Grant: Discovery Launch Supplement

Materials in nature achieve extraordinary properties through their complex architectures. Some bio-materials can morph and adapt to environmental changes. For example, pinecone scales disperse seeds due to their bi-layer structures bending in dry autumn. Inspired by nature, scientists are developing artificial composites with complex structures called metamaterials. Metamaterials obtain their effective properties mainly by structure rather than composition. Through a rational structural design, metamaterials can alter their properties. They can even achieve properties beyond those of base materials. Deformable metamaterials, in particular, change their shapes in response to environmental changes. They are thus in high demand for various applications that need to move or deform. In the short-term, the proposed research program aims to 1) unveil the design routes of deformable metamaterials. Materials of distinct symmetrical relationships can have different deformation modes. For example, pinecone scales with bilateral symmetry bend but vines with chiral symmetry coil. Desired deformations are thus designed into the layout of metamaterials. This program will mimic the mechanism of the Venus Flytrap to design multi-stable metamaterials. They can reversibly snap between two or more mechanically stable stages. Metamaterials will thus realize large deformations via structural instability. This program will 2) program metamaterials' deformation to environmental fluctuations. The designed metamaterials can adapt to multi-physical stimuli. These adaptations provide soft robots with shape changes and touching sense. This program will 3) use metamaterials' deformation to impact surroundings. For example, metamaterials trigger airfoil deformations to control the flow condition on smart wings.  The developed programmable deformations can provide advanced performance and tailorable functionalities. The light-weight metamaterials in smart wings have the potential to revolutionize flight control and significantly reduce airplane environmental impact. The designable metamaterials in soft robots have personalized functions and inclusive medical care options for diverse users of different genders and ages. This program will thus benefit multiple sectors, such as aerospace, medical treatment, and robotics. The long-term goal of this program is to unlock unprecedented morphing functions of metamaterials. Over the next five years, two PhD, three MASc and five undergraduate students are expected to be trained to get technical and soft skills related to metamaterial development. Through designing and applying metamaterials, they will contribute to the socio-economic growth of Canada in industries and academia. The research outcome will pave the way for engineering applications in a smart, sustainable, and healthy society.