Mechanics of network materials with responsive crosslinks

The mechanics of responsive fiber-network materials have been explored here by performing coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations. Theoretical analysis based on a simple viscoelastic model is used to characterize the relationship between their microstructures and overall mechanical behaviors. The dynamic responses in stress and strain induced by externally tuned interfiber crosslinks are discussed. Our results here indicate the possibility of optimizing the dynamic performance of macroscopic network materials by tuning the crosslinks at the molecular level, and lay the groundwork for dynamic material design for structural and mechanical applications.