Nonlinear mechanics of thermoreversibly associating dendrimer glasses

Phys Rev E Stat Nonlin Soft Matter Phys. 2013 Oct;88(4):042607. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevE.88.042607. Epub 2013 Oct 31.

Abstract

We model the mechanics of associating trivalent dendrimer network glasses with a focus on their energy dissipation properties. Various combinations of sticky bond (SB) strength and kinetics are employed. The toughness (work to fracture) of these systems displays a surprising deformation-protocol dependence; different association parameters optimize different properties. In particular, "strong, slow" SBs optimize strength, while "weak, fast" SBs optimize ductility via self-healing during deformation. We relate these observations to breaking, reformation, and partner switching of SBs during deformation. These studies point the way to creating associating-polymer network glasses with tailorable mechanical properties.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.