Pattern formation in phase-separating gels with spontaneous shear.
We study pattern formation in gels undergoing simultaneous phase separation and orientational ordering. A 2D numerical simulation is performed using a minimal model of nonlinear elasticity with density-anisotropy coupling. For strong positive coupling, the collapsed phase elongates along the phase boundary and buckle, creating a folded structure with paired topological defects. For negative coupling, soft elasticity of the swollen phase causes a droplet morphology as in liquid-liquid phase separation. Their possible realizations in nematic liquid-crystalline gels are discussed.
Uchida
Nariya
N
Max-Planck-Institut für Polymerforschung, Postfach 3148, D-55021 Mainz, Germany.