Decoupling the Structural Origins of Strength and Toughness in Industrially Relevant Heterogeneous Elastomers

Key Points

• This research aims to understand how structural variations influence the mechanical properties of heterogeneous elastomers.
• Utilized coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations
• Investigated random crosslinking patterns in elastomer networks
• Analyzed the relationship between structure and mechanical properties
• Demonstrated a clear separation between strength and toughness in elastomers
• Identified specific structural features responsible for mechanical performance