Studying the elastic properties of polymers from single chains to networks
We develop theories and perform molecular dynamics simulations to understand the elasticity of polymers - from the single chain level to the level of networks (elastomers an gels). This includes, among others:
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How tension is transmitted from the chain level down to the level of chemical bonds.
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Elucidating the strain stiffening of flexible quasi-ideal chains.
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The mechanical properties of biopolymer networks.
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Quantifying the effect of elastic defect in molecular networks.