Shyam Prasad Vasudeva Atri, Computational, Particle Removal via Electrically Charged Multilayer Nonwovens

Shyam Prasad Vasudeva Atri

Graduation Year: 2025
Degree Type (Master’s or Ph.D.): Ph.D.
School/Department: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, NC State University
Program/Focus: Mechanical Engineering
Research Project: Computational – Experimental Study on Particle Removal via Electrically Charged Multilayer Nonwovens
Professor/Faculty Advisor: Hooman Tafreshi, Ph.D., NC State University; Behnam Pourdeyhimi, Ph.D., NWI/NC State University

How did you come to have an interest in nonwovens?

I am a graduate research assistant in the Porous Media and Multiphase Flow Laboratory at NC State University. My general research interest focuses on computational mechanics and simulations. I am fascinated by the impact electrostatic charge has on the nonwoven media, which has saved humanity in recent years. I want to understand more about its properties, which I hope will lead to new possibilities for developing innovative products for a variety of engineering applications.

Why are your research/findings particularly important/compelling for nonwovens applications?

My research focuses on understanding and formulation of the science of capturing particles via charged nonwovens, such as electrostatic wipes or electrostatically charged filters. The first step in my approach is to develop mathematical formulations that describe how a charged particle – on a surface or airborne – will be captured by a charged fiber. I will then aim to develop a numerical approach to simulate this process on different scales. To characterize the charge, the numerical simulation will be coupled with a series of experiments to be designed and developed based on, for example, corona and/or triboelectric charging processes.

Where do you see yourself upon completion of your studies? Where do you see yourself 5-10 years into the future as you progress in your career?

My career goal is to work in an interdisciplinary research and development environment related to computer-aided engineering for product development and manufacturing in industry. I want to be in the forefront to drive the industry to embrace the convergence of computational models and experiments. In the long term, I want to progress into engineering leadership positions.

When you are not studying and doing your nonwovens research project, what are your personal interests, hobbies … any activities you would like to highlight?

In my free time I like to spend time with my family and friends. I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. I also like to cook and read books.