Rakan M. Alrashdan

Education:

  • The University of Akron (Ph.D. Polymer Engineering 2023-Present)
  • The University of Akron (B.S. Chemical Engineering 2019-2023)

Research Statement:

My research initiative focuses on the predictive modeling and control of particle sedimentation in yield stress fluids, such as soft particle glasses (SPGs), crucial for enhancing the stability and performance of materials in diverse industries. Leveraging particle dynamics simulations, the project aims to unfold the intricate relationship between rheological properties and sedimentation dynamics. The goal is to tackle significant challenges in sedimentation control, improving product shelf life and reducing development costs for emulsion-based products. By pioneering innovative approaches, this endeavor is set to redefine standards for managing sedimentation in complex fluids, marking a significant advancement in material science and engineering.

Awards

    • Polymer Initiative of Northeast Ohio (PiNO): Owens Corning Composite Material Research Award, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, February 26th , 2024.

    • American Physical Society–  Eastern Great Lakes Section: Best poster award winner,  Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio. October 20th, 2023.

Publications:

Paper in preparation: Sedimentation of a rigid particle in yield stress fluids undergoing shear flow.” Rakan Alrashdan and Fardin Khabaz, 2024.

Alrashdan, Rakan, et al. “Shear-induced phase behavior of bidisperse jammed suspensions of soft particles.” Physics of Fluids 36.7 (2024).