Topology as a limiting factor in mechanical properties for disordered networks

Published

March 5, 2024

Author(s)

Marcos Reyes-Martinez, Edward Barron III, Dohgyu Hwang, Christopher Soles, Michael Bartlett, Edwin Chan

Abstract

Disordered networks are ubiquitous in both the natural and synthetic worlds. Depending on the application, some are extremely soft while others are rigid. However, how network topology and intrinsic material properties combine to control deformation and fracture is not well understood. Here we show that the topology of 2D disordered networks dictates how cracks propagate but that the intrinsic material controls the energy required to fracture. Specifically, we find opposite trends between the stiffness and fracture properties that depend on the intrinsic material, which is ultimately linked to how topology enhances either the local stiffness or extensibility of the material. We then apply this understanding to transform the mechanical properties of an intrinsically low toughness material to a tough one on demand.

Citation

Cell Reports Physical Science

Volume

5

Issue

3

Pub Type

Journals

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrp.2024.101848

Local Download

Keywords

Fracture, Polymer Networks, Mechanical Metamaterials

Citation

Reyes-Martinez, M. , Barron III, E. , Hwang, D. , Soles, C. , Bartlett, M. and Chan, E. (2024), Topology as a limiting factor in mechanical properties for disordered networks, Cell Reports Physical Science, [online], https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrp.2024.101848, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=936326 (Accessed October 10, 2025)