Abstract
Elastic effects in a model of disordered nematic elastomers are numerically investigated in two dimensions. Networks crosslinked in the isotropic phase exhibit an unusual soft mechanical response against stretching. It arises from a gradual alignment of orientationally correlated regions that are elongated along the director. A sharp crossover to a macroscopically aligned state is obtained on further stretching. The effect of random internal stress is also discussed.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | R13-R16 |
| Journal | Physical Review E - Statistical Physics, Plasmas, Fluids, and Related Interdisciplinary Topics |
| Volume | 60 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1999 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Statistical and Nonlinear Physics
- Statistics and Probability
- Condensed Matter Physics