Michelle S. Hoo Fatt

Dr. Michelle S. Hoo Fatt is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Akron's College of Engineering and Polymer Science. She has been with the department since 1995 and is recognized as an ASME Fellow for her significant contributions to mechanical engineering research and practice.

Her educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Ocean Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1992)
• M.S. in Ocean Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1990)
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1987)

Dr. Hoo Fatt's research spans multiple critical areas of mechanical engineering with primary focus on Impact and Blast Mechanics, Composite Structures, Sandwich Structures and Materials, and Elastomer Mechanics. Her work particularly examines the behavior of polymer foams, rubber materials, and composite structures under extreme conditions including blast, impact, and cold temperatures. Through her extensive research, she has developed advanced models for crushable foams, characterized multiaxial polymer foam properties, and investigated failure mechanisms in rubber membranes. Her expertise bridges theoretical modeling with practical applications in industrial settings, with particular attention to temperature effects and arctic environments.

Analysis of her publication trends reveals consistent focus on materials behavior under extreme conditions, with recent work emphasizing temperature effects on polymer foams, crushable behavior in sandwich structures, and blast mitigation applications. Her scholarly output demonstrates progression from fundamental material characterization to advanced modeling of complex structural responses, with increasing attention to specialized applications like tire cord properties for NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) applications.

Her professional recognition includes:

• ASME Fellow
• Editorial Board Member, International Journal of Impact Engineering
• Editorial Board Member, Thin-Walled Structures

Through her industrial collaborations with National Oilwell Varco, Bridgestone/Firestone, Johnsonite, and Materials Research & Design, Dr. Hoo Fatt has translated theoretical research into practical engineering solutions. Her laboratory work spans multiple facilities including offices in ASEC 107C and laboratories in ASEC 15F and 17B at the University of Akron. She teaches courses including Analysis of Mechanical Components, Applied Stress, Failure Analysis of Mechanical Components, and Stress Waves in Solids and Fluids, effectively bridging her research expertise with mechanical engineering education.