A computational model for domain structure evolution of nematic liquid crystal elastomers

Hongbo Wang; William S. Oates

doi:10.1117/12.817572

31 March 2009 A computational model for domain structure evolution of nematic liquid crystal elastomers

Hongbo Wang, William S. Oates

Proceedings Volume 7289, Behavior and Mechanics of Multifunctional Materials and Composites 2009; 72891L (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.817572
Event: SPIE Smart Structures and Materials + Nondestructive Evaluation and Health Monitoring, 2009, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Liquid crystal elastomers combine both liquid crystals and polymers, which gives rise to many fascinating properties, such as unparalleled elastic anisotropy, photo-mechanics and flexoelectric behavior. The potential applications for these materials widely range from wings for micro-air vehicles to reversible adhesion skins for mobile climbing robots. However, significant challenges remain to understand the rich range of microstructure evolution exibited by these materials. This paper presents a model for domain structure evolution within the Ginzburg-Landau framework. The free energy consists of two parts: the distortion energy introduced by Ericksen [1] and a Landau energy. The finite element method has been implemented to solve the governing equations developed. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the microstructure evolution.

Citation Download Citation

Hongbo Wang and William S. Oates "A computational model for domain structure evolution of nematic liquid crystal elastomers", Proc. SPIE 7289, Behavior and Mechanics of Multifunctional Materials and Composites 2009, 72891L (31 March 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.817572

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available