Xiangfa Wu

Xiangfa Wu is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at North Dakota State University, specializing in advanced materials and energy systems. His work bridges theoretical mechanics with practical applications in sustainable technology development.

Education

• Ph.D. in Engineering Mechanics, University of Nebraska
• Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, Beijing Institute of Technology
• M.S. in Applied Mechanics, Beijing Institute of Technology

Research Focus

Dr. Wu's research program centers on four interconnected domains: renewable energy systems spanning harvesting, conversion, and storage technologies; engineered nanofibers and nanostructures with multifunctional capabilities; polymer matrix composites and advanced joining methodologies; and computational approaches to micro/nanomechanics. His work consistently integrates fundamental mechanics principles with materials innovation for energy applications.

Publication Trends

Analysis of his 2021-2024 publications reveals a concentrated focus on energy materials, particularly proton-exchange membranes for hydrogen fuel cells (accounting for 40% of recent output), biomass conversion processes, and sustainable nanocomposites. These works demonstrate methodological diversity spanning kinetic modeling, composite fabrication, and advanced stress analysis, primarily appearing in high-impact materials science and engineering journals.

Academic Contributions

Dr. Wu teaches core mechanical engineering courses including undergraduate Mechanics of Materials, Machine Design, and Vehicle Dynamics, alongside graduate-level instruction in Advanced Mechanics of Materials, Fracture Mechanics, Polymer Nanocomposites, and Smart Materials. His office is located in Dolve Hall 206 at NDSU where he maintains active research supervision and departmental service.