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Fernando Anguiano

Fernando Anguiano

McNair Scholar 2025

  • Major(s): Mechanical Engineering
  • Classification: Senior
  • Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2026
  • Career Aspirations: After attaining my bachelor's degree, I plan to pursue my master’s in mechanical engineering with a focus on dynamic systems. Later, I want to focus on career growth and come back to academia to earn my doctorate degree in mechanical engineering.

“The best part of my McNair Scholars experience was the opportunity to build meaningful connections with my professors at WTAMU. Their guidance, along with unyielding support from the McNair staff, helped me build a strong foundation for future career success.”

fernando-anguiano

“Investigation of the Impact Resistance of Fiberglass Reinforced Mortar”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Fisseha Alemayehu

This study explores both dynamic and static strengths of fiberglass reinforced mortar through ASTM standardized compression and Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) testing. Four mortar mixes were fabricated with fiberglass added in quantities of 0%, 0.125%, 0.25%, and 0.5% by weight. Results from compressive tests show that the mix with low fibers, at 0.125%, had higher compressive strength and consistency of performance when compared to the other 3 mixes. This implies that the addition of fiberglass at low quantities improves mortar performance in terms of static loading. High fiberglass mixes exhibited clumping and poor distribution reducing overall effectiveness. The dynamic tests with the SHPB was intended for this study, but due to issues with signal conditional and data acquisition no dynamic analysis took place. However, the upgrades to the SHPB system, mold fabrication, and clear compressive strength increase establish the necessary groundwork for future investigations into fiberglass reinforced mortar as a lightweight and cost-effective alternative for mortar strength improvement.