Computational mechanics of soft materials lab

Computational Mechanics of Soft Materials Lab (CMSML)

Our group develop advanced computational models and physics-based simulation techniques for i) enhancing our understanding of dynamic shape, topology, and functional changes in soft materials in nature, ii) elucidating the complete interplay between multi-physics materials and their physical/(bio)chemical stimuli, and iii) capturing lower-dimensional energetics linked to surfaces, interfaces, and fibers across multiple time and length scales for soft multifunctional materials. We also conduct table-top experiments for inspiration, validation, and fun!

Understanding the dynamic morphing and functional changes in soft materials

To date, we are still trying to mimic nature's ability to create materials that are functional, shape-shifting, and stimuli-responsive to their environments. In particular, slight variation in an external stimulus can lead to large changes on the overall behavior in nature. Recently, engineered materials have been able to harness material and structural instabilities. However, these instabilities are associated with singularities in mathematical context, which poses challenges to overcome with existing standard numerical tools. Our group develops advanced solution techniques, constitutive models, and new computational tools to capture highly nonlinear material and geometrical instabilities observed at soft materials. Furthermore, we utilize the developed tools to guide emerging engineering applications and to understand morphogenesis in nature.