Localizing softness and stress along loops in 3D topological metamaterials.

ABSTRACT: Topological states can be used to control the mechanical properties of a material along an edge or around a localized defect. The rigidity of elastic networks is characterized by a topological invariant called the polarization; materials with a well-defined uniform polarization display a dramatic range of edge softness depending on the orientation of the polarization relative to the terminating surface. However, in all 3D mechanical metamaterials proposed to date, the topological modes are mixed with bulk soft modes, which organize themselves in Weyl loops. Here, we report the design of a 3D topological metamaterial without Weyl lines and with a uniform polarization that leads to an asymmetry between the number of soft modes on opposing surfaces. We then use this construction to localize t

SUBMITTER: Baardink G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5776976 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature