Research database

Nature uses self-assembly to build fascinating supramolecular materials, such as microtubules and protein filaments, which can self-heal, reconfigure, adapt or respond to specific stimuli dynamically. Building synthetic (polymeric) supramolecular materials that possess similar bio-inspired properties using the same self-assembly principles holds promise for many applications. However, their rational design requires a detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms that control the self-assembly process, which is typically very difficult to achieve experimentally. The EU-funded DYNAPOL project will shed more light on the molecular origin of the bio-inspired behaviour of these materials using massive multiscale modelling, advanced simulations and machine learning. Research results will lead to fundamental models for the rational design of artificial dynamic materials with controllable bio-inspired properties.