Auxeticity, Hierarchy, and Imperfections in the Mechanics of Living Matter
Presented by:
M. Fraldi (University of Napoli Federico II, Italy & École Normale Supérieure, Paris, France)
L. Deseri (University of Trento, Italy)
The mechanics of continua and structures plays a pivotal role in understanding the interplay between growth, remodeling, and morphogenesis in living matter. By analyzing the interaction of internal forces, stresses, and fluid flow at the macro-scale with processes at lower scales, researchers uncover the mechanisms that drive tissue and organ functionality.
In this seminar, Professors Fraldi and Deseri will explore how phenomena such as auxeticity, elastic instability, microstructure hierarchy, and geometrical imperfections contribute to advancing our understanding of complex mechanobiological processes. These include tissue differentiation, regeneration, wound healing, and cancer development.
Through compelling examples, the speakers will highlight how integrating mechanics and biology not only deepens our comprehension of living systems but also paves the way for innovative applications in precise medicine and the development of bio-inspired, self-repairing materials.
This work, supported by contributions from A.R. Carotenuto, A. Cutolo, S. Palumbo, and N.M. Pugno, showcases the reciprocal benefits of bridging mechanics and biology for advancing science and technology.
Mechanics and Multiphysics of Rearrangeable Materials at Multiple Scales: Biological and Man-Made Paradigms
Presented by:
M. Fraldi (University of Napoli Federico II, Italy & École Normale Supérieure, Paris, France)
L. Deseri (University of Trento, Italy)
Rearrangeable materials—whether biological systems or architected solids—are gaining widespread attention for their unique ability to undergo submacroscopic rearrangements, enabling remarkable mechanical properties in both static and dynamic regimes. From programmable distributed gliding to reconfigurable folding, such materials hold the potential to revolutionize fields ranging from structural engineering to biomedical applications.
This seminar will delve into the multiscale mechanics of heterogeneous solids and explore theoretical frameworks, such as Structured Deformations, which provide a foundation for analyzing rearrangeable systems. The speakers will address paradigmatic examples of biological systems, like cell membranes undergoing ligand binding, and man-made systems, such as crystals or origami-inspired materials that exhibit reconfigurable behaviors.
Key topics will include
This presentation will highlight the collaborative work of S. Palumbo, A. Cutolo, A.R. Carotenuto, and joint graduate students, emphasizing the potential for systematic approaches to studying and designing innovative materials.