In this perspective article in Nature Physics, we review the latest advances in the merger between the fields of topological materials and non-Hermitian physics. A highly multidisciplinary field with lots of exciting open questions to address…
Non-Hermitian topology
We discover a form of bulk-edge correspondence in one-dimensional non-Hermitian systems. This applies to non-reciprocal quantum atomic chains and non-reciprocal active mechanical metamaterials. Out in PNAS!
Credits illustrations: thisillustrations.com
One-way fluid flows
Drawing inspiration the lymphatic system, we have used soft channels to understand flow assymetry and create devices that can rectify fluid flows. Paper published in PRFluids.
Giving off good vibrations – but only in one direction
We have developed a new robotic metamaterial that transmits vibrations in one direction, but not in the other. Our findings published in Nature Communications realize the mechanical analogue of the non-Hermitian skin effect.
Buckling of colloidal structures
In a paper published in Physical Review Research, we reveal the role of fluctuations and plasticity on the buckling of self-assembled colloidal chains.
Self-folding metamaterial
In our last Nature paper, we create metamaterials that achieve complex shape-changes without external control!
Bigger is Different
In our last Nature Physics paper, we uncover a characteristic lengthscale that governs the mechanics of metamaterials and give new opportunities for their programmability!
The Elastic Leidenfrost Effect
In a new paper, we uncover a novel facet of the Leidenfrost effect, where water evaporation couples to elastic deformations. Hydrogel balls bounce persistently !
Theory of Postbuckling for Wide and Nonlinear beams
In our new paper published in JMPS, we develop a theory for wide beams made of nonlinear elastic materials!
One-way Metamaterials
We unveil static non-reciprocity using mechanical metamaterials! They can transmit static motion in one way and block it in the other! Click here for the paper.