Abstract
The natural topographical microchannels in human skin have recently been shown to be capable of guiding propagating cracks. In this article we examine the ability to guide fracture by incorporating similar topographical features into both single, and dual layer elastomer membranes that exhibit uniform thickness. In single layer membranes, crack guidance is achieved by minimizing the nadir thickness of incorporated v-shaped channels, maximizing the release of localized strain energy. In dual layer membranes, crack guidance along embedded channels is achieved via interfacial delamination, which requires less energy to create a new surface than molecular debonding. In both membrane types, guided crack growth is only temporary. However, utilizing multiple embedded channels, non-contiguous crack control can be maintained at angles up to 45° from the mode I fracture condition. The ability to control and deflect fracture holds great potential for improving the robustness and lifespan of flexible electronics and stretchable sensors.
Highlights
Crack nucleation and dynamic fracture processes govern failure in a multitude of hard[1,2] and soft materials[3,4], ranging from biological tissues to polymeric elastomers
We report on the use of incorporating and embedding topographical channels, similar to those present on the surface of human skin, to guide fracture in both single layer silicone elastomer membranes, and uniform thickness dual layer membranes that appear homogeneous
The scale bar denotes 500 μm. (b) Stratum corneum sample under a biaxial stress showing cracks propagating along the microchannels. (c) Plan view of a single layer elastomer membrane containing a topographical channel with a reorientation angle of α = 30° located at the midpoint of the membrane width
Summary
In this article we examine the ability to guide fracture by incorporating similar topographical features into both single, and dual layer elastomer membranes that exhibit uniform thickness. Crack guidance along embedded channels is achieved via interfacial delamination, which requires less energy to create a new surface than molecular debonding. In both membrane types, guided crack growth is only temporary. We report on the use of incorporating and embedding topographical channels, similar to those present on the surface of human skin, to guide fracture in both single layer silicone elastomer membranes, and uniform thickness dual layer membranes that appear homogeneous
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
