Continuum Mechanics at EPFL: Research and Applications

This lecture introduces the continuum hypothesis in mechanics, emphasizing the importance of asymptotic statements to ignore molecular nature at certain scales. It explores EPFL's research in continuum mechanics, covering topics like plasticity, fracture, and fluid-structure interaction. The lecture showcases various open research questions in the field, including reconciling molecular nature with continuum mechanics, exploring geometry-mechanics interplay, and studying fracture in geo-materials. Additionally, it delves into the stability of turbulent fluid flows and the buckling of shells. The lecture highlights the significance of continuum mechanics in various engineering research aims, such as bio-implants, bio-robotics, and soft robotics design.