RUI: Dynamics of Interfacial Patterns

摘要：本实验研究项目旨在扩展他们对涉及宏观界面模式的非线性现象的理解。首先，统计方法将用于更深入地了解随时间混乱演变的无序模式。要研究的物理系统包括界面波和液晶层。其次，准晶图案的动力学和缺陷将研究在流体系统中，各种激发，如相位，可以直接研究光学成像。最后，在时间允许的情况下，我们将研究聚合物薄膜中的裂纹模式和网络的动力学。这个RUI项目涉及研究生和本科生研究人员的配对，这已被证明是一种非常有效的培训策略。摘要：这一实验研究项目旨在了解流体或固体偏离平衡状态时由于不稳定而产生的有序和无序模式。要研究的系统包括流体界面上的波，液晶中的流动，以及聚合物材料中的裂纹模式。复杂和混乱的动力学通常阻止对模式发展的精确预测，但是统计方法可以导致有限但有用的预测。该方法涉及重大的技术创新，主要集中在复杂模式的数字分析上。这个RUI项目涉及研究生和本科生研究人员的配对，这已被证明是一种非常有效的培训策略。＊＊＊

9319973 Gollub Technical Abstract: This program of experimental research is aimed at extending their understanding of nonlinear phenomena involving macroscopic interfacial patterns. First, statistical methods will be used to gain a deeper understanding of disordered patterns that are evolving chaotically in time. Physical systems to be investigated include interfacial waves and liquid crystal layers. Second, the dynamics and defects of quasicrystalline patterns patterns will be studied in a fluid system where the various excitations, e.g. phasons, can be studied directly by optical imaging. Finally, the dynamics of crack patterns and networks in polymeric films will be investigated as time allows. This RUI project involves the pairing of graduate and undergraduate researchers, which has been shown to be a remarkably effective training strategy. NON-TECHNICAL ABSTRACT: This program of experimental research is aimed at understanding the ordered and disordered patterns that arise via instability as a fluid or solid is driven away from equilibrium. Systems to be studied include waves on fluid interfaces, flows in liquid crystals, and cracking patterns in polymeric materials. Complex and chaotic dynamics generally prevent exact prediction of the pattern development, but a statistical approach can lead to limited but useful predictability. The methodology involves significant technological innovation, mainly centered on digital analysis of complex patterns. This RUI project involves the pairing of graduate and undergraduate researchers, which has been shown to be a remarkably effective training strategy. ***