James E. Smay

James E. Smay is a Professor and Head of the Materials Science and Engineering department at Oklahoma State University. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Illinois and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

• Ph.D. Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois
• B.S. Mechanical Engineering, Oklahoma State University

Dr. Smay’s research focuses on colloidal assembly processes, particularly direct write manufacturing, to create novel devices. His work spans 3D printing of photonic band gap crystals, bone scaffolds, all-ceramic dental crowns, and metal-ceramic composites, leveraging colloidal gel inks with ceramic, metallic, and polymer particles in aqueous media.

His publications highlight advancements in additive manufacturing, bioactive ceramics, rheological control of complex fluids, and sanitation engineering. Key trends include the application of direct printing to biomedical and photonic fields, alongside studies on emulsion stability and pathogen deactivation.

The Smay lab is equipped for powder processing, advanced rheology, thermal treatment of ceramics/metals/polymers, and particle size/zeta potential measurements, supporting interdisciplinary research in sustainable manufacturing and biomedical materials.