npj Computational Materials, Год журнала: 2024, Номер 10(1)

Опубликована: Дек. 16, 2024

Abstract Large deformations of soft materials are customarily associated with strong constitutive and geometrical nonlinearities that originate new modes fracture. Some isotropic can develop fracture anisotropy, which manifests as modifications the crack path. Sideways cracking occurs when deviates to propagate in loading direction, rather than perpendicular it. This mode results from higher resistance propagation principal stretch direction. It has been argued such anisotropy is related deformation-induced resulting microstructural stretching polymer chains and, strain-crystallizing elastomers, strain-induced crystallization mechanisms. However, precise variation behavior degree crosslinking remains be understood. Leveraging experiments computational simulations, here we show tendency a sideways two component Elastosil P7670 increases crosslinking. We explore mixing ratio for synthesis elastomer establishes transition forward fracturing. To assist investigations, construct novel phase-field model where critical energy release rate directly degree. Our demonstrate modulated during polymer. Then, propose roadmap composite structures low highly crosslinked phases allow control over fracture, arresting and/or directing The smart combination enables enhanced tolerance reduced stiffness. By extending our framework virtual testbed, capture performance samples enable predictions based on more intricate unit cells. Overall, work offers promising avenues enhancing toughness polymers.

Язык: Английский