David Dillard

David Dillard serves as the Adhesive and Sealant Science Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering within Virginia Tech's College of Engineering. His research bridges fundamental adhesion mechanics with practical applications in aerospace, automotive systems, and sustainable energy technologies.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Engineering Mechanics, Virginia Tech (1981)
• M.S. in Engineering Mechanics, University of Missouri-Rolla (1978)
• B.S. in Engineering Mechanics, University of Missouri-Rolla (1976)

Dr. Dillard's research centers on adhesion science and polymer mechanics, with pioneering work in fracture mechanics and viscoelasticity for predicting adhesive joint durability. Recent focus areas include sustainable energy systems (fuel cells, solar photovoltaics), biomaterials (vaginal tissue mechanics), and additive manufacturing. His methodology integrates experimental characterization with predictive modeling, particularly using cohesive zone models and digital image correlation for mixed-mode fracture analysis.

Analysis of his publication record reveals three dominant trends: (1) Evolution of peel testing methodologies for adhesion quantification, (2) Application of adhesion principles to sustainable energy systems and biomaterials, and (3) Critical examination of standard test methods with proposals for modernization. His work consistently emphasizes practical implementation while advancing theoretical frameworks.

Major recognitions include:

• ASME Fellow (2015)
• Wake Medal from Society for Adhesion and Adhesives (2013)
• Adhesion Society’s Award for Excellence in Adhesion Science (2010)
• Robert L. Patrick Fellowship (2004)
• Garth L. Wilkes Interdisciplinary Faculty Scholar (2019)
• Multiple Dean's Awards for Research Excellence

Dr. Dillard has secured sustained research funding through industry partnerships, most notably the Adhesive and Sealant Science Professorship endowed by the Adhesive and Sealant Council. His educational leadership includes developing courses in adhesion science, polymer viscoelasticity, and sustainable energy solutions, with recent work on open-source textbooks and automated feedback systems for engineering mechanics education.

His research group at Virginia Tech operates at the intersection of materials science and mechanical engineering, with equipment for advanced adhesion testing, fracture characterization, and sustainable energy materials development. Collaborations span aerospace manufacturers, adhesive suppliers, and biomedical research institutions.