MAE Seminar: Phase-Transitioning Nanodroplets Enhanced Acoustic Radiation and Scattering

Speaker: Chengzhi Shi, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan

Abstract

Microscale ultrasound devices are increasingly important for medical diagnostics and targeted therapies, yet achieving strong acoustic output at small scales remains challenging. This talk presents a strategy that leverages the acoustic Purcell effect through engineered perfluorocarbon nanodroplets to boost ultrasound emission. By tailoring the acoustic environment around the droplets, the research achieves substantially enhanced acoustic radiation and scattering, with applications in ultrasound imaging and therapeutic platforms.

Speaker Bio

Dr. Chengzhi Shi is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan. He previously was an Assistant Professor at Georgia Tech and earned his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley. His research interests include physical acoustics, wave propagation, metamaterials, ultrasound imaging, and therapeutic ultrasound. He has received NSF CAREER and ONR YIP awards.

View the webcast here

Community event in Raleigh, Wake County, NC 27695.