http://imechanica.org/node/487 Comments for "Mechanisms of reversible stretchability of thin metal films on elastomeric substrates" en http://imechanica.org/node/487 <p><span>Gold films on an <span>elastomeric</span> substrate can be stretched and relaxed reversibly by tens of percents.<span> </span>The films initially form in two different structures, one continuous and the other containing tri-branched microcracks.<span> </span>We have identified the mechanism of elastic stretchability in the films with microcracks.<span> </span>The metal, which is much stiffer than the elastomer, forms a percolating network. <span> </span>To accommodate the large elongation of the<span> elastomeric</span> substrate, the metal network twists and deflects out of the plane but remains bonded to the soft substrate.<span> </span>Consequently, the metal film experiences only small strains and deforms<em> </em>elastically without suffering fatigue. <span> </span></span></p> <br class="clear" /> http://imechanica.org/node/487#comments research flexible electronics Li group reseach suo group research Fri, 24 Nov 2006 13:15:36 -0500 Stephanie P. Lacour 487 at http://imechanica.org