Dynamical behavior of trampoline membranes

This thesis comprises several experiments involving silicon nitride trampoline membranes. These membranes are excellent mechanical resonators and can be fabricated with desirable optical properties. Their dynamical behavior, particularly the interaction of their mechanical motion with light, is of interest for optomechanics and sensing...

Wave-induced vibrations of flood gates: modelling, experimentation and design

Flood gates form an essential part of many flood defence systems in coastal areas. During storm events, these gates are subjected to extreme loads from various sources. This dissertation addresses the dynamic behaviour of flood gates induced by wave impacts. A semi-analytical fluid-structure interaction model is developed to predict vertical...

Structure and Dynamics of Self-Healing Polyurethanes

The work exposed in this thesis addresses two main scientific challenges in the field of intrinsic self-healing polymers that limit the translation of the academic research efforts into commercial products, namely: i) the implementation of the self-healing functionality in polymer commodities by minimal chemical modifications; and ii) the...

Life in changing environments: The intriguing cycles of Polyphosphate Accumulating Organisms

Cells are complex systems continuously exposed to changing, dynamic environments. Understanding how cells respond and adapt is of great interest not only from a fundamental viewpoint but also for the development of solutions for current challenges in medical, industrial and environmental research fields.<br/><br/>In this thesis, the bacterial...