Jamming under tension in polymer crazes

TL;DR

This study uses molecular dynamics simulations to explore a unique tension-induced jammed state in polymers, revealing force distributions and structural transformations relevant to material strength.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of a tension-induced jammed state in polymers and analyzes force distributions and structural changes during craze formation.

Findings

Force distribution is exponential under tension.

Tension transforms polymers into fibril-void networks.

Force distribution impacts craze strength and breakdown.

Abstract

Molecular dynamics simulations are used to study a unique expanded jammed state. Tension transforms many glassy polymers from a dense glass to a network of fibrils and voids called a craze. Entanglements between polymers and interchain friction jam the system after a fixed increase in volume. As in dense jammed systems, the distribution of forces is exponential, but they are tensile rather than compressive. The broad distribution of forces has important implications for fibril breakdown and the ultimate strength of crazes.