Darshil U. Shah

Darshil's research interests lie in the development of sustainable composite materials for (semi-)structural applications. These include both fibre reinforced laminates and sandwich-structured composites, comprising of high-performance natural (e.g. flax, jute and silk) and recycled (e.g. carbon) fibres, environmentally-benign volume-occupying fillers, and bio-based (e.g. plant-derived) resins. To test the developed materials as engineering solutions, Darshil's experience in wind energy has been useful, although he continually looks for novel applications. Darshil also studies a diverse range of biological materials as inspiration for models, and multi-functional, hierarchical, smart materials.

Darshil investigates various types of bio-composites reinforced with animal silks: from light-weight crush-resistant cocoon-reinforced polymer foams, to high-toughness multiaxial silk panels. The project is funded by the AFOSR and ERC.

Darshil pursued a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the Polymer Composites Research Group at the University of Nottingham (UoN), UK. His PhD project, joint-funded by the NIMRC (EPSRC) and UoN, investigated the sustainable manufacture of small wind turbine blades using optimal blade-shaping design tools, natural fibre composite materials and automated manufacturing technologies. To demonstrate the developed technologies, a 11kW flax wind turbine blade was successfully manufactured and tested (to IEC standards).

In recognition of the contribution and impact of his research on natural fibre composites, Darshil has received several distinguished awards, including the 'JEC Asia 2013 Innovations Award in the Biocomposites Category'.