Chiral phase-coexistence in compressed double-twist elastomers

Matthew P. Leighton, Laurent Kreplak, Andrew D. Rutenberg

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

We adapt the theory of anisotropic rubber elasticity to model cross-linked double-twist liquid crystal cylinders such as exhibited in biological systems. In mechanical extension we recover strain-straightening, but with an exact expression in the small twist-angle limit. In compression, we observe coexistence between high and low twist phases. Coexistence begins at small compressive strains and is robustly observed for any anisotropic cross-links and for general double-twist functions-but disappears at large twist angles. Within the coexistence region, significant compression of double-twist cylinders is allowed at constant stress. Our results are qualitatively consistent with previous observations of swollen or compressed collagen fibrils, indicating that this phenomenon may be readily accessible experimentally.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)5018-5024
Number of pages7
JournalSoft Matter
Volume17
Issue number19
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 21 2021

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
We thank the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) for operating Grants RGPIN-2018-03781 (LK) and RGPIN-2019-05888 (ADR). MPL thanks NSERC for summer fellowship support (USRA-552365-2020), and a CGS Masters fellowship.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2021 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • General Chemistry
  • Condensed Matter Physics

PubMed: MeSH publication types

  • Journal Article

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Chiral phase-coexistence in compressed double-twist elastomers'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this