Soft Materials Modelling
Group led by Professor Maria Sammalkorpi
Valuable lessons from nature: Professor finds inspiration in spider silk
Tenured Aalto professor Maria Sammalkorpi explains how the phenomena in nature can be used to understand and improve manufactured materials
I’ve always been interested in natural sciences and nature. The phenomena in nature can be also used to understand and improve manufactured materials. Nature's design strategies offer us valuable lessons. For instance, spider silk is incredibly strong. It illustrates how nature finds ways to adapt and survive, via for example exceptional materials. We can imitate or learn from it for materials design in industrial production.
Physics gives a solid understanding of how materials behave and provides a strong mathematical and theoretical base for advancement. My research is computer simulations and fundamental theory that enables creating materials-based applications across various fields. Doing multidisciplinary work with experts from different fields is sometimes challenging but also very rewarding, as it is required that we all bring our expertise to the table to create the materials of today and the future.
Theorists can sometimes be difficult to approach, but I encourage engaging them in discussions – also about practical applications – and seeking deep understanding. I also encourage students to go beyond superficial learning – it’s better to gain broad expertise and genuine understanding through thorough study.
More information:
Center of Excellence in Life-Inspired Hybrid Materials (LIBER)
Read more news
Remember to pay attention to the terms of use of electronic resources
A wide range of electronic resources has been acquired for the use of Aalto University students and researchers. However, it is good to remember that all use of the materials acquired by the Aalto University Learning Centre is subject to the terms of use.
Projects from Aalto University’s Bioinnovation Center and CHEMARTS featured at Dutch Design Week
Aalto University’s exhibition “Designs for the Material Future” at Dutch Design Week attracted up to 10,000 visitors over nine days, gained attention in international media, and received praise from attendees.
The Nessling Foundation grants funding to speed up the sustainability transformation – Aalto researchers get grants
Researchers Mari Keski-Korsu and Elina Määttänen from the School of Arts, Design and Architecture and Academy Research Fellow Johanna Ahola-Launonen from the School of Business received funding for their research projects.