Dr.-Ing. Maximilian Ries

We are delighted to announce the graduation of Dr.-Ing. Maximilian Ries.

In his thesis “Characterization and modeling of polymer nanocomposites across the scales,” Maximilian introduces a methodology to derive continuum mechanical models for polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) based on molecular dynamics. He thus combines the advantages of particle-based and continuum approaches. Furthermore, the obtained constitutive descriptions for matrix, filler, and interphase form the prerequisite for analyzing representative volume elements (RVEs). Using these RVEs, he evaluates the influence of filler content and distribution on the polymer nanocomposite’s overall stiffness. Consequently, his interdisciplinary work contributes significantly to understanding polymer nanocomposites, especially the crucial matrix-filler interphase, and thus complements experimental insights. Moreover, the transfer of molecular-scale insights into continuum mechanical models forms an essential link between the chemistry and engineering communities for the numerical modeling of polymer nanocomposites.

Maximilian will continue his academic career as a postdoctoral researcher in the Capriccio group, where he will switch his research focus to polymer fracture and the mechanical behavior of adhesives.

His thesis is openly available via doi.org/10.25593/opus4-fau-23638