Advanced materials modelling via fractional calculus: Challenges and perspectives

Fractional calculus is now a well-established tool in engineering science, with very promising applications in materials modelling. Indeed, several studies have shown that fractional operators can successfully describe complex long-memory and multiscale phenomena in materials, which can hardly be captured by standard mathematical approaches as, for instance, classical differential calculus. Furthermore, fractional calculus has recently proved to be an excellent framework for modelling non-conventional fractal and non-local media, opening valuable prospects on future engineered materials. The theme issue gathers cutting-edge theoretical, computational and experimental studies on advanced materials modelling via fractional calculus, with a focus on complex phenomena and non-conventional media. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Advanced materials modelling via fractional calculus: challenges and perspectives’.