Welcome

Welcome to the Multiscale Mechanics and Extreme Materials Laboratory (Maximum Lab), where we investigate the fundamental physics governing material behavior under extreme conditions. Our research focuses on elucidating how stress, strain, and internal state variables evolve across coupled spatial (nanometers to millimeters) and temporal (nanoseconds to microseconds) scales under high pressures, ultrahigh strain rates, and elevated temperatures. Central to this effort is the integration of controlled dynamic loading experiments, such as plate impact, laser-driven compression, and split Hopkinson pressure bar testing, with state-of-the-art diagnostics including ultrafast imaging, time-resolved X-ray diffraction, photonic Doppler velocimetry (PDV), and full-field digital image correlation (DIC). These approaches enable direct investigation of the underlying physics of defect nucleation, phase transformation, wave propagation, and energy dissipation, while advanced computational frameworks provide a mechanistic bridge between atomistic processes and continuum-scale response. Together, our work seeks to uncover governing principles of strength, deformation, and failure in extreme environments, enabling predictive design of materials for high-rate and high-pressure applications.