Welcome to MDML @ FAU (Materials & Design by Mechanics Laboratory) in Ocean & Mechanical Engineering at Florida Atlantic University! The MDML @ FAU explores advanced materials that are engineered for unprecedented dynamic functionalities, such as highly directional wave transport and sensitive, selective sensing. For example, suppose an impact force or heat source is imposed on a material. In the case of conventional homogeneous materials, the impact/heat wave just spreads uniformly. However, with a special material design, the wave could be directed in a specific desired direction. To achieve this, our approach is grounded in the principles of solid and continuum mechanics, with a focus on metamaterials whose unique behaviors arise from carefully designed internal structural patterns. 

We investigate fundamental mechanics principles that help understand the underlying physics of material design components and link them directly to the mechanisms driving desired functionalities, allowing us to identify optimal designs and accurately predict material performance. To accelerate and broaden the impact of our research, we integrate state-of-the-art computational techniques, including artificial intelligence, deep learning, and multi-physics simulations. Through this synergy of mechanics and modern computation, we aim to revolutionize the design of next-generation materials and unlock new technological possibilities.