07/07/2026
By Danielle Fretwell

The Francis College of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, invites you to attend a Doctoral Dissertation defense by Shankar Acharya titled: "Light Responsive Plasmonic Phase Change Nano Composites and Wearable Radiative Device For Adaptive Thermal and Fluid Management."

Candidate Name: Shankar Acharya
Degree: Doctoral
Defense Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Please email advisor or student for location.

Committee:

  • Advisor: Wei Guo, Physics and Applied Physics, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Hualiang Zhang, Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Orlando R Arias, Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Abstract:
The development of adaptive, energy-efficient materials and devices is crucial for advancing next-generation wearable systems, smart textiles, and optoelectronic platforms. This dissertation explores three complementary approaches that combine nanoscale material engineering with macroscale device functionality. First, this thesis investigates the light-driven control of the metal–insulator transition (MIT) in vanadium dioxide (VO₂) nanocomposites by adding plasmonic gold nanoparticles (AuNP). The AuNP enables fast and tunable local photothermal heating using localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), lowering the illumination threshold for MIT to occur at reduced light power density based on mixing of particles in finite ratios. Second, this thesis designs a textile-integrated electroosmotic pump (EOP) for active moisture management. By decreasing electrode spacing, the flow rate of EOP pump is investigated. Finally, this thesis also examine porous membrane-based radiative textiles, where gold-coated polycarbonate track-etch membranes reach 80–95% mid-IR reflectivity while keeping breathability and a vapor transmission rate comparable to commercial textiles. Together, these studies create a framework for multifunctional energy-saving platforms. Light-responsive phase-change nanocomposites, radiative thermal control, and low-power fluid management, shaping future applications in adaptive clothing, energy-efficient building materials, and responsive optoelectronic systems.