Spatial-Temporal Pattern Evolution in Soft Matter: Nanoscale and Beyond

Zhi-Feng Huang

Department of Physics and Astronomy, Wayne State University

A great deal of interest in soft matter and its applications as advanced materials arises from the phenomenon of spatial-temporal pattern formation and self-assembly. Despite its potential, spontaneous self-assembly usually leads to defected structures, fact that limits their applicability. We start from general properties and mechanisms of ordered pattern evolution in systems outside of equilibrium, including the dynamics of topological defects and domain coarsening. We then discuss recent research on mesophase dynamics in block copolymers, and particularly address one of the major challenges for widespread applications of these nanostructed materials: the precise microstructural control for achieving long range order. We consider the effects of external shears, and address the mechanisms behind orientation selection under shear. Our efforts on understanding structure, dynamics, and response of nanoscale phases will be discussed.