Biologically inspired far-from-equilibrium materials. (12th February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Srinivasarao, Mohan; Iannacchione, Germano S.; Parikh, Atul N.
• Editors: Srinivasarao, Mohan; Iannacchione, Germano S.; Parikh, Atul N.
• Is Part Of: MRS bulletin. Volume 44:Number 2(2019:Feb.)
• Page Start: 91
• Page End: 95
• Publication Date: 2019-02-12
• Subjects: biomimetic assembly, -- self-assembly, -- phase equilibria, -- cellular; Materials -- Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1557/mrs.2019.24
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0883-7694

Abstract

Abstract: Abstract : Traditional approaches to materials synthesis have largely relied on uniform, equilibrated phases leading to static "condensed-matter" structures (e.g., monolithic single crystals). Departures from these modes of materials design are pervasive in biology. From the folding of proteins to the reorganization of self-regulating cytoskeletal networks, biological materials reflect a major shift in emphasis from equilibrium thermodynamic regimes to out-of-equilibrium regimes. Here, equilibrium structures, determined by global free-energy minima, are replaced by highly structured dynamical states that are out of equilibrium, calling into question the utility of global thermodynamic energy minimization as a first-principles approach. Thus, the creation of new materials capable of performing life-like functions such as complex and cooperative processes, self-replication, and self-repair, will ultimately rely upon incorporating biological principles of spatiotemporal modes of self-assembly. Elucidating fundamental principles for the design of such out-of-equilibrium dynamic self-assembling materials systems is the focus of this issue of MRS Bulletin .