Hybrid particle-finite element elastodynamics simulations of nematic liquid crystal elastomers

Liquid crystal elastomers are cross-linked polymer networks covalently bonded with liquid crystal mesogens. In the nematic phase, due to strong coupling between mechanical strain and orientational order, these materials display strain-induced instabilities associated with formation and evolution of orientational domains. In building a simulation model of these materials, we consider the limit in which the orientational order equilibrates rapidly compared to the strain, so that the local order tensor remains in continuously evolving quasi- static equilibrium as the strain relaxes. Our method allows us to study the onset of stripe formation in a monodomain film stretched along an axis perpendicular to the nematic director, the transition from polydomain to monodomain states, and the interaction of nematic liquid crystal elastomers with external stimuli such as an electric field. We intend through this model to further our understanding of the basic physics governing the dynamic mechanical response of nematic elastomers and also provide a useful computational tool for design and testing of potential engineering device applications.