Dynamics, dynamic soft elasticity and rheology of smectic-C elastomers

TL;DR

This paper develops a theoretical framework for understanding the low-frequency dynamics and rheological properties of smectic-C elastomers with locked-in layers, revealing dynamic soft elasticity and mode structures.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive theory that extends beyond hydrodynamics to predict dynamic soft elasticity and rheological behavior of smectic-C elastomers.

Findings

Predicts dynamic soft elasticity in smectic-C elastomers

Calculates storage and loss moduli relevant for experiments

Describes mode structure of the material

Abstract

We present a theory for the low-frequency, long-wavelength dynamics of soft smectic-C elastomers with locked-in smectic layers. Our theory, which goes beyond pure hydrodynamics, predicts a dynamic soft elasticity of these elastomers and allows us to calculate the storage and loss moduli relevant for rheology experiments as well as the mode structure.