Unravelling topological features of liquid-liquid phase transitions in network liquids

The proposed project seeks to undertake a research program, combining theoretical and computational approaches, to unravel topological features of liquid-liquid phase transitions (LLPTs) in network liquids, in both molecular and colloidal scales, and nucleation phenomena where relevant. The use of topological concepts will provide a deeper understanding of the LLPT phenomenon and of its physical origin, independent of the size of the constituent units, spanning atomic, molecular and colloidal scales. Understanding the hydrogen-bond network of water - the most important liquid for our existence - will be central to this research and critical to transforming our understanding of the world around us.