Innovative approaches to multiscale mechanics

The intrinsically multiscale nature of soft matter requires the use of a wide range of experimental approaches. The great diversity of the systems studied calls for a certain degree of methodological inventiveness, particularly at intermediate scales, where standard tools are often lacking. Depending on the nature of the system, this involves designing and combining suitable techniques to link the different scales, from chemical bonding to macroscopic response, via weakly coupled mesostructures. Owing to the disordered nature of these systems, the preferred methods mainly include optical and spectroscopic techniques with spatial resolution, as well as local mechanical measurements. In addition, they must be capable to operate in specific environments (liquids, temperature).

Examples of approaches implemented:**

• mechanophores (CC – JC – MC – BB)
• Raman spectroscopy (EB)
• microphotoelasticimetry (EB)
• elastography (AM)
• rheo-DIC (LJ)
• interparticle rheology, in connection with the rheology of colloidal suspensions (JC)
• in situ scanning electron microscopy: textile fibers (BB – AM) / micropillars (EB)
• study of gels under controlled environmental conditions (AM, BB)