Domnica Mariana STANCIU

Prof. Domnica Mariana STANCIU is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Brașov, affiliated with the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Her research focuses on the mechanical and acoustical properties of wood and other materials, particularly as applied to musical instruments like violins and guitars. She investigates topics such as resonance wood behavior, varnish effects, and material degradation through aging or environmental exposure. Her work bridges material science with engineering principles, addressing both structural dynamics and sound propagation characteristics.

Her research includes collaborations with the Minovis and Acadia labs at UNITBV, exploring multiscale material analysis, non-destructive testing, and acoustic optimization. Key contributions involve studying the impact of wood anisotropy on instrument performance, developing methods for evaluating material properties using advanced imaging (e.g., X-ray tomography), and advancing understanding of vibration dynamics in thin plates. She has also contributed to studies on composite materials and their applications in automotive and aerospace engineering.

Recent publications highlight advancements in assessing acoustic properties of coating polymers, analyzing tropical wood species for musical instruments, and evaluating lightweight materials for safety applications. Her work frequently employs experimental and numerical methods, such as finite element analysis and modal testing, to characterize material behavior under various conditions.

Prof. STANCIU’s research extends to educational paradigms, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches that integrate engineering and arts, as seen in her work on music and engineering education. She has also contributed to studies on concert hall acoustics and the preservation of historical instruments through material analysis.