Polymer networks which locally rotate to accommodate stresses, torques, and deformation

Polymer network models construct the constitutive relationships of a broader polymer from behavior single chain (e.g. viscoelastic response to applied forces, electromagnetic fields, etc.). Network have been used for multiscale phenomena in variety contexts such as rubber elasticity, soft multifunctional materials, biological and even curing polymers. For decades, myriad developed with differing numbers chains, arranged different ways, symmetries. To complicate matters further, there are also competing assumptions how macroscopic variables deformation) related individual chains within model. In this work, we propose simple, intuitive assumption locally rotates relative loading stresses, external fields) show that unifies many disparate models–while recovering one most successful Arruda–Boyce 8-chain The new is then shown make more predictions (than prior models) stimuli-responsive networks orientational energies electroactive polymers), which significant shape morphing designing high degree freedom actuators robotics). Lastly, unveil some surprising consequences model phases multistable biopolymer semi-crystalline networks.