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Stress reorganization and response in active solids
Rhoda J Hawkins1, Tanniemola B Liverpool2
1Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7RH, United Kingdom and School of Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TW, United Kingdom.
Physical Review Letters
|July 26, 2014
Summary
We developed a model for disordered viscoelastic active solids, like actomyosin, to understand their mechanical properties. This active material shows a dynamic response highly dependent on deformation due to element binding.
Area of Science:
- Soft Matter Physics
- Biophysics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Active materials exhibit complex behaviors driven by internal energy sources.
- Understanding the interplay between active elements and passive structures is crucial for designing new materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a microscopic model of disordered viscoelastic active solids.
- To investigate the collective behavior of contractile active elements and their impact on macroscopic properties.
Main Methods:
- Development of a microscopic model incorporating filaments, passive cross-links, and molecular motors.
- Analysis of the (un)binding dynamics of active elements.
Main Results:
- The model describes active materials with elastic long-time behavior.
- The system exhibits a highly responsive, dynamic mechanical response.
- Mechanical properties are strongly dependent on the amount of deformation.
Conclusions:
- The model provides insights into the emergent mechanical properties of active viscoelastic solids.
- The binding dynamics of active elements significantly influence material responsiveness.
- This work contributes to the understanding of active matter and its potential applications.
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