System Materials Processing Lab

We conduct interdisciplinary research regarding nano, bio, energy and optical applications based on polymer processing and rheology.

Research Approaches

Rheology

Most materials exhibit both viscous and elastic characteristics instead of behaving purely as solids or liquids.

Rheology is the quantitative analysis of this viscoelasticity, revealing how materials deform and flow under stress.

In polymer processing and viscous-fluid manufacturing, an understanding of rheology is essential for controlling stability, texture, and performance.

We approach rheology from both experimental and theoretical perspectives, combining precise measurements with analytical modeling to link molecular structure to macroscopic behavior.

Related Publications

[1] Choi, H. W., Huang, Z. M., & Song, Y. S. (2025). Interpretation of low-frequency oscillatory shear response of polymer blend. Rheologica Acta, 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00397-025-01517-8

[2] Choi, H. W., Lee, S. J., Son, Y. J., Huang, Z. M., & Song, Y. S. (2025). Quantified Phase Diagram of PCL/PDO Using the Cole–Cole Plot Analysis. Macromolecular Theory and Simulations, 34(3), 2500011. https://doi.org/10.1002/mats.202500011

Electrochemistry

Electrochemical analysis, particularly electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), is an effective method for probing charge transport, storage behavior, and ion diffusion within materials.

EIS provides unique insight into multiphase systems where the electrical responses reveal the underlying microstructural features and interfacial phenomena.

We use a rigorous equivalent circuit modeling framework to quantitatively interpret electrochemical behavior.

This systematic approach allows us to link experimental impedance data to physical parameters, such as conductivity, diffusion pathways, and interfacial resistance.

Related Publications

[1] Ahn, S. H., Kim, D., Huang, Z. M., & Song, Y. S. (2025). Characterization of polycaprolactone/Ti3C2TX MXene nanocomposites fabricated via injection molding. Polymer, 129065. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymer.2025.129065

[ 2] Kim, J. Y., Ahn, S. H., Kim, D. G., Huang, Z. M., & Song, Y. S. (2024). Injection-molded PEO/MXene nanocomposite for polymer-based solid-state electrolyte. Composites Communications, 50, 102005. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coco.2024.102005

Rheo-impedance

Rheo-impedance is a set of in-situ electrochemical measurement techniques performed while a material undergoes shear deformation.

Combining rheology and electrochemistry provides a unique perspective on the coupling between mechanical and electrical behaviors.

Monitoring impedance under controlled flow conditions allows for the direct observation of how structural rearrangements influence charge transport.

Thus, rheo-impedance serves as a powerful tool for investigating the internal structure of multiphase materials and revealing dynamic interactions that conventional static measurements cannot capture.

Related Publications

[1] Kim, D., Go, B. H., Kim, J. Y., Ahn, S. H., Huang, Z. M., & Song, Y. S. (2025). In Situ Analysis of Rheological and Electrochemical Properties of Carbon Nanoparticle Suspension. ACS Applied Engineering Materials, 3(4), 847-856. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsaenm.4c00820

Simulation

Finite element analysis allows us to predict how materials will behave under complex geometries and boundary conditions that are difficult to recreate in an experiment.

This method also provides theoretical insight prior to physical testing, enabling us to design more efficient, targeted experiments.

We use COMSOL Multiphysics and Moldex3D to simulate viscoelastic fluid flow, electrochemical reactions, and optical responses.

Through these simulations, we integrate theoretical modeling with experimental validation to better understand coupled mechanical, electrical, and optical phenomena in complex material systems.

Related Publications

[1] Ahn, S. H., Kim, D., Huang, Z. M., & Song, Y. S. (2025). Characterization of polycaprolactone/Ti3C2TX MXene nanocomposites fabricated via injection molding. Polymer, 129065. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymer.2025.129065

[ 2] Kim, J. Y., Ahn, S. H., Kim, D. G., Huang, Z. M., & Song, Y. S. (2024). Injection-molded PEO/MXene nanocomposite for polymer-based solid-state electrolyte. Composites Communications, 50, 102005. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coco.2024.102005