CAREER: Elastic-viscous coupling in two-dimensional soft materials

NSF Award Search · 01002728DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $943,133 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Non-Technical Abstract Modern materials must be both adaptive and multifunctional, yet most synthetic surfaces lack the ability to dynamically change in response to external forces. This research will investigate two-dimensional (2D) materials that combine viscous and elastic properties, allowing them to reorganize, self-heal, and transform under mechanical stress. By coupling soft polymer networks with thin membranes, this project will develop a new class of 2D materials with tunable mechanical and material properties. These materials could enable self-repairing coatings, smart membranes for filtration, and responsive biomedical interfaces. Beyond research, this project will integrate education through public speaking workshops, helping students communicate complex scientific ideas to broad audiences. The project will also provide research and communication training for undergraduate students who will become future leaders in the STEM workforce. By advancing both fundamental materials science and STEM workforce, this work will support the National Science Foundation’s mission to promote scientific progress and national prosperity. Technical Abstract This research program will investigate the mechanics and phase behavior of 2D materials that combine viscous and elastic properties under nonequilibrium forces. Specifically, it will study how active forces reshape multiphase lipid membranes coupled to driven polymer networks, forming dynamic composite materials with t

Key facts

NSF award ID
2440029
Awardee
Stanford University (CA)
SAM.gov UEI
HJD6G4D6TJY5
PI
Sho C Takatori
Primary program
01002728DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
(MGI) Materials Genome Initiative, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, BIO-RELATED MATERIALS RESEARCH, Biotechnology
Estimated total
$943,133
Funds obligated
$342,606
Transaction type
Continuing Grant
Period
06/01/2025 → 05/31/2030