Researchers and scientific partners gathered at the De Vinci Research Center for the workshop (M)M’26, dedicated to advanced materials and metamaterials.
The event explored recent developments in programmable materials, additive manufacturing, numerical simulation and bio-inspired systems for industrial and biomedical applications.
Advanced materials research at the crossroads of engineering disciplines
The workshop “(Meta-)Materials 2026” brought together researchers working on materials and metamaterials within the MISTIC Axis of the De Vinci Research Center (DVRC). The scientific discussions focused on applications in aerospace, automotive engineering, robotics and biomedicine.
The workshop was organised by DVRC alongside strategic academic and scientific partners active in the field of advanced materials. The programme combined theoretical approaches, experimental studies, and applied engineering perspectives on metamaterials and smart structures.
A transition between scientific modelling, additive manufacturing and experimental validation structured the different sessions throughout the day.
Programmable metamaterials and architectured structures
Several presentations addressed programmable mechanical metamaterials and architectured micro-lattice systems. These materials are designed to adapt their mechanical behaviour according to specific environmental or structural conditions.
Researchers discussed how mathematical modelling and numerical simulation contribute to the design of lightweight and high-performance structures for aerospace and automotive applications. The sessions also examined hybrid honeycomb sandwich structures and smart materials capable of integrating sensing or adaptive functionalities.
The workshop highlighted the growing role of additive manufacturing and 3D printing technologies in fabricating complex metamaterial geometries. These manufacturing methods enable new approaches for producing materials with tailored mechanical and physical properties.
Biomaterials and bio-inspired systems for healthcare applications
Another part of the scientific programme focused on biomaterials and bio-inspired systems developed for medical and dental applications.
Among the topics presented were bio-inspired materials for dental CAD/CAM technologies and new approaches that combine engineering, biology, and materials science. Researchers explored how nature-inspired structures can improve the performance, durability and adaptability of biomedical devices.
The interdisciplinary dimension of the workshop reflected the convergence between mechanical engineering, computational modelling and healthcare technologies.
Artificial intelligence and data-driven material design
AI-based and data-driven design methods also featured in the discussions. Researchers presented approaches using artificial intelligence and computational tools to optimise material architectures and predict mechanical behaviours.
These methods support faster prototyping and simulation processes while reducing development constraints in advanced engineering projects.
The programme also included presentations on experimental characterisation techniques and numerical approaches for analysing the behaviour of metamaterials under various loading and environmental conditions.
Scientific exchanges within the materials research community
The workshop created opportunities for exchange among researchers, engineers, and practitioners working on emerging materials technologies. Discussions addressed both current industrial challenges and long-term research perspectives linked to future programmable materials.
High-level presentations covered topics including:
- architected micro-lattice metamaterials
- programmable metamaterials
- bio-inspired materials for dental CAD/CAM
- intelligent hybrid honeycomb sandwich structures
- materials for aerospace applications
The event also helped strengthen collaborations between researchers and research partners in advanced materials science.
Speakers included Daniel Bonamy, Minh-Son Pham, Ayech Benjeddou, Laurent Tapie, Cuong Ha Minh and Johann Petit.
Materials research within the ESILV and DVRC ecosystem
Research on advanced materials and metamaterials is part of the broader scientific activities developed within the De Vinci Research Center and its MISTIC research axis. These topics intersect with several engineering fields taught at ESILV, including aerospace engineering, mechanical systems, robotics and digital simulation.
The workshop reflected ongoing research dynamics in smart manufacturing, programmable materials, and interdisciplinary engineering approaches that combine modelling, experimentation, and industrial applications.
Learn more about ESILV’s research strategy