A Fast and Versitile Numerical Framework for Simulating Stiff, Semi-Flexible Membranes in Stokesian Fluids

Elastic membranes are ubiquitous in soft matter systems -- from biological vesicles and mesothelial layers to synthetic hydrogels and fluid interfaces. In this talk, I will introduce a novel numerical framework for simulating stiff, semi-flexible membranes immersed in a Stokesian fluid. The method's core innovation lies in its discretization of bending and stretching forces, which enables a semi-implicit treatment of membrane dynamics and ensures robust numerical stability properties. A key strength of the approach is its versatility: it naturally accommodates diverse membrane topologies, including fixed boundaries, closed surfaces, and more. Finally, I will discuss specific use cases for this method which showcase hydrodynamic interactions between flexible membranes and active particles.