Our latest paper, “Mixed-Mode Traction–Separation Laws for Crystalline UHMWPE Interphases Derived from Molecular Dynamics" is now freely accessible for the next 50 days from this link: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1moVO4kE0iQ8Y
Using molecular dynamics simulations, we developed 3D traction–separation laws for crystalline UHMWPE interphases and examined how interfacial behavior evolves under combined normal and shear loading. The results show that misaligned crystal interfaces can experience substantial reductions in shear strength and energy absorption, and that the mixed-mode response is strongly anisotropic, with much stronger coupling between normal and transverse shear than between normal and axial shear.
These findings help bridge atomistic simulations and continuum cohesive-zone modeling, and provide a more physically informed framework for modeling interfibrillar adhesion and failure in UHMWPE fibers.
We thank the International Journal of Solids and Structures for the efficient handling of the manuscript. This research was supported by the U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory.