Engineering Mechanics of Soft lnterfaces

The Flexible Interfaces Mechanics Laboratory (EMSI) at EPFL focuses on uncovering universal patterns in crack formation and contact surfaces, crucial in engineering and science. By employing cutting-edge imaging techniques, the team directly observes these processes to gain a deeper understanding of mechanical behavior in soft materials. Their research delves into the mechanics of interfaces involving stress singularities like cracks and contact lines, addressing challenges posed by non-linear material responses. Through experimental investigations, they gather kinematic data to unravel phenomena such as symmetry breaking and stress divergence at singular points, bridging theoretical predictions with real-world material behavior.