Dynamic polymer networks are ubiquitous in both natural and synthetic systems and feature intricate timescales relating to the kinetic rates of the mesoscale. The topological evolution of these networks, along with the rearrangement and deformation of their components are known to strongly influence their emerging mechanical properties. Various manifestations of these mechanisms are readily seen in the fracture-resistant response of gels and polymers with multiple networks; the self-healing properties of dynamers (e.g., covalently adaptable networks and vitrimers); and the active reconfigurations of cells' cytoskeleton. Some of the most promising features of these materials - such as self-healing, viscoelasticity, and fracture resistance - are largely attributable to the network's ability to dissipate energy at the micro-scale. Studying the various modes of energy dissipation and their manifestation in bulk properties is thus at the forefront of the informed design and tuning of new materials.
The April Symposium is focused on exploring the many realizations of energy dissipation and investigating the properties of this fascinating class of materials from both experimental and theoretical perspectives. The objective of this workshop is to bring together engineers, physicists, and chemists who are interested in understanding the relationship between dynamic molecular networks and their macroscopic responses. To achieve this, the Prospects of Soft Matter club - with the help of our advisory board - are hosting a virtual workshop on Dynamic Networks & Soft Matter this coming April 28-29! We invite experts in network mechanics, soft matter systems, biophysical networks, dynamic polymers, and other nonlinear systems whose complexity derives from spatiotemporal topology, to present at our workshop. For abstracts from previous years see events. This four-seminar event will be categorized by the following themes:
- Mechanical characterization of viscoelasticity
- Dynamically bonded networks
- Fracture and adhesive mechanics
- Materials with unique modes of energy dissipation
Although appointed professors are the primary presenters, student and post-doc presentations are also invited. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the event, the technical depth of presentations should be limited, instead focusing on high-order introductions and reviews of particular research areas and questions, followed by relevant results. All lectures will be given remotely over Zoom, with a five-minute question and answer period to follow.
Apply now!
Registration deadline: March 30th, followed by a call for Abstracts.