Class Description
Summary
We introduce atomistic modeling techniques and its importance for solving problems in modern engineering sciences, with an emphasis on mechanical properties. We demonstrate how atomistic modeling can be used to understand how materials fail under extreme loading, involving unfolding of proteins and propagation of cracks. Students will learn the basics of atomistic modeling, including choosing interatomic potentials, visualization and data analysis. We cover basic concepts of mechanics at small scales and relate it to common engineering concepts (e.g. beam theory). Students will also work on hands-on simulation projects.
Goal
After the class, students should have a basic understanding about the fundamentals, application areas and potential of classical molecular dynamics for problems in mechanics of materials. Particular emphasis is on developing a sensitivity for the significance of mechanics in different areas, and how atomistic and continuum viewpoints can be coupled.
Grading Policy
This course is graded P/D/F. There will be several homework assignments that consist of research articles, problem sets and short essays. Due at the end will be a larger computational project for which students will use the GenePattern Web site.
Calendar
Course calendar.| LEC # | TOPICS | KEY DATES |
|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Mechanics of Materials Basic concepts of mechanics, stress and strain, deformation, strength and fracture | |
| 2 | Introduction to Classical Molecular Dynamics Introduction into the molecular dynamics simulation; numerical techniques | |
| 3 | Mechanics of Ductile Materials Dislocations; crystal structures; deformation of metals | Problem set 1 due |
| 4 | Dynamic Fracture of Brittle Materials Nonlinear elasticity in dynamic fracture, geometric confinement, interfaces | |
| 5 | The Cauchy-Born Rule Calculation of elastic properties of atomic lattices | |
| 6 | Mechanics of Biological Materials Atomistic modeling of fracture of a nanocrystal of copper. All simulation codes and numerical tools will be explained in detail. | |
| 7 | Introduction to The Problem Set Atomistic modeling of fracture of a nanocrystal of copper. All simulation codes and numerical tools will be explained in detail. | Problem set 2 due |
| 8 | Size Effects in Deformation of Materials Size effects in deformation of materials: Is smaller stronger? | |
| | Final project due |