Gene Zak

Gene Zak serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering within Queen's University's Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. His research centers on advanced laser manufacturing processes, with specialization in polymer joining and ceramics machining. Current facilities include the Laser Ceramic Processing Laboratory and Rapid Laminated Tooling Laboratory.

Dr. Zak's research focuses on laser transmission welding of thermoplastics, examining light-material interactions, thermal dynamics, and weld integrity. Key areas include optical property characterization of polymers (glass fiber effects, crystallinity, carbon black), process parameter optimization (scan paths, intensity distribution), and defect analysis (read-through, degradation). His work extends to laser ceramics machining for precision applications and historical contributions in robotic systems.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2011-2022) reveals consistent advancement in computational modeling of laser-polymer interactions, with increasing emphasis on multi-physics simulations and defect prediction. The research trajectory shows evolution from experimental parameter studies toward sophisticated thermal-optical modeling for industrial process control.

Dr. Zak directs the Laser Ceramic Processing Laboratory housing a three-source system (UV 7-W, Nd:YAG 100W, CO2 250W lasers) with 6-axis motion control, operational 2004-2015. His Rapid Laminated Tooling Laboratory supports layered manufacturing research, including embedded sensor development and composite fabrication techniques.