The Mechanically Complex Materials group performs numerical simulations and theoretical analysis to attack a variety of problems which cross traditional disciplinary boundaries.  Our mission is to explain the emergent, complex mechanical behavior which arises in technologically important materials.  The systems of interest range from hard materials such as metals and ceramics to soft materials such as suspensions, emulsions, and granular materials.  Mechanical properties such as elasticity, yielding, rheology, fracture, and wear are the primary focus.

emergent: arising and existing only

as a phenomenon of independent

parts working together, and not

predictable on the basis of their

properties (Oxford)

complex: 1) consisting of many

different, connected parts.

2) not easy to understand (Oxford)