiber Composite Materials Richard Christensen with S.J. DeTeresa
The Relationship of Minimal Conditions to Low Density Material Microstructures Richard Christensen
The Hierarchy of Microstructures for Low Density Materials Richard Christensen
Display All Publications

Membership in National Academies

National Academy of Engineering

Academic Honors & Awards

ASME Nadai Medal (2006)