MS329 - Mechanics of Entangled Networks: Woven, Knitted, Knotted, Polycatenated, and Fibrous Materials

Organized by: E. Pescialli (ETH Zurich, Switzerland), K. Karapiperis (EPFL, Switzerland), X. Ding (Northwestern University, United States), C. Portela (MIT, United States) and T. Chen (University of Houston, United States)
Keywords: Computational Fabrication, Functionality through Nonlinearity, Inverse Design, Multiscale Modelling, Topology, Entangled Networks
This minisymposium is dedicated to the mechanics of entangled networks, including but not limited to woven and knitted fabrics, knotted structures, polycatenated and fibrous networks. These systems are ubiquitous in both natural and engineered environments, from the cytoskeleton of living cells to advanced textiles and soft robotics. Their unique and often programmable mechanical properties emerge from the intricate interplay of their topology, geometric constraints, and the frictional and constitutive behaviour of their filamentary components. We will explore the principal challenges in characterizing and modelling these complex networks, focusing on the paramount role of topology in dictating emergent behaviours such as nonlinear elasticity, anisotropy, damage tolerance, and energy dissipation. We seek contributions that employ a wide range of theoretical, computational, and experimental methodologies to advance our understanding. Specific topics of interest include multiscale modelling that bridges the gap between microscopic fiber interactions and macroscopic network response, computational analysis of knotting and unknotting dynamics, the mechanics of polycatenated and interlocked molecular materials, and the influence of fluid-structure interactions on fibrous materials in applications like filtration and biomechanics. This minisymposium aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and provide a platform for new research at the intersection of materials science, computational mechanics, additive manufacturing and quantitative biology. We welcome submissions that not only present new findings but also highlight opportunities for future research and the development of new design principles for these fascinating material systems.