Mattermaterial

Mattermaterial is a theoretical category describing substances whose macroscopic properties arise from a combination of fundamental matter chemistry and emergent structural organization across scales. The term is used mainly in discussions around advanced metamaterials and quantum materials to stress the interplay between composition and arrangement.

The term is not standardized and appears mainly in speculative or exploratory literature. It denotes engineered systems in which response depends on both the chemical constituents and the hierarchical structure, often with tunability by external stimuli that affect both matter and structure.

Theoretical work on mattermaterials employs multi-scale frameworks, from first-principles electronic structure to continuum mechanics and effective medium theories. Properties can be nonlinear, anisotropic, and nonlocal, with couplings across electrical, optical, mechanical, and thermal domains. Synthesis approaches include hierarchical design, nanostructuring, and incorporation of active or programmable elements.

Realizations are proposed in programmable metamaterials, correlated-electron systems, and dynamic composites, but there is no universally accepted specimen or definition.

Potential applications span sensors, tunable optics, energy devices, and quantum information platforms. The field remains exploratory, with ongoing discussions about definitions, standards, and practical limits of control over both matter and material structure.

See also metamaterials, quantum materials, programmable matter, adaptive materials.