Objective Research objectives and content The project focuses on the study of localized, highly nonlinear excitations in lattices, using realistic models of crystals. In particular we plan to deepen the study of a recent striking discovery that of moving longitudinal 'breathers' in 2D lattices (this work was initiated by host researcher Prof. J C Eilbeck and the applicant during a 3-month stay). The phenomenon belongs to the field of 'intrinsic nonlinear localization', which is attracting enormous interest in nonlinear science. Part of their novelty lies in the presence of high discreteness. The motivation for the study of 2D lattices comes from the experiments performed by Prof. F M Russell on mica crystals. Our aim is to obtain a characterization of breathers in different 2D lattices, by means of numerical computations in nonlinear models. Then we will apply the results to real systems. The phenomenon of track formation in mica is the main candidate to be interpreted in terms of moving breathers, but we propose to extend the results to other systems where nonlinearity and discreteness play a fundamental role, among which is High Tc superconductivity. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact) The applicant expects to gain a substantial research experience at the leading edge of nolinear science, working under the direction of Prof J C Eilbeck. The collaboration with visiting Prof. F M Russell ensure that the research will be in direct contact with experiments in real systems. Some preliminary work has been done, and the results look most encouraging; a successful interpretation of track formation in mica i terms of breathers would open the door to a great number of applications in Condensed Matter and Material Science. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22) Fields of science natural sciencesphysical scienceselectromagnetism and electronicssuperconductivity Programme(s) FP4-TMR - Specific research and technological development programme in the field of the training and mobility of researchers, 1994-1998 Topic(s) 0302 - Post-doctoral research training grants TP09 - Condensed Matter - Mechanical and Thermal Properties Call for proposal Data not available Funding Scheme RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships) Coordinator HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY Address Riccarton EH14 4AS Edinburgh United Kingdom See on map EU contribution € 0,00 Participants (1) Sort alphabetically Sort by EU Contribution Expand all Collapse all Not available Spain EU contribution € 0,00 Address See on map
