Our group studies systems that are inherently disordered (e.g., glasses, packings, driven suspensions, crumpled sheets). Using computational and theoretical techniques we strive to understand how simple microscopic rules give rise to complex emergent behaviors. A central theme of our research...
The research in the Laboratory for Micro- and Nano-Mechanics of Materials focuses on “smart” materials (i.e., materials that inherently function as motors or sensors) and biogenic materials (i.e., materials produced by living organisms). Of particular interest are multi-disciplinary problems in...
The Computational Fluid-Structure Interaction Laboratory focuses on combined asymptotic and finite-difference numerical methods for solution of coupled nonlinear rigid-body and elastic structures in laminar flow fields. Research topics include: Stability of flow around slender bodies at high angles of attack,...
We seek to understand the molecular origin of cell mechanosensing – the ability of cells to sense and respond to the mechanical properties of their environment. Our lab study the role of mechanical interaction between neuronal cells, cardiac cells and...
Nonlinear and Chaotic Dynamical Systems Laboratory The programs in Nonlinear and Chaotic Dynamical Systems Laboratory include: Global bifurcations and spatio-temporal instabilities in continuum mechanical systems and structures that exhibit chaotic and non-stationary dynamics. Stability and (piezoelectric) control of nonlinear nano/micro...
Microsystems are miniature devices constructed from elements of micro-scale dimensions. In our lab we investigate systems which are predominantly made of silicon. Since axes and sliders are impractical at the micro-scale, relative motion between different elements is enabled by flexure...
The Mechanics and the Physics of high rate deformation and fracture is the central theme of the Dynamic Fracture Laboratory. The Dynamic Fracture Laboratory was started within the Materials Mechanics Laboratory in 1994 by D. Rittel, to address specific issues...
This laboratory conducts basic and applied research on the mechanical properties of fiber reinforced composite materials. Loading conditions span a very large range, from creep and relaxation to cyclic fatigue, impact and high strain-rate loading. The characterization includes properties in...
This laboratory is used to characterize the microstructure and failure mechanisms of materials. The laboratory includes optical and scanning electron microscopes (SEM) with image acquisition and processing facilities. Moreover, capabilities of the laboratory open new directions of research which emphasize...
