Supercooled Liquids Unveil Secrets: TU/e Researchers Break New Ground
Eindhoven, Monday, 5 August 2024.
Eindhoven University of Technology researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding supercooled liquids, examining four-molecule correlations for the first time. This innovative approach could revolutionize the development of efficient optical materials and recyclable plastics, potentially transforming various industries.
Exploring the Properties of Supercooled Liquids
Supercooled liquids, substances cooled below their freezing point without crystallizing, have long intrigued scientists. The researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), particularly Ilian Pihlajamaa and Corentin Laudicina from the Soft Matter & Biological Physics group, have uncovered new insights into these materials. Their innovative study, published in PNAS Nexus, delved into four-molecule correlations, a step beyond the traditional two- or three-body correlations used in previous analyses.
The Mechanics Behind the Discovery
The key to understanding supercooled liquids lies in their molecular interactions. Traditional methods focused on how pairs of molecules influence each other, known as two-body structural correlation. However, Pihlajamaa and Laudicina’s research took this a step further by examining the simultaneous influence of multiple molecules on a single molecule. This many-body correlation approach revealed locally preferred structures that were previously undetected.
Technological and Industrial Implications
The implications of these findings are vast. By understanding the intricate molecular dynamics of supercooled liquids, the researchers have opened up possibilities for creating advanced optical materials and sustainable plastics. These materials can significantly improve performance, efficiency, and sustainability across various industries, including materials engineering, manufacturing, chemical engineering, and energy storage systems.
Challenges and Computational Achievements
The journey to these discoveries was not without its challenges. The mathematical derivations needed to understand four-body correlations required high-performance computing resources and extensive data. Notably, the research team, including Liesbeth Janssen, emphasized the novelty and complexity of their work. Their approach to four-body correlations marks a significant advancement in the field, highlighting the importance of comprehensive computational physics in modern scientific research.
Future Prospects and Continuing Research
Moving forward, the research at TU/e sets a precedent for future studies in the properties of supercooled liquids. The insights gained from this work could be pivotal in developing new materials with enhanced capabilities. As the team continues to explore the depths of molecular interactions in supercooled liquids, the potential for innovation and industrial application remains vast and promising.