A molecular perspective on the yield and flow of polymer glasses: The role of enhanced segmental dynamics during active deformation

The mechanical properties of polymer glasses are often critical in determining the best material for a particular application. Extremely stiff materials (high modulus) may be important for some applications, while avoiding catastrophic failure due to fracture (high toughness) may be more important for others. The mechanical properties of a polymer glass will depend upon both molecular structure and many experimental variables, including temperature and the mode of deformation (tension, compression, or shear).