Material modeling

A new working approach to get a better understanding of the materials

Explore the transformative realm of material modeling done here at SPECIFIC POLYMERS, a groundbreaking approach revolutionizing our comprehension of materials. Through advanced computational methods, molecular dynamics (MD) enables the simulation and analysis of materials at the molecular level, accelerating the discovery of new materials and optimizing existing ones. Welcome to the forefront of material modeling, where science and simulation converge to redefine our understanding of materials! 

Revolutionizing Materials Chemistry: The Power of Numerical Modeling in Innovation

Materials chemistry is constantly evolving, and plays a crucial role in the development of innovative technologies and cutting-edge materials. In the digital age, numerical modeling is emerging as an essential tool in materials chemistry research, offering a sophisticated approach to understanding and designing new materials with specific properties. Thanks to this revolutionary methodology, we are able to explore a vast virtual design space, optimize the performance of existing materials, and accelerate the discovery process by reducing experimental costs and time-to-market.

Benefits such as accurate prediction of materials properties, understanding of fundamental mechanisms at the atomic scale, and streamlined design of tailor-made materials be are examined, highlighting how numerical modeling is redefining the boundaries of innovation in this dynamic sector.

At SPECIFIC POLYMERS, we have expertise in numerical modeling applied to materials chemistry research. We have the specific tools required for a wide range of application tests. With unrivalled responsiveness, we provide efficient, customized numerical modeling solutions for every challenge.

Using LAMMPS (Large-scale Atomic/Molecular Massively Parallel Simulator), a cutting-edge open-source software revolutionizing molecular dynamics simulations, we are able to revolutionise product developments, seek R&D breakthroughs and drive sustainability. Join us in embracing the future of material modeling with LAMMPS and propel your research into a new era of scientific discovery and technological advancement.

Time saving

Accelerate R&D times by offering a parallel and complementary approach

New methodologies

Develop new methodologies for obtaining material properties

Understanding of phenomena

Better understanding of structure and properties through a theoretical approach

Navigating Scales: Modeling Material Properties from Atomic Systems to Macro Properties

Every project sets its expectations based on the macroscopic scale, corresponding to our familiar space-time framwork, where the properties of a homogeneous material are defined. However, to comprehensively capture the unique characteristics of polymers, molecular dynamics necessitates a shift to the atomic scale. This allows for a precise understanding of the material’s structure-property relationships by defining and studying individual molecules. Yet, limitations in numerical capabilities confine this scale to modeling small systems over short time spans, typically within the nano-range. Hence, to reconcile the need for detailed insights with practical constraints, the mesoscopic scale comes into play. This intermediate scale acts as a bridge, allowing for the coupling of macroscopic and atomic scales. Often, striking a balance between result accuracy, reliability, and numerical resource efficiency, is crucial for navigating the complexities of the phenomena under study. Successfully navigating and leveraging these diverse scales of modeling is essential for optimizing the project’s relevance and outcomes. 

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The synergy between molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and experimental approaches represents a powerful union in unraveling the intricate world of materials science. Employing MD provides a theoretical lens that enhances our understanding of structure-property relationships, acting as a complementary force to traditional experimental methods. Through the application of force fields and innovative methodologies, MD simulations offer a unique insight into the dynamic behavior of molecules at the atomic and molecular levels.

In tandem with experimental approaches, MD simulations provide a virtual laboratory where researchers can explore and predict the behavior of materials under various conditions. This synergy allows for a comprehensive analysis of complex systems, offering insights that might be challenging to obtain solely through experimentation. The theoretical vision provided by MD enables the exploration of molecular interactions, providing a deeper understanding of how structure influences properties. The iterative interplay between MD simulations and experiments facilitates a more robust and nuanced understanding of material behavior, ultimately leading to more informed scientific advancements.

This collaborative approach is particularly impactful in areas such as materials science, composites and biomolecular studies. Integrating MD simulations with experimental techniques enables researchers to bridge gaps between theory and reality, fostering a holistic and multidimensional understanding of the systems under investigation. In summary, the synergetic use of molecular dynamics and experimental approaches not only enhances the accuracy and reliability of scientific findings but also opens new avenues for innovation and discovery in the realm of materials science.

Main steps

Building the numerical models

We are assembling each required inputs (force-fied & geometry files, LAMMPS input script files) to perform the best tuned methodology for each targeted chemistry and properties.

Simulating the atomistic trajectories

Based on molecular dynamics simulations, the atomistic computations are launched via LAMMPS to provide the suitable results.

Analysing to extract macroscopic properties

With the use of custom-made post-treatments, we are able to visualize trajectories and gather crucial information from each computation.

Implementing new ways of thinking

Material modelling can aliment experimental studies by adding to the comprehension or exploring costly and time-consuming solutions.

Molecular Dynamics Simulations – Applications

In the MARCHE project, highly electrically conductive coatings are elaborated to substitute metallic meshes used as lightning strike protection in aircraft. In parallel, this project aims to assess the relevance of material modelling in the accelerated development of innovative high-performance resins. A PhD thesis dedicated to this problem has thus been initiated by SPECIFIC POLYMERS within the SimatLab and the simulation of electrical conductivity in various polymeric matrices has being studied.  

See on the slides how we computed key properties and achieved the reticulation of thermosets in the scope of this project.

Collaborative projects where molecular dynamics has been applied:

Dissemination about Material Modeling

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