Liquids Under Confinement In 2D-MATERials

ended

Two-dimensional (2D) materials are a relatively new class of thin materials consisting of a single layer of covalently bonded atoms. The unprecedented characteristics of 2D materials have already led to the observation of new physics and lend themselves to a wide range of technology-focused applications. Both in the fabrication process and in applications, liquids frequently interact with 2D materials. In particular, droplets often become trapped between these thin materials and a rigid substrate, or between layers of vdW structures. However, the details of this trapping (or confinement), how the liquid becomes confined and its effect on the rest of the structure has been under-appreciated. We propose to develop mathematical models of this confinement in a number of scenarios motivated by recent experiments. The analysis of these models will give new insights into the optimization of various fabrication methods, as well as suggesting new methods through which the presence of trapped liquid droplets can be controlled and exploited. To meet the proposed objective, we will build on the fellow’s experience in the mechanics of 2D materials and their interfaces and the supervisor’s experience in the mechanics of slender structures and their interaction with liquids to propose integrated, multidisciplinary, multi-technique approaches. The fellow would be based in the Oxford Centre for Industrial and Applied Mathematics and would benefit from being integrated into both the intellectual and social life of the group. The fellowship will extensively broaden the fellow’s knowledge of the modelling of thin film/liquid systems and expand his network and collaborations through performing the project. Besides, the designed training activities of this fellowship will consolidate his skills in teaching, supervision, research communications, and project management. These invaluable experience will significantly contribute to the fellow’s medium- and long-term career development.